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THE  UNIVERSITY 
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■ P589 


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Return  this  book  on  or  before  the 
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1,161  — 1141 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Archive 
in  2017  with  funding  from 

University  of  Illinois  Urbana-Champaign  Alternates 


https://archive.org/details/pictorialbiograpOOunse 

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pICTORiaL 

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TOGETHER  WITH  BIOGRAPHIES  OF  MANY  PROMINENT  MEN  OF 
OTHER  PORTIONS  OF  THE  STATE,  BOTH  LIVING  AND  DEAD. 


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Cx()0(1k|jc>0(  1 If^rolhoi’^^,  P ’u  1 )l  isl 

1893 


30HN  MORRIS  COMPaNY, 


. Printers 

. . . SNt) 

. . . glNBERS, 


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fefTHE 


HE  Publishers,  with  iiiucli  pleasure,  present  this  beautiful  volume  to 
J I their  friends  and  patrons  for  whom  it  is  prepared.  It  will  be  found  to 
be  a valuable  work,  full  of  interesting  personal  and  historical  remi- 
niscences of  many  of  the  leading  families  and  many  of  the  most  important 
occurrences  in  the  eventful  past  of  Indianapolis  and  Marion  County.  Every 
individual  or  family  sketch  was  carefully  type-written  and  submitted  by  mail, 
or  written  with  pencil  and  submitted  in  person  by  our  representative,  to  a 
member  of  the  family,  and,  in  nearly  every  instance,  was  corrected  and 
ptromptly  returned  to  the  Publishers,  thus  insuring  almost  absolute  accuracy. 
If  mistakes  are  found  in  the  feAV  sketches  that  were  not  returned,  the  Ibib- 
lishers,  though  not  to  blame,  stand  ready,  as  is  their  custom,  to  correct  the 
same  by  s[)ecial  errata  sheet  to  be  sent  to  every  subscriber.  The  Publishers 
wish  to  call  special  attention  to  the  fact  that,  in  spite  of  the  haid  times  and  a 
limited  patronage,  they  have  issued  a work  fully  np  to  their  promises  and 
one  of  high  merit.  The  illustrations  will  be  found  to  add  very  materially 
to  the  value  of  the  book.  We  are  salistied  our  work  will  beai’  the  closest 
scrutiny  and  sustain  our  well-known  reputation  for  accuracy  and  fidelity. 

THE  PUBLISHERS. 


) 


Inl)EX 


A 

Abrams,  llandall  J 98 

Adam,  Charles  H 10] 

Ahern,  Miss  i\[ary  Eileen 120 

Anderson,  William  Arnold 134 

Adams,  Joseph  11 150 

Anthony,  M.  D..  Emanuel 188 

Anthony,  M.  D. , E.  Grove 228 

Austin.  Edward  Ames 233 

Allen,  M.  D.,  Wesley 304 

Armantrout.  Harvey  J 392 

Anderson,  Martin  C 405 

Alexander,  Joseph  H 419 

Arbnckle,  James  F 459 

Ayres,  Judge  Alexander  C 404 

B 

Brown,  Hon.  Edgar  A 25 

Browning.  Miss  Eliza  G 30 

Beville,  Henry  11 38 

Bartholomew.  Pliny  Wel)ster 48 

Bieler,  Caj)t.  Jacob  L 00 

Brown,  Demarchus  C 87 

Benton,  Prof.  Allen  11 91 

Brown,  Arthur  Y 94 

Bell,  J.  E 97 

Brown,  Henry  J 101 

Barnes,  i\I.  1).,  Henrv  F 102 

Bedford.  M.  I)..  C.  T 109 

Bowser.  Edward  Thomas 113 

Butler,  John  Maynard 132 

Bradley,  Giles  A 133 

Bell.  M.  D..  Guido 138 

Belles,  Caleb 139 

Blount.  Brazillai  M 142 

Bullock.  Heni  V W 110 

Brennan.  M.  i)  . E.  J 150 

Barnes,  Dr.  Charles  Aimer 174 

Barnes,  M.  I)..  Carl  L 175 

Ballweg,  Frederick 170 

Boring,  Ephraim 180 

Boickling,  Ge(»rge  A 181 

Buchanan,  \).  I).  S.,  Albert  E 189 


Brown,  D.  1).  >S. , Daniel  N 

Butler,  Ovid 

Brown,  M.  D.,  John  Randolph.. 

Brewer,  Alfred 

Boiler,  Peter 

Buttertield,  Rev.  Luke  G 

Blaker,  Mrs.  Eliza  A 

Brown,  Dr.  Benjamin  A 

Bowser,  William  H 

Bruce,  James  P 

Bergmann,  Francis  J 

Brayton,  Dr.  Alembert  Winthrop. 

Baker,  Conrad 

Baker,  Albert 

Bristow,  Henry 

Buskirk,  Hon.  Samuel 

Bailey,  (Teorge  W 

Bolton,  Mrs.  Sarah  T 

Buehler,  Dr.  Jacob 

Buschmann,  William 

Bruner,  Henry  Lane 

Bremer,  Fred 

Buthe,  August 

Bowman,  William  Norman 

Backus,  Victor  M 

Black,  Charles  H 

Bade,  William 

Boatright,  William 

Butcher  Mrs.  Ellen 

Bellemore,  William  H 

C 

Cox,  Hon.  Millard  F 

Colfax.  Hon.  Schuyler 

Churchman,  F.  M 

Cady,  Frederick  W 

Cook,  George  -f 

Comingor,  i\I.  1).,  John  A 

Corbaley,  J(>reminh  J 

Corbaley,  Samuel  B 

Compton,  Samuel  M 

Calvelage,  August  H 

Cunningham,  Dr.  Henry  S 


.197 
.204 
.211 
.213 
.220 
223 
. 230 
. 250 
. 258 
.289 
. 299 
. 303 
.309 
.310 
.320 
. 328 
. 330 
. 343 
. 353 
. 373 
.378 
. 395 
. 397 
.404 
.430 
. 430 
.442 
.444 
.449 
. 403 


19 

23 

30 

44 

49 

51 

52 

53 
55 

50 
88 


X 


INDEX. 


(Jarsoii,  M.  D.,  John  H 95 

Carriger.  John  J 9() 

Colter,  George  II 114 

ColliiiH,  Ephraim 144 

Coe,  Henry 14(5 

Cruse,  James  S 152 

Craig,  John  F 153 

Clarke,  M.  14.,  W illiam  Bradley 157 

Cockrum,  John  B 167 

Craft,  Hon.  William  H 173 

('ollins,  Jerry 185 

Cruse,  Henry 205 

Caven,  Hon.  J<jhn 207 

Castor,  M.  D.,  Hiram  C 212 

Cline,  M.  D.,  Lewis  C 217 

Caskey,  Jacob  B 241 

Carter,  George  H 248 

Coble,  Jr.,  George 251 

Chambers.  Smiley  Newton 258 

Combs,  M.  D.,  George  W 294 

Carter,  M.  H.,  James 298 

Cox,  Charles  E 319 

Coburn,  Gen.  John 328 

Combs,  John  W 343 

Conroy,  John 352 

Cosier,  Orval  D 357 

Christian,  Thomas  J 362 

Collins,  Andrew 384 

Chambers  & Bro. , O.  C.  . . . 389 

Carter,  John  V 394 

Carson,  Peter 430 

Cossell,  William 446 

Cochrane,  Samuel  W’ 449 

Canfield,  Woods  P 461 

D 

Daniels,  Edward 81 

Driggs,  N.  S 83 

Downing,  Hon.  IMichael  A 95 

Daniels,  Milton  H 104 

Denny,  Hon.  Caleb  S 108 

Dunning,  M.  D.,  L.  H 126 

Dobyns,  John  Barger 178 

Denny,  Bobeil 182 

Denny,  Theodore  Vernon 199 

Denny,  Elizabeth  (McLaughlin) 200 

Dunmeyer,  Christian  225 

Duzan,  M.  D.,  George  N 230 

Dollman,  Henry 242 

Denny,  Austin  Flint 259 

Dearinger,  Fiank  B 283 

David,  Benjamin  E 288 

Dale,  diaries  A 372 

Demott,  John . 383 

Dreier,  Ernst  H.  G 396 

Deitch,  M.  D. , Oscar  S 398 


I*.\GE 

Deitch,  M.  D.,  Othello  L 398 

Dunlap,  Joseph  A 418 

Donnelly,  Maurice 438 

Davis,  Robert 458 

E 

Elliott,  Byron  K 18 

Eastman,  M.  D.,  LL.  D.,  Joseph 21 

Edenharter,  M.  D.,  George  F 35 

Emmett,  Robert  F 52 

English.  W^illiam  Hayden 73 

Eaton,  Thomas  Sandusky 122 

Emmerich,  Prof.  C.  E 132 

Earp,  M.  S.,  M.  D.,  Samuel  Evingston.  .144 

Elliott.  Joel  T .' 193 

English,  Joseph  K 245 

Eden,  Samuel  C 299 

English,  Hon.  Will  E 325 

Eaglestield,  James  T 342 

Elbracht,  August 382 

Egan,  Jeremiah 411 

Ernestinoff,  Prof.  Alexander 423 

Ellis,  Hiram  R 453 

F 

Fohl,  Bernie  A 31 

Flick,  W.  B 48 

Fortune,  William 112 

Fitzgerald,  Philander  H 147 

Foutz,  John  W 148 

Fitzhugh,  Joseph  F 149 

Fisher,  Amos  W'.,  M.  D 206 

Furr,  John 233 

Foley,  John  E 236 

Frazier.  Simeon 245 

Frazier,  Jr.,  Simeon 246 

Fulton.  W’illiam  H 246 

Frankel,  Jacob 255 

Furnas,  Robert 286 

Fisher,  Joseph  L 347 

Fairbanks,  Charles  W’arren 362 

Ferree,  Dr.  Shadrach  L 371 

Fessler,  Levi  H 374 

Fetrow,  William 413 

Field,  O.  T 455 

G 

Gates,  Dr.  Willard  G 113 

Gray,  Hon.  Isaac  P 117 

Greene,  James 147 

George,  D.  D.  S.,  J.  H 153 

Greene,  John  C 169 

Graydon,  Dr.  Robert  Geddes 170 

Guedelhoefer,  John 215 

Gordon,  Willard  G 271 

Gilbreath,  Robert 295 


INDEX.  xi 


PACK 

Gray,  Jonathan 302 

Gorby,  Sylvester  S 307 

Greenleaf,  Clements  A 315 

Giezeudanner,  William 331 

(iaiild,  Adam  A 400 

George,  Lewis 425 

Gasper,  John  H 456 

(iall,  Albert.  465 

H 

Hovey,  Gen.  Alvin  Peterson 17 

Hendricks,  Hon.  Thomas  A 29 

Heidenreich,  John 32 

Harrison.  William  Heorv 34 

Heiskell,  M.  D..  AVilliam  L 41 

Hasty,  M.  D., George 54 

Hays.  M.  D. , Franklin 70 

Hartje,  John 75 

Hessler,  Dr.  Kobert 80 

Hollingsworth,  Ira 84 

Hollingsworth,  Daniel 85 

Hollingsworth,  Francis  IMarion 86 

Ho.sbrook,  Daniel  Bates 92 

Haynes,  M.  D. , John  B 108 

Hawkins,  W.  H 120 

Hervey,  M.  D.,  James  Walter 129 

Haynes.  E.  A.  P 135 

Hombnrg.  Dr.  Conradin  (Jacob) 137 

Hendricks,  Allan 159 

Hackedorn,  W.  E 168 

Harlan,  L.  P . . 172 

Heath,  Dr.  Frederic  Carroll 182 

Hyde,  Nelson  J 186 

Henderson,  J.  O 191 

Hovey.  Alfred  R 196 

Harvey,  Dr.  Thomas  B 20 1 

Harvev.  M.  D.,  Jesse  Ibitler 203 

Hord,  Oscar  B 218 

Honser,  ^1.  D.,  James  A 226 

Honser,  W.  D.,  Solon  K 227 

Howard.  Hon.  Timothy  E 231 

Harold,  Dr.  David  H .' 244 

llilgenl)erg,  Christian  A 252 

Hall,  Hiram  Harden 263 

Hall.  Prof.  Archibald  M 265 

Hansen,  I'eter  C 27t) 

Hawkey,  Stanton  W 271 

Holle,  Herman  C 281 

Hudson,  James  W 283 

Heintz,  Valentine 289 

Hardin,  James  Thomas 293 

Hahn,  Orville  L 296 

Hake,  Carl  von 297 

Hyland.  James 301 

Hardacre,  John 306 

Hartmann.  Charles  F 307 


Holtzman,  John  W 317 

Head.  John  E 318 

Hacker,  Hon.  William 321 

Holman,  Hon.  William  S 335 

Heinrichs,  Charles  E 341 

Hannah,  Alexander  M 348 

Hadley,  William 353 

Habeney,  Henry  F 354 

Howe,  Prof.  Thomas  Carr 354 

Harrison,  Gen.  Benjamin 363 

Harding,  Laban 36o 

Haeberle.  William 367 

Heiny,  Eli 367 

Hittle,  Joseph 382 

Hollingswoi  th,  William  H 403 

Hartley,  Col.  Benjamin  W 406 

Hoerger.  Louis  E 419 

Herig,  John  H 420 

Henthorn,  IM.  D.,  Leroy  S . . . 431 

Hills.  James  H 447 

Hnkriede,  Ernst 448 

Henry,  George  S 4t)0 

Haeberle,  William 460 

I 

Ittenbach,  Gerhard 300 

Indianapolis  Basket  Comtiany 332 

J 

Jones,  Hon.  Aijnilla 24 

Jones,  Aqnilla  Q 25 

Jameson,  M.  D.,  Patrick  Henry 45 

Jennings,  Presley 58 

Johnston,  James Ill 

Johnson,  George  A .2;)3 

Johnson,  Caleb 272 

Jameson,  Hon.  Ovid  B 37<) 

Johnson,  Theodore 402 

Johnson,  James 402 

Johnson.  David 410 

•Jones.  Frederick 432 

•Jared,  Granville 4i)4 


K 

King,  .Myron  D 

King,  Isaac 


Kinsley.  Mrs.  Elizalieth 86 

Kahlo,  Hon.  Charles I L) 

Kendrick,  William  H..  M.  D 239 

Kemper.  Henry  Mathews 263 

Kingsley,  Adrial  Sylvanns 311 

Kraas,  William 661 

Knerr,  Dr.  Charles  B 373 

Kellogg.  (Miarles  N 393 

Karrer,  Charles  T 403 

Kottlowski,  iOrnest  I'' 4 In 

l^issel,  Peter 441 


INDEX. 


Linn,  T.  B 

Lange,  Gustave  C 

Lockwood,  Virgil  H 

Lander,  William  F 

Lewis,  A.  M.,  M.  D.,  Edwin  R. 

Long,  M.  D.,  John  B 

Lambert,  M.  D.,  John  A 

Laut,  Henry  W 

Lieber,  Peter 

Lieber,  A 

Lanktree,  James  W 

Langenberg,  Henry  W 

Le  Page,  John  P 

Lawler,  Francis  M 

Laudmeier,  William 

Lang,  John  A 

Leatherman,  M.  D. , A.  Lincoln 

Larimore,  George  W 

Lowe,  Sr.,  Nahum  H 

Lange,  W.  C 

Leeman,  William 

Laitner,  Louis 

M 

Matthews,  Gov.  Claude 

Morton.  Hon.  Oliver  Perry..  . 

Mitchell,  Maj.  James  L 

Morrison,  Frank  W 

Maxwell,  M.  D.,  Allison 

Malott,  Volney  Thomas 

Mack,  Fled  J 

Mueller,  Ferd.  A 

Mosier,  Hon.  Cyrus  F 

Murphy,  Martin  J 

McBride,  Hon.  Robert  W .... 

McMaster,  John  L 

Mount,  Thomas  R 

McGuffin,  John  B 

Moore,  William 

McGregor,  William 

Mills,  Thomas  P 

Mason,  Augustus  Lynch 

Miller,  George  W 

McNutt,  J.  C 

Morgan,  Sylvester  A 

Myers,  D.  A 

Martindale,  E.  B 

McCormick,  John  Lewis.  ..... 

Moorhous,  Hiram 

McKee,  Thomas  M 

Moran.  Thomas 

McCormick,  William  S 

McDonald,  John  W 

Morse,  Thomas  J 

Manstield,  Joseph  B 


PAGE 


McCarty,  Nicholas 273 

Martin,  John 275 

McClain,  Rev.  Matthew 277 

McClain,  William  T 278 

Mann,  Wintield  Scott 279 

Mills,  Joel 280 

Millhous,  Henry 281 

Meadows,  Charles 296 

Martin,  D.D.S.,  G.  B 297 

McConnell,  J.  P 330 

McGuire,  Joseph  A. . . . 333 

McFarland,  William 338 

Mayhew,  Harry  M 370 

Myers,  Vincent 387 

McGinnis.  William 389 

Matlock,  James  B 395 

Miethke,  Robert 398 

Magennis,  James 401 

Meyer,  Frederick  J 406 

Miller,  George  F 427 

McConnell,  Thomas 427 

Magel,  Henry 436 

McOuat,  Andrew  W 447 

Mitchell,  William  J 452 

Metsker,  John  T 457 

Mason,  Charles 457 

Miller,  Samuel 458 

Miller,  W.  H.  H 464 

N 

Newland,  Abner  L 165 

Nash,  M.  D.,  George  W 193 

Norris.  William  F 229 

Neal,  Capt.  J.  Stut 256 

Nelson,  Thomas  H 269 

Nuerge  & Reinking 285 

Nixon,  Lee 293 

Nuejge,  Charles 397 

Noble.  Daniel  W 439 

New,  Hon.  John  C 466 

O 

Outland,  M.  D.,  Edgar  M 241 

O’Meara,  Patrick  J 428 

P 

Pickerill,  M.  D.,  George  Washington.  . . 26 

Patterson,  M.  D.,  Amos  W 40 

Prunk,  M.  D.,  Daniel  H 59 

Prunk,  Mrs.  Harriet  Augusta . 62 

Pressly,  John  T 65 

Pearson,  John  R 83 

Pfendler,  Samuel 121 

Prather,  Augustin  B 125 

Potter,  A.  M.,  M.  D. , Theodore 159 

Penn,  Joseph 162 


l-AGE 

, 77 

156 

192 

195 

209 

220 

221 

257 

261 

262 

268 

276 

285 

287 

291 

295 

318 

350 

399 

435 

444 

459 

19 

20 

39 

50 

.57 

67 

75 

81 

88 

100 

110 

124 

141 

142 

143 

150 

160 

164 

174 

176 

194 

198 

221 

230 

239 

240 

247 

260 

262 

266 

266 


INDEX. 


xiii 


PAGE 

Pfaff,  M.  D.,  O.  G 16() 

Page,  M.  D.,  Lafayette  F 168 

Pauli,  Henry 186 

Pressler,  Guido  R 228 

Perry,  Ph.  D.,  M.  D.,  Joseph  Robert.  ..235 

Pantzer,  M.  D.,  Hugo  Otto 253 

Prange,  Fred  W 289 

Phillips,  William  Henry  Harrison 292 

Park,  John  Thomas 3J9 

Purman,  M.  D.,  Darius  M 352 

Pumphrey,  Edward  M 360 

Pape,  Fred  W 367 

Prange,  Frank 376 

Pearson,  Charles  L 396 

Pierson,  John  W 399 

Pahud,  Alfred 409 

Pendergast,  John  G 412 

Prindle,  David  J 435 

R 

Rieman,  Charles 93 

Rieman,  Henry  William 93 

Reynolds,  Charles  E 139 

Kowe,  M.  D. , Louis  M 163 

Roache,  Judge  Addison  L 210 

Rathsam,  John  G 211 

Russe,  Henry 212 

Reichwein,  Philip 248 

Riley,  James  Whitcoml) 255 

Reynolds,  Jesse  Allen 282 

Reinking,  Henry  E 286 

Rauh,  Henry 291 

Rink,  Joseph  A 304 

Roberts,  George  H 305 

Rothert,  John  H 339 

Roach,  William  J 340 

Roberson,  William  N 358 

Roller,  Phillip  J 366 

Roth,  John  H 390 

Randall,  Nelson  A .400 

Robinson,  Lew 415 

Reading,  William  A 424 

Roberts,  Prof.  J.  B 425 

Rutledge,  Dr.  PI.  D 433 

Ratliff,  Nathan 443 

Read,  Charles  W 452 

S 

Schley,  Hon.  John 41 

Saak,  PTank 47 

Schuck,  Samuel 69  i 

Shinn,  William  J 80 

Swan,  Rev.  George  PI 83 

Sullivan,  W.  A 90 

Sterne,  Albert  E 91 

Sindlinger,  Peter 100 


PAGE 

Shaw,  Benjamin  C 105 

Schroer,  Edward  E 127 

Spafford,  Thomas  E 140 

Sherer,  E.  J 153 

Schmidt,  Anton 154 

Small,  Samuel 167 

Sullivan,  Cornelius  W 173 

Scheideler,  V.  G.,Very  Rev.  Anthony.  . .177 

Scott  & Sons,  William  A 180 

Stein,  M.  D. , Frederick 184 

Stein,  Theodore 184 

Smith,  William  P 187 

Smith,  George  M 190 

Scherer,  M.  D.,  Simon  P 195 

Spahr,  George  W 215 

Sloan,  Phar.  D.,  M.  D. , George  W 219 

Schaefer,  M.  D.,  Constantine  R 224 

Schrimsher,  Jasper  W 227 

Smythe,  William  H 238 

Senour,  Richard 242 

Schmidt,  Christian  Frederick.  260 

Schmidt,  John  W 261 

Spielhoff,  Henry 265 

Shimer,  Asa  N 268 

Schweikle,  Jacob  P’ 288 

Stone,  Dr.  Richard  P'rench 311 

Streight,  Gen.  Abel  D 313 

Sutcliffe,  M.  D. , John  A 316 

Sewall,  Theodore  Lovett 321 

Sewall,  Mrs.  May  Wright 322 

Springer,  Isaac 332 

Smither,  William.  334 

Slater,  Jacob  H 345 

Sawyer,  1 redel  1 351 

Shea,  James 355 

Swain.  James 356 

Strohmeyer,  Deitrich  P' 361 

Seerley,  Martin 369 

Scott.  Adam 370 

Schad,  Charles  H 372 

Smither,  Theodore  I’ 376 

Schmidt,  Edward 378 

Sloan,  William 379 

Schilling,  Charles 380 

Schilling,  John  P'redorick  Henry 381 

Shaffer,  George  W 391 

Schmid  & Sons,  John  C 391 

Smith,  George  P’ 303 

Shinier,  Corydon  K 407 

Sanders,  John 411 

Sears,  John  W 413 

Siegmund,  William 115 

Shilling,  Stephen  A 417 

Swartting,  Lawrence 121 

Smock,  B.  M 423 

Stanley,  George  W 429 


INDEX. 


xiv 

I'ACK 

Sheehan,  Thomas 429 

Smith,  James  H 488 

Singleton,  John  W 434 

Stoops,  Philip 44(1 

Sanders,  William 442 

Stont,  F nrman 445 

Stont  , George  W 458 

Slack,  John  K 454 

Schoershusen,  Charles  H 450 

Schwegman,  William 400 

Sieg,  Jacob 402 

T 

Thrasher,  Prof.  William 80 

Taylor,  Napoleon  B 71 

Thompson,  Hon.  liichard  W OS 

Turpie,  Hon.  David 104 

Todd,  Dr.  Kohert  Nathaniel 117 

Todd,  Levi  L.,  M.  D 119 

Taggart,  Thomas 128 

Todd,  Isaac  Montreville 229 

Teueyck,  Samuel  Hanway 270 

Tanner,  Hany  C 888 

Tallentire,  Thomas 855 

Thornton,  Charles  E 877 

Thurtle,  John  St.  George 404 

Trie.sy,  Augustus  E 414 

Tall,  William  B 417 

Truemper,  C.  J 487 

Tobin,  James 4;)1 

Teckenbrock,  John  H 451 

Tnr{)ie,  Hon.  David 408 

U 

Udell,  Eugene 158 

V 

Voorhees,  Hon.  Daniel  W 87 

Varney,  Major  A.  L 141 

Vernon,  M.  D.,  V.  S.,  George  W 214 

Von  Hake,  Carl 1^97 

Van  Deman,  Joshua  11 840 

W 

Wright,  Harvey  A 82 

Wiegaud,  Antoine 38 

W'oodburn,  James  H 30 

Woodburn,  Dr.  Frederick  C 37 


Webster,  J.  H 

Wilson,  Hon.  John  R 

Wallace,  Gen.  Lew 

Wishard,  M.  D.,  William  H 
Wehrman,  M.  D.,  Ernest  A. 
W illiams.  Gov.  James  D.  . . 

Walker,  Col.  I.  N 

Woodard,  M.  D.,  Nathan  D 

Wood,  Horace  F 

Wishard,  Dr.  William  Niles 

Williams,  William 

Wright,  M.  D.,  William  M. 
Wilson,  M.  D.,  Amos  L.  . . . 
Wagner,  William  Henry..  . . 
Wollenweber,  Charles  L.  . . 

Watts,  Janies  M 

Wright,  Isaac 

Wright  Noah 

Wright,  Jasper  Newton.  . . . 

Wharton,  J.  W 

Wocher,  John 

Wright,  Jesse 

Wacker,  John 

Wishmeyer,  Christian  F . . . . 

Wyenberg,  Peter  C 

Wright,  M.  D.,  Ivy  E 

Witty,  Capt.  John  B 

Wiese,  Christian  F 

Wenning,  Dick 

White,  William  Woodford.  . 

Webb,  James 

Webb,  Ira  C 

Wulff,  Conrad  C 

Weaver,  O.  R 

Wright,  T.  M 

Wright,  Winfield  Taylor... 

Worthington,  Robert 

Wehking,  Charles  F 

Woods,  Robert  E 

Y 

Young,  A.  A 

Youart,  Dr.  John  Milton.  . . . 
Youart,  Dr.  Joseph  D 

Z 

Zion,  Alonzo  A 

Zener,  Robert 


PAGK 

. 48 
. 50 
. 59 
. 76 
. 82 
.•  98 
.124 
.184 
.186 
.155 
.161 
.179 
.191 
.208 
.222 
.228 
.234 
.243 
.244 
. 252 
.267 
.273 
.284 
.290 
.300 
.331 
.337 
. 350 
.359 
.385 
.386 
.416 
.420 
.422 
.426 
.445 
.450 
.455 
462 


99 

336 

337 


203 

305 


ILLUSTRATIONS. 


XV 


ILLUSTRATIONS. 


Geu.  Alvin  P.  Hovey Frontispiece 

Gen.  Benjamin  Harrison “ 

Gen.  Lew  Wallace “ 

Gen.  A.  D.  Streigbt “ 

Hon.  Tboinas  A.  Hendricks “ 

Hon.  Albert  G.  Porter “ 

Hon.  Joseph  E.  McDonald “ 

Hon.  Oscar  B.  Hord “ 

James  Wbitcomb  Riley “ 


Hon.  Millard  F.  Cox .facing  page  11) 

Joseph  Eastman,  M.  D.,  LL.  D “ 21 

Hon.  Edgar  A.  Brown “ 2") 

George  Washington  Pickerill,  M.  D.  “ 20 

F.  M.  Churchman “ 80 

George  F.  Edenharter,  il.  D “ 85 

Maj.  James  L.  Mitchell “ 81) 

J.  H.  Webster “ 48 

W.  B.  Flick “ 48 

Hon.  John  R.  Wilson “ 50 

Robert  F.  Emmett “ 52 

Allison  IMaxwell,  M.  D “ 57 

D.  H.  Pnink,  M.  D “ 51) 

Harriet  Augusta  Prunk “ 04 

John  T.  Pressly “ 05 

Volnev  T.  Malott “ 07 

Franklin  W.  Hays,  M.  D •“  70 

Hon.  William  Hayden  English *•  78 

Fred  J.  iMack *‘  75 

T.  B.  Linn “ 77 

Ernest  A.  Wehrman,  M D “ 82 

Dr.  Henry  S,  Cunningham “ 88 

Albert  E.  Sterne,  M.  D “ 1)1 

John  J.  Carriger “ DO 

Peter  Sindlinger “ 100 

Henry  F.  Jiarnes,  M.  D “ 102 

C.  T.  Bedford,  M.  D “ 101) 

Hon.  Charles  Kahlo “ 115 

W.  H.  Hawkins “120 

Col.  I.  N.  Walker “124 

L.  H.  Dunning,  M.  I) “ 120 

James  Walter  Hervey,  .M.  D “ 121) 

Nathan  D.  Woodard,  M.  D “ 181 


i 


I’ACK 

P.  W.  Bartholomew facing  page  1 52 

John  B.  Cockrnm “ 107 

Lafayette  F.  Page,  M.  D “ 108 

George  A.  Boeckling “ 181 

William  F.  Lauder “ 195 

Theodore  Y.  Denny “ 199 

Elizabeth  Denny “ 200 

Hon.  John  Caven “ 207 

George  W.  Vernon,  M.  D.,  V.  S...  “ 214 

George  N.  Duzan,  M.  D “ 280 

Hon.  Timothy  E.  Howard “ 282 

William  H.  Smythe “ 238 

Hugo  Otto  Pantzer,  M.  D “ 258 

Thomas  J . Morse “ 200 

John  Martin “ 275 

Henry  W.  Langenberg “ 270 

George  W.  Combs,  M.  D “ 294 

Clements  A.  Greenleaf “ 315 

John  W.  Holtzman “ 317 

Hon.  Will  E.  English “ 825 

Joshua  H.  Van  Deman “ 840 

Joseph  L.  Fisher “ 848 

Edward  M.  Pumjdirey “ 800 

A.  Q.  Jones “ 402 

A.  W.  Fi.sher,  M.  D “ 408 

J.  G.  Pendergast “ 412 

John  M.  Butler “418 

Byron  K.  Elliott “ 424 

Hon.  C.  S.  Denny “429 

W.  H.  Potter “481 

Dr.  J.  A.  Sutcliile “ 485 

Charles  F.  Hartmann “ 488 

Charles  Rieman  (decease<l) “ 440 

Thomas  'I'aggart “ 140 

Mrs.  Benjamin  Harrison. ...  “ 458 

Mrs.  T.  A.  Hendricks “ 158 

.Miiy  Wright  Sewall “ 458 

.■Miss  E.  G.  Browning “ 458 

Miss  M.  E.  Ahern “ 458 

Central  College  of  I'hysicians  and  Sur 

geons 400 

.Medical  College  of  Indiana 402 


Gtri.LEW.WALLACE.  J 

._”~:'TTr-: -I . ' 


GEt1.A.D.5TRElBHT. 


J05tPH  E.M^DOHALD, 


BENJAMIM  HARRlSOti. 


P.  HGVt'* 


^CAR 


JAMES WHITCOriB  RILEY  ) 


Pictorial  rnb  gioGRapBicaL 

A^JEMOIRS 

. . . OF  . . . 

Indianapolisanij Marion  County,  Indiana. 


EN.  ALVIN  PETERSON  HOVEY,  who  died  while  serving  his  first  term  as  governor 


of  Indiana,  was  a native  Hoosier,  his  birth  occurring  in  that  widely  famed  county 
of  Posey  September  b,  1821,  and,  like  thousands  of  others  who  attained  prominence 
in  American  history,  his  lot  in  youth  was  one  of  hardship,  and  gave  no  hint  of  tlie  honors 
that  a strong  intellect,  fairly  used,  coupled  with  unwearying  industry,  was  to  bring  him. 
In  the  common  schools  of  his  native  county,  which  were  then  of  the  poorest,  and  are  not  now 
much  better,  he  managed  to  pick  up  a rudimentary  education  which  he  supplemented  by  hard 
study  after  the  active  work  of  his  life  had  begun.  He  studied  law,  and  having  been  admitted 
to  the  bar  in  1843,  when  about  twenty-two  years  of  age,  he  entered  at  once  upon  what  his 
youth  and  surroundings  considered  was  a successful  and  lucrative  practice  as  an  attorney  at 
Mount  Vernon.  For  seven  years  he  devoted  himself  to  his  profession,  but  about  1851  he  was 
elected  a member  of  the  constitutional  convention  by  which  the  constitution  of  Indiana  was 
revised,  and  so  greatly  did  he  distinguish  himself  in  that  body  that  in  the  next  year  he  was 
chosen  circuit  judge  of  the  Third  Judicial  District  of  his  State,  and,  after  three  years’ 
service  upon  the  bench,  was  in  May,  1854,  made  one  of  the  judges  of  the  Supreme  Court  of 
Indiana,  but  held  the  position  only  a few  months.  He  was  appointed  by  President  Pierce, 
in  1855,  United  States  district  attorney  for  the  District  of  Indiana,  from  which  he  was  removed 
by  President  Buchanan  because  of  having  been  an  ardent  supporter  of  Douglas.  During 
the  war  with  Mexico  he  was  a lieutenant,  but  his  company  failed  to  secure  an  entry  into  one 
of  the  regiments  assigned  t(j  Indiana.  When  the  war  of  the  Reljellion  came  upon  the 
country,  although  he  had  never  had  any  military  training  and  had  never  shown  the  slightest 
aptitude  or  inclination  for  the  military  profession,  he  instantly  cast  aside  his  personal  consid 
erations,  enlisted  in  the  service  and  started  out  as  colonel  of  volunteers,  by  appointment  of 
Gov.  Morton.  His  command  was  fir.st  employed  in  Arkansas,  where,  without  any  opportu 
nity  of  becoming  distinguished  in  battle,  he  so  bore  himself  that  he  won  the  admiration  of 
his  superiors.  Shortly  after  the  reduction  of  Fort  Donelson,  for  meritorious  service,  he  was 
commissioned  brigadier  general,  and  a short  time  after  was  made  major  general,  although 
he  did  not  receive  his  commissioti  until  two  years  aftei'  it  was  granted.  In  time  his  chance 
came  to  show  the  mettle  of  which  he  was  made.  Transferred  to  the  Army  of  T’ennessee,  just 
before  the  opening  of  the  memorable  campaign  which  ended  on  July  4,  18()3,  in  the  surren 
der  of  Vicksburg,  he  was  assigned  to  an  important  command.  At  the  l)attlo  of  Chami)ion’s 


18 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Hill,  which  was  the  ])ivotal  one  of  the  brief  and  brilliant  series  of  engagements  by  which 
Gen.  Pemberton  was  forced  back  with  his  entire  army  into  Vicksburg,  Gen.  Hovey  so  executed 
the  task  which  fell  to  his  lot  that  Gen.  Grant  spoke  of  him,  in  his  official  report,  in  terms 
of  highest  praise,  awarding  him  the  honor  of  the  victory  at  Champion’s  Hill,  which  Grant 
himself  called  the  “key  battle  ” of  his  movements  to  get  in  the  rear  of  Vicksburg.  After  the 
fall  of  this  place  he  was  sent  to  the  held  of  duty  where  he  could  gain  no  military  laurels,  but 
where  his  services  were  of  vital  value  to  the  Union  cause,  for  he  was  put  in  command  of  the 
District  of  Indiana,  where,  with  the  powerful  aid  of  Oliver  P.  Morton,  then  governor,  he 
prosecuted  and  kept  the  disaffected  element  under  control.  The  war  being  ended  he  resigned 
his  commission  in  the  army  in  October,  1805,  and  soon  after  was  appointed  United  States 
minister  to  Peru,  having  declined  the  mission  to  Buenos  Ayres,  Avhich  had  been  tendered 
him.  After  holding  the  post  of  minister  to  Peru  for  live  years,  he  resigned  it  in  1870,  when 
he  returned  to  Indiana  and  resumed  the  practice  of  law,  to  which  he  conliued  himself  for 
the  next  sixteen  years;  but  all  the  time  having  a keen  interest  in  public  affairs,  both  national 
and  State,  he  put  his  ability  as  a pul)lic  speaker  at  the  service  of  the  Republican  party, 
having,  prior  to  the  war,  been  a Democrat.  In  1880  he  was  a candidate  of  his  party  for 
Congress  and  was  elected  in  a close  district.  In  the  House  of  Representatives  he  showed  so 
much  civic  ability  that  in  1888  he  was  made  the  nominee  of  his  party  for  governor  of  his 
State,  and  entered  at  once  upon  the  hottest  political  campaign  the  State  has  ever  known. 
As  a result  of  the  canvass  he  received  a plurality  of  votes  of  2,200  over  his  competitor,  Gen. 
Matson,  who  had  been  a gallant  Union  soldier,  had  shown  a capacity  for  civic  office,  and 
was  in  every  way  the  strongest  candidate  the  Democrats  could  have  nominated.  Being  thus 
chosen  as  the  first  Republican  governor  Indiana  has  had  since  the  war.  Gov.  Hovey  entered 
upon  the  duties  of  his  office,  and  in  their  discharge  displayed  the  same  courage,  clear  intel- 
lect and  unsullied  integrity  with  which  he  ever  met  every  otlier  function  allotted  to  him. 
While  fulfilling  the  requirements  of  his  office  he  was  taken  ill  and  died  November  23,  1891. 
He  was  a ripe  Latin  scholar,  was  determined  and  self  reliant,  a frequent  contributor  to  mag- 
azine literature,  and  a poet  of  more  than  ordinary  ability. 

Byron  K.  Elliott.  This  well  known  jurist  and  author  was  born  in  Butler  County, 
Ohio,  September  4,  1835,  of  that  sturdy  Pennsylvania  stock  which  has  furnished  to  nearly 
all  parts  of  the  country  some  of  their  most  progressive  and  substantial  citizens.  James 
Elliott,  his  grandfather,  emigrated  to  Ohio  from  Pennsylvania  in  1799.  Until  1849  Judge 
Elliott  lived  at  Hamilton,  Ohio.  Later  he  made  Cincinnati  his  home  until  December,  1850, 
when  he  took  up  his  residence  in  Indianapolis,  where,  at  the  “Old  Seminary,”  under  the 
tutelage  of  Mr.  Lang,  he  completed  the  education  he  had  begun  at  Hamilton  Academy  and 
continued  at  Furman’s  Seminary.  In  February,  1858,  he  was  admitted  to  the  bar,  and  in 
May,  1859,  was  elected  city  attorney,  though  he  was  then  only  twenty-four  years  old  and 
was  in  the  first  year  of  his  practice.  After  the  outbreak  of  the  Rebellion  he  was  in  the 
hundred  days’  service  as  a captain  in  the  One  Hundred  and  Thirty- second  Regiment,  and 
later  was  assistant  adjutant-general  on  the  staff  of  Gen.  Milroy.  Returning  to  Indianapo- 
lis, he  resumed  the  practice  of  his  profession,  and  in  1805,  1807  and  1809.  successively, 
was  elected  city  attorney.  In  October,  1870,  he  was  elected  judge  of  the  Criminal  Court, 
an  office  which  he  resigned  in  November,  1872,  to  accept  the  office  of  city  solicitor,  which 
was  unanimously  tendered  him  by  the  Common  Council.  In  1873  he  was  again  elected 
city  attorney.  In  1870  he  was  elected  to  the  bench  of  the  Superior  Court.  Four  years 
afterward  the  Repulilicans  elected  him  judge  of  the  Supreme  Court  for  the  Central  District 
of  Indiana.  He  was  nominated  by  acclamation  for  the  same  position  in  1880  and  elected. 
In  1892  he  was  again  nominated  for  the  office,  but  in  common  with  all  the  other  candidates 
of  his  party,  was  defeated.  He  has  served  many  terms  as  chief  justice  of  the  Supreme 
Court.  In  and  out  of  his  profession  he  is  regarded  as  one  of  the  purest,  fairest  and  clear- 
est-sighted judges  in  the  State,  and  there  is  not  a judge  anywhere  in  whose  rulings  and 
opinions  more  implicit  confidence  is  placed  than  in  his.  He  has  gained  a national  reputa- 
tion as  a writer  of  legal  literature.  Three  volumes,  “The  Work  of  the  Advocate,”  “The 
Law  of  Roads  and  Streets’’  and  “Ap2)ellate  Procedure,”  were  the  joint  production  of  the 
Judge  and  his  son,  William  F.  Elliott.  These  works  are  published  by  the  Bowen-Merrill 
Company,  of  Indianapolis.  “The  Law  of  Roads  and  Streets”  has  the  largest  and  most 


19 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

general  circulation  of  any  law  book  brought  out  in  recent  years.  ‘ The  Work  of  the  Advo- 
cate” elicited  a two-page  review  in  the  Albany  Laiv  Journal,  in  which  the  book  is  highly 
praised,  not  alone  for  its  value  to  lawyers,  but  for  its  literary  merit.  “It  is  a pleasure,” 
wrote  the  able  reviewer,  “to  read  such  an  excellent  style,  never  diffuse  and  never  barren, 
supplied  with  striking  antitheses  and  enlivened  with  apt  anecdotes.  The  Judge  is  always 
acute  and  ingenious.”  Commenting  on  “The  Law  of  Roads  and  Streets,”  the  Central  Laiu 
Journal  of  St.  Louis  adds;  “The  high  reputation  and  wide  experience  of  Judge  Elliott 
as  a member  of  the  Supreme  Court  of  Indiana  is  such  that  our  readers  need  not  be  told 
that  he  is  capable  of  preparing  a thoroughly  good  law  book.  He  is  the  oldest  and  by  com- 
mon consent  the  leading  member  of  that  court,  and,  indeed,  in  point  of  learning  and  ability, 
occupies  a place  in  the  front  rank  of  the  eminent  jurists  of  this  country.  His  opinions  on 
the  bench  always  exhibit  great  care,  thought  and  laborious  research,  and  contain  terse,  vig- 
orous statements  of  the  law.”  The  latest  work,  “Ajipellate  Procedure,”  although  it  has 
not  long  been  in  use,  has  taken  a place  as  a standard  authority.  It  is  quoted  with  approval 
by  many  of  the  courts  throughout  the  country,  and  is  much  used  by  members  of  the  bar  of 
many  of  the  States.  Judge  Elliott’s  address  on  the  subject  of  “Local  Self  Government,”  read 
before  the  annual  meeting  of  the  National  Bar  Association  at  Indianapolis  in  1890,  is  regarded 
as  a masterpiece  of  thought  and  diction.  His  oration  at  the  memorial  services  held  at 
Goshen  in  1890,  in  honor  of  the  deceased  Judge  J.  A.  S.  Mitchell,  is  a perfect  classic,  and 
is  conceded  to  be  one  of  the  finest  efforts  of  its  kind  ever  delivered  in  Indiana.  Judge 
Elliott  is  a lecturer  on  equity  and  jurisprudence  at  the  De  Pauw  University  at  Greeiicastle, 
and  the  Northwestern  University  at  Chicago.  The.  old  saying  to  the  effect  that  it  is  the 
man  who  makes  the  office  honorable,  not  the  office  which  dignifies  the  man,  was  aj)tly  exem- 
plified by  Judge  Elliott’s  five  terms  of  service  as  city  attorney,  during  which  he  made  the 
position  one  of  importance,  worth  a good  lawyer’s  tenure  and  attention,  whereas  it  had  been 
a mere  party  makeweight  previously.  He  has  added  dignity  and  respect  likewise  to  every 
other  of  the  important  places  he  has  been  called  upon  to  fill. 

Hon.  Mill.ard  F.  Cox,  Judge  of  the  Criminal  Court,  Indianapolis,  is  a son  of  Aaron  and 
Mary  A.  (Skaggs)  Cox,  and  was  born  on  his  father’s  farm  near  Noblesville,  Ind.,  February 
25,  1850.  His  father  was  of  Quaker  ancestry  and  was  not  only  a ])rominent  farmer,  but  a 
well  known  and  respected  citizen.  He  was  postmaster  at  Noblesville  during  the  administra- 
tion of  President  Andrew  Johnson,  which  was  the  only  public  office  he  ever  held,  and  it  came 
to  him  unsolicited.  Judge  Cox’s  mother  was  a native  of  Kentucky,  a descendant  from  one  of 
the  oldest  families  in  the  State.  The  Judge  numbers  among  his  ancestors  men  who  did 
gallant  service  in  the  cau.se  of  their  country  in  the  Revolution  and  in  the  War  of  1812-14. 
His  mother’s  branch  of  the  family  inherited  slaves,  but  freed  them  and  removed  to  Ohio, 
where  Mrs.  Cox  was  reared,  educated  and  married.  Millard  F.  Cox  received  his  education 
in  the  common  and  high  schools.  His  law  studies  were  well  advanced  under  the  direction 
of  his  uncle.  Judge  N.  R.  Overton,  of  Tipton,  Ind.,  while  he  was  yet  comj)aratively  a boy, 
and  in  1875  he  came  to  Indianapolis,  and  for  a while  was  in  the  offices  of  Buell  A Bartholo- 
mew and  Francis  M.  Trissal,  the  latter  now  in  Chicago.  While  acting  as  assistant  reporter 
of  the  Supreme  Court  after  this,  he  finished  his  law  course  and  was  admitted,  in  1878,  to 
practice  in  all  the  courts,  including  those  of  the  United  States.  He  soon  formed  a profes 
sional  partnership  with  Fred  Heiner,  a young  man  of  then  brilliant  mind  and  j)rospecls, 
which  terminated  a short  time  after  by  his  removal  to  Tipton,  where  he  practiced  alone  until 
January,  1885,  meantime  serving  at  the  re(|uest  of  the  entire  bar,  for  two  years  as  Master 
Commissioner  of  the  Tijffon  Circuit  Court.  Against  his  j)rote8t,  he  was  nominated  by  tin' 
Democrats  for  Prosecuting  Att(;rney  for  Tipton  and  Howard  Counties,  and  was  defeated  with 
the  ticket  of  his  party,  which  was  largely  in  the  minority.  Returning  to  Indianapolis  in 
1885  he  became  assistant  reporter  to  the  Supreme  Court  and  served  in  that  capacity  f(jr  four 
years.  In  1890  he  was  nominated  by  his  party  for  Jmlge  of  the  Criminal  Court  and  (dected 
for  a term  of  four  years  by  a majority  of  nearly  4,000 

Gov.  Claude  Matthews.  Generally  ago  and  experience  are  essentials  to  success  in 
whatever  branch  of  human  endeavor  a man  may  see  fit  to  devote  his  life,  and  it  is  an  indis 
putable  fact  that  public  men  seldom  rise  to  distinction  suddenly.  However,  in  the  (!xam|)lo 
before  us  we  have  a man  witliout  any  special  fortuitous  circumstances  rising  by  his  own 


20 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


force  of  character,  great  energy  and  good  judgment,  to  the  position  of  chief  executive  of  his 
State.  It  is  not  the  nurseling  of  wealth  and  fortune  who  has  been  dandled  into  manhood 
on  the  lap  of  prosperity,  that  carries  away  the  world’s  honors,  or  wields  the  mightiest  inflir- 
ence;  but  it  is  rather  the  man  whose  earlier  years  were  cheered  by  few  offers  of  aid,  and 
such  has  been  the  experience  of  Gov.  Claude  Matthews,  who  was  born  in  Bath  County,  of 
the  Blue  Grass  State,  a son  of  Thomas  A.  and  Eliza  (Fletcher)  Matthews,  both  branches  of 
the  family  being  farmers,  and  the  maternal  grandfather  serving  as  one  of  Kentucky’s  repre- 
sentatives in  Congress.  He  attended  such  schools  as  his  native  State  afforded  until  he  attained 
his  fifteenth  year,  then  removed  to  Mason  County,  his  father  having  purchased  a farm  near 
Maysville.  Here  the  schools  were  of  a better  class  and  he  availed  himself  of  these  oppor- 
tunities l)y  riding  six  miles  each  way  daily.  In  1808  he  entered  Center  College,  of  Danville, 
Ky.,  and  in  June,  1807,  was  graduated  from  that  institirtion.  On  January  l,of  the  follow- 
ing  year,  he  led  to  the  altar  Miss  Martha  B.  Whitcomb,  the  only  child  of  the  late  James 
Whitcomb,  governor  of  Indiana  from  1843  to  1849,  and  the  same  year  of  his  marriage  re- 
moved to  his  farm  near  Clinton,  Vermillion  County,  Ind. , where  he  has  ever  since  made  his 
home,  being  (piite  extensively  engaged  in  the  raising  of  grain  and  stock.  The  county  of 
Vermillion  has  always  been  strongly  llej)ublican,  and  although  he  has  always  been  a Demo- 
crat, he,  in  1870,  was  {)ersuaded  to  make  the  race  for  the  Legislature  and  was  elected  by  a 
majority  of  neatly  800,  nothwithstanding  the  fact  thiit  the  County  that  year  had 
a Ke])ublican  majority  of  nearly  400  on  the  State  ticket.  In  1882,  by  the  advice 
of  friends,  Mr.  Matthews  decided  to  make  the  race  for  the  State  Senate  in  the  di.strict  com- 
posed of  Park  and  Vermillion  Counties,  and  although  this  district  had  a Republican  majority 
of  1,000,  he  was  defeated  by  less  than  800,  which  fact  speaks  • for  itself  as  to  his 
popularity.  In  1890  he  was  called  upon  by  his  constituents  to  head  the  State  ticket 
for  Secretary  of  State,  and  was  elected  by  a majority  of  nearly  20,000.  In  the  State 
Convention  of  1892,  although  a candidate  for  renomination  as  Secretary  of  State,  his 
party  again  placed  him  at  the  head  of  the  ticket  as  candidate  for  Governor,  to  which  posi- 
tion he  was  triumphantly  elected,  and  has  since  discharged  his  duties  in  a manner  calculated 
to  win  the  respect  and  admiration  of  all.  Mr.  Matthews  has  always  been  engaged  in  farm- 
ing, and  at  the  close  of  his  official  life  expects  to  return  to  that  work.  He  is  a man  of  posi- 
tive character,  strong  intellect,  capable  of  a great  amount  of  labor,  and  no  man  is  more  loyal 
in  his  citizenshi]),  more  faithful  in  friendshiji,  more  devoted  in  home  life  or  more  worthy  the 
regard  of  his  fellow  men  than  Gov.  Clairde  Matthews.  He  has  been  prominently  connected 
with  the  stock-breeding  interests  of  the  State,  and  has  made  a specialty  of  raising  short- 
horn cattle.  He  was  also  an  active  member,  and  is  yet,  of  the  Farmers’  Mutual  Benefit  As- 
sociation, and  upon  the  agricultural  affairs  of  his  section  he  has  left  the  impress  of  his  own 
energy  and  keen  discernment. 

Hon.  Oliver  Perry  Morton,  deceased.  No  other  man  has  ever  been  more  renowned 
and  honored  in  Indiana,  none  has  ever  attained  so  warmly  the  affection  of  the  people,  and, 
of  all  those  born  within  her  borders,  none  has  contributed  so  largely  to  the  honor  and 
dignity  of  the  State  as  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  Born  August  4,  1828,  in  Wayne  County, 
Ind.,  he  was  the  son  of  James  T.  and  Sarah  (Miller)  Morton.  His  youth  and  early  man- 
hood gave  no  evidence  of  his  future  greatness,  but  on  the  contrary  was  of  a similar  character 
to  that  of  thousands  of  other  poor  boys  of  that  day.  At  Miami  College,  Oxford,  Ohio,  where 
he  completed  his  schooling,  he  ac(juired  the  distinction  of  being  the  best  debater  in  the  col- 
lege, and  after  a two  years’  course  he  began  the  study  of  law  at  Indianapolis,  and  was 
admitted  to  the  bar  in  1847.  Five  years  after  that  time  he  was  apjiointed  circuit  judge  liy 
the  governor,  but  he  preferred  the  more  active  career  of  a practitioner  to  that  of  wearing  the 
judicial  robes.  Until  1860  he  was  in  active  practice  and  during  this  time  became  celebrated 
as  one  of  the  ablest  advocates  ever  produced  by  the  State.  Until  1854  he  was  a Democrat, 
but  was  radically  opposed  to  the  extension  of  slavery.  He  became  a Republican  upon  the 
organization  of  that  party  and  in  1856  was  one  of  the  three  delegates  sent  from  Indiana  to 
the  Pittsburg  convention.  This  same  year  he  was  nominated  by  the  Republicans,  by  accla- 
mation, for  the  governorship,  and  although  defeated  at  the  polls,  he  was  elected  to  pre- 
side in  the  hearts  of  his  countrymen  as  the  ideal  statesman.  He  never  appealed  to  men’s 
passions,  but  always  to  their  intellect  and  reason,  and  whether  in  attack  or  defense  proved 


LIBRARY 
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AND  MAIUON  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

himself  a ready  and  powerful  debater.  From  this  campaign  of  1856,  unsuccessful  though 
it  was,  Mr.  Morton’s  popularity  in  the  State  is  dated  and  from  this  time  forth  he  became 
the  recognized  leader  of  the  Republican  party  in  Indiana.  In  1860  he  was  nominated  for 
lieutenant-governor,  with  Hon.  H.  S.  Lane  for  governor,  with  the  distinct  understanding, 
that,  if  the  ])arty  was  successful,  Mr.  Lane  should  be  sent  to  the  United  States  Senate  and 
Mr.  Morton  become  governor.  The  election  of  the  Republican  ticket  was  followed  by  the 
prompt  fullillment  of  this  understanding,  and  thus,  at  the  early  age  of  thirty-seven  years, 
Mr.  Morton  became  governor  of  Indiana.  It  is  said  that  “ great  emergencies  make  great 
men,”  and  as  it  so  did  in  the  case  of  Gen.  Grant,  it  likewise  did  in  Gov.  Morton’s  Case. 
Like  a black  thunder-cloud  athwart  the  horizon,  the  secession  movement  loomed  balefully 
over  the  political  sky  and  threatened  the  disruption  of  the  Union.  Gov.  Morton,  upon  tak- 
ing his  seat,  found  himself  supported  by  a loyal  majority,  but,  to  the  shame  of  Indiana,  he 
was  confronted  by  a secret,  active,  unscrupulous  minority,  whose  sympathy  was  not  only 
with  the  secession  movement,  but  whose  active  aid  and  assistance  were  extended  to  the  dis- 
loyalists. In  the  face  of  these  obstacles  he  was  the  first  governor  to  proffer  President  Lin- 
coln troops,  and  through  his  personal  })ledge  was  enabled  to  raise  funds  for  the  prosecution 
of  the  war  which  a disloyal  Legislature  refused  doing.  As  “ wuir  governor  ” Mr.  Morton 
was  perfection,  and,  taking  it  all  the  way  through,  his  two  terms  as  governor,  were  of  such  a 
brilliant  character  as  to  call  forth  the  admiration  of  every  reading  man  in  the  nation.  The 
Legislature  elected  in  1866  made  him  one  of  Indiana’s  United  States  senators,  and  he  was 
again  chosen  to  this  position  upon  the  expiration  of  his  first  term.  His  readiness  in  debate, 
his  keen,  analytical  mind  and  his  wonderful  ability  made  him  one  of  the  foremost  men  in 
the  Senate  chamber  and  enhanced  his  popularity  as  a national  character.  He  was  a promi- 
nent candidate  for  the  presidential  nomination  before  the  Cincinnati  convention  that  nomi- 
nated President  Hayes,  and  in  1870  he  was  offered  the  English  mission  by  President  Grant 
but  declined  the  jmsitiou.  No  name  shines  with  brighter  luster  in  the  liistory  of  our  county 
than  that  of  Gov.  Morton.  He  died  November  1,  1877. 

JosEPJi  Eastman,  M.  D.,  LL.  D.  There  are  specialists  and  specialists.  They  are 
countless  in  number  and  they  vary  in  skill  as  stones  vary  in  value  from  field  stones  to 
diamonds  and  rubies.  As  in  everything  else  in  the  world,  the  proof  of  Ihe  ability  of  the 
specialist  is  in  the  trial.  If  he  is  really  more  skillful  than  his  brother  ])hysicians  in  the 
regular  practice  he  demonstrates  the  wisdom  of  leaving  the  treatment  of  other  troubles  to 
others  who  have  given  them  more  study  and  devoting  himself  to  those  in  the  treatment  of 
whicli  he  excels,  and  it  may  not  be  loo  much  to  say  that  he  owes  it  to  humanity  to  do  so. 
Indianapolis  has  her  full  quota  of  specialists  in  many  branches  of  practice.  Some  are  so 
incompetent  as  to  be  conspicuous  for  that  very  deficiency,  and  between  the  incompetent  to 
the  really  skillful  there  are  so  many  grades  that  it  would  be  impossible  to  classify  them. 
As  good  as  the  best,  as  skillful  as  the  most  skillful,  as  successful  as  the  most  successful,  is 
Dr.  Joseph  Eastman.  Before  becoming  a specialist  Ur.  Eastman  won  a rejnitation  equally 
as  great  as  a general  f)ractitioner,  and  had  come  to  be  known  as  one  of  the  leading  j'hy- 
sicians  of  Indiana  and  one  of  the  very  greatest  surgeons.  Dr.  Eastman  was  born  in  Fulton 
County,  N.  Y. , January  29,  1812,  a son  of  Rilus  and  Catherine  (Jij)son)  Eastman,  the  ma- 
ternal ancestry  being  German.  As  he  was  obliged  to  depend  upon  his  own  resources  at  a 
t<'nder  age,  his  early  educational  advantages  were  neciessarily  circumscribed  to  those  atfoided 
in  the  winter  public  schools  and  in  such  study  as  ho  had  opportunity  for  nights,  rainy  days 
and  at  odd  moments.  Of  industrious  habits,  he  rerpiired  no  urging  to  induce  him  to  work 
hard  early  and  late,  for  work  was  to  him  the  only  means  to  success  in  life.  Before  he  had 
attained  the  age  of  eighteen  he  had  put  in  a thiee  years’  apprenticeshi])  at  the  blacksmith’s 
trade  and  had  become  a proticirmt  worker  in  iron.  At  the  outbreak  of  the  Civil  War  he  laid 
d(jwn  the  hammer,  and,  turning  his  back  on  the  anvil,  enlisted  as  a |)rivate  in  ihe  Seventy- 
seventh  New  ^ oi  k Volunteeis,  ami  tlie  incidents  and  experiences  of  his  soldier  life  had  a 
large  part  in  shajiing  the  destinies  of  his  futuri*  career.  He  jiarticipated  in  four  of  the 
leading  liatth's  fought  in  the  early  part  of  tlu*  war,  but  after  the  battle  of  Williamsburg, 
Va.,  he  became  a victim  of  ty pho-malarial  f(!V(‘r  and  was  sent  to  Mount  I’leasant  Hosjiital  at 
Washington,  1).  C.  After  his  recovery  he  was  placed  on  light  duty  and  later  was  dis- 
charged from  his  regiment  and  was  appointeil  hos|)ital  steward  in  the  United  States  Army. 


99 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


It  was  in  the  performance  of  the  duties  of  this  office  that  he  became  cognizant  of  the  ambi- 
tion which  later  led  him  to  eminence  as  a physician,  and  laid  a most  practical  and  useful 
foundation  for  an  exceptionally  eminent  and  successful  professional  career.  During  his 
three  years’  service  in  the  hospital  at  Washington  he  attended  three  courses  of  lectures 
given  at  the  University  of  Georgetown,  from  which  institution  he  was  graduated  with  the 
degree  of  M.  D.  in  ISOo.  He  then  passed  the  army  examination  and  was  commissioned 
assistant  surgeon  of  the  United  States  Volunteers,  and  served  with  much  credit  in  that 
capacity  until  mustered  out  of  service  at  Nashville,  Tenn.,  in  May,  186().  Not  long  after- 
ward he  located  at  Brownsburg,  Ind.,  where,  during  the  succeeding  seven  years,  he  was 
engaged  very  successfully  in  general  practice,  and,  meanwhile,  as  opportunity  offered,  he 
kept  up  his  reading  and  attended  Bellevue  Hospital  Medical  College,  from  which  institu- 
tion he  received  his  second  degree  of  M.  D.  in  1871.  At  the  request  of  Drs.  Parvin  & 
Walker,  of  Indianapolis,  Dr.  Eastman  accepted  the  chair  of  Demonstrator  of  Anatomy  in 
the  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  of  that  city,  and  took  up  his  residence  there  in 
1875.  Soon  afterward  he  was  appointed  consulting  surgeon  to  the  City  Hospital,  a position 
which  he  held  with  great  credit  to  himself  and  with  much  benefit  to  that  institution  for  nine 
years,  during  that  time  delivering  courses  of  lectures  on  clinical  surgery  to  the  students. 
He  was  also  for  eight  years  the  assistant  of  Dr.  Parvin,  the  distinguished  obstetrician  and 
gynecologist.  In  1879  he  was  one  of  the  organizers  of  the  Central  College  of  Physicians 
and  Surgeons  of  Indianapolis,  and  was  induced  to  accept  the  chair  of  Anatomy  and  Clinical 
Surgery.  After  having  taught  anatomy  in  the  two  colleges  mentioned  for  seven  years  a 
special  chair  was  created  for  him  in  the  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons,  that  of 
diseases  of  women  and  abdominal  surgery,  which  he  has  held  continuously  ever  since.  During 
the  past  live  years  Dr.  Eastman  has  been  president  of  this  college.  The  fame  which  the 
Doctor  had  acquired  in  the  treatment  of  diseases  of  women  and  in  abdominal  surgery  com- 
pelled him  perforce  to  become  a specialist  whether  or  no,  for  the  demands  upon  him  for 
services  in  these  branches  of  medical  practice  were  so  frecjuent  and  so  imperative  as  to  prac- 
tically prevent  his  giving  due  attention  to  general  practice,  and  since  1886  he  has  devoted 
his  skill  and  his  time  entirely  to  diseases  of  women  and  abdominal  surgery.  His  private 
sanitarium,  which  was  the  natural  outgrowth  of  this  work  in  its  rapid  development,  was 
originally  established  about  nine  years  ago,  and  the  building  it  occupies  has  recently  been 
completed  on  architectural  lines  then  contemplated,  and  the  property  is  valued  at  $40,000. 
The  structure  is  modern  in  design  and  is  in  every  way  adapted  to  the  special  uses  for  which 
it  is  intended.  It  has  about  seventy-tive  rooms  and  its  sanitary  arrangements  are  complete 
and  extensive.  It  is  as  nearly  fireproof  as  possible,  it  is  provided  with  an  elevator  and  with 
open  fireplaces,  which  add  greatly  to  its  means  for  ventilation  and  enhance  its  healthful- 
ness in  no  small  degree.  The  advantages  of  a private  sanitarium  over  hospitals  and  insti- 
tutions of  like  character,  where  the  patient  has  all  the  conveniences  and  comforts  of  home 
and  is  in  close  touch  and  in  constant  communication  with  the  skillful  and  eminent  physician, 
are  evidenced  by  the  fact  that  already  this  institution  is  taxed  to  its  utmost  capacity  with  patients 
from  nearly  a score  of  different  States.  This  sanitarium  is  a credit  to  Indianapolis  and  to 
its  originator,  and  was  the  first  of  the  kind  that  was  established  in  the  State.  During  the 
period  of  his  practice  in  which  Dr.  Eastman  has  given  his  undivided  attention  to  his  spe- 
cialty, he  has  performed  operations  which  have  involved  incisions  into  the  abdomen  four 
hundred  times  and  has  removed  cancerous  womb  forty  times.  He  is  the  only  American  sur- 
geon that  has  ever  operated  for  extra-uterine  pregnancy  by  dissecting  out  the  sack  which 
contained  the  child  and  saving  the  life  of  both  the  infant  and  the  mother.  (See  Hirst’s 
American  Obstetrics,  Vol.  II,  page  270.)  His  operations  are  also  referred  to  in  other  stand- 
ard text  books,  and  have  been  described  and  discussed  in  all  the  leading  American  and 
European  medical  and  surgical  journals.  In  1891,  as  a just  recognition  of  his  professional 
merit  and  worth,  the  degree  of  LL.  D.  was  conferred  upon  him  by  Wabash  College,  which 
was  the  occasion  of  his  receiving  numerous  congratulatory  letters  from  eminent  physicians 
and  surgeons  in  all  parts  of  the  country,  which  demonstrated  more  clearly  than  almost  an}'- 
thiiig  else  could  have  done  the  extent  of  his  fame  among  his  medical  and  surgical  brethren. 
Dr.  Eastman  has  risen  to  a degree  of  skill  and  reputation  rarely  obtained  in  his  profession 
by  essentially  self-made  men,  l)ut  he  has  done  so  only  by  the  hardest  study  and  research. 


23 


AA'D  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

which  has  enabled  him  not  only  to  keep  abreast  with,  but  in  advance  of.  the  great  army  of 
physicians  and  surgeons  of  his  time.  Not  long  since  he  attended  the  International  Medical 
Congress  at  Berlin,  and  visited  Vienna,  Paris,  London  and  many  of  the  great  centers  of 
medical  instruction  for  which  the  European  continent  is  noted.  The  demands  upon  his 
time  and  knowledge  at  State  and  national  conventions  of  physicians  and  surgeons  are  numer- 
ous and  exacting,  and  they  have  included  invitations  to  read  papers  before  the  Chicago 
Gynecological  Society  and  before  the  American  Medical  Association  at  its  session  at  Milwau- 
kee, in  June,  1893.  He  was  also  selected  as  one  of  a limited  number  to  contribute  papers 
on  gynecology  and  abdominal  surgery,  at  the  meeting  of  the  Pan-American  Congress  which 
convened  at  Washington,  D.  C.,  in  Spf)tember,  1893,  he  having  twice  before  acceded  to  a 
similar  demand  with  distinguished  credit  to  himself  and  to  the  most  unbounded  gratification 
of  a large  body  of  eminent  physicians  and  surgeons  before  whom  he  appeared.  In  1868  he 
was  married  to  Mary  Catherine  Barker,  daughter  of  Thomas  Barker,  of  Indianapolis.  His 
two  sons,  Tliomas  B.  and  Josejih  K.  Eastman,  are  at  this  time  reading  medicine  under  his 
direction.  Dr.  Eastman  is  exceptionally  well  informed,  not  alone  in  his  profession  and 
its  history  and  literature,  but  in  other  lines  of  scientific  investigation,  and  has  a range  of 
knowledge  upon  an  infinitude  of  topics  which  is  a constant  surprise  to  all  who  know  him. 
His  opinions  on  ])olitical,  economical  and  other  questions  affecting  the  general  public  are 
most  decided.  The  Doctor  is  a member  of  Roper  Commandery,  a Knight  Templar 
Mason,  and  is  identified  with  numerous  other  societies  and  organizations  not  connected  with 
his  profession.  He  is  a member  of  both  the  Philadelphia  and  Boston  Gynecological  Soci- 
eties, and  he  is  identified  with  so  many  lesser  associations  of  physicians  and  surgeons  that 
space  does  not  admit  of  a mention  of  them  all  in  this  connection.  He  was  elected  chairman 
on  the  Section  of  Diseases  of  Women  of  the  National  Medical  Association  at  the  convention 
held  at  Milwaukee,  June,  1893. 

Hox.  Schuyler  Colfax  was  a true  representative  of  what  an  American  boy  can  become 
l)y  his  own  unaided  efforts.  His  life  began  in  the  city  of  New  York,  March  23,  1823,  and, 
owing  to  the  death  of  his  father  prior  to  his  birth,  he  became  the  only  living  child  of  a 
widowed  mother.  Gen.  William  Colfax,  his  grandfather,  was  a lieutenant  in  the  Continental 
army  when  only  nineteen  years  old.  and  was  a close  and  confidential  friend  of  Gen. 
Wasliington.  Gen.  Colfax  married  Hester  Schuyler  and  their  third  son  was  Schuyler 
Colfax,  who  was  tlie  father  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  It  was  in  his  native  city  that 
Schuyler,  Jr. , received  his  early  schooling.  At  ten  years  of  age  he  began  clerking  in  a 
store  and  at  thirteen  immigrated  westward  and  found  a home  in  New  Carlisle,  Ind.,  where 
he  clerked  until  1841,  when  he  moved  to  South  Bend.  Prior  to  attaining  his  majority  he 
served  as  reporter  of  tlie  Senate  for  the  State  ,Ioiirna1  and  later  was  ap]minted  dej)uty 
auditor  of  St.  Joseph  County.  Instinctively  he  liked  and  seemed  to  grasji  the  ideas  neces- 
sary to  make  a successful  newsj)aper  man.  Ifiirchasing  the  St.  Joseph  Valleij  Register  in 
1845.  of  which  he  w'as  the  founder,  he  continued  its  editor  and  publisher  for  a period  of 
eighteen  years,  obtaining  renown  as  a brilliant  writer  on  all  the  juincipal  topics  of  the  day. 
His  first  election  to  office  was  in  1850,  when  he  l)ecame  a member  of  the  convention  which 
frajued  the  new  constitution  of  the  State.  As  a Whig  he  was  nominated,  much  to  his  sur- 
prise, for  Congress  in  1851,  but  was  defeated  by  about  20O  votes,  claimed  by  his  friends  to 
have  lieen  illegally  cast  at  Michigan  City.  The  year  following  he  was  a delegate  to  the 
National  Convention  which  nominated  Gen.  Scott  for  the  presidency,  and  in  1854  was 
elected  to  the  Thirty-fourth  Congress  by  1,776  votes,  although  the  district  the  preceding 
election  gave  a Democratic  majority  of  1,200.  In  1858  he  was  re-elected  to  Congress  and 
was  made  chairman  of  the  ('orninittee  on  Postofiices  and  Postroads.  He  was  elected  to  the 
special  session  of  (,'ongress  fthe  'I’hirty  seventh)  called  to  provide  for  the  prosecution  of  the 
war,  and  was  active  in  raising  troops  for  the  suppression  of  t he  Rebellion.  At  the  organization 
of  the  Thirty  eighth  Congress  Mr.  Colfax  was  elected  speaker  on  the  first  l)allot,  and  in  the 
Thirty ninth  Congress  was  re  elected  to  the  position  by  a majority  of  103  voles.  At  theorgani 
zation  of  the  Fortieth  Congress  .Mr.  Colfax  was  a thii'd  time  electf'd  speaker  which  fact 
attested  his  popularity  with  his  colleague's.  4’he  favor  with  which  his  name  was  leceived  was 
not  confined  to  the  halls  of  ('ongrt'ss,  but  extended  all  over  the  country,  and  so  manif<>st 
was  tliis  that  he  was  nominated  by  the*  Republican  party  for  the  ofiice  of  Vice  I’resident  of  the 


24 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Uiiitecl  States  iu  1868  and  was  triumphantly  elected.  At  the  expiration  of  his  term  of  office 
he  returned  to  South  Bend  and,  declining  further  political  preferment,  was  practically  retired 
from  active  life  until  his  death.  His  home  life  was  one  of  purity,  happiness  and  affection. 
He  was  an  ardent  member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  and  was  founder  of  the  Daughters  of  Rebecca 
degree.  For  a number  of  years  he  devoted  his  leisure  to  the  delivery  of  lectures,  princi- 
[)ally  upon  the  life  and  character  of  Abraham  Lincoln,  and  in  the  prosecution  of  this  work 
was  found  in  almost  every  northern  state  in  the  Union.  Mr.  Colfax  died  in  Mankato,  Minn., 
January  13,  1885. 

Hon.  Aquilla  Jones  (deceased).  There  is  no  name  connected  with  the  political,  manu- 
facturing and  commercial  history  of  Indianapolis  held  in  more  honored  memory  than  that  of 
the  late  Hon.  Aquilla  Jones,  who  was  born  in  Forsyth  (then  Stokes  County),  North  Carolina, 
July  8,  1811.  His  parents,  Benjamin  and  Mary  Jones,  were  of  IVelsh  extraction.  His 
father  emigrated  to  Indiana  in  1831  and  located  at  Columbus,  Bartholomew  County,  where 
Elisha  P.  Jones,  an  older  brother  of  Aquilla’ s,  had  preceded  them  and  was  engaged  in 
merchandising;  was  the  postmaster,  and  was  otherwise  a citizen  of  prominence.  Aquilla 
entered  his  brother’s  store  as  clerk  and  was  thus  employed  until  August,  1836,  when  he 
removed  to  Missouri.  In  1837  he  returned  to  Columbus  and  became  “mine  host”  of  a well 
known  hotel.  Not  long  afterward,  his  brother,  Elisha  P.  Jones,  died,  and  purchasing  his 
stock  in  1838,  Aquilla  succeeded  him  as  a merchant,  and  was,  by  the  unanimous  choice  of 
the  people  of  the  town,  made  postmaster.  He  had  as  partners  his  brothers  Charles  and  B.  F. 
Jones,  successively,  continuing  the  business  until  1856,  and  during  much  of  that  long  period 
held  the  office  of  postmaster.  He  was  the  incumbent  of  this  office  first  from  1838,  when  he 
was  appointed  by  Pres.  Van  Buren,  until  removed  by  Pres.  Tyler  in  1841.  He  was 
reinstated  by  Tyler  and  retained  the  office  until  removed  by  Pres.  Taylor  in  1849.  His 
abilities  were  recognized  in  1842  by  his  election  to  represent  Bartholomew  County  iu  the 
House  of  Rei)resentatives  of  1842  and  1843.  In  1854  he  received  the  appointment  as 
Indian  agent  of  Washington  Territory,  one  of  the  most  desirable  and  profitable  offices  iu 
the  gift  of  the  President,  but  he  declined  it,  as  he  did  later  a similar  office  in  New  Mexico. 
Meantime  he  had  continued  the  mercantile  business.  This,  however,  he  relinquished  on  his 
election,  iu  1856,  to  the  office  of  State  Treasurer  of  Indiana  on  the  Democratic  ticket  by  a 
handsome  majority  of  7,000,  running  far  ahead  of  the  ticket.  He  was  renominated  in  1858, 
but  declined  the  honor.  About  this  time  he  was  nominated  by  a Democratic  caucus  for 
Agent  of  the  State,  but  this  office  he  also  refused  to  accept.  His  incumbency  of  the  office 
of  State  Treasurer  had  made  him  a resident  of  Indianapolis,  and  in  1856  he  disposed  of  his 
stock  in  the  Columbus  Bridge  Company,  which  erected  the  bridge  across  the  east  branch  of 
the  White  River  and  of  which  he  had  been  president,  holding  a controlling  interest,  since  its 
organization  in  1849.  In  1861  he  was  chosen  treasurer  of  the  Indianapolis  Rolling  Mill 
Company  and  twelve  years  later  he  was  made  its  president.  In  1873  he  was  also  chosen 
president  of  the  Indianapolis  Water  Works  Company,  but  for  private  reasons  resigned  four 
months  later  and  devoted  his  time  more  wholly  to  other  interests:  Until  Mr.  Jones  and  his 
associates  took  hold  of  the  rolling  mill  enterprise,  it  had  never  been  popular,  but  under 
their  management,  iu  which  Mr.  Jones  was  the  directing  spirit,  it  entered  upon  a period  of 
prosperity  which  made  it  one  of  the  great  manufacturing  interests  of  the  State  and  one  of 
the  leading  producers  of  railroad  iron  in  the  West.  For  more  than  half  a century  Mr. 
Jones  was  engaged  in  active  business  and  was  successful  beyond  many  of  his  contempo- 
raries, a fact  due  largely  to  his  industry,  his  intimate  knowledge  of  everything  bearing  on 
business  transactions  and  his  indefatigable  enterprise.  He  might  at  any  time  during  his 
residence  there  have  had  any  office  in  the  gift  of  the  people  of  Bartholomew  County,  and  his 
election  to  the  important  office  of  State  Treasurer,  demonstrated  his  more  extended  popu- 
larity. He  was  married  in  1836,  to  Sarah  Ann,  daughter  of  Evan  Arnold,  who  did  not  long 
survive.  In  1840  he  married  Harriet,  daughter  of  Hon.  John  W.  and  Nancy  Cox,  of  Mor- 
gan County,  Ind.,  who  bore  him  children  named  Elisha  P.,  John  W.,  Emma,  Benjamin  F., 
Charles,  Aquilla  Q.,  Edwin  S.,  William  M. , Frederick,  Harriet  and  Mary.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Jones  were  members  of  the  St.  Paul’s  Protestant  Episcopal  Church,  in  which  Mr.  Jones 
was  a vestryman.  Mr.  Jones  died  July  12,  1891;  his  wife  and  nine  children  survive  him. 


.V* 


E.  A.  BROWN. 


25 


AND  MAFilON  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Aquilla  Q.  Jones,  son  of  Hon.  Acjuilla  Jones,  whose  biographical  sketch  precedes  this 
is  one  of  the  best  known  and  most  popular  and  successful  lawyers  in  Indian- 
apolis. Born  in  Columbus,  Indiana,  April  14,  1852,  of  his  father’s  sons  he  was  the  fifth  in 
order  of  nativity.  His  education  was  begun  in  the  common  schools  and  carried  forward  at 
Farmington,  Me.,  at  the  State  University  in  Bloomington,  and  at  Bacine  College,  Wiscon- 
sin. He  was  graduated  from  the  last-mentioned  institution  in  the  full  classical  course  with 
the  class  of  1873,  at  the  age  of  twenty-one.  Soon  afterward  having  determined  to  devote 
his  talents  and  energies  to  the  study  and  j)ractice  of  law,  he  became  a student  in  the  office  of 
Band  & Taylor,  and  in  the  fall  of  1874  he  entered  the  law  department  of  Columbia  College, 
New  York,  and  there  completed  his  legal  course.  He  entered  actively  upon  the  practice  of 
his  profession  in  Indianapolis  in  1875  and  for  a time  was  associated  with  W.  S.  Byan.  La- 
ter, for  a time,  he  practiced  in  connection  with  Charles  B.  Bockwood.  In  1880  the  law  tirm 
of  Sullivan  A Jones  was  formed,  the  members  being  Thomas  L.  Sullivan,  the  present  Mayor 
of  Indianapolis,  and  Aquilla  Q.  Jones,  which  has  since  been  unbroken  except  during  the 
time  Judge  Sullivan  has  been  on  the  bench  or  occupying  the  executive  chair  of  the  city  of 
Indianapolis.  In  January,  1892,  Mr.  Jones  formed  a partnership  with  Hon.  A.  C.  Ayres, 
late  Judge  of  the  Marion  County  Circuit  Court,  and  that  partnership  now  continrres  under 
the  tirm  name  of  Ayres  A Jones.  In  1893  Mr.  Jones  was  appointed  City  x4.ttorney  and  he  is 
now  tilling  that  responsibility  with  much  credit  and  success.  In  his  private  practice  he  has 
a large  and  constantly  increasing  clientage  and  he  is  regarded  as  an  able  advocate  and  a safe 
counselor,  and  it  may  be  said  of  him  that  he  is  equally  well  known  in  all  the  courts.  He  is 
an  influential  member  of  the  Bar  Association,  of  the  Commercial  Club  and  of  the  Board  of 
Trade,  and  is  also  actively  identified  with  the  Hendricks  Club.  For  many  years  he  has  been 
a vestryman  and  is  now  Junior  Warden  of  St.  Paul’s  Protestant  Episcopal  Church.  He  was 
married  in  1881  to  Miss  Anna  L.  Baschig,  daughter  of  Charles  M.  Baschig,  for  many  years  a 
prominent  citizen  of  Indianapolis.  As  a citizen,  Mr.  Jones  is  eminently  public  spirited  and 
helpful  to  every  cause  tending  to  the  benefit  of  any  large  class  of  his  fellow  citizens.  He  is 
personally  very  popular  and  counts  among  his  friends  many  of  the  leading  men  of  Indiana. 

Hon.  EixiAK  A.  Bkown.  The  judges  of  the  various  courts  established  in  Indianapolis, 
have  always  been  noted  for  theii'  character  and  ability,  and  one  of  the  most  popular  of  the 
many  worthy  men  elevated  to  the  l)ench  in  the  history  of  Marion  County  juris[)rudence,  is 
the  Hon.  Edgar  A.  Brown,  judge  of  the  Marion  circuit  court.  Mr.  Brown  comes  of  the 
sturdiest  New  England  stock  and  is  a son  of  William  P.  Brown,  a native  of  Vermont.  He 
was  born  at  Lennox,  Ashtabula  County,  Ohio,  August  19,  1848,  and  ))assed  his  boyhood 
assisting  his  father  in  his  l)usines8.  He  was  educated  at  Orand  Biver  Institute,  Austinburg, 
Ohio,  and  then  engaged  in  school  teaching,  giving  all  his  spare  time  to  the  study  of  law 
which  he  began  under  the  direction  of  Hon.  Jacol)  B.  Julian,  of  Centreville,  Ind.,  and  coin- 
pleted  in  the  office  of  J.  M.  Bills  of  Indianapolis.  He  was  admitted  to  the  bar  in  1872.  In 
1877  he  formed  a ])artnership  for  the  practice  of  his  [)rofession  with  Hon.  A.  C.  Ayers, 
which  existed  until  the  elevation  of  the  latter  to  the  bench.  Three  years  later  the  tirm  of 
■Ayers,  Brown  A Harvey  was  formed  and  continued  until  1899,  when  Mr.  Brown  was  elected 
judge  of  the  circuit  court  for  a term  of  six  years.  While  Judge  Brown  is  at  home  in  the 
field  of  general  literature  and  is  a close  student  of  affairs,  it  is  as  a jurist  pre-eminently  that 
his  reputation  has  l)een  made.  He  has  all  the  (pialifications  of  a judge;  learned  in  the 
principles  of  the  law.  witii  the  judicial  faculty  in  fi  high  degree  of  applying  them  to  the 
facts,  courteous  in  his  treatment  from  the  bench  and  utterly  fearless  in  his  decisions,  he  has 
well  earned  the  reputation  he  enjoys  of  an  able  and  upriglit  judge.  It  is  well  known  that, 
no  member  of  the  Marion  County  Bar  would  hesitate  to  bring  an  action  before  him  for  fear 
that  personal  or  [Kjlitical  j)rejudice  would  in  any  manner  intlnence  his  decision.  He  has 
established  for  his  court  the  character  of  a forum  where  men  and  causes  shall  alone  be 
judged  by  the  rules  of  law  and  e(|uity,  unaffected  by  extraneous  conditions,  and  has  acfpiired 
for  himself  a worthy  places  in  the  judiciary  of  his  State,  with  every  prospect  of  a bright  pro- 
fessional and  political  future.  Judge  Brown  is  a man  of  strong  domestic  tastes,  is  mariic'd 
and  has  scsveral  children.  He  is  a memb(»r  of  the  National  and  County  Bar  Associations  and 
of  several  of  the  promimml,  literary  societicis  of  the  city,  to  all  of  which  ho  has  on  every 
occasion  cheerfully  given  his  time  and  influetice.  His  term  of  oflice  expires  in  November,  1899. 


26 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


George  Washington  Pigkerill,  M.  D.  In  all  the  elements  of  higher  manhood  George 
Washington  Pickerill,  M.  D. , is  the  peer  of  the  best  of  his  race  and  his  life  is  one  that  merits 
a lengthened  record,  that  it  may  prove  an  example  for  the  emulation  of  others.  He  was 
born  at  Gicero,  Hamilton  County,  Ohio,  August  61,  1867,  his  father  and  mother,  Samuel  J. 
and  IMahala  M.  Pickerill,  having  immigrated  from  Brown  County,  Ohio,  in  1862  to  this 
point,  while  it  was  yet  a wilderness.  The  fatlier  was  among  the  first  of  the  dauntless  spirits 
to  engage  in  platting  and  organizing  the  now  thriving  town  of  Cicero,  and  after  seing  it  grow 
into  a pros[)erous  village,  removed  with  his  family  to  Clinton  County,  Ind.,  where  the  pioneer 
life  was  lived  over  with  all  its  perils  and  dangers.  The  wild  and  savage  beasts  of  the  woods 
made  the  air  resound  with  their  cries  and  the  wilder  savage  red  man  threatened  with  toma- 
ha'vk  and  knife.  Amid  such  scenes  the  early  days  of  George  were  passed  and  his  education 
was  limited  to  the  subscription  school  of  three  months  in  the  year.  In  1848  the  father  took 
his  family  to  La  Fayette,  Iiid.,  and  George,  at  the  age  of  eleven,  went  in  his  father’s  store, 
but  his  ambitious  mind  would  not  forego  the  benelit  of  the  school,  which  was  taught  in  the 
winter.  At  the  ajre  of  seventeen  the  intelligent  lad  entered  the  Northwestern  Christian 
Ihiiversitv,  now  Butler,  tired  with  the  determination  to  be  a minister,  an  idea  implanted  by 
his  father’s  ardent  desire  and  the  urgent  pleadings  of  the  preachers  who  visited  his  father’s 
house,  which  was  ‘‘preacher’s  home”  in  all  that  territory.  At  the  end  of  three  years  his 
heart’s  desire  was  gratified  and  he  entered  upon  the  preacher’s  life  with  the  enthusiasm  of  a 
y'oung  Paul.  He  was  fluent  in  speech,  earnest,  devout  and  eloquent.  For  two  years  he 
labored  earnestly  and  spoke  with  persuasive  force,  and  then  grave  doubts  filled  his  breast. 
He  was  not  lacking  in  love  for  the  work,  nor  was  his  zeal  abated;  still  a voice  within  bade 
him  halt  and  “take  his  hand  from  the  plow.”  Introspection  revealed  the  fact  that  his  mind 
was  speculative,  combative,  scientific  and  progressive  traits  which  were  taking  complete 
control  of  him  and  which  he  could  not  possibly  resist,  and  which  would  bring  him  into  con- 
tlict  with  the  conservative  spirit  of  the  church.  The  ideal  preacher  of  his  youth  and  college 
days  was  in  absolute  antagonism  with  the  actual  preacher  he  was  becoming,  and  the  disap- 
pointment was  terrible.  For  the  sake  of  peace  in  the  church  and  to  follow  the  lead  of  his 
own  conscience  he  withdrew  from  the  ministry.  Rejecting  the  law  from  a mistaken  under- 
standing of  its  scojiehe  turned  to  the  study  of  medicine,  he  having  long  been  a student  of  books 
on  ])hysical  life.  Reverses  in  his  father’s  business  threw  him  upon  his  own  resources  at  the 
age  of  twenty.  Still  undismayed,  he  taught  school  and  studied  medicine  in  the  meantime. 
For  five  years  he  taught,  his  finst  school  being  at  his  old  home.  La  Fayette,  and  his  second 
at  Paxton,  III.,  and  at  the  latter  place  one  of  his  juijiils,  a black  eyed  little  miss,  Melvina  E. 
Hall,  captured  his  heart.  His  love  was  returned,  but  they  waited  for  twenty-five  long  years 
before  the  day^of  consummation  of  their  happiness;  she  waiting  in  sublime  faith  anddevotion, 
while  he  struggled  to  ac(piire  a competency.  But  the  longest  road  has  its  turning,  and  the 
long  waited  for  dayfinally  arrived. the  17th  day  of  May,  1887,  thedawn  of  abliss  as  perfect  as 
it  is  possible  for  mortals  to  attain  unto.  The  happy  couple  in  their  married  life  seemed  to  be 
repaid  for  all  their  years  of  delay  and  disaj)])ointment.  Alas,  this  Inight  and  happy  period 
had  a sad  and  terrible  termination,  for  in  a little  less  than  one  year  this  brave  wife  and  beloved 
woman  died,  a sacrifice  upon  the  sacred  altar  of  maternal  love.  Of  this  sad  and  terrible 
bereavement  the  following  touching  account  was  handed  us  by  a friend,  it  having  appeared 
in  the  doctor’s  paper,  the  Medical  Free  Pres.'c 

“IN  MEMORY. 

“The  angel  of  deatli  came  and  claimed  onr  wife  and  infant  child.  A wife  little  less  than  one  short 
y'car.  A sacrifice  on  the  sacred  altar  of  maternal  love;  an  incense  as  pure  and  holy  as  the  angel  ever 
wafted  from  the  shrine  of  connubial  Cdelity  and  affection.  She  is  gone  and  w'e  are  left  alone  utterly, 
sadly  alone,  but  with  the  assurance 

“Here,  down  here  ’tis  dust  to  dust; 

There,  up  there  ’tis  heart  to  heart.” 

Tears  may  speak,  but  the  heart  and  pen  are  crushed.  Hence  we  present  an  editorial 
from  the  Paxton  (111.)  Record,  Mr.  N.  E.  Stevens,  editor; 

“GONE  TO  HER  REST.” 

pieifi  in  this  city,  on  Saturday,  April  2,  at  the  home  of  her  jiarents,  ^Ir.  and  Mrs.  .1.  1).  Hall,  Mrs. 
.Melvina  E.  Pickerill,  wife  of  Dr.  George  tV.  Pickerill,  of  Indianapolis,  Ind.  The  deceased  was  one  of 


27 


AND  ^rAH10X  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

the  best  known  and  most  highly  esteemed  of  Paxton's  daugliters,  liaving  resided  in  tliis  city  and  vicinity 
since  her  cliildhood  days,  until  a year  since,  when  she  married  and  removed  to  Indianapolis,  her  death 
occurring  while  on  a visit  to  her  friends  in  this  city.  Mrs.  P.  was  a Christian  in  the  highest  sense  of  the 
term.  II  r life  in  Paxton  was  noted  for  the  good  work  she  accomplished  in  society,  the  church  and 
Sabbath-school.  In  Indiauai)olis,  though  a comparative  stranger,  she  won  the  esteem  of  the  Christian 
])eople  in  and  out  of  her  own  church  by  her  untiring  labors.  The  marriage  of  this  couple  was  something 
of  the  romantic.  Twenty-six  years  ago.  Dr.  Pickerill,  then  a penniless  young  man,  taught  school  in  the 
Strayer  district,  in  what  is  now  Hutton  township,  and  ^liss  Hall  was  his  jnipil.  The  ac((uaintance  ripeiu'd 
into  love  and  they  became  engaged.  The  would-be  benedict  started  out  in  the  world  to  make  the  fortune 
which  should  make  it  possible  for  them  to  marry.  Adopting  medicine  as  a profession  he  struggled  for 
an  ('ducation,  and  graduated  both  from  Ann  Arbor,  Mi(,'h.,  and  the  Eclectic  Medical  Institute,  of  Cincin- 
nati, and  twenty  years  ago  settled  down  to  j)ractice  in  Indianapolis.  Years  of  time  were  re<niired  to 
ac(|uire  a practice  and  accumulate  means,  and  during  the  long  delay  correspondence  had  ceased  and 
they  had  heard  nothing  from  each  other,  yet  the  old  love  remained  and  neither  married.  In  the  mean- 
time the  doctor  had  taken  high  rank  in  his  profession,  being  at  that  time  a professor  of  i)hysiology  in  the 
Indiana  Eclectic  Medical  College,  and  editor  of  the  l/idiiiiiii  Echrtic  Madiral  Jiuiriml  now  Medical  Free 
l'reK.1.  Two  years  ago  they  met  at  Indianapolis,  after  twenty-four  year's  separation.  The  old  love 
remained  undiminished,  and  a year  later  they  were  married  in  that  city.  The  eleven  months  which  have 
expired  since  have  been  full  of  ha])i>iuess  for  them,  and  though  the  end  is  abrupt  and  sad  beyond  descrip- 
tion to  the  bereaved  husband,  he  has  the  consolation  not  onl}'  of  earthly  friends  but  in  the  assurance 
that  she  has  hut  gone  before  to  a l)i’tter  world  where  he  will  surely  follow.  We  had  the  pleasure  of  the 
aciiualntanta"  of  I)r.  Pickerill  while  he  was  in  the  (’itv,  and  found  him  a genial  and  intelligent  gentleman 
of  broad  information  and  much  enjoyed  our  interview  witli  him.” 

In  the  year  1884  Dr.  Pickerill  became  editor  and  publisher  of  the  Indiana  Eclecfic 
Medical  Jannial,  then  in  its  second  year.  In  18‘.H)  he  changed  its  name  to  Medical  Free 
Press,  and  this  he  still  owns  and  edits,  putting  in  most  of  his  time  in  this,  a labor  of  love. 
Because  of  broken  health,  caused  by  overwork  and  exposure  in  the  practice  of  his  profession, 
he  confines  his  })ractice  to  his  office.  For  the  same  reason  he  has  resigned  his  connection 
with  the  college.  The  terrible  bereavement  through  which  he  has  just  passed  has  cast  a 
gloom  over  his  life,  from  which  he  will  probably  never  emerge.  The  love  for  the  estimable 
woman  for  whom  he  had  labored  more  than  three  times  as  long  as  did  Jacob  for  Bachel  had 
intensified  with  the  years,  and  he  had  counted  upon  a long  period  of  wedded  ha{)piness 
so  that  the  shock  of  the  loss  was  and  is  yet  unbearable.  Still,  with  the  weight  of 
this  sorrow  that  will  not  be  comforted,  and  with  the  l)urden  of  ill  health,  he  works 
along  stoically  and  with  a setise  of  duty,  giving  a large  share  of  his  time  to  study, 
reading  ami  reflection,  these  (pialities  and  virtues  having  clung  to  him  tenaciously  through 
all  the  vicissitudes  of  his  career.  He  does  not  care  much  for  light  literature,  but  religious, 
scientific  and  fffiilo.sophical  subjects  are  al)sorbing  passions  with  him,  and  he  pursues  them 
with  all  the  ardor  that  characterized  him  in  the  olden  days  when  he  was  passing  through  the 
struggle  of  remaining  in  the  ministry  or  giving  it  u|)  for  something  else.  Those  who  know 
the  Doctor  well  realize  that  his  nature  is  |)rofonndly  sympathetic,  like  as  the  pity  of  a father 
for  his  children,  he  l)eing  keenly  alive  to  the  joys  and  the  sorrows  of  others.  He  is  a warm 
generous  friend,  yet  his  is  the  faculty  tliat  can  love  intensely  without  hating;  for  no  matter 
how  much  one  may  have  injured  him  he  does  not  and  cannot  bear  malice,  or  seek  T’evenge 
against  the  ofbmder.  He  is  naturally  of  a most  lively  tem|)er;  indeed  it  is  somewhat  cyclonic, 
at  times,  in  its  intensity,  and  like  the  cyclone  its  force  is  soon  spent.  It  is  not  possible  that 
a nature  as  intense  as  his  could  escape  such  ebullitions.  But  to  his  infinite  credit  be  it  said, 
he  overcomes  himsfdf,  and  therein  is  mightit'r  than  he  who  overcometli  a city.  In  the 
language  of  the  Book,  he  g<*tH  angry  but  sins  not.  When  the  storm  pi'ovoked  by  the  iniciuity 
of  some  one  has  stirred  the  depths  of  his  being,  it  rapidly  dia8i])ates  without  having  done 
any  hurt,  for  at  such  a time  ho  keeps  within  the  compass  of  his  own  dominion,  and  with  tlu' 
dissipating  of  the  clouds  an  infinite  calm  succeeds  and  a humility  succeeds  ami  a full  and 
free  pardon  of  the  oll’ender  is  gratited,  whethei’  forgiveness  I)e  asked  or  not.  'I’hus  his  lif(^ 
has  passerl,  chiefly  solitary,  except  in  the  one  short  year  of  his  married  life,  yet  it  has  been  a 
life  of  usefulness,  largely  devot«-d  to  the  healing  of  the  alllicted  and  the  using  of  his  whole 
influence  in  making  f)eople  l>right,(M'  and  better.  In  the  hours  (jf  his  wfhghliest  sorrow, 
even,  he  must  find  a measure  of  solace  at  huist,  in  the  reflection  that  his  life  has  been  unselfish 
and  that  it  has  been  i)rivileged  him  to  do  much  good  to  his  fellow  mortals  in  his  journey 
ahjtig  the  road  of  life.  Marly  in  life  oi’  al)out  the  age  of  fifteen  years  he  united  with  the 
(Christian  (Jhurch  and  it  is  now  the  haj)py  thought  of  his  lift'  tlnat  In'  has  livt'd  a devoted 
adherent  to  his  faith. 


28 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Myron  D.  King.  Nothing  is  more  true  than  the  statement  that  in  this  country  alone, 
of  all  the  countries  upon  the  face  of  the  eartli,  a man’s  family  connections  do  not  assist  him 
to  places  of  honor  and  trust  in  politics,  but  he  must  win  his  way  by  his  own  exertions  or  by 
his  own  honest  merit.  In  the  old  countries  the  accident  of  birtli  determines  the  ]ireferment 
of  an  individual,  and  if  he  l)e  not  born  to  a title  or  be  not  the  near  relative  of  one  who  is, 
he  might  as  jirotitably  seek  a mode  of  travel  to  the  moon  as  to  try  to  reach  up  to  a promi- 
nent office.  This  government  of  the  people  is  no  discriminator  of  persons,  but  opens  its 
doors  wide  for  the  entrance  of  all  such  as  possess  the  requisite  (jualiticatious,  and  birth  is 
by  no  means  one  of  these.  The  subject  of  this  sketch,  Myron  D.  King,  was  born  with  the 
heritage  of  a good  name,  his  father  having  been  a distinguished,  honorable  and  honored  citi- 
zen of  the  republic,  yet  !\Ir.  King  owes  the  success  that  has  crowned  him,  not  to  this  most 
worthy  sire,  but  to  his  own  exertions  and  to  his  su[ierior  attainments.  It  is  true  that  he,  as 
every  other  man  whose  father  was  a good  and  worthy  citizen,  must  acknowledge  a debt  of 
obligation  for  wise  counsels,  watchful  care  and  solicitude  and  intelligent  supervision  of  his 
education,  but  in  the  great  arena  of  [)ublic  life  he  has  had,  just  as  every  other  successful 
person,  to  wrestle  alone  and  unaided.  This  is  the  glory  of  our  grand  and  good  country,  that 
the  lists  are  open  to  all  and  it  is  the  greater  honor  that  pertains  to  the  individual  that  this 
is  true,  because  he  must  needs  put  forth  his  best  efforts  if  he  would  attain  the  goal  of  his 
desires.  The  life  of  our  subject  is  full  of  interest  and  may  serve  as  inspiration  to  others 
who  are  newly  started  out  upon  the  way.  Myron  D.  King  was  born  August  9,  1851,  at 
Covington,  Fountain  County,  lud.,  being  the  son  of  James  W.  King,  one  of  the  best  known 
and  most  popular  citizens  of  that  county.  The  father  was  elected  to  the  important  office  of 
county  treasurer  of  Fountain  County,  and  was  re-elected  again  and  again,  serving  ten  years 
in  all,  he  being  held  in  such  high  esteem  and  making  such  a faithful  public  servant  that  it 
was  not  possible  to  defeat  him.  He  was  also  a very  prominent  merchant  of  Covington  and 
Danville,  111.,  and  was  for  a number  of  years  secretary  of  the  institution  for  the  education  of 
the  blind,  and  whether  merchant  or  a public  officer  he  was  always  the  same  honorable, 
upright,  just  and  humane  man, full  of  sympathy  for  the  suffering,  charit}'  for  the  erring  and 
kindness  for  everybody.  Our  subject  was  the  second  child  of  a family  of  five,  and,  like  the 
others,  received  the  advantages  of  a liberal  education.  After  a preparatory  course  he 
entered,  at  the  age  of  sixteen,  the  Northwestern  Christian  University  and  remained  in  that 
excellent  institution  of  learning  from  1867  to  1870,  inclusive.  The  after  man  was  thus 
early  manifest  in  the  youth,  and  at  the  age  of  nineteen,  in  February,  1871,  he  was  jilaced  in 
charge  of  his  father’s  store  at  Danville,  111.,  remaining  there  until  August,  1875,  displaying 
a ripeness  of  judgment  ami  a ])erception  of  business  that  is  very  exceptional  in  so  young  a 
man.  At  the  date  last  named  he  went  to  Indianapolis  and  was  appointed  to  a most  respon- 
sible position  of  trust,  that  of  cashier  and  chief  clerk  of  the  Indianapolis,  Peoria  & Chicago 
Railroad  freight  department,  holding  the  same  for  a period  of  three  years  to  the  entire  sat- 
isfaction of  the  managers  of  the  road,  who  were  much  averse  to  parting  with  him,  and  he 
only  gave  it  up  that  he  might  accept  a more  lucrative  but  similar  place  with  the  Wabash 
Railroad,  holding  tlie  latter  position  for  four  years.  The  future  of  our  subject  was  being 
Avorked  out  in  a way  that  was  clear  and  distinct,  for,  after  giving  uj)  the  office  he  held  with 
the  railroad,  the  arena  of  jiolitics  offering  a more  congenial  field,  he  was  made  Deputy  Secre- 
tary of  State,  serving  three  years  under  Capt.  AV.  R.  Myers,  Secretary  of  State.  Retiring 
then  from  public  office,  he  engaged  in  the  fire  insurance  and  real  estate  business  and  con 
tinned  in  it  for  three  years,  his  experience  of  business  affairs  accjuired  in  the  store  at  Dan- 
ville enabling  him  to  compete  with  those  that  were  older  in  the  business.  But  Mr.  King 
likes  political  life,  the  excitement  and  the  magnificent  opportunities  for  the  exercise  of  strate- 
gic movements,  with  a conscientious  conviction  that  the  ])arty  to  which  he  is  united  by  ties 
of  honest  and  sincere  faith  will  best  carry  out  the  ends  of  good  government  urging  him  to 
the  exercise  of  his  best  efforts  to  the  success  of  that  party.  Hence,  after  three  years  of 
business  life,  we  find  him  again  holding  that  very  responsible  position  of  Deputy  Secretaiy  of 
State,  entering  u])on  his  duties  in  January,  1891,  under  the  Hon.  Claude  Matthews,  then 
Secretary  of  State,  and  serving  until  January  9,  1893,  when,  upon  the  inauguration  of  Mr. 
.Matthews  as  governor,  Mr.  King  Avas  appointed  by  Gov.  Matthews  to  fill  out  his  uuexpired 
term  as  Secretary  of  State,  at  the  expiration  of  Avhich  the  Governor  appointed  him  his  OAvn 


29 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

private  secretary,  also  subsequently  appointed  him  military  secretary  on  his  staff,  with  the 
rank  of  colonel.  Mr.  King  is  a politician  of  high  order  of  merit,  being  an  expert  organizer 
and  an  adroit  manager  of  a campaign.  He  was  one  of  the  organizers  of  the  Hendricks  Club, 
the  leading  Democratic  organization  of  the  State  of  Indiana,  and  served  as  its  president  in 
the  year  1887.  He  has  been  one  of  its  directors  for  the  past  six  years  and  is  regarded  as 
one  of  its  most  active,  useful  and  successful  members.  Mr.  King  possesses  in  the  highest 
degree  what  is  so  necessary  to  success  in  work  of  this  kind,  namely,  a supreme  faith  in  his 
party,  confident  that  it  is  destined  to  lead  his  country  up  to  a higher  plane  of  prosperity, 
w'here  personal  liberty  will  be  paramount  and  the  happiness  of  the  people  will  be  far 
greater  because  of  an  all  pervading  justice.  He  was  married,  in  1882,  to  Miss  Nannie  Gal- 
braith, of  Indianapolis,  a highly-accomplished  lady,  by  whom  he  has  two  most  interesting 
children.  He  is  a member  of  St.  Paul’s  Episcopal  Church  of  this  city  and  a firm  believer 
in  the  faith  of  that  body.  His  career  is  but  fairly  begun  and  his  future  promises  to  advance 
him  far  up  the  height  of  preferment,  his  talents  and  great  personal  popularity  giving  every 
assurance  of  a life  in  a wider  and  broader  sphere  of  j)roniinence  and  distinction. 

Hon  Thomas  A.  Hexduicks.  No  man  in  the  State  of  Indiana  ever  attained  the  ideal  citi- 
zenship, the  affection  of  his  neighbors  or  the  lasting  regard  of  the  Democracy  of  the  State 
in  a higher  degree  than  Thomas  A.  Hendricks.  The  purity  of  his  private  life,  his  simple, 
unassuming  ways,  his  keen,  analytical  mind,  his  brilliancy  as  a debater  and  his  shrewdness 
as  a political  manager,  forever  place  him  among  the  most  eminent  men  of  the  nation.  John 
Hendricks,  his  father,  was  a farmer  by  occupation,  and  the  family  was  one  of  the  pioneers  of 
Westmoreland  county,  Penn.  He  married  Miss  Jane  Thomson,  and  early  in  the  year  1820 
moved  with  his  family  to  Indiana,  and  settled  at  Madison,  where  a brother,  William  Hendricks, 
who  served  as  Congressman,  Governor  and  United  States  Senator,  had  preceded  him.  John 
Hendricks  was  a deputy  surveyor  of  public  lands  of  Indiana,  a jmsition  acquired  under  the 
administration  of  President  Jackson.  He  moved  to  Shelby  County  in  1822,  which  was  the 
family  home  for  years.  Thomas  A.  Hendricks  was  born  on  a farm  near  Zanesville,  Muskin- 
gum County,  Ohio,  September  7,  1819.  He  was  reared  in  Indiana  to  manhood,  and  attended  col 
lege  at  South  Hanover.  Early  in  youth  he  evinced  a predilection  to  the  study  of  law,  and 
after  pursuing  the  usual  course  of  instruction  was  admitted  to  the  bar  at  Shell)yville.  His 
success  as  a lawyer  was  not  rapid,  as  is  usually  the  case  of  prominent  men,  but  was  gradual 
and  fairly  remunerative.  The  game  of  politics  was  always  fascinating  to  him,  and  is  so  in- 
terwoven with  his  political  career  that  in  his  case  they  are  well  nigh  inseparable.  In  1848 
he  was  elected  to  the  State  Legislature,  declining  a renomination,  and  in  1850  was  unanimou.sly 
chosen  senatorial  delegate  to  the  convention  empowered  to  amend  the  State  constitution. 
In  1851  he  was  elected  to  Congress,  was  re-elected  two  year,s  later,  but  in  1854  was  defeated 
for  the  same  position.  Much  to  his  surprise,  and  wholly  unsolicited  on  his  part,  he  was 
appointed  commissioneer  of  the  general  land  office  by  President  Pierce  in  l855,  and  for 
a period  of  four  years  he  faithfully  discharged  the  duties  of  this  office.  In  18()(),  when 
national.  State  and  local  politics  were  in  a volcanic  condition,  he  was  the  candidate  of  the 
Democratic  party  for  Governor,  l)ut  was  defeated  by  Col.  Henry  1.  Lane,  who  resigm'd  the 
position  in  favor  of  Oliver  P.  Morton,  in  order  to  accept  the  election  of  United  States  Senator. 
'I'hrough  Mr.  Hendricks’  indefatigable  efforts  and  personal  po])ularity,  the  State  elected  a 
majority  of  Democratic  legislators  in  18t52,  and  they,  in  turn  for  his  faithful  services,  rewarded 
him  by  electing  him  United  States  Senator.  His  career  as  Senator  was  somewhat  different 
from  that  of  many  of  the  prominent  members  of  his  party  in  the  North.  He  favored  the 
earnest  prosecution  of  the  war,  voting  for  all  measures  to  that  end;  he  oj)posed  conscription, 
and  advocated  all  measures  tending  to  the  enlistment  of  troops  and  the  payment  of  bounties. 
At  the  close  of  th('  war  he  maintained  that,  inasmuch  as  the  States  in  relaJlion  luid  never  been 
out  of  the  Union,  they  were  entitled  to  their  full  and  usual  representation  in  Congress,  and 
that  these  .States  should  hav<!  entire  cotitrol  of  their  respective  Stale  governments.  He 
oj>pospd  the  constitutional  amendments  on  the  grounds  that  the  rebellious  States  were  not 
rej)resented,  and  because,  iti  his  oj)inion,  siitficienl.  time  should  elapse  for  passion  to  cool  and 
prejuilice  al)ate  before  such  action  should  la^  taken.  After  hi4  term  of  six  years  as  senator 
had  ex[)ire(l  he  devoted  his  time  to  the  exclusive  pract  ice  of  law,  and  having  previously  ( 18l>(>) 
moved  to  Indianapolis  he  found  an  extensive  field  for  his  talents.  Against  his  protests  he 


30 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAROIJS 


was  nominated  for  Governor  in  1872  and  was  decisively  elected,  serving  as  chief  executive 
officer  of  the  State  four  years.  He  became  the  political  idol  of  the  Democrats  of  the  State 
and  their  earnest  support,  and  his  national  popularity  gained  for  him  the  vice-presidential 
nomination  in  187(),  but  was  defeated  with  Gov.  Tilden.  In  1884  he  was  again  honored  by  a 
nomination  for  this  exalted  office,  and  was  elected  with  President  Cleveland.  In  the  midst  of 
his  administration  his  career  on  earth  ended. 

Prof.  William  M.  Thrasher.  This  gentleman,  distinguished  in  the  educational 
annals  of  Marion  County,  is  a product  of  Fayette  County,  Ind.,  born  July  20,  1833,  and  is  a 
descendant  of  an  old  colonial  family,  his  ancestor  being  one  of  three  brothers  who  emigrated 
from  England  about  the  middle  of  the  last  century.  One  of  the  brothers  settled  in  Portland, 
Me.,  married  a Cuban  wife,  and  to  him  was  born  John  S.  Thrasher,  the  well-known  editor, 
with  an  able  introduction,  of  Humbolt’s  History  of  Cuba.  John  S.  resided  in  Havana,  was 
suspected  of  complicity  with  the  Lopez  invasion  of  Cuba  in  1850,  was  imprisoned  at  Madrid, 
but  sidisequently  released  in  1851  l)y  intervention  of  the  United  States  Government  through 
its  Secretary  of  State,  Daniel  Webster.  John,  ancestor  of  our  subject,  settled  in  Maryland 
and  was  a soldier  of  the  Revolution.  His  son,  Josiah,  emigrated  to  Kentucky,  married  and 
became  a noted  Indian  fighter  in  the  early  annals  of  Kentucky.  He,  with  his  eldest  son, 
John,  who  had  married  Elizabeth  Kush,  a near  relative  of  Dr.  Benjamin  Kush,  of  Phila- 
delfihia,  and  his  grandson,  Woodson  W.,  emigrated  to  Rush  County,  Ind.,  in  1824.  In 
1831  Woodson  W.  Thrasher  married  Barbara  Daubeiispeck,  a native  of  Cynthiana,  Ky.,  and 
to  tliem  were  born  Prof.  W.  M.;  JohnP.,  of  Fayette  County;  Elizabeth,  deceased  wife 
of  Dr.  James  P.  Orr,  of  Kushville,  Ind. ; Hattie,  deceased  wife  of  Dr.  Samuel  Bell,  of  Dub- 
lin; Sarah,  wife  of  A.  W.  Vandeman,  of  Denver,  Colo. ; Dr.  Marion,  of  San  Francisco,  Cal. ; 
Dr.  Allen  B. , a distinguished  specialist,  of  Cincinnati,  and  Ollie,  wife  of  Marshall  Black- 
ledge,  of  Rush  County,  Ind.  The  father,  Woodson,  served  one  term  in  the  State  Legisla- 
ture and  several  terms  as  County  Commissioner.  He  was  known  through  Indiana  and  Ken- 
tucky as  a breeder  of  short-horn  cattle,  founded  an  academy  of  collegiate  grade  and  died  in 
1886,  an  active  member  of  the  Christian  Church.  His  wife  followed  him  in  1892.  Prof. 
William  M.  passed  his  childhood  and  youth  on  a farm  in  his  native  county,  and  studied  several 
years  in  the  Fairview  Academy  under  the  tutelage  of  Prof.  A.  R.  Benton,  afterward  the 
president  of  Butler  University.  He  graduated  in  1854  from  Bethany  Colege,  W.  Va.,  after 
which  he  taught  a classical  school  at  Kushville,  Ind.,  from  1854  to  1805.  In  April  of  the 
last  named  year  he  entered  Butler  University  as  {irofessor  of  mathematics  and  astronomy, 
which  chair  he  has  tilled  ever  since  with  the  exception  of  one  year,  1873-4,  which  he  spent 
imrsuing  higher  mathematical  branches  at  Heidelberg  University,  Germany.  Since  leaving 
Germany  he  has  been  many  years  a student  of  advanced  mathematics  in  the  English,  French 
and  German  languagfes.  He  has  always  been  an  extensive  reader  of  literature  in  several 
languages,  writes  easily,  but  has  written  nothing  for  publication  except  in  newspapers.  His 
dry  humor,  keen  sense  of  the  ridiculous  and  extensive  accpiaintance  with  literature  have 
aided  in  rendering  his  lectures  quite  popular  with  the  university  students.  The  Professor 
is  a member  of  the  Indiana  Academy  of  Science,  and  as  a teacher  is  among  the  most  suc- 
cessful in  the  State.  In  1862  Prof.  Thrasher  married  Miss  Demia  Thayer,  daughter  of 
Spencer  Thayer  and  niece  of  Ovid  Butler,  Esq.,  of  Indianapolis.  Four  children  were  born 
to  this  union:  Corinne,  wife  of  O.  O.  Garvin,  of  Indianapolis;  Sallie,  wife  of  A.  J.  Brown, 
of  Grand  Rapids,  Mich.;  Nettie  (deceased);  Dr.  Allen  Wade,  of  Indianapolis,  and  Ray- 
mond T. 

F.  M.  Churchman  (deceased).  The  influence  of  a good  man  will  be  ever  expanding 
with  the  lapse  of  time,  and  his  deeds  of  charity  and  acts  of  love  will  live  to  commemorate  his 
name  and  perpetuate  his  memory.  It  can  be  truly  said  that  a great  and  good  man  has  been 
gathered  to  his  fathers,  but  his  virtues  live  after  him,  and  his  reputation  sustained  under  the 
conflict  of  a long  career  of  extraordinary  activity,  bears  no  blemish;  and  his  name  is  every- 
where mentioned  with  respect  and  honor.  F.  M.  Churchman  was  a native  of  the  Keystone 
State,  born  in  Schuylkill  County,  and  on  April  5,  1833,  when  but  an  infant,  he  was  taken  by 
his  father  to  Wilmington,  Del,  where  he  remained  upon  a farm  near  that  city  until 
eleven  years  of  age.  He  received  but  a limited  education  and  in  1846  his  half  brother,  the 
late  W.  H.  Churchman,  founder  of  the  Indiana  Institution  for  the  Blind,  asked  the  father  to 


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31 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

let  him  take  our  subject  west  with  him.  He  took  youug  Churchman  to  raise  ami  the  latter 
remained  with  his  brother,  W.  H.  Churchman,  a year  or  two,  or  until  about  sixteen  years  of  age. 
He  was  then  taken  into  the  bank  of  the  late  S.  A.  Fletcher,  Sr.,  the  bank  at  that  time  being  a 
small  institution,  and  tilled  the  office  of  messenger.  Two  or  three  years  later  he  was  made 
bookkeeper.  He  continued  to  live  with  his  brother,  reading  to  him  at  night,  and  stimulated 
by  a natural  taste  for  reading,  he  gradually  acquired  by  this  practice  a vast  fund  of  iufor 
mation.  At  the  time  of  his  death  he  possessed  a very  fine  library.  In  18()5  Mr.  Churchman 
was  admitted  to  partnership  in  the  institution  that  owes  so  much  of  its  reputation  for  sta- 
bility and  financial  prominence  to  his  close  application  to  business,  and  continued  thereuntil 
the  close  of  his  life.  Mr.  Churchman  was  a man  of  rare  force  of  character,  strictest  inleg 
rity,  and,  coming  from  Quaker  stock,  was  very  reticent.  He  seldom  had  anything  to  say, 
was  mild  but  firm,  and  his  advice  wlien  given  was  sound.  Identified  for  forty  years  with 
the  same  institution  his  career  was  unusual.  He  took  few  vacations  and  was  gifted  with  an 
almost  unerring  penetration,  his  opinions  being  often  sought  on  financial  questions.  He 
had  untold  opportunities  to  go  into  almost  every  financial  and  business  enterprise  that  has 
been  started  in  Indiana,  but  always  declined  offering  his  counsel  or  financial  assistance,  but 
keeping  his  business  interests  confined  within  the  limits  of  his  profession  of  which  he  was  so 
thoroughly  the  master.  Mr.  Churchman's  only  diversion  was  his  240  acres  of  land  below 
Indianapolis,  w here  he  resided  for  twenty  years  before  his  death.  There  he  led  a simple 
life,  giving  much  attention  to  the  breeding  of  blooded  cattle  and  horses,  with  which  his 
farm  was  well  stocked.  He  was  entirely  devoid  of  ostentation,  and  true  to  his  own  training, 
reared  his  family  as  he  had  been  reared,  offering  them  of  course  all  the  educational  facilities 
possible  in  business  and  literature. 

Bersie  a.  Foul.  This  gentleman  is  one  of  the  most  popular  florists  of  Indianapolis. 
His  father  intended  that  he  should  become  a minister,  but  he  turned  his  attention  to  Ihe 
cultivation  of  roses.  Could  any  one  preach  more  unintermittingly  or  more  eloquently? 
Does  not  one  rose  tell  more  of  the  power  of  the  Creator  and  the  beauty  of  the  universe- 
more  of  living  and  dying  yet  living  again — than  a thousand  sermons  ? And  in  Mr.  Fold’s 
greenhouses  are  thousands  of  roses,  roses  of  all  colors  and  shades,  of  all  varieties  and  all 
sizes.  His  conservatories  at  Mi.ssissippi  and  Thirtieth  Streets  are  the  most  extensive  in  the 
State,  comprising  twenty  thousand  feet  under  glass,  and  they  stand  in  the  midst  of  five  acres 
of  ground  all  abloom  with  roses.  The  story  of  the  development  of  an  enterprise  of  so  much 
beauty  is  interesting  but  less  so  than  the  study  of  the  life  of  the  man  who  originated  and 
built  it  up.  Mr.  Fohl  was  born  near  Dublin,  Ind. , May  0,  1858,  a son  of  Rev.  John  and 
Mary  Aon  (Hadebangh)  Fohl,  both  natives  of  Pennsylvania.  Rev.  John  Fohl  has  been  a 
minister  of  the  United  Brethren  Church  since  1817.  For  several  years  past  he  has  been 
superanuated,  but  he  has  really  worked  harder  for  the  church  since  than  he  ever  did  before. 
He  devotes  much  time  to  the  interests  of  the  American  Bil)le  Society  which  necessitates  his 
traveling  a good  deal,  which  is  peculiarly  burdensome  to  most  men  of  his  years.  He  is  now 
past  eighty-eight  but  he  stands  fully  six  feet  high  in  his  stockings  and  tlie  natural  shade  of 
his  hair  has  not  as  yet  been  tinged  with  gray.  His  family  is  noted  for  longevity.  Only  a few 
years  since,  his  mother  died  aged  ninety-seven  and  retained  all  her  mental  faculties  to  tlie 
last.  She  had  been  a member  of  the  church  for  nearly  or  quite  three  quarters  of  a century. 
His  wife  is  still  living  in  her  eighty-fourth  year  and  they  have  been  the  })arent8  of  thirteen 
chihlren  all  of  whom  grew  to  mardiood  and  womanhood,  and  nine  of  whom  are  living  at  this 
time.  For  seventeen  years  prior  to  1868  Rev.  Mr.  Fohl  and  his  family  lived  in  Indiana, 
but  at  that  time  they  returned  to  Pennsylvania.  Bernici  A.  Fohl,  the  youngest  son  of  tliis 
worthy  couple  was  ten  years  old  when  his  parents  retunu'd  to  Penns3dvania.  He  attended 
the  public  schools  there  and  later  was  a student  at  Chili  Seminarv,  near  Rochester,  N.  Y. 
Ho  was  graduated,  however,  from  the  High  School  at  Chambersburg,  IVnn.,  in  1876.  His 
mother  was  a lover  of  flowers  and  she  literally  had  her  door  yard  full  of  them. 
Bernie  hel|)ed  her  to  cultivate  them.  Hence  his  own  love  of  flowers  was  partly  iidierited, 
and  partly  cultivated  as  it  were  and  that  he  determined  to  give  his  life  tothegrowth  and  im 
provement  of  flowers  is  not  to  be  wondered  at.  In  ()ctob(*r,  1877,  he  came  to  Indianajmlis 
and  took  charge  of  the  grounds  at  Crown  Hill  Cemetery  In  1881  he  went  to  Peru,  Ind., 
and  engaged  in  business  there  as  a florist  with  much  success  for  a time,  but  at  the  end  of 


32 


MEMOIRS.  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


four  years,  owing  to  causes  which  form  no  essential  part  of  this  narrative,  he  found  himself 
oirt  of  pocket  to  a considerable  extent,  and  gathering  together  what  remained  to  him  he  re- 
turned to  Indianapolis  and  entered  the  employ  of  Charles  Rieman,  the  florist,  at  the  insig- 
nificant salary  of  eight  dollars  a week.  Finally,  aided  by  a building  and  loan  association, 
he  was  enabled  to  purchase  an  acre  of  ground  at  the  corner  of  Tennessee  and  Twenty-second 
Streets  which  he  began  to  improve,  though  remaining  in  Mr.  Rieman’s  employ  for  two  years 
thereafter.  At  the  expiration  of  that  time  he  again  entered  the  business  on  his  own  account. 
In  December,  1890,  he  sold  this  place  for  which,  unimproved,  he  had  paid  $250,  for  $5,000 
and  removed  to  his  present  location  where  he  purchased  five  acres  of  ground  upon  which  he 
has  since  put  improvements  worth  $10,000.  Since  beginning  business  here  Mr.  Fohl  has 
met  with  a degree  of  success  of  which  any  man  might  be  proud.  He  ranks  as  one  of  the 
leading  citizens  and  enterprising  business  men,  and  enjoys,  in  a remarkable  degree,  the  re- 
spect of  all  who  know  him.  He  was  married  in  March,  1880,  to  Sarah  J.  Wheatcraft  of  In- 
dianapolis and  they  have  two  bright  and  i)romising  sons,  Bernie  A.,  Jr.,  and  Robert  R. 
Bernie,  now  twelve  years  of  age,  has  recently  graduated  from  the  high  school  at  Mapleton 
and  has  the  distinction  of  being  Marion  County’s  youngest  graduate.  Mr.  Fohl  and  his 
family  are  communicants  of  the  Baptist  Church,  and  Mr.  Fohl  is  a liberal  supporter  of  all 
the  direct  and  auxiliary  interests  of  his  church  and  denomination. 

John  Heidenkeich.  The  gentleman  whose  name  is  at  the  head  of  this  sketch  is  the 
manager  of  the  firm  of  J.  Heidenreich  & Co.,  also  one  of  the  proprietors  of  what  is  known  as 
the  Southside  Creenhouses,  on  Applegate  and  Morton  Streets.  He  is  a business  man  who 
never  suffers  his  business  to  push  him;  but,  on  the  contrary  is  constantly  extending  his  field 
of  o[)erations  and  is  seeking  new,  yet  always  safe,  paths.  He  makes  a specialty  of  growing 
roses,  that  most  beautiful  flower,  and  has  from  2,000  to  3,000  potted  rose  plants  each  year 
on  sale,  which,  under  his  skillful  care  of  growing  them,  bear  almost  innumerable  fine  blos- 
soms. He  keeps  the  choicest,  rarest  and  costliest  varieties  and  also  keeps  a large  and  very 
line  lot  of  cut  flowers  of  all  kinds,  the  most  of  which  he  raises  in  his  extensive  and  finely 
ecfuipped  greenhouses.  He  owns  four  lots  on  Applegate  Street,  four  on  Morton  Street  and 
has  6,000  feet  under  glass,  in  four  fine  greenhouses.  All  this  improvement  has  been  made 
by  him,  for  which  he  deserves  great  credit,  for  he  started  in  the  business  with  only  two 
small  lots,  and  now  has  extensive  premises  as  above  stated.  This  desirable  state  of  affairs 
has  been  brought  about  by  keen  business  foresight  and  providence.  The  gentlemen  connected 
with  the  firm  have  always  dealt  fairly  by  their  patrons  and  as  a natural  sequence  have  met 
with  a substantial  reward  and  are  now  comfortably  provided  with  the  good  things  of  this 
world.  Mr.  Heidenreich  owes  his  nativity  to  Germany  where  he  was  born  on  July  0,  1866, 
his  father  being  Joseph  Heidenreich,  who  is  a well  known  and  successful  nurseryman  in  the 
vicinity  of  Berlin,  Germany.  He  has  made  a specialty  of  growing  fruit  trees,  in  which  he 
has  been  very  successful  and  he  is  now  a well-to-do  citizen.  In  his  native  land  John  Heiden- 
reich was  reared  and  educated,  and,  while  not  pursuing  his  studies  in  school,  his  time  was 
employed  in  a.ssisting  his  father,  during  which  time  he  acquired  a taste  for  his  present  calling 
and  learned  many  of  its  details  which  have  been  of  great  benefit  to  him  since  starting  in 
business  for  himself.  In  1883  he  came  to  the  United  States  and  the  same  year  to  Indian- 
apolis, and  here  he  at  once,  with  characteristic  energy,  commenced  working  at  his  trade  in 
the  employ  of  other  firms  until  1890  when  he  embarked  in  the  business  for  himself,  in  which 
short  time  an  extensive  and  most  profitable  business  has  been  built  up,  the  result  of  intelli- 
gent grasp  of  the  enterprise  and  of  faithful,  honest  and  persistent  work.  Customers  have  not 
been  slow  to  learn  where  their  interests  lie  and  wdien  once  their  establishment  is  patronized 
that  patron  is  sure  to  come  again.  Mr.  Heidenreich's  partner  in  business  is  John  Grande, 
a wide-a  wake  and  enterprising  man  of  business  and  the  excellent  commercial  qualifications  of 
these  two  gentlemen  combined  make  them  a strong  and  reliable  firm.  Mr.  Heidenreich  is  a 
member  of  the  Indianapolis  Florist’s  Club  and  the  Indiana  State  Society. 

Hakvey  a.  Weight.  This  gentleman  is  the  proprietor  of  Wright’s  Home-made  Mince- 
meat Factory,  which  business  he  established  on  a small  scale  at  his  residence  in  1883.  The 
first  year  he  sold  his  goods  to  private  parties,  and  manufactured  his  mincemeat  on  a No.  7 
cooking  stove,  amounting  in  all  to  4,700  pounds.  The  second  year  he  made  five  tons;  the 
third  year  he  employed  a delivery  wagon  and  made  ten  tons  for  the  Indianapolis  trade.  The 


38 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

business  has  steadily  increased  in  volume  until  it  has  now  reached  enormous  proportions 
and  is  conducted  in  a building  83x80  feet,  necessitating  the  employment  of  twelve  people. 
At  the  present  time  thirty-two  tons  of  mincemeat  are  made  annually,  thirty-one  tons  being 
for  the  Indianapolis  trade.  In  1892  he  began  the  manufacture  of  mince  pies,  the  sale  of 
which  has  increased  from  8200  to  8700  per  month.  Mr.  Wright  was  born  in  Stowe,  Mass. , 
August  29,  1835,  his  parents  being  Oliver  and  Lydia  (Austin)  Wright,  both  natives  of  the 
Green  Mountain  State.  During  the  father’s  early  life  he  was  a minister  of  the  Universalist 
Church  at  Montpelier,  but  he  afterward  became  a physician  and  practiced  his  profession  in 
Brattleboro  until  his  death  March  5,  1840,  his  widow  surviving  him  until  March  4,  1842. 
Harvey  A.  Wright  was  an  infant  when  his  parents  settled  in  Brattleboro  and  after  the  death 
of  his  parents  he  made  his  home  with  his  mother’s  sister  at  Weston,  Yt.,  his  mother's  birth 
place.  Here  he  remained  and  attended  the  district  schools  until  he  attained  his  fifteenth 
year,  when  he  went  to  North  Orange.  Mass. , where  he  attended  a select  school  for  some 
time.  At  the  age  of  sixteen  he  went  to  work  on  a farm  about  three  miles  from  Brattleboro, 
but  the  following  fall  and  winter  returned  to  the  select  school.  His  vacations  were  spent  in 
tilling  the  soil  until  November  8,  1852,  when  he  entered  the  sash  factory  of  Edwin  Ellis  at 
Athol,  Mass.,  in  which  he  labored  two  and  a half  years.  While  there  he  mortised  and  put 
together  02,000  windows.  In  the  spring  of  1855  he  went  to  Allegany  County,  N.  Y.,  and 
became  foreman  in  the  wood  department  of  the  match  factory  at  that  place.  During  the 
seven  years  that  he  remained  in  that  county  he  served  as  dejmty  sheriff  three  years,  consta 
ble  three  years,  corporation  collector  one  year  and  owned  and  operated  a stage  line  of  forty 
miles.  He  was  a stirring  and  wide-awake  citizen  and  was  (piite  successful  in  his  business 
ventures.  In  the  spring  of  1803  he  became  assistant  foreman  under  John  H.  McLean  in  the 
construction  of  a double  track  on  the  Erie  railroad  and  in  the  fall  of  that  year  acted  as 
brakeman  on  that  road  for  three  months.  He  then  became  foreman  and  conductor  on  a con- 
struction train  on  the  Oil  Creek  railroad,  but  this  position  he  resigned  in  December  to  acce]>t. 
that  of  conductor  on  a freight  train  from  Elmira  to  \Villiamsport.  March  21,  1804,  In' 
enlisted  in  Compan}'^  K,  Fiftieth  New  York  Engineers,  in  which  capacity  he  served  until 
the  war  closed,  receiving  his  discharge  at  Elmira  on  June  28,  1805.  He  then  came  to 
Indianapolis  and  for  some  time  worked  at  his  trade  but  in  the  spring  of  1807  returned  to 
railroading,  which  he  followed  two  years.  He  had  patented  a signal  light,  and  a s})ecial  car 
was  placed  at  his  disposal  for  the  purpose  of  introducing  the  same.  In  IMay,  1870,  he 
l^ecame  a conductor  on  the  Little  Miami  road  but  at  the  end  of  fourteen  months  he  resigned 
and  went  to  St,  Louis  where  he  was  connected  with  the  opening  of  the  St.  Louis  bridge  over 
the  Mississippi  River  and  became  fireman  for  the  St.  Louis  Bridge  Company  and  later  con- 
ductor. At  the  end  of  eight  months  he  was  promoted  to  the  position  of  superintendent  of 
trains  across  the  bridge  but  resigned  this  position  one  year  later  to  become  conductor  on  the 
Big  Four  road  between  Mattoon  and  St.  Louis.  He  has  since  been  connected  with  other 
roads  as  conductor  and  has  followed  railroading  in  various  capacities  for  fourteen  years, 
during  which  time  he  was  never  in  a wreck  for  which  he  was  censured  or  blanied  and  all  of 
his  wrecks  never  cost  over  81,900.  About  1870  he  came  to  ItKliana|)olis  and  engaged  in  the 
bakery  business,  continuing  three  years,  but  off  and  on  since  that  time  he  has  been  con 
nected  with  different  railroads.  He  was  married  in  1875  to  Miss  Mary  A.  Donnell,  a native 
of  Palestine,  111.  Mr.  Wright  is  a member  of  the  order  of  E(prity  and  the  G.  A.  R.,  Robeit 
Anderson  Post,  No.  309.  In  politics  he  has  always  been  an  ardent  Republican.  Mr.  Wright 
is  what  is  often  termed  a “hustler”  and  he  has  l)een  successful  in  the  accumulation  of  a 
considerable  amount  of  worldly  goods. 

Antoixk  Wikoam).  The  extent  to  which  flowers  are  sold  in  a city  indicates  in  no  small 
degree  the  culture  of  its  inhabitants.  Orn;  taking  this  view  must  recognize  the  msthetic  sn 
|)remacy  of  Indianapolis,  as  it  lias  more  florists  and  a better  demand  for  choice  flowers  than 
any  other  city  of  its  size  in  the  country.  Not  only  prominent,  but  foremost  in  point  of  pri 
ority  among  the  floriculturists  of  Indianapolis  is  the  gentleman  whose  name  appears  above. 
Antoine  Wiegand  was  born  in  Saxony,  Germany,  in  1833,  and  was  (‘ducated  in  the  schools 
of  his  native  country.  He  came  to  Amt'rica  in  1855  and  located  in  Indianapolis,  which, 
though  tlien  an  unimportant  town,  was,  he  felt  sure,  to  be  a city  of  commercial  wealth  and 
prominence.  He  established  himself  in  Imsiness,  in  1859  near  the  “Old  Seminary,”  on 

3 


34 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Kentucky  Avenue,  and  prospered  tliere  until  1871),  when  he  removed  to  his  present  location 
at  Seventh  and  Illinois  Streets.  His  extensive  hot  houses  cover  an  area  of  200x200  feet,  and 
his  glass  covered  conservatories  are  among  the  most  attractive  in  the  city.  Here  are  to  be 
found  plants  in  greater  variety  than  in  any  other  one  establishment  in  the  State,  and  Mr. 
Wiegand  has  in  stock  some  single  plants  worth  $150  each.  He  makes  a specialty  of  cut  flow- 
ers and  decorations  and  has  not  only  a large  trade  in  Indianapolis,  but  an  extensive  one  in 
surrounding  towns.  Mr.  Wiegand  was  the  pioneer  in  this  line  in  the  city.  When  he  began 
business,  more  than  a third  of  a century  since,  there  was  little  demand  for  flowers,  and  his 
enterprise  was  necessarily  small.  But  his  is  a kind  of  trade  which  advertises  and  extends 
itself,  if  properly  attended  to,  more  conspicuously,  perhaps,  than  many  others.  The  love  of 
flowers  is  inherent  in  the  human  heart,  and  Mr.  Wiegand  spread  them  before  the  people  of 
Indianapolis  in  ever  expanding  beauty,  year  by  year,  till  there  was  a constantly  increasing 
demand  for  them  and  his  enterprise  became  an  established  fact  and  his  green  houses  one  of 
the  attractions  of  the  city.  Mr.  Wiegand  is  a public-spirited  and  well-esteemed  citizen,  who 
has  the  l)est  interests  of  the  community  at  heart.  Although  he  is  a Republican,  he  is  not  so 
partisan  as  to  ignore  the  claims  of  a Democrat  in  a local  campaign  if  he  happens  to  think 
the  Democrat  is  a better  man  personally  than  his  Republican  opponent.  He  is  a popular 
member  of  the  Columbia  and  other  clubs,  of  the  Royal  Arcanum,  and  of  the  Independent 
Order  of  Odd  Fellows.  He  was  married  in  1865  to  Miss  Katie  Kriess,  a native  of  Germany, 
and  has  two  sous  and  a daughter. 

William  Henry  Harrison,  the  ninth  President  of  the  United  States  and  flrst  governor 
of  the  Territory  of  Indiana,  was  a native  of  the  Old  Dominion,  his  birth  occurring  at  Berke- 
ley, in  1773.  His  father  was  Gov.  Benjamin  Harrison,  one  of  the  signers  of  the  Declaration 
of  Independence.  Receiving  the  final  part  of  his  schooling  at  Hampden,  Sidney  College,  he 
liegaii  for  himself  at  eighteen  years  of  age,  at  which  time  occurred  the  death  of  his  father. 
In  ojiposition  to  the  protests  of  his  friends,  he  sought  a position  in  the  army  of  the  United 
States,  was  commissioned  ensign  by  Gen.  Washington  and  ordered  to  report  to  the  Com- 
manding General  (St.Clair)  of  the  Northern  army.  At  this  period  the  frontier  was  greatly 
harassed  by  depredations  of  marauding  bands  of  savages,  supplemented  by  covert  support 
and  aid  of  the  British  Goveriinient,  and  the  duties  of  the  frontier  troops  were  to  hold  in 
check  and  keep  within  due  bounds  these  attacks.  The  elevation  of  Gen.  Anthony  W'ayiie 
over  Gen.  St.  Clair,  in  command  of  the  Northwest,  resulted  in  a more  vigorous  and  active 
policy,  and  numerous  battles  were  fought  with  varying  success.  Having  obtained  promotion 
to  a lieutenancy,  young  Harrison  was  the  hero  in  a bloody  engagement  August  20,  1792, 
and  for  this  ho  was  publicly  thanked  by  his  superior  officer.  In  1795  he  was  made  com- 
mander of  Fort  Washington,  with  the  rank  of  captain;  the  same  year  he  wedded  the  youngest 
daughter  of  John  Cloves  Symmes,  the  original  owner  of  the  present  site  of  Cincinnati,  and 
three  years  later  resigned  his  commission  to  engage  in  farming.  Very  shortly  after  tending 
his  resignation  he  was  appointed  Secretary  of  the  Northwest  Territory  by  Pres.  Adams, 
and  as  such  was  ex-officio  lieutenant  governor,  and  in  the  absence  of  Gen.  St.  Clair  was 
Governor.  In  1799  he  was  elected  a delegate  to  Congress,  and  during  this  session  the 
Northwest  Territory  was  divided  into  two  Territories,  named  Ohio  and  Indiana.  The  latter 
comprised  the  present  States  of  Indiana,  Illinois,  Iowa,  Wisconsin  and  Michigan,  and  of 
this  Mr.  Harrison  received  the  appointment  of  Governor.  He  immediately  located  at  Vin- 
cennes, which  was  then  the  capital,  and  served  as  Governor  sixteen  years,  having  been 
twice  reappointed  by  Jefferson  and  once  by  Madison.  His  influence  with  the  Indians  was 
greater  than  any  other  white  man.  He  always  kept  strict  faith  with  these  children  of  Nature, 
was  prompt  to  reward  their  good  deeds  and  as  decisive  in  punishing  their  treachery.  Dur- 
ing his  administration  he  commanded  at  the  battle  of  Tippecanoe,  and  the  good  results 
achieved  by  the  success  of  the  whites  was  made  an  event  by  the  Legislatures  of  both  Indiana 
and  Kentucky  extending  the  hero  of  the  day  a vote  of  thanks.  Gov.  Harrison  is  given  a 
prominent  place  by  historians  for  his  services  during  the  War  of  1812,  and  was  a partici- 
pant in  the  defense  of  Fort  Meigs  and  the  Battle  of  the  Thames,  as  well  as  being  the  com- 
mander of  the  Army  of  the  Northwest,  with  the  rank  of  major-general.  In  1816  he  was 
elected  to  Congress  and  in  1824  to  the  United  States  Senate,  from  Ohio,  and  in  1828  was 
appointed  minister  to  the  Republic  of  Columbia  by  President  Adams,  but  being  almost 


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35 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

immediately  recalled  by  (ieneral  Jackson.  In  1836  he  was  nominated  for  the  Presiilency  of 
the  United  States,  but  suffered  defeat.  In  1840  he  was  re-nominated  by  the  Whigs  and 
during  one  of  the  most  remarkable  campaigns  this  country  ever  experienced,  was  elected, 
and  March  4,  1841,  was  inaugurated.  Having  spent  the  most  of  his  life  in  the  frontier,  .Mr. 
Harrison  lacked  the  polish  of  his  opponent,  and  the  stoiy  w'as  circulated  by  the  Democrats, 
with  the  expectation  that  it  would  prove  detrimental  to  him,  that  he  lived  in  a log  cabin  and 
drank  nothing  but  cider.  The  Whigs  accepted  the  insinuation.  The  simjJeness  of  the 
human  life,  divested  of  glamours  and  gildings,  ahvays  appeals  to  the  direct  sensibilities  of 
the  people.  So  it  did  in  this  case.  Log  cabins  were  erected  everywhere;  kegs  supposed  to 
contain  cider,  were  indispensable.  Log  cabin  and  hard  cider  songs  were  sung  and  are  yet 
remembered  by  the  old  residenters,  and  the  famous  hero  of  Tippecanoe  became  the  ninth 
President  of  the  United  States.  His  untimely  death  occurred  one  month  after  his 
triumphal  inauguration. 

George  F.  Edenh.vrter,  M.  D.  Fortunate  as  it  is  in  its  older  physicians,  Indianapolis 
is  no  less  fortunate  in  the  bright  galaxy  of  younger  physicians  and  surgeons,  who  during  the 
past  few  years  have  made  a reputation  for  themselves  and  added  luster  to  the  professional 
status  of  the  city  and  State.  One  of  the  best-known  of  the  latter  class  is  Dr.  George  F. 
Edenharter,  superintendent  of  the  Central  Indiana  Hospital  for  the  Insane,  who  was  born  at 
Piqua,  Ohio,  June  13,  1857,  a son  of  John  and  Elizabeth  (Roseberg)  Edenharter.  His  father 
was  a native  of  Bavaria,  Germany,  came  to  America  in  1848,  and  located  at  Cincinnati, 
Ohio,  removing  later  to  Pi(|ua,  where  he  was  for  many  years  a cabinet  maker.  At  this  time, 
at  the  age  of  seventy-two,  he  is  very  active  for  a man  of  his  years  and  is  a resident  of  Indian- 
apolis. Dr.  Edenharter’s  mother,  who  was  a native  of  Saxony,  died  September  11,  1889. 
Three  children  were  born  to  John  and  Elizabeth  Edenharter,  and  the  one  of  them  with  which 
we  have  to  do  in  this  article  was  reared  principally  at  Dayton,  Ohio,  where  his  parents 
removed  when  he  was  about  nine  years  old.  After  acquiring  an  education  in  the  public 
schools  of  that  city,  he  learned  the  trade  of  a cigar  maker  and  worked  at  it  for  about  eight 
years,  and,  in  following  it,  came  to  Indianapolis  in  1877.  The  difficulties  under  which  he 
began  the  study  of  medicine  are  suggestive  of  those  which  beset  the  celebrated  Elihu  Bur- 
ritt,  the  blacksmith,  in  his  determined  and  successful  attempts  in  the  acquisition  of  knowl- 
edge. While  working  at  the  bench  in  the  prosecution  of  his  trade  young  Edenharter  had 
before  him  the  books  necessary  to  the  course  of  reading  demanded  of  medical  students 
before  taking  lectures,  and  gave  to  their  study  every  moment  he  coukl  spare  from  his  work; 
and  in  course  of  time,  by  making  the  best  use  of  every  spare  hour  and  by  saving  every  cent 
possible  from  his  earning.s,  he  was  enabled  to  enter  the  Physio-Medical  College,  of  Indian- 
apolis, in  1881,  and  after  taking  two  courses  of  lectures  in  that  institution  graduated  there- 
from in  1883,  with  the  degree  of  “ M.  D.”  At  the  city  election  in  the  fall  of  the  same  year 
he  was  elected  a member  of  the  common  council  in  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  and  he  was 
re-elected  in  the  fall  of  1885.  The  time  which  he  could  spare  from  his  official  duties  enabled 
him  to  continue  his  medical  studies  without  great  financial  expense,  and  in  1881  he  entered 
the  medical  college  of  Indiana,  and  was  graduated  therefrom  in  March,  1886.  Immediately 
thereafter  he  was  appointed  physician  and  surgeon  in  chief  of  the  Marion  County  Asylum, 
in  which  capacity  he  served  two  terms.  In  1887  he  received  the  Democratic  nomination  by 
acclamation  for  the  office  of  Mayor  of  Indianapoli.s,  and  although  defeated  by  a small  plurality, 
his  personal  popuharity  enabled  him  to  lead  the  ticket  by  about  1,000  votes.  In  December  fol- 
lowing he  was  appointed  physician  and  surgeon  to  the  Marion  County  Workhouse,  and  at  the 
expiration  of  his  term  of  .service  was  reappointed  but  declined  to  longer  devote  himself  to 
the  duties  of  the  oflice.  In  1890  he  was  unaiiimously  elected  superintendent  of  the  City 
Ho8f)ital  by  a joint  conventicni  of  the  common  council  and  board  of  aldermen  composed  of 
twenty-one  Democrats  and  fifteen  Republicans.  During  his  term  of  service  the  law  regu 
lating  the  election  of  superintendent  of  the  City  Hospital  was  changed,  vesting  in  (he  board 
of  health  the  power  to  appoint  that  functionary,  and  in  1892  (December),  he  was  unani- 
mously re-elected  to  the  same  position  l)y  the  board  of  health,  consisting  of  two  Democrats 
and  one  Republican,  his  salary  being  at  the  same  time  increased.  Under  th(»  supervision  of 
Dr.  Edenharter  the  work  of  carrying  on  the  hospital  in  all  its  detail  was  performed  in  a 
manner  that  elicited  many  flattering  expressions  of  approval  from  l)oth  press  and  |)ublic. 


86 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Many  of  the  devices  contributed  to  the  convenience  of  this  institution  are  the  products  of 
the  Doctor’s  originality,  ingenuity  and  skill.  The  patients  are  given  such  excellent  care 
and  such  close  attention  that  complaints  are  unknown  and  the  common  prejudice  against 
hospitals,  based  on  a fear  all  too  well  groundeil  in  many  cases,  of  maladministration 
and  malpractice,  has  no  point  to  which  to  attach  itself  so  far  as  this  particular  hospital 
is  concerned.  The  high  standard  of  excellence  which  has  characterized  the  management 
of  this  hospital  by  the  Doctor’s  predecessors  in  office,  has  not  only  been  fully  sustained 
by  Dr.  Edenharter  but  has  gained  additional  luster  through  his  administration  of  the 
affairs  of  the  institution.  Dr.  Edenharter,  though  still  a young  man,  possesses  great  energy 
and  the  most  worthy  ambition,  and  he  is  recognized  by  the  best  people  of  Indianapolis, 
not  only  as  a physician  of  extraordinary  skill,  but  as  a man  of  the  broadest  intelligence 
and  the  highest  order  of  business  and  executive  ability.  His  good  judgment,  and  discern- 
ing foresight  in  political  affairs  have  won  him  many  admirers  in  political  circles.  He  is 
popular  with  the  peojile  because  of  the  fact  that  he  is  a self made  man  in  all  that  the 
term  implies,  having  had  from  the  outset  to  depend  upon  his  own  resources  and  to  fight 
his  own  l)attles  unaided  until  he  had  won  a place  in  the  hearts  of  his  fellow-citizens  which 
has  secured  their  hearty  support  and  co-operation.  He  has  attained  his  present  high 
standing  in  the  community  by  hard  work,  close  application  to  the  performance  of  every 
duty  devolving  upon  him,  and  by  the  excercise  of  the  most  indomitable  will.  He  is  a 
member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  and  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society. 
June  6,  1888,  he  was  married  to  Marion  D.,  daughter  of  Michael  and  Maria  Swadener, 
of  Dayton,  Ohio,  who  has  borne  him  one  child  named  Ralph  E.,  now  a bright  and 
promising  boy.  April  7,  1893,  he  was  appointed  superintendent  of  the  Central  Indiana 
Hospital  for  the  Insane,  which  position  he  now  fills,  resigning  the  superintendency  of  the 
City  Hospital,  May  1,  1898.  Dr.  Edenharter  was  not  an  applicant  for  this  position,  but 
was  appointed  over  twenty-three  applicants,  refusing  to  accept  the  position  until  urged  so 
hard  by  the  officials  and  liis  friends  that  he  felt  duty  bound. 

Miss  Eliza  Gt.  Brownino  is  a lady  of  much  intelligence,  energy  and  executive  abilit}% 
and  is  in  every  way  com[)etent  to  fill  the  responsilile  position  of  librarian  of  the  Indianapolis 
Public  Library,  thus  illustrating  what  has  long  been  known  and  acknowledge!!  that  women 
are  in  every  way  competent  to  fill  with  distinguished  success  positions  requiring  the  most 
versatile  mental  powers  and  no  ordinary  degree  of  energy.  She  belongs  to  a family  which 
for  many  years  has  been  largely  identified  with  both  the  jiolitical  and  literary  interests  of 
the  city  of  Indianapolis  and  the  State  of  Indiana.  The  Hon.  William  J.  Brown,  her  mater- 
nal grandfather,  was  a man  of  note  in  the  day  and  age  in  which  he  lived,  and  as  a repre- 
sentative of  the  people  in  this  portion  of  Indiana  in  the  halls  of  the  Congress  of  the  United 
States,  he  was  a power,  especially  in  the  lines  of  truth,  justice  and  right.  His  son.  Admiral 
George  Brown,  United  States  Navy,  has  a record  too  well  known  to  need  additional  words  of 
commendation  here,  suffice  it  to  say  that  his  reputation  is  world  wide.  Hon.  Austin  H. 
Brown,  a brother  of  the  Admiral,  has  often  served  in  public  offices  of  trust  in  national, 
city  and  civic  capacity,  and  is  a man  of  mark.  Some  thirteen  years  ago  when  Miss  Eliza  G. 
Browning  found  it  necessary  to  engage  in  some  remunerative  employment,  the  workings  of 
the  public  library  had  many  attractions  for  her,  and  although  a near  relative  offered  her 
employment,  her  independent  spirit  would  not  allow  her  to  accept  the  offer,  and  she  shortly 
afterward  entered  the  public  library,  first  as  a substitute,  and  for  one  year  labored  without 
compensation.  In  April,  1892,  she  was  elected  librarian,  and  a year  later  was  re-elected  by 
acclamation.  Her  election  was  made  because  of  her  peculiar  fitness  and  adaptabilit}"  for  the 
position,  combined  with  a thorough  knowledge  of  books,  and  it  has  met  with  the  hearty  ap- 
proval of  the  citizens  of  Indianapolis.  She  is  ever  on  the  alert  to  institute  new  and  im- 
proved methods  which  have  greatly  improved  the  convenieniences  for  the  library.  She  is  a 
fine  conversationalist,  a deep  reader  and  thinker  and  an  accomplished  musician. 

James  H.  Woodburn.  The  physician  comes  closer  to  the  confidence  of  his  patients  than 
any  other  man  is  privileged  to  do  with  his  fellow  men.  In  the  hour  of  agony  which  comes 
to  the  household  when  a loved  one  is  stricken  with  a dread  disease,  the  doctor  is  the  one 
stay  and  hope  of  the  family.  It  is  especially  pleasing  to  reflect  that  it  is  the  most  rare  ex- 
ception that  a medical  man  is  false  to  his  trust.  An  exalted  sense  of  honor  pervades  the 


37 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

entire  profession.  Prominent  among  the  successful  practitioners  of  the  healing  art  in 
Indianapolis  stands  the  name  of  Dr.  James  H.  Woodburn.  He  is  a product  of  Jefferson 
County,  Ind.,  born  January  15,  1822,  and  is  a son  of  Robert  and  Sally  (Davis)  Woodburn, 
the  former  a native  of  Washington  County,  Penn.,  and  the  latter  of  the  Blue-Grass  State. 
The  parents  came  to  Indiana  in  1814,  settled  in  Scott  County,  and  were  among  the  pioneers 
of  that  part  of  the  State.  He  was  a tanner  by  trade,  but  in  connection  with  that  business 
was  also  engaged  in  farming,  and  followed  both  until  his  death  in  1825.  His  widow  sur- 
vived him  many  years.  Dr.  Woodburn  passed  his  youthful  days  in  assisting  his  father  on 
the  farm  in  Jefferson  County,  and  his  early  scholastic  training  was  received  in  the  common 
schools.  Later  he  took  a course  at  Hanover  College,  and  in  1841  began  the  study  of  medi- 
cine with  a private  tutor,  and  subsequently  attended  lectures  at  the  medical  department  of 
Louisville  University,  graduating  in  1840.  He  had  practiced  three  years  before  entering 
that  institution.  Immediately  after  graduating  Dr.  Woodburn  began  practicing  in  Shelby 
County,  Ind.,  and  for  seven  years  was  engaged  in  the  practice  of  his  profession  in  that  and 
Clark  and  Johnson  Counties.  In  March,  1851,  he  came  to  Indianapolis,  and  here  he  has 
been  engaged  in  active  practice  ever  since.  In  1801  he  was  elected  superintendent  of  the 
Insane  Asylum,  and  this  position  he  held  in  a satisfactory  and  efficient  manner  until  in 
March,  1805,  when  he  resigned.  The  Doctor  has  been  a member  of  the  city  board  of  health, 
and  was  elected  to  the  city  council  about  the  year  1807,  serving  in  that  capacity  continu- 
ously for  eight  years.  He  has  also  been  identified  with  the  Indiana  Medical  College,  was 
elected  vice-president  of  the  board,  and  that  position  he  holds  at  the  present  time.  He  is  a 

member  of  the  American  Medical  Association,  the  Indiana  State  and  Marion  County 

Medical  Societies,  and  has  been  president  and  treasurer  of  the  last  two  societies.  Dr.  Wood- 
burn  has  also  l)een  a member  of  the  Masonic  and  Odd  Fellow  orders,  although  not  an  active 
member  at  present.  In  the  year  1847  he  was  married  to  Miss  Ann  E.  Cravens  at  Madison, 
Ind.  She  was  a native  of  Orange  County,  Ind.,  and  the  daughter  of  Benjamin  H.  and  Mar- 
garet (Moore)  Cravens,  both  natives  of  the  grand  old  State  of  Virginia.  Four  children  were 
born  to  our  subject  and  wife,  but  only  one  is  now  living.  The  Doctor  and  his  estimable 
companion  are  members  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  He  was  formerly  a Whig  in 
politics,  blit  upon  the  formation  of  the  Republican  party  he  advocated  its  policies,  and  has 
voted  with  that  party  ever  since. 

Dk.  Frederick  C.  Woodburn.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  is  a young  man  of  much 

promise  in  his  profession,  being  one  who  has  had  the  most  favorable  opportunities  for  re- 

ceiving a thorough  classical  and  professional  education,  and  has  availed  himself  of  them  to 
the  utmost.  The  honors  that  have  come  to  liim  are  indeed  well  deserved  and  are  but  pre- 
ludes to  higher  and  more  distinguished  stations  that  await  him.  Dr.  Frederick  C.  Wood- 
burn  was  born  at  Indianapolis  April  11,  1800,  and  is  the  son  of  of  Dr.  James  H.  and  Anna 
E.  (Cravens)  Woodlinrn.  He  was  reared  in  this  city,  was  educated  in  the  common  and  high 
schools  and  Butler  University,  and  afterward  gracluated  from  the  classical  department  of 
Racine  (Wis.),  College,  in  June,  1885,  when  but  nineteen  years  old.  Without  losing  a mo- 
ment’s time  he  began  the  study  of  medicine  in  the  office  of  his  father,  an  eminent  jiracti- 
tioner  of  Indianapolis,  entered  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana  and  graduated  at  the  age  of 
twenty-one.  He  l)egan  the  general  juactice  and  in  the  following  year  took  a post  graduate 
course  in  the  New  York  IMedical  Rost  Graduate  School.  From  January,  1889,  to  January, 
1891,  he  was  sujreriritendent  of  the  Indianajiolis  City  Dispensary,  and  from  1888  to  1891  he 
was  physician  to  the  Indianaprilis  Orphan  Asylum.  At  the  jiresent  time  he  is  consulting 
physician  on  diseases  of  (he  chest  at  the  City  Dis])enBary  and  assistant  to  the  chair  of  ob- 
stetrics in  the  Indiana  ^fedical  College.  For  two  years  he  has  been  Chairman  of  the  com- 
mittee of  arrangements  of  the  Indiana  ^ledical  Society,  and  in  1892  he  held  the  same  posi- 
tion in  the  Mississij)pi  Valley  Medical  Association,  of  which  Association  he  is  now  secretary. 
In  1888-9  ho  was  treasui'er  of  the  IVIarion  County  l\I(“dical  Society  and  in  1891  was  assistant 
secretary  of  the  same  body.  He  is  now  secretary  of  this  society.  Dr.  Woodburn  is  a mendx'r 
of  the  American  Medical  Association,  of  (he  Mitchell  District  Association,  the  j\rississiji]ii  A’al 
ley  Medical  Association,  the  Itidiaua  Stale  Aledical  Society  and  the  Marion  County  Aledical 
Society,  lie  was  married  May  29,  1889,  to  Aliss  Grace  D.  Gilbert,  a native  of  Buffalo,  N.  Ah, 
and  daughter  of  Rev.  James  E.  and  Sarah  (Thompson)  Gilbert,  also  natives  of  New  York. 


38 


MEMOIBS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Dr.  and  Mrs.  Woodbnrn  are  the  parents  of  one  child,  Janies  H.  They  are  members  of  the 
Central  Avenue  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  and  are  very  popular  in  that  large  and  influen- 
tial body.  While  the  Doctor  does  not  take  a very  active  part  in  politics  he  has  very  decided 
views  and  is  hearty  in  his  subscription  to  the  principles  of  the  Republican  party,  the  candi- 
dates of  which  he  always  supports.  Dr.  Woodtmrn  is  a studious  and  investigating  physician, 
earnest  in  his  convictions  and  strong  in  his  faith  in  the  virtue  of  medical  association,  and 
interchange  of  views  and  relation  of  ex|ieriences.  He  is  a man  of  the  most  agreeable  man- 
ners, jileasant  and  gifted  in  conversation,  sympathetic  and  generous;  in  fact  he  combines 
qualities  that  eminently  lit  him  for  a ]iractitioaer,  while  his  earnest  investigations  and  care- 
ful weighing  of  subjects  tit  him  for  the  position  of  instructor  of  others.  His  career  has 
been  rapidly  upward,  but  all  the  distinction  he  has  received  is  deserved  and  he  has  filled 
every  position  to  which  he  has  been  called  with  distinguished  ability.  His  acquaintance  is 
a large  one,  not  only  in  the  city,  but,  especially  with  the  ])rofe8sion,  extends  throughout  the 
State  and  he  has  ardent  friends  in  various  parts  of  the  country. 

Hexry  H.  Beville.  This  well-known  real  estate  man  enjoys  distinction  as  a soldier, 
a citizen,  a business  man  and  an  inventor.  He  was  born  in  Monroe  County,  Ky. , May  1, 
184().  His  paternal  gr;indfather,  Howell  C.  Beville,  was  a native  of  Guilford  County,  N.  C., 
born  about  1776.  His  parents  came  to  America  from  Paris,  France,  for  that  was  their  native 
land.  He  received  a liberal  education,  and  was  a school  teacher  for  several  years  in  North  Car- 
olina. While  yet  quite  a young  man,  he  removed  to  Virginia,  and  settled  on  a farm  near 
Abingdon,  Washington  County,  and  there  he  married  Sarah  Fulks,  of  Welch  descent,  who  was 
liorn  near  Culpeper  Court  House,  Ya.  He  served  as  ensign  of  a company  in  the  United  States 
army  in  the  War  of  1812.  Some  years  later  the  family  removed  to  Kentucky  and  located 
on  the  Cumberland  River,  in  Monroe  County,  where  Howell  C.  Beville  became  a successful 
planter.  He  served  the  county  as  coroner  and  was  otherwise  prominent  as  a citizen,  and 
died  in  1862  on  his  old  home  farm.  His  wife  sniwived  him  about  three  years,  and  she  died 
at  the  home  of  her  daughter,  in  Warren  County,  Ky.  Of  the  children  of  Howell  C.  and 
Sarah  (Fulks)  Beville,  Granville  H.  Beville,  father  of  Henry  H.  Beville,  was  born  at  Abing- 
don, Washington  County,  Va.,  A])ril  22,  1820.  He  removed  to  Kentucky  with  his  father’s 
family,  but  returned  later  to  his  native  State,  where,  in  1844,  he  married  Susan  Crowell, 
also  a native  of  Virginia,  and  a daughter  of  Henry  and  Elizabeth  (Young)  Crowell,  the 
former  a native  of  Germany,  the  latter  a native  of  London,  England.  After  his  marriage 
he  returned  with  his  wife  to  Kentucky  and  assumed  the  management  of  his  father’s  planta- 
tation,  which  he  purchased  a few  years  later.  There  he  lived  until  I860,  when  the  family 
moved  to  Indiana  and  settled  in  Hancock  County.  The  period  of  the  war  draws  near,  and 
it  was  a most  important  period  in  the  life  of  Mr.  Beville.  His  father,  Granville  H.  Beville, 
late  in  the  struggle,  enlisted  in  Company  E,  Eighth  Indiana  Volunteers,  and  died  in  hos- 
pital at  St.  Louis,  September  28,  1865,  from  effects  of  disease  contracted  in  the  service. 
As  for  himself,  he  had  accompanied  the  family  to  Indiana  and  had  been  fairly  educated  in 
the  public  schools.  At  the  beginning  of  the  war  he  was  too  young  to  enter  the  service,  but 
in  March,  1864  (he  was  eighteen  in  May  following),  he  enlisted  in  Company  K,  One  Hun- 
dred and  Thirty-fourth  Indiana  Volunteers,  and  served  until  discharged,  September  28, 
following.  He  was  with  his  regiment  in  Kentucky,  Tennessee  and  Alabama,  and  was  most  of 
the  time  stationed  at  Decatur,  Ala. , on  guard  duty.  He  participated  in  the  remarkable 
engagement  at  Athens,  which  resulted  in  the  capture  of  about  7,000  of  Forrest’s  men. 
Through  all  this  service  he  passed  without  the  slightest  injury,  but  it  is  a remarkable  fact 
in  this  connection  that,  foirr  days  after  his  return  home  an  old  musket  exploded  as  he  was 
firing  it  and  its  tube  and  breech-pin  were  blown  into  his  right  eye  and  against  his  forehead, 
wounding  him  so  severely  that  he  lost  the  sight  of  that  eye  totally.  The  first  year  after  the 
war  Mr.  Beville  spent  on  the  farm.  Then  going  to  Indianapolis,  he  found  employment  for 
a few  months  in  Smith  & Osgood’s  spoke  factory.  During  the  winter  of  1866-67  he  trav- 
eled through  Illinois  and  Iowa,  in  the  interest  of  fire  insurance.  In  the  spring  of  1867, 
at  the  solicitation  of  his  widowed  mother,  he  returned  home  and  assumed  control  of  the 
farm,  September  28,  following,  he  married  Nancy  P.  Mullis,  a native  of  Fayette  County, 
Ind.,  and  daughter  of  Ambrose  and  Mary  (Tull is)  Mullis,  the  former  a native  of  Tennessee, 
the  latter  reared  near  Cincinnati,  Ohio.  Shortly  after  their  marriage,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Beville 


9 


LfBRARY 
OF  THE 

jrjfVFR^iiy  PF  fi  I iwoK 


\ 


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yy\AXk>SxSL..-^J^ 


39 


AM)  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

located  at  Cleveland,  lud.,  and  Mr.  Beville  entered  the  employ  of  the  company  operating 
the  Panhandle  Railroad.  The  following  spring  they  removed  to  Knightstown,  Ind.,  and 
Mr.  Beville  engaged  in  the  nnrserj’  business.  Later  he  was  in  the  meat  trade  at  Carthage. 
Here  a misfortune  overtook  him.  Everything  he  possessed  was  swept  away  by  tire.  He 
then  removed  in  turn  to  Dublin  and  Milton,  and  at  the  latter  place  established  himself  in  a 
transfer  business,  which  he  continued  successfully  until  1870.  At  that  time  he  became  a 
traveler  for  an  agricultural  implement  concern  at  Dublin,  Ind.,  and  was  thus  employed  for 
ten  years,  meantime,  in  1878,  removing  to  Indianapolis.  While  on  the  road  he  invented 
the  “Iron  Duke”  windmill.  He  secured  a patent  on  it  in  1880,  and  since  that  time  has  sold 
the  right  of  sale  for  it  in  ten  or  twelve  different  States,  and  has  realized  therefrom  about 
820,000.  It  was  in  1880,  too,  that  iMr.  Beville  engaged  in  the  real  estate  business,  opening 
an  office  for  that  purpose  in  Indianapolis.  He  has  transacted  about  every  kind  of  business 
properly  falling  to  a real  estate  agent,  but  has  made  a specialty  of  buying  and  selling  real 
property  on  his  own  account.  A number  of  valuable  additions  have  been  made  to  Indianap- 
olis by  him,  among  which  may  be  mentioned  the  Englewood  Addition,  on  East  Washing- 
ton Street;  Kagan  Park,  College  Avenue  and  Fifteenth  Street,  and  L^niversity  Park,  at 
Ervington,  and  he  controls  the  greater  portion  of  the  property  in  North  Indianapolis. 
Through  Mr.  Beville’s  supervision  and  executive  ability  he  was  largely  instriTinental  in 
securing  for  the  city  such  industries  as  the  Dugdale  & Co.  tin  can  factory,  D.  E.  Stone  furni- 
ture company’,  J.  B.  Allfree  & Co.  milling  machinery,  American  Canning  Company,  The 
Cerealine  Manufacturing  Company,  etc.,  and  he  has  within  the  last  live  years  placed 
nearly'  50O  families  in  homes  which  they  bought  on  monthly  payments.  Mr.  Beville  is 
justly  ]>opular  in  both  business  and  social  circles.  He  is  a member  of  the  G.  A.  R.,  is  a 
Scottish  Rite  Mason,  a Red  Man,  a K.  P.,  and  for  a number  of  y^ears  was  master  of 
exchecjuer  of  his  lodge  and  is  a member  also  of  the  Uniformed  Rank  of  the  order.  He  and 
his  family  are  members  of  the  Third  Christian  Church  of  Indianapolis.  His  children  are 
three  in  number:  Burton  L. . Henrv  M.  and  Erial  C.  Three  others.  Bessie  S.,  Monerie  I. 
and  Effie  are  deceased,  Bessie  S.  having  been  called  from  life  at  the  age  of  seventeen,  just 
on  the  threshold  of  a prosperous  and  happy  young  womanhood.  Mr.  Beville’s  mother  is 
still  living  in  Hamilton  County’,  Ind.  Brief  as  is  this  sketch,  it  is  yet  sufficient  to  indicate 
the  sterling  (juality  of  IMr.  Beville’s  character.  He  has  always  been  a busy’  man,  and  though 
dark  misfortune  has  surrounded  him  at  times,  he  'has  been  a successful  man,  as  the  world 
goes,  and  is  regarded  as  a most  useful  and  public-spirited  citizen. 

M.u.  James  L.  Mitchell.  The  suliject  of  our  sketch  is  a distinguished  member  of  the 
Indianapolis  bar  and  an  ex-soldier  of  the  late  war.  who  made  a record  for  himself  as  a 
brave  and  patriotic,  as  well  as  a faithful  officer.  Maj.  Mitchell  comes  of  a family  that  for 
generations  has  been  composed  of  worthy  and  good  people,  true  to  their  country  and  to 
themselves.  He  was  born  in  Shelby  County,  Ky. , September  29,  1834,  being  the  son  of 
Pleasant  L.  D.  and  Mary  A.  (Ketcham)  Mitchell,  natives  of  Kentucky  and  of  old  Virginia 
stock.  Thomas  Mitchell,  the  grandfather  of  our  subject,  served  as  chaplain  to  Gen.  Payne’s 
l)ri<rade  in  the  War  of  1812.  The  maternal  grandfather,  John  Ketcham,  was  a famous 
Indian  fighter  and  had  many  narrow  escapes,  and  was  a terror  to  the  rod  men;  his  jiart  in 
the  Black  Hawk  War  lieing  an  active  and  helpful  one.  He  moved  to  Indiana  at  an  early' 
date  and  entered  a large  tract  of  land.  4'he  father  of  our  subject  moved  from  Kentucky 
about  1810,  coming  in  wagons,  and  located  upon  a tine  tract  of  land  in  Monroe  county,  Ind. 
He  died  in  1883,  while  the  mother  is  living  at  the  age  of  eighty-one.  James  L.  IMitchell 
was  the  eldest  of  a family  of  eight  children.  He  received  a liberal  education.  After  a 
course  in  the  common  schools,  at  the  age  of  seventemi,  he  entered  the  University  of  the  State 
of  Indiana,  from  wliich  ho  was  graduated  in  1858.  'I’hen  he  entered  the  junior  class  of  the 
department  of  law  in  the  university  and,  after  remaining  a year,  entered  the  office  of 
Ketcham  A Goffin,  where  he  read  law  for  a year,  was  admitted  to  practice,  and  at  once 
formed  a partnership  with  his  uncle,  John  E.  Ketcham,  which  continued  until  18(12,  when 
he  was  commissionetl  adjutant  of  the  Seventieth  Regiment  Indiana  Voluntc'or  Infantry, 
ex  President  Harrison’s  regiment.  IMaj.  .Mitchell  took  part  in  all  the  battles  of  the  Atlanta 
campaign,  and  at  the  battle  of  Peach  'I’rei*  Creek  had  his  horse  shot  under  him,  but  he 
escajied  injury.  He  was  mustered  out  in  18(15  and  at  once  resumed  the  practice  of  law  with 


40 


MKMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


his  former  partner.  In  1878  he  was  elected  mayor  of  Indianapolis,  he  being  tlie  first  Demo- 
crat to  he  elected  to  that  position,  and  the  only  candidate  on  his  ticket  at  that  time  who  was 
elected.  This  office  was  held  by  him  for  two  years,  its  onerous  duties  being  discharged  to 
the  general  satisfaction  of  the  public.  The  suffrage  of  the  voters  of  the  Nineteenth  Judicial 
Circuit,  composed  of  Marion  and  Hendricks  Counties,  made  him  prosecuting  attorney  of  the 
circuit,  a position  ho  tilled  so  satisfactorily  that  he  was,  after  serving  two  years,  re  elected  in 
1888,  serving  out  this  term  also,  or  four  years  in  all.  In  1883  he  was  elected  by  the  mem- 
bers of  the  State  Board  of  Education  one  of  the  trustees  of  the  State  University,  which  office 
he  has  tilled  ever  since.  Mr.  Mitchell  enjoys  a decided  popularity  throughout  Marion 
County,  and  indeed  throughout  the  State.  He  is  a most  astute  and  learned  lawyer,  and  an 
orator  and  ])leader  of  eminent  and  persuasive  force.  October  4,  1804,  in  New  Albany,  Ind., 
while  on  a leave  of  absence  from  the  army,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Clara  E.  Carter.  One 
child,  James  L.,  Jr.,  being  the  fruit  of  this  union.  His  son  is  now  associated  with  him  in 
the  practice,  under  the  firm  name  of  Mitchell  & Mitchell.  Mitchell,  Jr.  is  a graduate  of  the 
literary  department  of  the  State  University  and  the  law  department  of  Michigan  Uni- 
versity. The  young  man  is  possessed  of  a very  bright  and  receptive  mind  and  gives  promise 
of  a career  of  brilliancy  and  great  success.  Maj.  Mitchell  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  order, 
of  Oeorge  H.  Thomas  Post,  No.  17,  G.  A.  II.,  and  of  the  Phi  Delta  Theta,  a Greek  fraternity, 
of  which  ex-President  Harrison  and  Vice-President  Stevenson  are  members. 

Amos  W.  P.vrxERSON,  M.  D.  The  atmosphere  of  Indianapolis  is  conducive  to  a cultured, 
retined,  learned  and  progressive  body  of  physicians,  tlie  spirit  of  the  people  being  in  harmony 
with  the  aspirations  of  the  constituent  members  of  the  profession  after  the  highest  possible 
attainments  in  the  noble  science  of  healing.  There  is  no  place  here  for  the  ignorant,  the 
illiterate,  or  the  charlatan,  and  if  any  such  by  chance  come  this  way,  they  speedily  discover 
that  the  sick — and  they  that  have  imaginary  ills,  even — have  been  taught  to  despise  those 
who  have  not  wisdom  and  understanding.  In  no  city  of  the  land  is  there  such  an  all-per- 
vading sentiment  of  grasping  after  the  highest  and  the  best  as  exists  among  the  medicalmen 
of  this  city;  and  no  other  can  show  so  large  a number,  proportionately,  of  really  learned  and 
progressive  practitioners.  In  this  number  of  urbane  and  skilled  physicians  of  Indianapolis 
is  Dr.  Amos  W.  Patterson,  a native  of  Washington,  Davies  County,  Ind.,  who  was  born 
October  17,  1839.  His  father,  Rev.  William  J.  Patterson,  was  a native  of  Washington,  Pa., 
where  he  was  reared  and  educated,  and  afterward  accompanied  his  parents  to  Ohio.  When 
a very  young  man  he  began  to  study  for  the  ministry,  attending  the  Northwestern  Seminary 
at  Hanover,  and  now  located  at  Chicago.  He  became  a Presbyterian  clergyman,  ami  was 
the  jiastor  of  the  First  Presbyterian  Church  at  Brookville,  Ind.,  holding  this  pastorate  until 
his  death  in  1844,  he  being  the  organizer  of  that  church  and  its  first  pastor.  He  married 
Jane  Butler,  a native  of  Brookville,  and  a daughter  of  Amos  Butler,  a pioneer  of  that  county, 
and  who  laid  out  that  town.  Our  subject  was  an  only  son,  and  was  educated  at  Hanover 
College,  from  which  he  graduated  in  1863.  During  the  war  our  subject  was  connected  with 
the  examining  surgeon’s  office  at  Indianapolis,  and  was  for  two  years  in  old  St.  John’s  hos- 
pital at  Cincinnati.  Dr.  Patterson  l)egau  to  carry  out  a long  cherislied  purpose  in  1863, 
when  he  entered  upon  the  study  of  medicine  under  Doctors  Parvin  and  Fletcher  at  Indianap- 
olis, afterward  entering  the  Medical  College  of  Ohio  at  Cincinnati,  from  which  he  graduated 
in  1866.  His  entry  into  the  practice  was  in  Bartholomew  County,  Ind.,  where  he  practiced 
for  a year,  and  then  went  to  Indianapolis,  which  has  always  been  the  Mecca  of  ambitious 
and  able  young  physicians,  who  rejoice  to  get  within  the  circle  of  learning  and  knowledge 
that  is  found  here.  Ever  since  his  coming  he  has  carried  on  the  general  practice,  and  is 
recognized  as  a physician  of  great  ability,  having  ju'oved  himself  one  of  the  most  successful 
practitioners  of  the  city.  During  a jieriod  of  three  years  Dr.  Patterson  was  on  the  city 
hospital  staff,  and  at  all  times  he  has  been  identified  with  the  leading  thought  and  practice 
of  the  city.  The  doctor  is  a member  of  the  American  Medical  Association,  of  the  Indiana 
State  and  the  Marion  County  Medical  societies,  in  all  of  which  honorable  bodies  his  merits 
are  recognized  and  appreciated.  He  was  married  June  11,  1878,  to  Theodora  Kiefer,  a 
native  of  Miamisburg,  Ohio,  and  one  child,  Ruth,  is  the  fruit  of  this  happy  union.  The  Doctor 
while  not  taking  a very  active  part  in  politics  is  in  full  sympathy  with  the  Republican  party, 
and  sirpports  its  canlidates.  Possessed  of  gentle  manners,  sympathetic,  generous  and 


AND  .VARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  41 

suave,  the  Doctor  has  hosts  of  attached  friends,  who  esteem  him  for  his  winning  qualities  as 
a man,  and  admire  him  because  of  his  attainments  and  skill  in  his  profession. 

WiLLi.\M  L.  Heiskell,  D.D.  S.  The  profession  of  dentistry  has  made  the  most  marked 
progress  in  the  past  quarter  of  a century  and  a leading  practicing  dentist  is  able  to  jire- 
serve  the  teeth  of  persons  indetinitely  if  they  will  place  themselves  in  his  charge  and  carry 
out  his  instructions;  and  his  skill  is  such  that  he  can  replace  those  that  are  lost  with  such 
consummate  art  that  it  is  not  possible  to  detect  the  counterfeit,  while  his  operations  in  the 
matter  of  filling,  capping,  etc.,  indicate  the  most  advanced  practical  knowledge.  In  the 
number  of  expert  and  eminent  dentists  of  Indianapolis  is  Dr.  William  L.  Heiskell,  who  was 
born  at  Jeffersonville, Clark  County, Ind.,  September  28,1845.  His  father,  a native  of  Virginia, 
having  been  for  many  years  a prosperous  merchant  of  Jeffersonville,  was  at  one  time  a di- 
rector of  the  Southern  Prison  and  also  served  as  city  treasurer.  He  married  iMargaret  Hue, 
a native  of  Ohio,  by  whom  he  had  five  children.  Robert  S.  Heiskell,  the  father  of  our  sub- 
ject, died  April  23,  181)2,  in  Indianapolis,  where  he  had  lived  for  many  years  as  the  State 
agent  for  the  ilasonic  Mutual  Insurance  Company,  he  having  been  a very  ju-ominent  Mason, 
a thirty-second  degree  member,  and  also  a member  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State.  His 
wife  survives  him,  residing  at  Indianapolis.  Our  subject  was  reared  at  Jeffersonville,  where 
he  received  his  education  in  the  public  schools  and  in  a private  academy.  Coming  to  Indian- 
apolis in  1863  Dr.  Heiskell  began  the  study  of  dentistry  with  Dr.  F.  G.  C.  Hunt,  in  the 
rooms  now  occupied  by  himself.  After  two  years  he  purchased  an  interest  in  the  business 
and  became  a partner  of  Dr.  Hunt,  this  connection  lasting  for  two  years,  since  which  time 
Dr.  Heiskell  has  been  in  business  alone.  In  the  last  year  of  the  war  Dr.  Heiskell  enlisted 
in  the  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-second  Imliana  Volunteer  Infantry,  being  mustered  in  as  a 
private  and  being  discharged  as  an  orderly  sergeant.  The  Doctor  returned  to  Indianapolis 
directly  after  the  war,  resumed  the  practice  and  has  continued  it  ever  since,  having  built  up 
a very  large  practice  and  realizing  a very  handsome  income  from  it.  In  the  year  1871)  Dr. 
Heiskell  assisted  in  the  organization  of  the  Indiana  Dental  College,  was  elected  its  first 
president  and  continued  such  for  a period  of  ten  years;  is  now  its  vice-president  and  is 
chairman  of  its  executive  board.  In  the  year  1883  the  honorary  degree  of  D.D.  S.  was 
conferred  upon  him  by  the  college.  The  Doctor  has  been  a member  of  the  Indiana  Dental 
Association  for  the  past  twenty-nine  years  and  has  served  as  president  of  that  body.  Ex- 
cept for  the  year  that  he  was  in  the  army.  Dr.  Heiskell  has  practiced  continuously  in  the 
city  ever  since  he  located  here;  he  enjoys  a most  lucrative  practice  and  ranks  among  the 
leading  dentists  of  the  city.  He  is  a member  of  Geo.  H.  Thomas  Post,  G.  A.  II.,  and  is 
a trusted  and  honorable  associate  of  that  patriotic  l)ody.  The  Doctor  is  esi)ecially  known 
in  Knights  of  Pythias  circles,  there  probably  being  no  man  connected  with  that  organi- 
zation in  the  United  States  who  is  more  widely  and  favorably  known  than  he.  He  has 
passed  through  all  the  chairs  of  the  subordinate  lodge  and  the  grand  lodge  of  Indiana, 
served  five  years  as  grand  instructor  of  the  order  for  the  State  of  Indiana,  is  at  pre.sent 
supreme  representative  and  grand  instructor  for  the  State,  and  is  colonel  of  the  First 
Regiment,  Indiana  Brigade,  of  the  Uniform  Rank,  Knights  of  Pythias.  The  Doctor  is  an 
enthusiast  in  matters  connected  with  the  order,  and  has  ])robably  done  more  than  any  other 
man  in  Indiana  to  jiromote  the  interests  of  the  organization  and  to  give  it  its  great  distinc- 
tion in  the  State  and  its  [iroininence  with  the  order  throughout  the  country.  The  Doctor 
has  a very  hapjiy  home,  lieing  blessed  with  a charming  wife  and  a most  interesting  family 
of  children.  He  was  married  December  21),  LSbJ,  to  Miss  Elizabi'th  J.  M'ilkins,  a native 
of  Indiana|)oliH,  and  a daughter  of  John  and  Eleanor  ( RrousejWilkins,  of  Ohio.  Dr.  and 
Mrs.  Heiskell  are  the  parmits  of  three  children,  namely:  Walter  W.,  Arthur  R.  and  Eraidr  \V. 
Heiskell.  The  Doctor  and  his  family  are  mernbiu's  of  the  Rol)ertH  Park  Alethodist  Episcopal 
(diurch.  and  he  has  been  leader  of  the  choir  in  that  body  for  the  past  twenty  years. 
Despite  the  arduous  duties  of  his  profession,  he  finds  time  to  give  to  political  matters 
and  is  a warm  and  entliusiastic  adherent  to  the  fortunes  of  the  Republican  jiarly,  the 
teachings  of  which  he  is  earnestly  persuaded  will  best  advance  the  material  interests  of  the 
country.  Personally  the  Doctor  is  a very  pofiular  man,  his  manners  binng  pleasant  and 
agreeable  and  his  nature  being  sympathetic  and  his  disposition  Iv'ing  lively. 

Hon.  John  Scueey.  This  jirorninenl  citizen  of  Indianapolis  has  served  his  fellovv  citizens 


42 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


as  soldier  and  legislator  and  lias  long  been  one  of  the  most  steadfast  and  effective  friends  of 
organized  labor  in  the  State.  His  career  has  been  a busy  and  an  honorable  one.  In  every 
position  to  which  he  lias  been  called  he  has  acipiitted  himself  with  credit  and  to  the  extent 
of  his  ability  has  enhanced  the  weal  of  Indianapolis,  of  Marion  County  and  of  Indiana.  So 
(piiet  and  unassuming  as  scarcely  to  put  forth  a claim  on  his  own  behalf,  he  is  yet  recog- 
nized as  one  deserving  much  of  the  public  because  of  the  effectiveness  of  his  services  for  the 
|)ublic  good.  The  following  all  too  brief,  simple  and  direct  statement  of  the  essential  facts 
in  his  life  will  be  found  mo.st  interesting,  and  it  is  penned  with  the  consciousness  that  it 
forms  one  of  the  most  edifying  personal  histories  in  this  large  book.  John  Schley  was  born 
at  Frederick,  Md.,  August  23,  1838,  his  father  and  mother  having  been  natives  of  that  State. 
His  family  connections  are  very  large  and  embrace  many  {uominent  personages.  His 
mother  was  a near  relative  of  Edgar  Allen  Poe.  His  father  was  for  many  years  an  influen- 
tial politician  and  citizen  of  Maryland.  IMr.  Schley  is  a first  cousin  of  Commodore  W.  S. 
Schley,  United  States  Navy,  who  was  in  command  of  the  Greeley  relief  expedition  and 
commanded  the  cruiser  “Baltimore'’  in  the  Chilian  affair  in  1891.  Mr.  Schley  received  a 
collegiate  education  and  then  learned’the  printer’s  trade.  He  came  to  Indianapolis  July  17, 
1836,  and  has  resided  in  that  city  continuously  since.  His  first  employment  here  was  as  a 
compositor  in  the  Seiifiiicl  office  and  he  was  employed  there  at  the  outbreak  of  the  Rebellion. 
At  the  first  call  for  troops  he  enlisted  as  a private  in  Company  A (the  old  City  Grays),  Elev- 
enth Indiana,  Maj.-Gen.  R.  S.  Foster  being  the  then  captain  of  said  company.  At  the 
expiration  of  three  months’  service  he  returned  to  Indianapolis  and  soon  thereafter  received 
a commission  as  second  lieutenant  in  the  Fourth  Maryland  Volunteer  Infantry,  his  brother. 
Col.  William  Louis  Schley,  being  the  su])erintendent  of  recruiting  for  the  Union  army  in 
that  State,  subsequently  serving  as  first  lieutenant  and  adjutant  and  being  finally  ])romoted 
to  a cajctaiTicy,  with  which  rank  he  was  mustered  out  of  the  service  at  the  close  of  the  war. 
Capt.  Schley  was  wounded  three  times  while  in  the  service.  His  first  wound,  received  at  the 
battle  of  S[)ottsylvania,  May  8,  1803,  was  a severe  longitudinal  fracture  of  the  left  thigh 
bone,  caused  by  a six  pound  solid  shot  during  a charge  upon  a battery  of  the  Confederates. 
His  other  wounds  were  of  a minor  nature  and  were  received  at  the  battle  of  Hatcher’s  Run, 
on  February  0,  in  the  following  year.  Capt.  Schley  was  in  all  the  important  engagements 
of  Grant’s  Richmond  cam])aign  from  the  crossing  of  the  Rappahannock  to  the  surrender  at 
Appomattox,  of  which  historic  event  he  was  a witness.  After  the  war  he  resumed  work  as  a 
compositor  on  the  Soifi.itel  and  at  different  times  served  in  the  ca]>acity  of  night  and  com- 
mercial editor  of  that  paper  and  as  foreman  of  its  mechanical  department.  He  has  always 
been  a Democrat  in  politics  and  as  unswerving  in  his  loyalty  to  that  party  as  he  was  to  his 
country  during  the  Rebellion.  He  has  always  been  closely  identified  with  organized  labor 
and  has  now  been  a member  of  Ty pogra}>hical  Union  No.  1 for  thirty-seven  years,  continu- 
ously. For  two  years  he  was  president  of  the  State  Trades  Assembly,  and  in  1881  his 
union  honored  him  with  an  election  as  delegate  to  the  International  Union,  which  met  in 
d’oronto,  Canada.  Here  he  was  elected  as  corresponding  secretary  of  that  body  and  served 
one  term.  He  had  also,  twenty  years  before,  in  1861,  been  honored  with  a similar  election 
by  his  craftsmen  and  attended  the  session  of  the  National  Typographical  Union,  which  met 
at  Nashville.  Tenn.,  that  year.  In  1875  he  was  appointed  a deputy  county  clerk  and  served 
three  years  in  Room  1.  Superior  Court.  In  1878  the  Republicans  carried  the  county  and 
Capt.  Schley  was  removed.  During  the  campaign  of  1880  he  was  secretary  of  the  Demo- 
cratic County  Central  Committee.  In  1881  he  was  nominated  by  the  Democratic  City  Con- 
vention as  its  candidate  for  city  clerk,  and  though,  with  the  rest  of  his  ticket,  defeated,  he 
succeeded  in  materially  reducing  the  Republican  majority.  In  1884  he  was  elected  a rep- 
resentative from  Marion  County  in  the  State  Legislature  and  introduced  the  bill  which  is 
now  the  law  governing  Building  and  Loan  Associations  in  this  State.  He  was  re-elected  a 
representative  in  1886  and  declined  a I’enomination  in  1888.  In  1886  he  was  again 
appointed  a deputy  county  clerk  and  is  still  serving  as  such  in  the  Circuit  Court.  Capt. 
Schley  has  been  secretarv  of  Prospect  Saving  and  Loan  Association,  one  of  the  most  success- 
ful in  Indianapolis,  for  the  past  nine  years.  In  1867  Capt.  Schley  was  married  to  Miss 
Emily  Isabella  Smith,  a daughter  of  the  late  Hon.  Isaac  Smith,  who  also  served  as  r-epre- 
sentative  from  Marion  County  in  the  Legislature  and  was  one  of  the  secretaries  of  the  State 


43 


AND  ^fAE^nN  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Constitutional  Convention  of  1852.  One  of  her  brothers  is  Capt.  Oak  M.  Smith,  United 
States  Army,  now  on  dut}'  at  New  Orleans.  Mrs.  Schley  is  a lineal  descendant  of  Josiah 
Bartlett,  one  of  the  signers  of  the  Declaration  of  Independence.  There  were  four  children 
born  to  this  marriage — two  sons  and  two  daughters.  The  sons  are  both  dead,  the  elder  one. 
Naval  Cadet  O.  S.  Schley,  was  killed  in  1886,  while  on  his  summer  cruise  with  his  class  from 
the  Naval  Academy  at  Annapolis  by  falling  from  the  mast  of  the  practice  ship, Constellation, 
his  body  being  lost  at  sea.  He  was  then  a young  man  of  eighteen  years.  The  other  son 
died  when  but  sixteen  months  old.  The  daughters  are  now  young  ladies,  at  home  witli  their 
|)a rents.  Capt.  Schley  has  been  more  or  less  prominently  ideutitied  with  numerous  impor- 
tant enterprises  and  movements  not  mentioned  above,  always  generously  and  helpfully  and 
to  the  benefit  of  his  fellow  citizens.  A more  unostentatious  or  a more  valuable  citizen  it 
would  be  hard  to  name,  or  one  who  possesses  in  a higher  degree  the  esteem  of  the  pul)lic, 
politics  not  considered.  His  life,  while  successful,  has  not  been  without  its  struggles,  but 
he  entertains  bitterness  toward  no  man;  while  it  has  been  blessed  above  the  measure 
accorded  to  many  others,  it  has  also  l)een  darkened  by  alHiction,  but  he  never  looks  upon  the 
■‘bitter  side,”  believing  that  which  the  future  contains  is  well  ordered  and  is  therefore  good. 
He  luis  achieved  his  successes  through  labor  and  by  strictly  honorable  methods  and  they  are 
therefore  the  more  estimable. 

J.  H.  Webster.  There  is  nothing  more  important  to  the  welfare  of  a city  or  more 
effective  in  the  preservation  of  property  as  well  as  life,  than  a well  equipped  and  conducted 
tire  department,  and  the  man  who  successfully  fills  the  position  of  chief  must  possess  keen 
foresight,  unbounded  energy,  and  mu.st  be  ever  alert  and  ready  to  respond  to  the  calls  upon 
his  services.  All  these  attributes  are  possessed  in  a marked  degree  by  J.  H.  Webster,  who 
is  chief  of  the  fire  department  of  Indianapolis.  He  owes  his  nativity  to  Phelps,  Ontario 
County,  N.  Y. , being  born  on  March  21,  1833,  to  Chester  and  Phoebe  (Pinkham)  Webster, 
natives  of  Litchfield,  Conn.  Chester  Webster  had  the  honor  of  serving  his  country  iti 
the  War  of  1812.  in  which  struggle  he  rendered  effective  service,  and  while  following  the 
duties  of  a civilian  he  conducted  a boot  and  shoe  business,  to  which  his  attention  was  devoted 
for  many  years  in  Troy,  N.  Y.  In  the  latter  part  of  his  life  he  jmrchased  a farm  in  Ontario 
County, ’N.  Y.,  on  which  his  declining  years  were  spent  surrounded  by  all  that  goes  to  make 
life  comfortable  and  enjoyable.  To  his  marriage  a family  of  nine  children  were  given,  five 
of  whom  survive.  The  life  of  J.  H.  Webster,  from  the  time  of  his  birth  up  to  the  age  of 
twenty-one  years,  was  spent  in  his  native  county  in  assisting  in  the  usual  duties  of  farm  life 
and  in  attending  the  common  schools  near  his  rural  home,  where  he  received  the  major  part 
of  his  literary  education.  After  attaining  his  majority  he  decided  to  sever  home  ties  and 
anticipating  the  advice  of  Horace  Greeley  he  decided  to  “go  West  and  grow  up  with  the 
country,”  and  in  Circleville,  Ohio,  he  had  his  first  experience  in  fighting  the  battle  of  life  for 
himself.  After  clerking  in  a hotel  foi'  a brief  period  he  became  a salesman  in  a wholesale 
furniture  estal)lishment  where  he  remained  for  a few  years  after  which  he  returned  East  l)ut 
again  turned  his  face  westward  in  1855  and  this  time  made  his  way  to  Indianaimlis,  Ind., 
and  tinally  to  Danville,  of  the  same  State.  In  the  latter  place  he  found  emj)loyment  in  the 
woolen  mills  belonging  to  Roger  Foster  and  while  thus  emi)loyed  wooed  and  won  for  his 
wife  the  daughter  of  his  einfiloyer,  Frances  E.  I'oster,  in  1857.  One  year  later  he  came  with 
his  wife  to  Indianapolis  and  for  a few  years  was  employed  in  the  Hub  and  Ijast  Factory. 
On  March  31.  1860.  he  became  a member  of  the  fire  department  of  the  city  and  had  the  man 
agenient  of  the  first  steam  fire  engine  that  was  ever  brought  to  the  place.  His  marked  ability, 
zeal  and  promptness  soon  brought  him  into  prominent  notice  and  the  city  government  soon 
manifested  its  knowledge  of  his  fitness  foi'  the  position  and  its  desire  for  the  welfare  of  the 
community  by  making  him  chief  of  the  dej)artment.  To  the  di.schai'ge  of  the  many  duties  of 
this  position  ho  has  devoted  his  time  and  eneigies  up  to  the  |)resent  time  with  the  exception 
of  two  years  when  he  conducted  a livery  stable.  Me  is  now  the  oldest  employe  of  the  fire 
departTiiont  of  the  city  ami  many  times  during  this  honorable  career  the  people  of  Indian 
a[)olis  have  had  occasion  to  congratulate  themselves  on  the  etllcitmcy,  promptness  and  intelli- 
gence shown  by  Uhief  Webster  in  subduing  contlagiations  with  but  little  loss  to  life  and  ])rop 
erty.  .Mr.  Webster  has  been  married  twice,  his  second  marriage  being  celebrated  in  1886, 
to  Miss  Mary  McGilvery,  by  whom  he  has  two  children:  Daisy  C.  and  Rufus  E.  His  first  wife 


44 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


bore  bim  a daughter,  Faunie  G.,  who  is  the  wife  of  John  Fuller.  Mr.  Webster  is  a member 
of  the  Masonic  and  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellow  fraternities,  and  politically  has  always 
supported  the  measures  of  tlie  llepublican  party. 

Fkederick  W.  Oady.  The  American  bar  offers  the  finest  opportunities  for  preferment 
of  any  country  U|)on  the  face  of  the  earth,  its  members  being  ju’ivileged,  if  the  talent  is  not 
wanting,  to  attain  not  only  the  greatest  distinction  in  the  profession,  but  it  is  the  easiest  way 
of  apju’oach  to  the  liighest  official  ])laces  in  the  land.  Wliat  is  more,  the  American  bar  can 
show  an  array  of  eminent  talent,  of  profound  erudition  and  of  judicial  ability  equal  to  that 
of  England,  France  or  Germany.  The  Indianapolis  l)ar  has  during  the  past  half  century 
been  greatly  distinguished  for  the  learning  and  talent  of  its  members,  who  know  no  such 
word  as  fail  when  |)itted  against  lawyers  from  other  cities.  A very  bright  and  most  promis- 
ing  young  attorney  of  tliis  city  is  the  subject  of  our  sketch,  Frederick  W.  Cady,  who  thus 
early  in  his  career  has  won  victories  at  the  bar  that  would  have  reflected  credit  upon  its 
oldest  inembers.  He  is  senioi'  member  of  the  firm  of  Cady  & Cady,  with  offices  at  8|  North 
Pennsylvania  Street,  and  was  born  in  Windsor  County,  At.,  July  ‘28,  1864,  being  the  son  of 
John  W.  and  IMary  A.  (Leavens)  Cady,  natives  of  the  Green  Mountain  State,  and  is  of 
Scotch  English  descent.  The  Cady  family  were  pioneers  in  tlie  State  of  Connecticut,  after- 
ward settling  in  Vermont.  Stephen  P.  Cady,  the  grandfather  of  our  subject,  was  a farmer 
and  stockraiser  of  Vermont,  who  spent  his  days  in  that  State.  The  maternal  grandfather, 
Hon.  Orange  Leavens,  was  a farmer  of  the  Connecticut  River  valley,  who  amassed  a com- 
fortable fortune  and  was.  later  in  life,  a member  of  the  General  Assembly  and  of  the  Senate 
of  his  State  for  several  sessions,  distinguishing  himself  therein  by  his  great  force  of  char- 
acter, quick  perce])tion.  and  his  large  resources  of  common  sense.  A man  of  great  promi- 
nence, he  was  especially  identified  with  the  interests  of  the  town  of  his  home,  holding  the 
most  important  positions  in  the  Government  thereof  for  many  years,  and  contributing  greatly 
to  its  improvement.  He  died  in  West  Windsor,  the  town  of  his  birth  and  life-long  home  in 
the  year  1884,  at  the  age  of  eighty- four  years.  The  father  of  our  subject  is  a prosperous 
and  industrious  farmer  of  the  town  of  West  Windsor,  Vt.,  and  has  been  for  a long  time  a 
member  of  the  board  of  that  town,  a position  which  he  tills  with  great  fairness  and  ability. 
During  the  late  war  he  served  in  Company  A,  Twelfth  Vermont  Volunteer  Infantry.  Unto 
him  and  Mrs.  Cady  have  been  born  three  children,  namely;  Frederick  W.,  Daniel  L.  and 
Mary  E.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  was  reared  in  the  county  of  Windsor,  where  he  passed 
through  the  public  schools,  graduating  from  the  high  school  at  Windsor  and  from  the  famous 
Kimball  Union  Academy,  at  Meriden,  N.  H. , immediately  following  which  he  entered  the 
law  office  of  the  Hon.  Gilbert  A.  Davis,  of  Windsor,  as  a student,  remaining  from  Septem- 
ber, 1885,  until  October  25,  1888,  when  he  was  admitted  to  the  bar  of  the  State  of  Ver- 
mont after  a four  days’  examination  as  a member  of  a class  of  twenty-three,  being  one  of 
the  three  successful  ap|)licant8  for  admission  from  the  entire  class,  passing  the  most  satis- 
factory examination  and  receiving  the  highest  mark  of  proficiency  ever  accorded  to  any  law 
student  in  the  history  of  the  State  of  Vermont  up  to  that  time.  Directly  after  passing  this 
brilliant  examination  he  was  elected  assistant  secretary  of  the  Senate  of  the  State  of  Ver- 
mont, session  of  1888,  serving  through  the  term,  when  he  returned  to  the  office  of  Mr. 
Davis,  continuing  with  him  until  January  1,  1890,  at  which  time  he  removed  to  Indian- 
apolis. Previous  to  settling  here,  however,  he  made  a careful  investigation  into  the  op- 
portunities offered  for  successful  practice  in  the  various  States  of  the  Union  and  his  loca- 
tion here  was  the  result  of  deliberate  purpose  and  not  a mere  haphazard  adventure.  With 
his  brother,  Daniel, he  came  to  Indianapolis  an  entire  stranger  and  the  two  formed  a partner- 
ship and  opened  an  office  in  Wright’s  block,  on  East  Market  Street.  In  November,  1890,  he 
was  appointed  a deputy  ]u-osecuting  attorney  of  Marion  County,  by  Prosecuting  Attorney 
John  W.  Holtzman,  continuing  as  such  officei’  until  November,  1892,  when  he  resigned  said 
office  to  accept  the  office  of  deputy  city  attorney  of  Indianapolis,  to  which  he  was  appointed 
by  Hon.  Leon  O.  Bailey,  city  attorney.  Entering  upon  the  discharge  of  the  duties  imposed 
by  this  office  in  June,  1892,  he  held  the  same  until  January  1,  1893,  going  out  with  Mr. 
Bailey,  who  resigned  the  office  of  city  attorney  at  that  time.  Mr.  Cady  is  one  of  the  bright- 
est yortng  members  of  the  Indianapolis  bar,  bringing  to  the  profession  a most  intimate 
knowledge  of  law  together  with  the  qualities  of  pleader  and  advocate  in  a high  degree  of 


45 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

excellence.  During  his  three  years  of  practice  in  this  city  he  has  been  ulentitiecl  with  a 
number  of  very  important  cases,  among  which  was  the  trial  of  Lillie  Stevens,  for  the 
murder  of  Margaret  Ross,  who  was  defended  by  him  with  signal  success  and  accjuitted 
upon  the  theory  of  “ insanity and  the  trial  of  Philander  Jester,  in  the  United  States 
District  Court  at  Indianapolis,  indicted  for  counterfeiting,  whose  defense  was  conducted  by 
Mr.  Cad}^  Avith  great  tact  and  ability,  resulting  in  the  prompt  ac(juittal  of  Jester.  Mr. 
Cady  has,  with  his  partner,  prosecuted  many  important  damage  suits,  recovering  large 
verdicts  therein.  Our  subject  was  married  August  20,  1891,  to  Miss  Jessie  Shedd,  a highly 
accomplished  young  lady  of  Windsor,  Vt.,  the  daughter  of  Hon.  EdAvin  R.  Shedd,  a lead 
ing  citizen  and  prominent  Democrat  of  Vermont.  Returning  to  Indianapolis,  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Cady  have  resided  in  W^oodrnff  Place,  a suburb  of  the  city,  Avhere  they  have  an  exceedingl}' 
pleasant  home.  This  union  has  l)een  blessed  by  the  birth  of  a son,  on  July  24,  1893,  who 
bears  the  family  name  Leavens.  WJiile  devoted  to  his  profession,  which  he  pur.sues  unre- 
mittingly, Mr.  Cady  finds  time  for  the  cultivation  of  a taste  for  politics  which  he  has.  The 
principles  and  teachings  of  Thomas  Jefferson  are  in  full  harmony  with  his  OAvn  vieAVS,  and 
he  gives  an  unqualified  support  to  his  party’s  candidates. 

Patrick  Henry  Jaaieson.  M.  D.,  Avas  born  in  Monroe  Township,  Jefferson  County,  Ind., 
April  18,  1824.  As  a boy  he  Avas  delicate  and  rather  precocious.  Early  in  his  teens 
he  had  actjuired  the  ordinary,  so  called,  English  education.  Subsequently,  partly  by  the 
aid  of  a private  instructor,  l)ut  mostly  liy  his  oAvn  efforts,  he  learned  most  of  Avhat  Avas  con- 
tained in  the  prevailing  text  books  of  algebra,  plain  geometry,  mechanics,  physics,  popular 
astronomy  and  mental  philosophy.  He  also  acquired  a very  limited  acquaintance  Avith  the 
Creek  and  Latin  tongues.  His  father  Avas  of  Scotch-Irish,  and  his  mother  of  English  de- 
scent; both  Avere  born  and  reared  in  Virginia  and  Avere,  for  the  times,  and  for  people  in  their 
circumstances,  more  than  ordinarily  intelligent.  Aside  from  their  secular  employments  they 
were  much  devoted  to  religion.  His  father  Avas  a thrifty  well -to  do  farmer.  When  he  Avas 
sixteen  years  old  he  lost  his  mother,  and  two  years  later  his  father  died,  leaving  him  for  the 
future  to  his  own  guidance.  Soon  after,  in  September,  1843,  he  came  to  Indianapolis, 
Avhere  he  subsequently  taught  school  for  several  years.  While  thus  engaged  he  began  the 
study  of  medicine  Avith  the  late  Dr.  John  H.  Sanders.  He  first  attended  the  Medical  Col 
lege  of  the  University  of  Louisville,  and  the  following  year  he  attended  Jefferson  Medical 
College  of  Philadelphia,  where  ho  graduated  in  1849,  his  dijiloma  bearing  the  signatures  of 
some  of  the  most  eminent  physicians  and  surgeons  then  living.  He  immediately  began  jirac- 
tice  in  Indianapolis,  in  partnership  with  his  former  precejitor.  Dr.  Sanders.  Early  in  April 
of  the  folloAvingyear,  Dr.  Sanders  died,  leaving  his  young  associate  to  hold,  if  he  could,  the  very 
consideralde  business  of  the  late  firm.  This  was  certainly  a very  critical  era  in  the  life  of  so 
young  a professional  man;  but  by  the  aid  of  his  friends  and  patrons,  and  his  own  efforts,  he 
so  Avell  succeeded  that  daring  the  second  year  of  his  practice  he  did  alone  more  business 
than  the  firm  had  done  the  previous  year.  He  thus  early,  |)ossibly  too  early,  was  settled  in  a 
large  and  someAvhat  lucrative  liusiness.  This  he  has  since,  for  more  than  forty  years,  steadily 
maintained.  It  may  be  truly  said  of  him  that  no  man  among  all  his  confreres,  living  or  dead, 
ever  sbav  more  patients,  or  prescribed  more  freijuently  than  he.  He  Avas  the  first,  early  in 
the  fifties,  to  call  the  attention  of  the  profession  of  Indianajiolis  to  a pernicious  and  fatal 
form  of  amemia  affecting  Avomen  in  the  latter  stages  of  pregnancy.  An  eminent  medical 
Avriter,  acquainted  with  this  fact,  not  long  since,  remarked  that  a publication  of  his  observa 
tions  at  that  time  would  have  given  him  considerable  notoriety,  as  it  Avas  not  till  some  years 
after,  that  a first  de.scription  of  this  disease  Avas  presented  to  tlie  profe.ssion  by  a medical 
Avriter  of  (lermany.  He  is  one  of  the  feAV  surviving  charter  members  of  the  Indiana  State 
Medical  Society,  Avhich  was  organized  in  Jlay,  1849,  and  in  early  times  he  Avas  one  of  its 
more  active  memliers.  In  1857  he  presenti'd  a refiort  to  this  society  on  veratrum  viride  in 
typhoid  and  puerj)eral  fevers,  which  Avas  jmblished  in  its  proceedings,  and  rejiublished,  al- 
most entirely,  in  the  “American  Journal  of  the  .Medical  Sciences.”  In  1849-50  and  1854 
he  encountered  Asiatic  cholera  which  prevailed,  to  some  extent,  in  Indianapolis.  A Avide 
s[)read  and  fatal  epidemic  of  dysentery  prevailed  at  this  time  of  Avhich  a great  many  died. 
Among  its  victims  were  .some  of  tlie  most  prominent  citizens  of  the  county.  In  some  Uistances 
nearly  a whole  family  jiorished.  Among  his  published  Avritings  are  the  “Oomiuissioners’ 


4(5 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Annual  Reports  for  the  Indiana  Hospital  for  the  Insane,”  from  1861  to  1879  inclusive.  Like 
reports  of  the  ‘‘Indiana  Institution  for  the  Deaf  and  Dumb,”  and  for  the  “Institute  for  the 
Blind,”  for  the  most  of  this  time  were  also  written  by  him.  These  reports  were  published 
by  the  State.  He  is  the  author  of  an  address  entitled,  “Scientific  Medicine  in  its  relations 
with  Quackery,”  which  was  published  in  the  Indiana  Medical  Journal  and  extensively  copied 
l)y  other  journals.  During  most- of  his  life  he  has  been  a frequent  contributor  to  the  local  sec- 
ular papers,  generally  anonymous,  but  occasionally  over  his  own  signature.  In  1861  he  was 
elected  by  the  Legislature  a Commissioner  of  the  ‘‘Indiana  Hospital  for  the  Insane,”  for  a term 
of  four  years;  in  1865  he  was  re-elected  for  a second  term;  in  1869  was  elected,  by  the  same 
body,  president  of  the  several  boards  of  State  “Benevolent  Institutions,”  for  the  insane,  the  deaf 
and  dumb  and  the  blind.  He  was  subsequently  twice  re-elected  to  this  important  office,  each 
time  for  an  additional  term  of  four  years.  All  the  time  from  April  19,  1861,  to  March  1,  1866, 
he  was  a surgeon  in  the  military  service.  He  organized  the  first  post  hospital  at  Camp  Morton ; 
assisted  in  starting  the  general  hospital;  was  in  charge  of  all  unassigned  troops  in  quarters  in 
Indianapolis,  and  he  established,  and  long  had  charge  of,  the  [)ost  hospitals  at  Camp  Car- 
rington and  at  Ekin  barracks.  He  was  the  ranking  surgeon  in  charge  of  the  Fort  Donel- 
son  prisoners,  while  they  were  confined  in  186‘2  at  Camp  Morton.  No  one  ever  complained 
of  his  treatment  of  these  prisoners.  From  1861  to  1869  he  was  physician  to  the  “Indiana 
Institute  for  the  Deaf  and  Dumb.”  From  1863  to  1869  he  was  a member  of  the  Common 
Council  of  Indianapolis,  and  took  a leading  part  in  its  affairs.  He  was  chairman  of  the 
“Committee  on  Revision  of  Ordinances,”  and  as  such  made  a complete  revision  of  the  city 
laws,  which  were  then  in  great  confusion.  This  revision  was  published,  in  book  form,  by 
the  city,  in  1865.  From  1865  to  1869  he  was  chairman  of  the  Committee  on  Finances  of 
the  Council,  a j)osition  involving  much  labor  and  responsibility.  He  found  an  empty  treas- 
ury and  the  city  badly  in  debt,  doing  its  business  on  depreciated  orders,  twenty-five  per  cent, 
below  j)ar.  Notwithstanding  that  about  |50O,OUO  had  to  be  raised  to  relieve  the  city  from 
draft,  and  to  aid  the  families  of  soldiers  in  the  field,  these  orders  were  soon  brought  up  to 
par.  Upon  his  retiring  from  the  council.  May  1,  1869,  there  were  but  $100,000  of  debt  and 
$‘260,000  in  the  treasury;  enough  to  pay  the  debt  and  leave  a large  balance  for  the  expenses 
of  the  incoming  year.  He  was  also  chairman  of  the  board  of  police  and  of  the  board  of 
public  printing.  He  also,  in  1866,  originated  the  plan  set  forth  in  an  ordinance,  which  he 
presented,  for  the  organization  of  the  city  hospital,  under  this  plan,  that  institution  has  ever 
since  been  conducted.  He  also,  in  1865,  aided  in  preparing  a law  revising  the  city  charter, 
and  as  affecting  street  improvements  he  procured  the  insertion  of  a clause  assessing  the  cost 
of  street  crossings,  against  the  abutting  property,  on  the  lines  of  the  streets.  This  charter 
was  passed  by  the  Legislature,  but  two  years  after,  it  was  repealed,  on  other  grounds,  no 
objection  being  made  on  account  of  this  provision.  This  excellent  feature  of  that  charter 
was  lately  re-enacted  by  the  Legislature  of  1893.  The  world  moves  slowly,  but  it  moves. 
Associated  by  an  act  of  the  Legislature  in  1873  with  the  late  Gov.  Hendricks,  and  certain 
other  State  officers,  he  was  made  ex  officio  a member  of  a provisional  board  for  building  a 
“Hospital  for  Insane  Women”  with  a capacity  for  900  patients  which  was  to  cost  the  State 
about  $700,000.  This  board  made  him  its  treasurer  and  also  a member  of  its  building  com- 
mittee, in  which  capacities  he  did  the  State  much  valuable  service.  During  Dr.  Jameson’s 
long  service  as  commissioner  of  the  Hospital  for  the  Insane,  and  subsecjuently  as  president 
of  the  boards,  he  persistently  urged,  through  his  annual  reports  and  by  personal  solicitation, 
the  need  of  better  provision  for  the  insane  of  the  State,  and  it  was  measurably  owing  to  his 
influence  and  to  his  untiring  efforts,  that  the  Legislature  made  appropriations  from  time  to 
time  for  the  enlargement  and  final  completion  of  this  magnificent  institution.  When  he  be- 
came connected  with  the  management  of  this  asylum  in  1861,  its  appointments  were  poor 
with  a capacity  for  less  than  300  patients.  When  he  retired  in  1879,  there  was  room  for 
1,400  patients,  with  every  needed  appliance.  No  man  in  Indiana  ever  labored  so  long,  or  so 
effectively,  as  he  for  the  help  of  the  insane.  In  1876  the  expenditures  and  taxation  of  the 
city  being  unduly  extravagant,  he  wrote  a series  of  articles  which  appeared  in  the  Indianap 
olis  Evening  News  and  which  attracted  much  attention.  He  clearly  demonstrated  the  feasi- 
bility of  a large  saving  in  the  city’s  expenses.  These  communications  aroused  the  public, 
and  led  to  a great  reduction  of  the  tax  levy  for  the  incoming  year.  They  also  led  to  the 


47 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

formation  of  a citizens’  committee,  of  which  he  was  chairman,  to  procure  such  limitations, 
by  an  act  of  the  Legislature,  as  should  put  it  beyond  the  jiower  of  councils  and  school 
boards,  to  levy  taxes  above  a certain  specified  rate,  nine-tenths  of  one  percent,  for  city  pur- 
poses, and  one-tifth  of  one  per  cent,  for  school  purposes.  This  act  also  limited  the  amount 
of  debt  for  cities  to  two  per  cent,  of  their  taxables.  This  legislation  was  actively  opiiosed 
by  a gang  of  tax-eaters  connected  with  the  city  Government,'  and  with  the  school  board,  but 
notwithstanding  this,  the  bill  passed.  Since  that  time  a part  of  this  act  has  been  incorpor- 
ated in  the  constitution  of  the  State.  In  this  reform  Dr.  Jameson  was  the  tirst  to  move,  but 
he  was  subsequently  greatly  assisted  by  William  H.  English,  Albert  G.  Porter  and  the  other 
members  of  this  committee.  Neither  the  schools  nor  any  of  the  city  departments  were  worsted 
by  this  law,  but  they  have  grown  better.  Dr.  Jameson  took  an  active  {)art  in  the  discussion 
of  the  natural  gas  ([uestion  and  his  timely  and  stirring  appeals  through  the  press  on  this 
subject  had  much  to  do  with  the  successfid  establishing  of  the  Citizens’  Gas  Trust  which 
has  since  furnished  chea]>  and  abundant  fuel  for  the  people  of  Indianapolis.  He  has  been 
for  thirty  years  or  more  a Director  of  Butler  University;  was  the  sole  agent  for  the  sale  of 
its  large  real  estate  pro])erties  in  Indianapolis  and  for  the  construction  of  its  principal  build 
ings  at  Irvington.  He  was  President  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  this  institution  from  1872 
to  1878.  He  is  regarded  as  being  well  versed  in  all  the  branches  of  medicine.  In  his  earlier 
years,  when  sj)ecialists  were  not  to  be  had,  he  was  compelled  to  treat  all  kinds  of  ailments, 
but  more  recently  he  has  preferred  the  general  {)ractice,  and  has  willingly  consigned  to  spe- 
cialists such  cases  as  pertain  to  their  several  branches,  still  he  holds  that  the  highest  med- 
ical skill  consists  in  the  ability  to  treat  a dangerous  case  of  aci;te  disease  so  as  to  give  the 
patient  the  best  chance  for  a speedy  and  perfect  recovery.  He  has  Ijeen  most  hap|)y  in  his 
home  life.  In  1850  he  was  married  to  Miss  Maria  Butler,  the  daughter  of  the  late  Ovid 
Butler,  a prominent  lawyer  and  the  founder  of  Butler  University.  This  union  remains  un- 
broken. He  has  two  living  daughters,  3Irs.  John  M.  Judah,  of  Memphis,  and  Mrs.  Orville 
Peckham,  of  Chicago,  and  one  son,  Ovid  Butler  Jameson,  a well-known  attorney  of  Indian- 
apolis. He  continues  in  business  more  because  of  his  active  habits  and  temperament  and  the 
love  of  occupation,  than  of  nece.ssity,  as  he  has  long  enjoyed  a well-earned  competence.  He 
has  never  lost  a day  from  business  on  account  of  sickness.  He  is  a man  of  sound  mind  and 
Ijody,  strong  will  and  pronounced  individuality.  He  is  still  active  and  for  one  of  his  years, 
very  well  preserved.  In  manner  he  is  quiet  and  unobtrusive,  and  in  bearing,  kindly  and 
agreeable.  His  standing  as  a jdiysiciari  is  high,  apart  from  which  he  is  universally  regarded 
as  a u.seful  and  enterprising  citizen. 

Frank  Saak,  florist.  A liking  for  flowers  usually  shows  an  msthetic  and  cultivated 
taste,  but  even  the  uneducated  and  those  who  live  among  the  lowliest  surroundings  may 
consider  a flower  a “thing  of  beauty  and  a joy  forever.”  This  taste  may  be  gratified  both  by 
the  rich  and  poor  and  the  washerwoman  who  labors  at  her  tub  for  her  daily  bread  may  enjoy 
her  pot  of  violets  as  much  as  the  millionaire’s  wife  who  wanders  among  the  costliest  exotics 
in  her  spacious  conservatory.  The  business  of  the  florist  is  to  supply  the  wants  of  all 
classes  in  this  respect  and  in  the  e.stablishment  of  Frank  Saak  at  124  St.  Joseph  Street, 
Indianapolis,  may  l)e  found  a stock  of  goods  sufficient  to  supply  the  requirements  of  all 
classes  at  the  most  reasonable  figures.  His  house  is  the  oldest  of  the  kind  in  the  city  and 
was  established  by  Henry  Hilker  many  years  ago,  but  some  three  years  since  Mr.  Saak  suc- 
ceeded him  and  has  since  conducted  the  business  in  a skillful  and  highly  satisfactory  man- 
ner. His  establishment  is  very  advantageously  located  for  it  is  the  only  one  immediately  in 
the  heart  of  the  city,  and  consetiuenily  has  a large  patronage  from  opera  and  theater  goers. 
He  has  8,000  feet  under  glass,  heated  by  steam  and  hot  water,  and  his  green  house  is 
adorned  with  some  of  the  rarest  and  costliest  flowers  that  can  be  had.  He  makes  a spc^cialty 
of  cut  flowers  and  his  services  are  in  great  demand  in  decorating  for  ban({uets,  balls  and 
house  parties.  He  has  much  artistic  taste  and  excellent  judgment  for  the  “titness  of  things” 
and  when  orders  arti  left  at  his  establishment  no  \ineasine.ss  is  felt  as  to  their  non  fultill 
ment.  He  has  been  familiar  with  the  details  of  the  business  ever  since  his  ninth  year,  and 
when  not  attending  school  he  was  employed  in  various  gi'een-houses  in  the  cities  of  New 
York,  St.  Louis  and  Indianapolis,  in  eacli  <jf  which  places  his  parents  resided  forsometime. 
He  was  in  the  employ  of  others  until  1811(1,  when  ho  decidtul  to  become  an  employer  rather 


48 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


than  au  employe  and  as  above  stated  became  the  proprietor  of  his  present  establishment. 
His  remarkable  success  has  been  the  result  of  a desire  to  please,  honest  dealings  with  his 
patrons,  and  that  he  at  all  times  studies  their  wants  and  wishes  and  endeavors  to  comply 
with  them.  He  is  a young  man  of  great  juish  and  energy  and  bids  fair  to  become  a wealthy 
citizen.  Although  a native  of  Germany,  a country  that  has  given  to  the  United  States  many 
u.seful  and  substantial  citizens,  of  whom  Mr.  Saak  is  not  among  the  least,  he  has  been  a res- 
ident of  this  country  ever  since  his  eighth  year,  or  since  1870. 

W.  B.  Flick.  The  American  public  schools  are  the  safety  of  the  liepublic  and  nothing 
approaching  them  in  extent,  intluence  and  cost  of  maintenance  is  to  be  found  upon  the  face 
of  the  earth.  This  country  is  the  only  one  where  the  children  of  the  poorest  may  receive  a 
fair  education  free  and  where  provision  is  made  for  sparsel}^  settled  sections  as  well  as  for 
those  living  in  cities.  Marion  County  is  especially  favored  in  having  at  the  head  of  its 
schools  a man  of  progressive  ideas,  of  practical  purpose,  an  organizer  of  great  ability  and  a 
manager  who  rules  efficiently  yet  so  gently  that  the  appearance  of  enforced  system  is  with- 
held from  the  governed.  W.  13.  Flick,  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  is  pre  eminently  (pialitied 
for  the  position  he  holds,  and  during  his  administration,  whatever  its  duration,  the  best  pos- 
sible results  may  be  sanguiuely  expected.  He  is  a native  of  Brown  County,  Ohio,  born  June 
‘22,  1840,  and  the  son  of  William  K. , and  Nancy  (Ford)  Flick,  natives  of  Pennsylvania  and 
of  West  Virginia,  respectively,  and  of  German  extraction.  Gen.  Morgan,  a distinguished 
officer  of  the  rank  named,  in  the  Revolutionary  War  was  a relative  of  our  subject  on  his 
mother’s  side.  The  j)aterual  grandfather,  George  W.  Flick,  was  an  early  settler  of  Ohio, 
having  settled  there  about  the  year  1830,  traveling  in  wagons  part  of  the  way  and  floating 
down  the  Ohio  River  in  a flatboat  for  the  remainder  of  the  journey.  He  was  a soldier  in  the 
War  of  1812.  The  father  of  our  subject  was  a cabinet  maker  and  followed  that  business  in 
Brown  County,  where  he  also  was  postmaster,  at  Hamersville,  for  a period  of  thirty  years; 
was  also  a township  trustee  for  a nearly  eipial  period  of  time.  The  father  died  in  1861  and 
the  mother  in  1808,  having  been  the  parents  of  four  sons  and  two  daughters,  namely:  Fer- 
nandes, Paulina,  Martin  Van  Buren  and  William  B.,  and  two  deceased, — Martha  and  John 
K.  Martin  and  Fernandes  were  soldiers  in  the  late  war  and  proved  themselves  worthy  and 
brave  men.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  was  reared  in  Bi’own  County,  in  the  town  of  Hamers- 
ville, receiving  his  earlier  instruction  there  and  at  Georgetown,  then  known  as  Kings’ 
Academy,  graduating  from  the  latter  in  1859.  Subsequently  Mr.  Flick  began  the  study  of 
medicine,  after  teaching  school  for  some  time,  and  then,  in  1863,  entered  the  service  in  the 
medical  department.  He  remained  at  Cami)  Denison  several  months  before  the  regiment 
was  ordered  to  the  field;  this  being  the  Sixteenth  Ohio,  with  which  he  served  until  the  fall  of 
1864,  when  it  was  sent  home.  Upon  his  return  Mr.  Flick  began  teaching  school  in  Marion 
County,  his  first  charge  being  in  Wayne  township,  in  the  winter  of  1864.  Then  he  moved 
to  Lawrence  township,  where  he  taught  until  188(),  when  he  was  elected  township  trustee  of 
that  township,  holding  that  office  for  four  years.  In  1885  he  was  elected  County  Superin- 
tendent of  Schools  and  has  tilled  that  [losition  ever  since,  being  re-elected  every  time,  unani- 
mously— the  highest  possible  tribute  to  the  worth  and  popularity  of  the  man  and  officer. 
Mr.  Flick  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  order,  in  which  organization  he  takes  much  interest. 
Our  subject  was  married  in  1865  to  Miss  Mary  Hoover,  a native  of  this  county,  and  a most 
accomplished  and  popular  woman.  She  t'lnd  her  husband  are  consistent  and  active  members 
of  the  German  Lutheran  Church.  In  politics  Mr.  Flick  is  a Democrat  having  firm  faith  in 
the  principles  of  that  party;  but  he  is  a man  who  respects  the  opinions  of  those  who  differ 
from  him.  The  lines  of  Mr.  Flick  have  not  always  been  cast  in  pleasant  places.  While  he 
was  Township  Trustee  the  Indiana  Banking  Co.,  in  which  he  had  several  thousand  dollars  of 
public  money  on  deposit,  failed,  and  although  it  took  every  dollar  he  possessed,  in  less  than 
sixty  days,  he  had  reimbursed  the  township  liy  restoring  the  amount  lost.  Such  courage  and 
fidelity  to  public  trust  have  made  Mr.  Flick  many  friends. 

Pliny  Webster  Bartholomew,  Judge  of  the  Superior  Court,  was  born  August  4,  1840, 
at  Cabotville,  Mass.  He  is  a son  of  the  late  Harris  and  Betsey  Bartholomew.  Soon  after 
Pliny  s birth  his  parents  removed  to  Easthampton,  Mass.,  where  Harris  Bartholomew  be- 
came a leading  merchant.  In  1851  Harris  Bartholomew  was  elected  to  the  Massachusetts 
Legislature  and  represented  the  Hampshire  district  with  signal  ability.  He  afterward  re- 


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49 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

moved  to  Northampton,  Mass.,  and  carried  on  a large  mercantile  business  there.  He  was 
noted  for  his  unswerving  integrity  throughout  all  his  business  life.  In  the  panic  of  1857  he 
failed  in  business  and  Pliny  had  to  earn  his  own  way.  He  became  a clerk  in  a grocery 
store  and  meat  market  while  yet  a boy,  and  remained  in  this  position  for  two  years.  In  the 
meantime  his  father,  Harris  Bartholomew,  had  removed  to  Canton,  N.  Y.,  and  Pliny  fol- 
lowed him  and  clerked  for  him  there  in  the  dry  goods  business  for  about  a year,  when  they 
removed  to  Herman,  N.  Y. , where  Pliny  attended  school  and  finished  his  preparation  for  col- 
lege. In  September,  1861,  Pliny  entered  Union  College  at  Schenectady,  N.  Y.  While  in  col- 
lege he  supported  himself  by  book  canvassing  in  summer  and  teaching  school  in  winter,  and 
graduated  in  1864  with  the  honors  of  his  class,  receiving  the  degree  of  A.  B.  Three  years 
later  his  alma  mater  conferred  the  degree  of  A.  M.  on  him.  After  leaving  Union  he  read 
law  with  Judge  I.  S.  L’Amoreaux  at  Ballston  Spa,  Saratoga  County,  N.  Y.,  and  on  exam 
ination  was  admitted  to  the  bar  of  the  Supreme  Court  in  May,  1865,  at  Schenectady.  He 
practiced  his  profession  at  Ballston  Spa  until  the  fall  of  1866,  when  he  came  to  Indian 
apolis.  He  has  continuously  resided  in  this  city  since  that  time,  and  up  to  the  time  of  his 
elevation  to  the  bench  he  enjoyed  a large  legal  practice.  January  30,  1873,  he  married  Miss 
Sarah  Belle  Smith,  daughter  of  the  late  George  W.  and  Mary  Smith,  of  Crawfordsville,  Ind. 
They  have  had  born  to  them  Belle  Isadora,  Pliny  W.,  Jr.  and  Harris  Shirley.  Pliny  W. , J r. 
died  when  four  years  old.  Judge  Bartholomew  is  a Past  Chancellor  in  the  Knights  of 
Pythias,  Past  Grand  Dictator  in  the  Knights  of  Honor,  and  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian 
Church,  member  of  the  Commercial  Clul)  and  other  organizations.  He  was  elected  Judge 
of  the  Superior  Court  in  1890  on  the  Democratic  ticket,  receiving  many  Republican  votes. 
He  took  his  seat  as  Judge  on  October  28,  1892.  Judge  Bartholomew  has  long  been  known 
among  his  intimate  friends  and  associates  as  a man  of  sterling  character,  his  reputation  for 
uprightness  and  integrity  being  of  the  highest.  Modest  in  demeanor,  courteous  in  manner, 
and  quick  to  see  and  grasp  the  salient  points  in  a case,  he  is  a model  judge.  He  has  the 
judicial  manner  to  a remarkable  degree,  and  his  urbanity  on  the  bench  is  such  that  a young 
man  appearing  before  him  for  the  first  time  is  made  to  feel  perfectly  at  ease,  and  as  if  he 
had  known  the  judge  who  is  trying  his  case  for  years.  In  point  of  natural  ability,  sound 
judgment,  and  old-fashioned  common  sense,  as  well  as  in  his  knowledge  of  the  law  and  the 
application  of  its  soundest  princi()les  to  a given  case.  Judge  Bartholomew  comjiares  favor- 
ably with  the  ablest  jurists  who  ever  sat  on  the  bench  of  the  Marion  Superior  Court.  It  is  to 
be  hoped  that  he  will  be  continued  in  his  present  position  until  his  party  thinks  the  time  has 
come  to  promote  him  to  the  bench  of  the  Appellate  or  Supreme  Court. 

fW  e have  received  from  one  of  tlie  older  nienibers  of  the  bar — a man  who  is  himself  opposed  to 
the  Judge  in  politics — the  foregoing  statement  regarding  Judge  P.  W.  Bartholomew  of  the  Marion  Su 
perior  Court.  It  bears  internal  evidence  that  it  was  prepared  by  one  who  knows.Tudge  Bartholomew 
well,  and  who  greatly  admires  him.] 

Georoe  J.  Cook,  M.  D.  One  of  the  most  prominent  citizens  of  Indianapolis  socially  and 
politically  is  Dr.  George  J.  Cook,  who  is  even  more  eminent  as  a physician  and  suigeon, 
as  a lecturer  and  demonstrator  in  medical  colleges  and  as  a special  practitioner  of  great 
skill  and  reputation.  This  gentleman  was  born  near  Fittsburgli,  Penn. , February  12,  1844,  a 
son  of  John  and  Mary  ( Kelso)  Cook.  His  father  was  of  Irish  de.scent.  His  mother  was  a 
native  of  Pennsylvania.  His  maternal  grandfather  fought  gallantly  for  the  cause  of  the 
colonists  during  the  Revolutionary  War.  The  father  of  Dr.  Cook  was  a hard  working  and 
successful  farmer,  and  the  younger  years  oftheDoctoi'  were  passed  on  his  father’s  farm  and 
in  ac(|uiriug  such  education  as  was  all'orded  liira  in  the  public  schools.  At  the  age  of  nine 
teen,  having  taken  the  j)rescril)ed  course  of  reading,  he  Ijecame  a student  at  the  Keiducky 
School  of  Medicine  at  fjouisville,  and  graduated  therefrom  witli  the  degree  of  M.  1).  in  1866. 
He  entered  upon  the  practice  of  his  profession  immediately  thereafter  in  the  Falls  City,  and 
remained  there  until  1882,  during  that  time  accjuiring  an  enviable  reputation  as  a skillful 
general  [)ractitioner.  During  the  year  mentioned  he  removed  to  Indianapolis,  and  devoted 
himself  exclusively  to  the  treatment  of  diseases  of  the  rectum.  While  a resident  of  Louis- 
ville he  was  for  seven  years  demonstrator  of  anatomy,  and  for  three  years  professor  of 
anatomy  in  the  Kentucky  School  of  Medicine.  At  the  piestud  t ime  lie  is  professor  of  gastro- 
intestinal and  rectal  surgery  in  the  Indiana  Aledical  College.  In  1889  Dr.  Cook  wiis  presi 

4 


50 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


dent  of  the  Mississippi  Valley  Medical  Association.  He  is  a member  of  the  Marion  County 
Medical  Association,  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Association  and  of  the  American  Medical 
Association,  and  is  consulting  surgeon  in  cases  of  disease  of  the  rectum  in  the  Indianapolis 
City  Hospital,  and  in  the  City  Dispensary;  and  during  the  past  year  he  has  been  secretary 
of  the  Department  of  Public  Health  and  Charities  of  Indianapolis.  He  is  a strong  and  un- 
swerving Democrat,  politically,  and  has  much  iiiHiieuce  in  the  city  and  county  affairs.  June 
29,  1892,  Dr.  Cook  married  Miss  Ella  Henderson,  a native  of  Martinsville,  Ind.,  and  a 
daughter  of  Eb.  and  Ann  Henderson,  her  father  being  prominent  and  active  in  State  politics. 

Hon.  John  R.  Wilson.  This  fiopular  citizen  and  official  is  a native  of  Cumberland 
County,  Va.,  and  a son  of  John  R.  Wilson,  Sr.,  and  Cornelia  E.  Wilson.  On  the  paternal 
side  he  traces  his  ancestry  through  many  generations  of  prominent  Virginians,  and  on  the 
maternal  side  is  descended  from  and  inherits  many  of  the  good  cjualities  of  those  estimable 
French  Huguenots  who  located  in  South  Carolina  and  Virginia  long  before  the  Revolutionary 
War.  His  great-grandfather,  Richard  Wilson,  was  while  quite  young  an  officer  in  the  Con- 
tinental army,  and  his  grandfather,  Daniel  A.  Mdlsou,  was  later  senior  member  of  the  gov- 
ernor’s council  in  Virginia,  which  made  him  eligible  to  succeed  the  governor  after  the  manner 
of  the  lieutenant-governor  of  a later  date.  He  was  also  a circuit  judge  for  fifteen  years. 
His  son,  John  R.  Wilson,  father  of  the  immediate  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  for  many  years 
an  active  and  successful  lawyer  of  Cumberland  County,  Va. , and  one  of  the  most  respected 
citizens  of  that  part  of  the  State.  Mr.  Wilson’s  maternal  grandfather  was  a lawyer  of  state 
reputation,  a man  of  exalted  character  and  profound  learning.  Mr.  Wilson,  after  completing 
the  course  at  the  Hampden-Sidney  College  studied  law  at  the  University  of  Virginia.  After 
completing  his  legal  and  classical  studies,  he  came  to  Indianapolis  in  the  fall  of  1873,  and 
later  entered  into  a partnershij)  in  the  jiractice  of  the  law  with  Hon.  William  E.  English, 
since  the  representative  of  this  district  in  Congress,  which  existed  several  years.  Later  he 
became  a member  of  the  firm  of  Duncan,  Smith  & Wilson,  and  continued  in  that  relation 
until  elected  clerk  of  the  courts  of  Marion  County.  Meantime,  however,  in  1883  he  was 
elected  one  of  Marion  County’s  representatives  in  the  Legislature.  Upon  the  organization 
of  that  body,  in  recognition  of  his  acknowledged  talent,  he  was  made  a member  of  the  Ways 
and  Means  and  Judiciary  Committees,  the  two  most  important  legislative  committees.  His 
legislative  experience  proved  of  value  to  him,  and  indirectly  led  in  1888  to  his  nomination 
by  the  Democratic  party  as  candidate  for  attorney  general  of  Indiana.  He  and  Judge  Howk, 
candidate  for  the  Supreme  bench,  led  the  State  ticket,  as  he  had  led  the  legislative  ticket  in 
Marion  County  five  years  before;  but  the  Democracy  lost  the  State  at  that  election.  Two 
years  later  Indianapolis,  Marion  County,  and  indeed  the  entire  country,  were  startled  by  the 
flight  of  County  Clerk  John  E.  Sullivan,  in  default  for  a large  amount.  The  grave  respon- 
sibility of  selecting  a successor  to  the  office  in  whom  the  public  could  implicitly  rely  to  bring 
order  out  of  chaos  in  which  all  its  affairs  had  been  left  and  to  restore  it  to  the  status  of 
integrity,  fell  upon  the  county  commissioners,  who  recognized  in  Mr.  Wilson  the  most 
available  and  acceptalJe  man  for  the  place.  It  was  conceded  that  he  did  admirable  work  in 
a difficult  and  trying  position,  and  under  his  direction  the  affairs  of  the  office  were  put  in 
order  and  the  routine  of  its  business  was  soon  re-established  on  so  safe  and  business-like  a 
basis  that  in  recognition  of  his  services  the  Democracy  nominated  him  in  1890  for  clerk  of 
the  courts  as  his  own  successor.  The  fact  that  he  and  County  Auditor  Taggart  led  their 
ticket  and  were  elected  by  the  largest  Democratic  majorities  ever  given  in  the  county  speaks 
more  elotpiently  than  any  words  of  praise  could  of  the  manner  in  w'hich  Mr.  Wilson’s  honest 
and  business-like  methods  were  appreciated  by  the  electors  of  the  county.  Mr.  Wilson  is  a 
thirty-second  degree  Mason.  He  was  married  in  1879  to  Miss  Nellis  Duncan,  daughter  of 
R.  B.  Duncan,  who  in  the  early  half  of  the  century  was  for  many  years  clerk  of  the  Marion 
County  courts.  One  secret  of  Mr.  Wilson’s  success  both  as  a lawyer  and  as  an  official,  is  his 
genial  and  kindly  nature,  which  has  gained  him  the  friendship  of  all  who  know  him. 

Frank  W.  Morrison.  Integrity,  intelligence  and  system  are  qualities  which  will 
advance  the  interests  of  any  man  or  any  profession  and  will  tend  to  the  prosperity  to  which 
all  aspire.  F.  W.  Morrison’s  life  in  the  professional  arena  has  been  characterized  by  intel- 
ligence, sound  judgment  and  persevering  industry.  He  is  one  of  the  city’s  most  popular  and 
capable  attorneys,  who  has  acquired  prominence  on  the  wings  of  Indianapolis’  prosperity. 


J.  K.  WILSON. 


LIBI^AKY 
OF  THE 

.'rxMVER.SITY  OF  ILLINOr 


51 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Mr.  Morrison  is  a native  of  the  Hoosier  State,  born  at  Salem,  Sei)tember  19,  1852,  and 
moved  with  his  parents  to  Indianapolis  in  1865,  his  father,  John  I.  Morrison,  having  been 
elected  State  Treasurer  in  that  year.  The  educational  training  of  our  subject  was  received 
in  the  high  schools  of  Indianapolis,  and  later  he  entered  William's  College,  Massachusetts, 
from  which  institution  he  graduated  in  1874.  Returning  to  Indianapolis  immediately  after 
ward  he  began  the  study  of  law  with  McDonald  & Butler,  and  was  admitted  to  the  bar  in 
1870.  After  this  he  remained  with  McDonald  & Butler,  as  managing  clerk  until  1883  when 
he  opened  an  office  for  himself.  Since  then  he  has  practiced  alone.  In  1884  he  entered  the 
service  of  the  Pennsylvania  Company  as  attorney  on  the  Chicago  Division.  In  1885  he 
resumed  the  general  practice  of  law  and  since  1886  he  has  been  attorney  for  the  Louisville, 
New  Albany  & Chicago  Railway  Company.  Aside  from  this  he  acts  as  general  counsel  for 
the  Phoenix  Life  Insurance  Company,  of  Hartford,  in  the  West.  In  1885  Mr.  Morrison  was 
appointed  by  Gov.  Porter,  one  of  the  Metropolitan  Police  Commissioners.  In  his  political 
views  he  is  a Republican,  and  is  a Knight  Templar  in  the  Masonic  fraternity.  During  the 
years  he  has  practiced  his  profession  he  has  shown  himself  to  be  endowed  with  superior 
ability  and  his  comprehensive  knowledge  of  the  law,  together  with  the  soundness  of  his 
judgment,  secured  him  almost  immediate  recognition  at  the  bar. 

John  A.  Comingor,  M.  D.  Among  the  most  prominent  and  successful  medical  prac- 
titioners of  Indianapolis,  audit  may  be  said  of  the  State  of  Indiana,  is  Dr.  John  A.  Comin- 
gor, who  is  one  of  the  oldest  practicing  physicians  in  the  city.  He  is  honored  and  esteemed 
by  the  medical  profession  throughout  all  this  part  of  the  country.  As  a surgeon  he  is  one  of 
the  finest  in  the  State,  and  during  his  many  years  practice  as  such,  he  has  performed  about 
every  surgical  operation  known  to  medical  science  and  skill,  having  practically  traversed 
the  entire  field  of  surgical  practice.  Ever  since  the  establishment  of  the  Indianapolis  City 
Hospital  twenty-six  years  ago,  he  has  been  surgeon  of  that  institution,  performing  the  func 
tions  of  that  office  without  remuneration  or  hope  of  remuneration,  and  his  weekly  visits  dur 
ing  this  long  period  to  the  clinics  and  wards  of  the  hospital  have  contributed  greatly 
toward  the  high  standard  of  excellence  which  obtains  in  the  institution  at  this  time.  He  has 
always  been  solicitous  for  the  welfare  of  this  hospital,  and  every  measure  for  its  improve 
ment  or  for  its  better  establishment  has  met  with  hearty  approval  and  most  helpful  and 
substantial  support.  He  has  acted  also  as  physician  and  surgeon  to  St.  Vincent’s  Hospital 
and  of  the  city  dispensary.  He  is  one  of  the  promoters  and  organizers  of  the  Medical 
College  of  Indiana,  was  one  of  its  incorporators,  and  for  twenty  years  held  the  chair  of 
professor  of  surgery  in  that  institution.  At  the  present  time  he  is  professor  of  orthopa*dic 
and  clinical  surgery  in  the  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons.  He  is  a member 
of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society,  the  American 
Medical  Association  and  the  National  Surgical  Association.  He  has  read  papers  of  interest 
and  merit  before  these  societies  from  time  to  time,  and  has  been  a fre(iuent  contributor  of 
articles  on  professional  subjects  to  the  medical  and  surgical  j)eriodicals  of  the  day.  During 
the  administration  of  Gov.  Porter  he  was  a member  of  the  Governor’s  staff  with  the  rank  of 
surgeon-general  of  the  State  of  Indiana.  Dr.  Comingor  has  always  been  in  politics  a strong 
Republican  and  has  been  such  from  the  organization  of  the  Republican  party.  Away  back 
in  the  infancy  of  that  party  he  was  a delegate  from  Hendricks  County  to  a convention  that 
nominated  Heniy  S.  Lane  for  governor,  and  Oliver  P.  Morton  for  lieutenant-governor  of  the 
State  of  Indiana.  The  doctor  is  of  German  extraction.  His  grandfather,  the  first  of  the 
family  to  settle  in  America,  located  in  New  York  at  an  early  day.  but  afterward  removed  to 
Kentucky.  He  had  several  children  including,  Abram,  Henry,  David,  and  Samuel  Comin 
gor  and  four  daughters.  Samuel  Comingor,  who  was  the  father  of  the  Doctor,  was  born  in 
Kentucky  in  1797,  and  lived  there  until  1826,  when  he  came  to  -Johnson  County,  Ind. 
He  married  Mary  Gibbs,  a native  of  Georgia,  who  bore  him  children  named  in  order  of  their 
nativity:  Henry,  George,  David,  John  A.,  Cynthia,  Rachel,  Sarah  and  Jane.  John  A. ,inow 
known  as  Dr.  Comingor,  was  born  in  Johnson  County,  Ind.,  MarHi  17,  1828.  His  youth 
was  (^uite  uneventful,  and  the  common  schools  near  his  hbm^  afforded  him  early  (‘ducational 
advantages  such  as  he  had.  Later  he  became  astucfent.at  GreeiuYgod  Academy,  at  Green 
wood,  Ind.  He  early  decided  upon  a medical  career,iand  on  completing  his  English  course, 
began  the  study  of  medicine  under  the  direction  of  Drs.  Noble  and  VVi8hard,.of  Greenwood, 


52 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


with  whom  he  read  for  three  years,  meantime  attending  lectures  at  the  Central  Medical 
College  of  Indianapolis  during  its  sessions  of  1849-50,  and  was  graduated  from  the  medical 
department  of  the  University  of  New  York,  in  1800.  He  immediately  entered  upon  the 
practice  of  his  profession  at  Danville,  Hendricks  County,  and  was  l)eginniug  to  meet  with 
much  success  when,  in  1801,  he  was  appointed  surgeon  of  the  Eleventh  Indiana  Infantry, 
and  served  in  that  capacity  until  May,  1805,  participating  in  the  engagements  at  Shiloh, 
Champion’s  Hill,  the  siege  of  Vicksburg,  the  lighting  at  Jackson,  Miss. , in  other  battles 
of  minor  importance,  and  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley.  During  this  j)eriod  of  military  activity, 
his  duties  were  chieMy  in  the  field,  and  while  they  subjected  him  to  the  hazards  of  war,  they 
afforded  him  o[)portuuities  for  the  practice  and  experience  as  a surgeon  which  he  could 
never  have  obtained  anywhere  else  on  earth,  before  or  since.  After  the  war  he  located  at 
Indianapolis,  at  once  took  up  the  general  practice  of  his  profession,  and  his  patronage  has 
increased  as  his  skill  and  success  have  become  more  and  more  widely  known.  Dr.  Comingor 
was  married  in  1855  to  Miss  L>icy  Williamson,  of  Greencastle,  Ind.,  and  three  children; 
Ada,  Harry  and  Carrie,  have  blessed  their  union.  Simple  in  his  habits,  retiring  in  his  dis- 
position, eschewing  all  display  and  shunning  all  ostentation,  Dr.  Comingor  is  a most  com- 
[)anionable  and  entertaining  gentleman  who  bears  ac(piaintauce  so  well  that  to  know  him 
for  a long  time  is  to  like  him  better  and  better.  His  strong,  j)ractical  common  sense  and 
solidity  of  character  mark  him  as  one  to  be  trusted  under  any  and  all  circumstances, 
and  in  every  relation  of  life  he  has  promptly  and  conscientiously  met  every  just  demand 
upon  him. 

Robert  F.  Emmett.  The  office  of  sheriff  i!i.one  that  has  been  filled  by  the  illustrious 
head  of  this  Government  and  is  a position  that  demands  the  exercise  of  great  circumspec- 
tion, great  personal  courage  and  a general  and  apt  intelligence.  The  county  of  Marion  is 
fortunate  in  its  choice  of  its  ])resent  incumbent,  Robert  F.  Emmett,  the  subject  of  our  sketch, 
who. adds  to  strict  integrity  the  other  cpialities  essential  to  thorough  discharge  of  the  responsi- 
bilities connected  with  the  station.  Mr.  Emmett  is  a native  of  the  county,  having  been  born 
here  May  4,  1859,  being  the  son  of  Robert  F.  and  Margaret  (Homey)  Emmett,  natives  of 
Ireland.  The  parents  came  to  the  United  States  at  an  early  day  and  settled  at  Indianapolis 
about  the  year  1854,  living  here  until  their  death,  the  father  passing  away  in  1866  and  the 
mother  July  4,  1878.  They  were  the  parents  of  eight  children,  only  two  of  whom  survive — 
Mary  and  our  subject.  The  latter  received  instruction  in  the  schools  of  this  city  and  later, 
when  working  at  a trade,  attended  the  night  sessions  of  a business  college,  from  which 
he  graduated.  Apprenticed  to  the  trade  of  an  iron  moulder,  he  served  at  it  until  he  com- 
pleted his  term  and  followed  it  afterward,  pursuing  it  in  all  about  fifteen  years.  In  the  year 
1886  he  became  a deputy  sheriff  under  Isaac  King  and  was  jailer  foi'a  period  of  four  years. 
He  was  deputy  for  one  year  under  Sheriff  Henry  Langenberg  and  then  stepped  out  to  make 
the  race  for  the  office  of  sheriff,  being  successful  and  receiving  the  largest  majority  that  was 
ever  made  by  a man  running  on  the  national  ticket,  receiving  a majority  of  683.  Mr.  Em- 
mett is  also  the  youngest  man  who  has  ever  filled  the  office  of  sheriff  in  this  county.  He  has 
served  two  terms  as  president  of  the  Moulders’  Union,  a very  large  and  influential  body, 
and  this  gave  him  many  votes,  raising  up  many  ardent  friends  on  his  behalf.  Mr.  Emmett 
entered  upon  the  discharge  of  his  duties  December  10,  1892,  having  had  such  long  previous 
experience  that  he  had  to  waste  no  time  in  accjuiring  a knowledge  of  the  details  of  the  office. 
Always  companionable,  he  is  connected,  besides  with  the  Moulders’  Union,  with  the  order 
of  K.  of  P.,  the  A.  O.  H.,  and  with  the  Gray  Club;  the  last  named,  a strong  political  organ- 
ization, ho  assisted  greatly  in  organizing.  • While  a young  man,  none  of  the  friends  of  Mr. 
Emmett  have  the  slightest  fears  about  his  ability  to  manage  his  office.  On  the  contrary,  the 
ableunanner  in  which  he  took  hold  and  the  thoroughness  with  which  he  attends  to  every  duty, 
confirms  their  judgment  that  his  administration  will  be  marked  by  the  most  highly  satis- 
factory results.  |v;  - 

Jbremiah  J.'CoRB.Cf^Y  was  one  of  the  pioneers  of  the  new  purchase  and  one  of  the  early 
settlers  of  Marlon  County.  HS"  was  born  in  Delaware  in  1789.  His  father,  Richard  Cor- 
baley,  a native  of  Irelau^,  located  some  time  before  that  at  Odessa,  Del.,  where  he  married 
an  English  lady.  He  later  removed  to  Washington,  D.  C.,  sometime  before  the  laying  of 
the  foundation  of  the  Jirst  capitol  building.  He  died  there,  leaving  four  small  childi-en. 


1 


LIBRARY 
. OF  THE 

yfvIVFR'^lTY  OF  ll.l  INOr 


/ 


53 


Ax\D  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

His  widow,  with  her  family,  removed  to  Cecil  County,  Md.  Jeremiah  remained  with  his 
mother  and  grew  to  manhood  before  her  death.  In  1816  he  came  to  the  territory  northwest 
of  the  Ohio  River,  and  there  became  well  known  as  a school  teacher.  Near  Hamilton,  Ohio, 
he  formed  the  accjuaintance  of  Jane,  the  eldest  daughter  of  Robert  Barnhill,  to  whom  he 
was  married  in  1819.  Mr.  Corbaley  brought  with  him  from  Maryland  about  $600.  which 
he  intended  to  invest  in  land,  but  which  he  lost  through  the  failure  of  a merchant  at  Hamil- 
ton, to  whom  he  intrusted  it.  In  March,  1820,  he  came  to  Marion  County  with  Mr.  Barnhill, 
his  father-in-law,  and  settled  on  the  bank  of  Fall  Creek,  near  where  Patterson’s  old  mill 
stood,  just  outside  the  donation,  where  he  remained  two  years.  On  August  7,  1820,  his  son 
Richard  was  born,  the  first  white  child  born  in  the  new  purchase,  now  a resident  of  the 
State  of  \Yashington.  Owing  to  the  great  distress  caused  by  sickness  the  first  two  years 
after  they  came  to  Indianapolis,  Mr.  Barnhill  having  died,  the  family  removed  to  a piece  of 
land  they  had  entered  on  Eagle  Creek,  in  the  northwest  part  of  the  county.  Being  industri- 
ous, it  was  not  many  year.s  until  each  member  of  the  Barnhill  family  had  a good  farm,  the 
rich  soil  yielding  a fair  reward  for  their  labors.  One  of  the  greatest  drawbacks  upon  their 
success,  however,  was  the  remoteness  of  a market  for  their  grain,  which  had  to  be  hauled  in 
wagons  to  the  Ohio  River,  where  wheat  was  disposed  of  at  about  50  cents  per  bushel,  and 
other  kinds  of  grains  in  proportion.  Mr.  Corbaley  being  a good  English  scholar  and  sur- 
passing the  other  men  of  that  section  in  general  ability,  was  the  business  man  for  the  whole 
neighborhood.  For  many  years  ho  was  justice  of  tlie  peace  for  Wayne  township.  He  was 
one  of  the  commissioners  ap]iointed  by  the  Legislature,  who  located  the  seats  of  justice  of 
the  counties  of  Clinton  and  Fulton  at  Frankfort  and  Rochester,  respectively.  Mr.  Corbaley 
made  several  trips  from  his  Indiana  home  to  his  old  home  in  Maryland.  It  was  a horseback 
journey  entirely,  and  one  night  while  traveling  through  a wilderness  country,  in  which 
the  houses  were  about  twenty  miles  apart,  he  was  attacked  by  a panther.  With  the  aid  of 
a tlint-lock  pistol  and  a piece  of  tow  he  was  enabled  to  kindle  a tire,  which  kept  the  beast  at 
bay  during  tlie  night.  He  replenished  the  fire  during  the  night  and  at  daylight  the  panther 
was  last  .seen  in  pursuit  of  a deer.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Corbaley  reared  a family  of  ten  children, 
which  was  but  an  average  number  of  the  pioneers  of  Indiana,  all  of  whom  married  before 
the  death  of  Mrs.  Corl)aley,  which  occurred  April  7,  1870,  and  seven  of  whom  are  yet  living. 
Mr.  Corbaley  was  one  of  the  most  substantial  farmers  in  the  county,  and  his  reputation  for 
sterling  integrity  was  such  that  it  was  common  to  say  to  him  that  his  word  was  as  good  as 
his  bond.  His  useful  life  ended  on  January  11,  1841. 

SvMUEL  B.  CoHUAi.KY.  This  well  known  and  respected  citizen  is  the  fourth  son  of  the  late 
Jeremiah  J.  Corbaley,  and  was  born  at  tlie  old  Corbaley  homestead  on  Eagle  Creek,  in 
Marion  County,  February  17,  1831.  His  father  died  while  he  was  (juite  young  and  he  was 
of  great  assistance  to  his  mother,  working  on  the  farm  during  the  spring,  summer  and  fall, 
and  gaining  a limited  education  during  the  winter  months  in  the  private  schools  of  that  day, 
which  were  mostly  kept  in  the  rudest  and  most  primitive  log  houses.  When  he  was  seven- 
teen years  old,  his  brother,  Richard  Corbaley,  then  county  clerk  of  Marshall  County, 
received  him  as  an  assistant  in  his  office  at  Plymouth.  He  walked  over  the  IVIichigan  road 
to  that  town,  consuming  three  (hays  and  a half  in  the  journey.  The  journey  was  a rough 
one,  for  the  old  iMichigan  road  w!is  in  those  days  regarded  as  the  very  worst  road  in  Indiana. 
Ho  set  out  with  $3  in  his  pocket,  all  he  had  bemi  able  to  accumulate  to  that  time,  and  upon 
arriving  at  his  destination,  had  but  35  cents  left.  His  residence  in  Marshall  County 
covered  a period  of  ten  years,  during  eight  of  which  he  was  employed  in  the  ofiice  of  the 
clerk,  recorder  and  sheriff.  As  a penman  he  attracted  much  attention,  and  the  books  and 
other  records  he  kept  will  doubtless  long  serve  as  a reminder  of  him  to  all  who  may  have 
occasion  to  examine  them  after  he  shall  be  no  more.  He  returned  to  Marion  County  in 
1861  and  has  resided  in  Indianapolis  constantly  since  1862.  For  three  years  he  was  book- 
keeper ill  Spiegel,  Thoms  A Co.’s  furniture  establishment,  and  later,  he  entered  the  grocery 
business  on  West  Washington  Street  where  he  built  U|)  a first  class  credit  and  reputation. 
He  married  Amanda  Dewson,  of  Plymouth.  Sejiteuiber  2,  1854,  who  died  ten  years 
later,  after  having  borne  him  two  daughters,  both  of  whom  are  also  dead.  Ajiril  4,  1(867, 
he  married  Eliza  A.,  eldest  daught(>r  of  William  Cossel,  one  of  Marion  Cimnty’s  most: 
prominent  farmers,  who  has  borne  him  a daughter  and  son,  named  respectively  Luella  and 


54 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


George  M.  His  daughter  has  been  teacliing  in  the  public  schools  of  the  city  for  several 
years,  and  his  son  is  a clerk  in  the  office  of  the  Cincinnati,  Hamilton  & Dayton  Railroad.  On 
December  10,  1884,  Mr.  Corbaley  accepted  the  position  of  deputy  sheriff  under  George  Car 
ter,  Es(p,  and  two  years  later  succeeded  to  the  position  in  the  sheriff’s  office  of  chief  deputy, 
a position  he  still  holds.  Under  his  excellent  management,  his  work  having  the  approval  of 
the  court  and  members  of  the  bar,  much  good  has  been  accomplished.  He  was  the  Demo- 
cratic nominee  in  1880  for  the  office  of  recorder,  but  was  turned  down  like  the  rest  of  the 
ticket. 

George  H.vsty,  M.  D.,  long  a member  of  the  faculty  of  the  Physio-Medical  College  of 
Indiana,  one  of  the  organizers  and  first  president  of  the  American  Association  of  Physio- 
Medical  Physicians  and  Surgeons,  and  editor  and  publisher  of  the  Physio-Medical  Journal, 
at  Indianajiolis,  was  boro  in  Madison  County,  Ind. , September  30,  1835,  and  has  been 
for  many  years  identified  with  the  medical  profession  of  the  State  with  much  more  than 
ordinai’y  prominence.  His  parents  were  Thomas  and  Ann  (Raper)  Hasty,  his  father  a 
farmer  and  a native  of  Kentucky,  his  mother  a Virginian  by  birth.  His  maternal  grand- 
father saw  service  in  the  War  of  1812-14.  His  paternal  grandparents  were  pioneers  in 
Preble  County,  Ohio,  where  Thomas  Hasty  (his  father)  was  reared,  and  during  the  earlier 
years  of  Dr.  Hasty’s  life,  in  Indiana,  the  country  was  new  and  much  of  it  timbered  and 
pretty  heavily  populated  with  beasts  of  the  forests,  so  that,  though  he  was  born  in  the  wild- 
erness instead  of  emigrating  to  it,  he  was  himself  in  a practical  sense  a pioneer.  During 
those  early  days  his  mother  made  several  long  and  dreary  horseback  trips  between  the  family 
home  in  Indiana  and  her  old  home  in  Virginia.  She  was  a woman  of  great  nobility  of  char- 
acter much  devoteil  to  her  family  and  has  been  dead  for  some  years.  Thomas  Hasty  is  still 
living  on  the  old  homestead  in  Henry  County,  Ind.,  at  the  advanced  age  of  eighty-tive  years. 
This  farm  extends  over  the  boundary  line  info  Madison  County,  and  on  the  portion  so  dis- 
tinguished from  the  balance,  and  on  which  the  family  home  once  stood,  Dr  Hasty  was  born. 
Reared  on  the  farm  and  inured  to  its  healthful  and  moral  life,  he  assisted  in  clearing  away 
the  timber  and  in  putting  in,  cultivating  and  harvesting  crops  during  the  pioneer  days,  as 
opportunity  offered  attending  the  subscription  schools  taught  near  his  home  in  log  cabins 
with  puncheon  floors  and  other  characteristics  of  the  primitive  school-houses  of  America,  and 
thus  he  gained  most  of  his  early  education,  though,  later,  he  was  privileged  to  attend  for  a 
short  time  a public  school  more  advanced  and  more  effective  as  an  educational  instrumen- 
tality. His  ambition  from  his  youth  was  to  be  a physician,  but  he  saw  small  opportunity  to 
gain  the  required  professional  education  and,  besides,  in  those  days  the  path  of  the  “young 
doctor’’  was  not  so  easy  as  it  has  since  been  made.  In  all  that  country  there  was  and 
promised  to  be  for  some  time  to  come,  plenty  of  work  for  civil  engineers  and  surveyors,  and 
having  some  aptitude  for  mathematical  study,  he  determined  to  become  a civil  engineer. 
To  accomplish  this  purpose  he  found  it  necessary  to  teach  school  to  earn  money  to  pay  for 
instruction  and  to  buv  instruments.  He  taught  a few  terms  in  the  log-walled  and  bark- 
roofed  poor  man's  colleges  of  that  time  and  locality,  but  finally  abandoned  the  idea  of  mak- 
ing a surveyor  of  himself  and  returned  to  the  farm  and  began  to  think  seriously  of  becoming 
a physician  in  the  face  of  all  obstacles.  He  got  together  a few  books,  and  from  the  time  he 
was  twenty  gave  to  a course  of  reading  on  medical  subjects  every  spare  moment  that  was 
his,  for  his  means  were  insufficient  to  permit  him  to  give  his' entire  time  to  the  object  he  so 
much  desired.  He  planned  wisely  and  worked  diligently,  and  was  enabled  in  the  winter  of 
1858-59  to  begin  attending  lectures  at  the  Physio-Medical  College  at  Cincinnati,  and  in  the 
winter  of  1859-60  to  take  a second  course  of  lectures  at  the  Physio-Medical  Institute  of  the 
same  city,  and  to  graduate  therefrom  in  the  spring  of  1860  with  the  degree  of  M.  D.  He 
did  not  waste  any  time  in  entering  upon  the  practice  of  his  profession,  but  located  at  once 
at  Mechanicsburg,  near  his  old  home,  hung  out  his  “shingle’’  and  devoted  himself  hope- 
fully to  the  more  or  less  tedious  task  of  waiting  for  his  tirst  call  in  his  professional  capacity 
to  the  bedside  of  some  ailing  fellow  mortal.  He  had  not  long  to  wait  and  soon  his  patrons 
were  so  numerous  that  he  found  himself  bu.sy  with  a large  and  increasing  general  practice, 
and  at  the  same  time  he  had  by  his  success  so  impressed  upon  his  brother  practitioners  a 
conviction  of  his  ability  that  he  was  made  a member  of  the  faculty  of  his  alma  mater,  the 
Physio  Medical  Institute,  at  Cincinnati,  the  sessions  of  which  were  confined  to  the  winter 


55 


MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

montbs,  Dr.  Hasty’s  duties  being  so  timed  Ibat  be  was  enabled  to  perform  them  without 
serious  detriment  to  bis  practice.  At  different  times,  until  December,  1872,  when  be  removed 
from  Mecbanicsburg,  to  Indianapolis,  be  occupied  tbe  cbairs  of  Chemistry,  Anatomy  and 
Surgery.  Upon  coming  to  Indianapolis  be  made  bis  presence  almost  immediately  felt  in  the 
medical  profession.  In  1873  he  was  one  of  tbe  promoters,  organizers  and  incorporators  of 
tbe  Physio-Medical  College  of  Indiana,  of  the  faculty  of  which  be  has  been  a member  ever 
since,  occupying  tbe  chair  of  Surgery  until  1878  and  tbe  chair  of  principles  and  practice 
since  that  time.  During  all  tbe  history  of  that  institution,  be  has  been  influentially  and 
helpfully  identified  with  it  and  is  at  this  time  a prominent  member  of  its  board  of  trustees. 
He  was  one  of  the  organizers  and  a charter  member  of  the  Indiana  Physio-Medical  Associa- 
tion; helped  organize  and  is  still  a member  of  the  First  District  Physio-Medical  Society; 
was  one  of  the  organizei’s  and  first  president  of  the  American  Association  of  Physio-Medical 
Physicians  and  Surgeons,  and  assisted  to  form  and  is  still  a member  of  the  Indianapolis 
Physio- Medical  Society.  He  was  present  at  the  organization  of  both  the  State  and  national 
societies  and  has  never  been  absent  from  a meeting  of  either  body  from  that  time  to  this. 
The  Physio- Medical  Journal  was  established  in  1875  by  members  of  the  faculty  of  the  Phy- 
sio-Medical College  of  Indiana,  and  in  1878  Dr.  Hasty  assumed  entire  control  of  the  publi- 
cation and  has  since  been  its  editor  and  publisher,  in  that  dual  capacity  so  well  directing  it 
that  it  has  a large  and  influential  circulation  among  members  of  the  Physio  Aledica]  profes- 
sion, and  is  considered  one  of  the  ablest  and  most  carefully  edited  journals  of  the  kind  in  the 
country.  Dr.  Hasty  was  married  April  25.  1861,  to  Miss  Caroline  M.  Julian,  a native  of 
Henry  County,  Ind.,  and  a daughter  of  Peter  and  Adaline  (Hess)  Julian,  the  former  a 
native  of  Indiana,  the  latter  of  Virginia.  In  politics  the  Doctor  is  a Ile]>ublican.  He  is  a 
member  of  the  Masonic  order.  In  every  relation  of  life  he  is  in  all  things  the  intelligent, 
cultured  and  refined  gentleman,  the  able  physician  and  the  generoiis  and  helpful  citizen. 
For  thirty-three  years  he  has  been  identified  with  the  medical  profession,  always  honoral)ly, 
always  progressively,  ahvays  prominently.  He  has  been  not  simjfiy  a good  member  of  it,  he 
has  been  more  one  of  its  promoters,  one  of  its  upbuilders,  one  of  the  factors  in  its  advance- 
ment, perfection  and  enlarged  adaptability  to  the  needs  of  humanity. 

S.\MUEL  M.  Compton.  The  Industries  of  Indianapolis  are  principally  of  an  important 
character,  ably  and  successfully  carried  on.  the  products  being  such  as  to  have  secured  for 
this  flourishing  city  a reputation  of  which  any  might  be  proud.  Prominent  among  the  suc- 
cessful l)nsiness  men  of  this  city  is  Mr.  Samuel  M.  Compton,  who  is  engaged  in  the  grocery 
business,  and  who  is  now  the  quarter-master  general,  having  been  appointed  to  that  position 
and  commissioned  a brigadier-general  by  Gov.  Mathews  in  1893.  Like  many  of  the  best 
citizens  of  the  State  he  is  a native  of  Ohio,  born  in  Warren  County,  July  1,  1845.  His 
father,  Alexander  J.  Compton,  was  a native  of  that  grand  old  mother  of  States,  Virginia, 
and  is  now  residing  in  Incliana.  He  is  eighty-two  years  of  age,  is  in  the  enjoyment  of  com- 
paratively good  health,  and  has  ever  been  a man  honored  and  respecte'd.  His  wife,  the 
mother  of  our  subject,  was  a native  of  Penn.sylvania,  and  her  maiden  name  was  IMickle. 
This  worthy  couple  had  four  sons  in  the  army  during  the  Rebellion:  William  E.,  who  was 
sergeant  in  the  Eighty-sixth  Ohio  Infantry;  Thomas  IM..  lieutenant  in  Company  K,  First 
Indiana  Heavy  Artillery;  RidgeleyC.,  private  in  the  Sixth  ITniled  Stales  Inf,')nlry.  and  cur 
subject,  who  enlisted  several  times  but  was  refused  on  account  of  youth,  until  the  summer 
of  1862,  when  he  became  a member  of  Battery  K,  First  Indiana  Heavy  Artillery,  as  a jui- 
vate,  serving  until  January  10,  1866,  when  he  was  mustered  out  as  corporal.  He  j)artici- 
pated  in  the  following  battles:  Port  Hudson,  Red  River  Campaign,  Siege  of  Mobile  and 
numerous  minor  skirmishes.  Ho  escajied  without  a wound  and  was  mustered  out  in  New 
Orleans,  La.  Our  subject’s  education  was  received  in  the  schools  of  Warren  County  and  at 
Lebanon,  Ohio,  the  county  seat,  where  he  remained  in  the  schools  until  thirteen  yeai's  of 
age.  He  then  came  with  his  parents  to  Mooresville,  IMortran  County,  Ind.,  and  engag(>d  as 
clerk  in  the  gtmeral  store  of  Moore.  Gi'iggs  A Cook,  with  whom  he  remained  until  1862, 
when  he  enlisted.  He  had  another  brother,  Harlan  H.,  who  served  in  the  llome  Guards 
during  the  latter  part  of  the  war.  ,\fter  being  discharged  at  New  Orleans  after  the  war 
our  subject  r«*mained  in  that  city  for  about,  two  months  and  then  returned  to  IMorgan  County, 
Ind.,  where  he  commenced  clerking  for  Holman  Johnson,  continuing  with  him  about  three 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


r)6 

years.  After  that  be  opened  a general  store  of  his  own  in  Mooresville,  Ind. , and  this  he 
carried  on  about  eigliteen  months,  when  he  sold  out  and  came  to  Indianapolis.  Here  he  be- 
gan clerking  for  W.  M.  Davis,  continued  with  him  two  years,  and  then  began  clerking  in  the 
shoe  business  with  W.  W.  Jones.  Two  years  later  he  accepted  a position  in  the  wholesale 
grocery  of  Conduitt,  McKnight  & Co.,  remained  with  the  same  two  years  and  then  for  three 
years  clerked  in  the  dry  goods  store  of  Hibben,  Patterson  & Co.  Following  this  he  went  to 
Worcester,  Mass.,  with  J.  H.  and  G.  M.  Walker,  boot  and  shoe  manufacturers,  and  subse- 
(juently  traveled  (juite  extensively  for  them  in  the  South.  In  1891  he  engaged  in  the  gro- 
cery business  in  Indianapolis,  and  this  he  has  carried  on  since.  In  politics  Mr.  Compton  is 
a Democrat,  with  which  ])arty  he  has  always  affiliated,  and  comes  of  Democratic  stock,  his 
father  also  affiliating  with  that  j)arty.  As  before  stated,  Mr.  Compton  was  appointed  quar- 
termaster general  in  1893.  and  of  that  ])osition  he  is  the  ])re8ent  incumbent.  He*is  a mem- 
ber of  Capital  City  Odd  Fellow  Lodge,  and  to  George  H.  Thomas  Post,  Lodge  No.  17,  G. 
A.  It.  Mr.  Compton  was  married  on  May  19,  1868,  to  Miss  Mary  E.  Gentry,  a native  of 
Marion  Comity,  Ind.,  and  to  them  were  given  two  children,  neither  surviving. 

August  H.  Calvel.vge.  The  manufacture  of  agricultural  implements  has  grown  to  be 
a great  industry  and  in  reviewing  the  various  enterprises  that  have  made  Indianapolis  one 
of  the  prominent  centers  of  business  in  the  West,  it  is  highly  interesting  to  note  the  advance 
that  has  been  made  in  each  industry.  August  H.  Calvelage  is  the  present  very  efficient 
foreman  of  the  National  Malleable  Castings  Company,  and  has  been  connected  with  the  same 
for  many  years.  He  was  born  in  Putnam  County,  Ohio,  February  10,  1845,  a son  of  George 
Calvelage,  who  was  born  in  the  Province  of  Oldenberg,  Germany,  and  came  to  Ohio  with 
his  parents,  when  a boy  of  twelve  years,  first  locating  in  Cleveland.  The  family  afterward 
moved  to  Putnam  County,  of  which  section  they  were  among  the  first  settlers.  They  pur- 
chased a tract  of  land  comprising  600  acres  for  which  they  paid  75  cents  per  acre,  and  this 
land  is  still  in  possession  of  the  Calvelage  family.  George  Calvelage  grew  up  among  the 
Indians  which  made  up  the  principal  part  of  the  population  of  Putnam  County  at  that  time. 
He  made  his  home  in  that  region  until  he  was  about  seventy-six  years  of  age,  at  which  time 
he  was  called  upon  to  pay  the  last  debt  of  nature.  He  was  engaged  in  fai  ming  and  trad- 
ing with  the  Indians,  and  afterward  dealt  in  stock,  in  all  of  which,  being  a successful  man 
of  business,  he  was  quite  successful.  He  was  highly  honored  throughout  that  region  and 
held  a number  of  positions  of  trust.  He  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Mary  Hackman, 
wlio  was  born  in  Hanover,  Germany,  and  she  still  survives  him  and  resides  on  the  old  homestead 
in  Ohio.  To  their  marriage  a family  of  five  children  were  born:  August  H.,  Henry  and 
Hernard,  who  farms  the  old  home  place,  being  the  only  survivors.  August  H.  Calvelage  left 
home  at  the  age  of  seventeen  years  and  went  to  Cleveland,  Ohio,  where  he  began  learning 
the  calling  of  a brick  layer,  an  occupation  which  he  followed  successfully  for  seven  years 
with  one  contractor.  At  the  end  of  this  time  he  began  turning  his  attention  to  malleable 
iron  work  in  Cleveland,  but  after  a short  period  went  to  Springfield  and  entered  the  employ 
of  Whitely,  Fassler  & Kelley,  who  were  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  reapers  and  mowers, 
and  during  the  nine  years  that  he  was  with  this  firm  he  acted  for  some  time  in  the  capacity 
of  foreman  and  later  as  suj)erintendent  of  the  iron  department.  After  coming  to  Indian- 
a{)olis,  he  connected  himself  with  the  National  Malleable  Castings  Company  as  foreman,  a 
])osition  which  he  still  retains  to  the  satisfaction  of  his  employers  and  decidedly  to  his  own 
credit.  He  is  a man  of  brains,  energy  and  ]>ush,  and  has  made  his  own  way  to  his  present 
position  of  independence  by  his  own  energy  and  integrity.  He  certaiidy  knows  what  pioneer 
life  is,  for  he  was  born  in  a log  cabin,  in  which  not  a nail  had  been  driven,  and  this  continued 
to  be  his  home  for  a number  of  years.  His  initiatory  training  was  received  in  the  common 
schools  of  Putnam  County,  which  were  by  no  means  of  the  best  at  that  time,  but  he  fortu- 
nately afterward  graduated  from  a business  college  of  Cleveland,  his  tuition  being  paid  in 
money  which  he  earned  by  the  sweat  of  his  brow  while  laying  brick.  Since  locating  in 
Haughville  he  has  been  town  trustee  for  eight  years,  four  years  of  which  time  he  was  presi- 
dent of  the  board,  and  during  his  administration  many  of  the  most  important  improvements 
in  the  town  were  made,  and  were  largely  due  to  his  push  and  pibolic  spirit.  Street  cars  were 
established,  streets  were  laid  out,  a natural  gas  plant  was  put  in  and  an  excellent  school-house 
was  erected,  besides  numerous  other  improvements.  In  1870  he  was  united  in  marriage  to 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  57 

Miss  Emma  Groscli,  a native  of  Staten  Island,  N.  Y. , and  to  tlieir  nnion  three  sons  and  a 
daughter  have  been  given.  He  is  president  of  the  Haughville  Building  and  Loan  Associa- 
tion, a member  of  the  Commercial  Club  of  Indianapolis,  and  politically  has  always  been  a 
Democrat,  and  has  supported  the  princi2)les  of  that  party  on  all  occasions,  although  he  has 
never  been  an  office  seeker.  He  is  a man  among  men  and  proven  himself  a decided  accjuisi- 
tion  to  the  town  of  Haughville. 

Allison  Maxwell,  M.  D.  The  old  saying  that  “a  prophet  is  not  without  honor  save  in  his 
own  country.”  which  has  come  to  be  applied  not  only  to  prophets  but  to  men  in  nearly 
every  profession,  trade  and  walk  of  life,  is  most  completely  controverted  in  every  commu- 
nity in  the  country  by  the  manifestation  of  high  esteem  on  the  part  of  the  people  for  able 
and  honorable  members  of  the  medical  profession.  The  physician,  more  generally  perhaps, 
than  even  the  pastor,  endears  himself  to  the  family  circle,  and  while  he  may  not  be 
strictly  of  it  he  is  at  all  times  very  near  to  it  and  his  relations  are  so  contidential  that 
his  welcome  is  more  spontaneous  and  hearty  than  that  of  many  connected  to  it  with 
the  ties  of  blood.  Among  the  most  honored  family  ])hysicians  of  Indianapolis  is  Dr. 
Allison  Maxwell,  who  enjoys  a large  and  lucrative  practice  and  numbers  among  his  patrons 
many  prominent  and  influential  citizens.  Dr.  Maxwell  is  a son  of  Dr.  James  D.  and 
Louisa  (Howe)  Maxwell,  both  natives  of  Indiana,  and  was  born  at  Bloomington,  Ind.,  Sep- 
tendier  24,  1848.  Dr.  James  D.  Maxwell  enjoyed  the  distinction  of  being  not  only  the 
father  of  physicians  but  the  son  of  a physician.  His  father.  Dr.  David  H.  Maxwell,  was  a native 
of  Kentucky  and  was  a medical  pupil  of  Dr.  Ephraim  McDowell,  and  locating  in  Monroe 
County  about  1819,  was  one  of  the  pioneer  settlers  there.  He  was  a surgeon  in  the  War 
of  1812,  and  his  standing  outside  of  his  profession  is  indicated  by  the  fact  that  he  was 
chosen  a member  of  the  Constitutional  Convention  which  framed  the  first  constitution  of 
the  State,  which  was  adopted  at  its  organization.  The  degree  of  M.  D.  was  conferred  upon 
hitn  by  the  Medical  College  of  Ohio,  at  Cincinnati.  In  1819  he  located  at  Bloomington. 
Ind.,  and  was  one  of  the  surveyors  and  organizers  of  the  town,  in  which  he  lived  and 
practiced  his  {)rofession  with  much  success  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1854.  He 
was  the  founder  and  was  elected  the  first  president  of  the  board  of  trustees  of  the  Indiana 
University  at  Bloomington,  and  was  one  of  the  trustees  of  that  institution  continuously 
from  its  organization  until  his  death,  and  has  ever  since  lieen  popularly  referred  to  as  “the 
fatlier  of  the  university.”  His  practice  at  Bloomington  was  continued  by  his  son,  James 
D.  Maxwell,  who  was  graduated  from  the  Indiana  University  in  1838  and  who,  in  1841, 
attended  Transylvania,  at  Lexington,  Ky.  The  following  year  he  became  a student  in  the 
Jefferson  Medical  College,  and  was  graduated  therefrom  in  1814  with  the  degree  of  M.  1). 
During  a period  of  nearly  forty  years  he  was  a trustee  of  the  Indiana  University,  and  his 
service  as  nuch  was  terminated  only  by  his  death,  which  occurred  at  Bloomington  Septem 
her  30,  1892.  He  was  an  active  and  successful  medical  ]>ractioner,  and  for  many  years 
had  a larger  and  more  lucrative  practice  than  any  jihysician  in  the  county.  A few  years 
prior  to  his  death,  however,  he  retired  from  the  [iractice  of  his  profession  and  devoted  him 
self  entirely  to  the  interests  of  the  Indiana  University  and  to  his  ))rivate  affairs.  Dr. 
.Vllison  Maxwell  was  reared  in  his  Jiative  town,  and  there  he  obtained  his  primary  educa 
tion  in  the  public  schools.  In  1862  he  entered  tlu;  preparatory  def)artment  of  the  Indiana 
University,  and  in  18()8,  having  completed  a classical  course,  he  was  duly  graduated  from 
that  institution,  in  which  for  a year  after  he  was  tutor  of  Greek  and  Latin,  relin<|uiahing 
his  position  in  its  faculty  to  go  to  San  Francisco,  Cal.,  where  for  two  years  he  was  clerk  in 
the  Bancroft  Publishing  House.  Keturning  to  Bloomington  at  the  expiration  of  that  time, 
he  began  the  study  of  medicine  with  his  father,  and  in  the  fall  of  1872  he  began  the  study 
of  medicine  with  his  father,  and  in  the  fall  of  1872  he  became  a student  in  the  Miami 
ilcdical  College,  of  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  where  he  took  the  graded  course  of  three  years,  and 
by  competitive  examination,  was  ap[)oint(‘d  and  served  for  one  year  as  inteine  of  the  City 
Hos{)ital,  graduating  from  the  .Miami  Medical  College  with  the  degree  of  Doctor  of  Medi- 
cine in  I87f).  In  .\pril  of  that  year  lie  came  to  Indianapolis  and  became  the  assistant  of 
Dr.  'I’lieophilus  Ihirvin,  now  of  Philadelphia,  and  in  this  relation  continued  with  that  well- 
known  physician  during  a |)eiiod  of  eight  years,  until  Dr.  Parvin  launoved  from  the  city. 
In  1880  Dr.  Maxwell  was  elected  coroner  of  .Marion  County  and  was  re-elected  in  1882. 


58 


MEMOiRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


He  has  liekl  the  chair  of  Principles  and  Practice  of  Medicine  in  the  Central  College  of 
Physicians  and  Surgeons,  of  Indianapolis,  since  1880,  and  as  clinical  lecturer  at  the  City 
Hospital,  and  a member  of  the  consulting  staff  at  the  City  Dispensary.  Under  the  present 
charter  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  he  was  appointed  a member  of  the  first  board  of  health 
organized  by  its  provisions.  He  is  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  of  the 
Indiana  State  Medical  Society  and  of  the  American  Medical  Association.  Dr.  Maxwell 
was  married  May  3,  1883,  to  Cynthia  A.  llouth,  a native  of  Wayne  County,  Ind.,  and 
daughter  of  James  K.  and  Sarah  J.  Routh,  also  natives  of  this  State,  who  has  borne  him 
two  children:  Leslie  H.  and  Ruth. 

James  D.  Maxwell,  Jr.,  a brother  of  Dr.  Allison  Maxwell,  was  born  in  July,  1850,  and 
was  graduated  from  the  University  of  Indiana  in  1872.  He  pur.sued  a regular  three-year 
graded  course  at  the  Miami  Medical  College  of  Cincinnati,  and,  like  his  brother,  became  an 
interne  in  the  City  Hospital  at  Cincinnati,  by  competitive  examination.  He  graduated  from 
the  Miami  Medical  College  in  1878,  and,  going  to  Cleveland,  Ohio,  was  for  two  years 
assistant  surgeon  in  the  Cleveland  Hospital  for  the  Insane.  Returning  to  the  family  home, 
at  Bloomington,  he  became  a partner  of  his  father.  Dr.  James  D.  Maxwell,  Sr.  In  the 
winter  of  1882-83  he  took  a special  course  in  surgery  at  Bellevue  Hospital  Medical  College, 
at  New  A'^ork,  and  received  his  diploma  from  that  institution  in  April,  1883.  Taking  up  his 
residence  permanently  at  Bloomington,  he  soon  obtained  a large  general  practice  and  became 
so  popular  as  a surgeon  that  he  actually  did  the  greater  part  of  the  surgical  work  in  the 
county  down  to  the  time  of  his  death,  which  occurred  in  January,  1891.  The  esteem  in 
which  he  was  held  by  his  fellow-citizens  found  expression  in  the  oft-repeated  statement 
that  any  citizen  of  Monroe  County  could  have  been  better  spared  than  Dr.  James  D. 
Maxwell,  Jr. 

Presley  Jennino.s.  The  trade  of  the  horse-shoer  and  blacksmith  is  one  that  comes  within 
the  bounds  of  daily  opporti;nity  to  manifest  a humane  spirit  toward  man’s  most  faithful  and 
obedient  friend,  the  horse.  If  the  theory  of  John  Stuart  Mill  is  correct,  there  is  certainly  a 
heaven  for  this  brightest  order  of  the  dumb  animal.  The  shoer  of  the  horse  has  many  an 
opportunity  to  prove  the  tender  side  of  heart,  and  in  his  calling,  which  has  existed  almost 
since  the  world  began,  one  of  the  most  humane  and  careful  men  is  Presley  Jennings,  who 
is  a master  of  his  trade  in  every  sense  of  the  word.  He  is  a native  of  Bridgeport,  Ind.,  born 
January  23,  1834,  and  has  been  a citizen  of  Marion  County.  Ind.,  ever  since.  His  parents, 
Allen  and  Eleanor  (Thornbrough)  Jennings,  were  united  in  marriage  in  1818.  but  the  former 
was  a native  of  Virginia,  and  two  years  prior  to  his  marriage  came  to  this  State.  For  two 
years  after  the  celebration  of  his  nuptials  he  made  his  home  in  the  State  of  his  birth,  at  the 
end  of  which  time  he  returned  to  jMarion  County,  Ind.,  and  here  remained  until  bis  death, 
which  took  place  in  1801,  liis  wife  having  passed  from  life  in  this  county  in  1849.  They  be- 
came the  parents  of  five  sons  and  live  daughters,  all  of  whom  are  living  with  the  exception 
of  the  two  eldest  daughters  and  the  youngest  son.  Their  children  were  named  as  follows: 
Nancy,  married  William  H.  Foreman,  and  died  in  early  womanhood;  Elizabeth,  married 
Manning  Vohrie,  and  is  also  deceased ; William  is  a resident  of  Marion  County;  Jane  is  the 
wife  of  John  Ray,  and  lives  in  Boone  County,  Ind.  ; Lydia  is  the  wife  of  John  H.  Rodman, 
and  is  a resident  of  Ray  County,  Mo. ; Polly  is  the  wife  of  George  Sowerwine.  and  resides 
in  Indianapolis;  Presley,  the  subject  of  this  sketch;  John,  who  resides  in  Indianapolis; 
Clark  is  a resident  of  California,  and  Allen,  who  died  at  the  age  of  four  years.  In  Marion 
County  Presley  Jennings  was  reared,  and  in  the  public  schools  of  this  section  he  received  a 
common-school  education.  On  January  1.  1855.  he  was  married  to  Miss  Alice  Head,  a 
daughter  of  Simeon  C.  and  Melinda  (Poage)  Head,  who  were  married  in  Kentucky  in  1818, 
and  soon  after  moved  to  Rush  County,  Ind.,  and  shortly  after  to  Marion  County,  where  for 
a number  of  years  they  kept  hotel.  They  then  gave  this  up  to  engage  in  farming,  but  in 
185()  moved  to  Zionsville.  Ind.,  and  lived  a retired  life  until  their  respective  deaths  in  1881 
and  1875.  To  the  marriage  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Jennings  a family  of  ten  children  have  been 
given:  Frank,  born  October  12,  1856;  Orla  S.,  born  November  28,  1858,  and  died  March 
13,  1865;  Emerson  B.,  born  December  4,  1860;  Charles,  born  August  14,  1863.  is  now 
married  to  Emma  Smith,  and  lives  in  this  county  near  his  parents;  Orpha,  born  October  4, 
1865,  is  the  wife  of  George  W.  Sheets;  Otis  was  born  August  16,  1869,  and  now  lives  in 


lig.iar/ 

OF  THE 

^/rv’iVERSiTY  OF  mffijnr 


59 


AND  MAJRION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Indianapolis;  Bertha,  born  January  31,  1874;  llalph,  born  December  18,  1879;  Aggie,  born 
February  28,  1885.  Since  1849  Mr.  Jennings  has  followed  the  calling  of  old  Tubal  Cain, 
and  is  now  the  proprietor  of  a large  shop  at  Nora,  Ind.  He  is  a lover  of  tine  horses,  and 
owns  some  of  the  best  bred  animals  in  the  county.  Mr.  Jennings  has  always  been  a warm 
patron  of  education,  and  the  public  school  system  of  Indiana  has  been  his  pride.  He  has 
always  been  a Republican  in  his  political  views,  and  proudly  asserts  that  his  boys  have  fol- 
lowed in  his  footsteps  in  this  respect.  He  has  in  his  possession  a clock  which  stands  over 
eight  feet  high,  and  although  it  has  been  in  the  possession  of  the  Jennings  family  for  about 
1(10  years,  keeps  perfect  time.  This  relic  Mr.  Jennings  highly  values. 

Gen.  Lew  W.vllace.  In  a chance  conversation  with  a well  known  infidel  a Western 
lawyer  had  been  listening  to  an  abundance  of  sarcastic  sneers  at  the  Christian  religion.  He 
felt  ashamed  of  his  ignorance  of  the  subject,  and,  impressed  with  its  importance,  he  deter- 
mined to  study  into  it.  In  thinking  how  to  begin  he  recalled  a story  that  he  had  started  a 
year  before,  founded  on  the  wise  men’s  search  for  Christ.  It  had  been  written  simply  as  a 
story,  with  little  interest  in  its  central  figure,  and  had  been  for  some  time  laid  aside.  He 
decided  to  carry  on  his  study  along  the  lines  suggested  by  the  story,  and  to  seek  to  learn  of 
the  Saviour  and  of  the  world  as  he  found  it.  The  result  was  that  “Ben-Hur”  was  written 
and  that  its  author  became  a believer  in  the  Christ  of  whom  he  wrote.  It  may  have  been  to 
his  friends  and  to  Gen.  AVallace  himself  something  of  a surprise  that  his  name  should  become 
best  known  by  such  a book.  “ Lewis  Wallace,”  it  was  said  a quarter  of  a century  ago, 
” handles  the  pen  and  the  brush  with  ease  and  taste,  but  his  genius  is  military.”  Born  at 
Brookville,  Ind.,  April  10,  1827,  his  early  scholastic  training  was  received  from  the  common 
schools.  David  Wallace,  his  father,  was  a graduate  of  the  I’nited  States  Military  Academyq 
was  successively  elected  in  Indiana  as  legi.slator,  member  of  the  Constitutional  Convention, 
lieutenant-governor,  governor,  congressman  and  judge  of  the  Court  of  Common  Pleas  of 
Marion  Countv.  The  ambition  of  the  subject  of  this  biography  had  been  of  the  military 
order,  but  his  study  and  work  had  been  rather  too  desultory  to  point  to  success  in  many 
directions.  As  a boy  he  was  fond  of  shooting  and  of  books,  taking  especial  delight  in  Plu- 
tarch’s Lives.  He  wrote  a novel  dealing  with  the  tenth  century  and  made  some  advance  in 
art.  but  settled  down  to  reading  law  with  his  father,  who  served  a term  as  governor  of  Indi 
ana.  On  the  breaking  out  of  the  Mexican  War  Lewis  entered  the  army  and  gained  for  him- 
self a good  name  as  a disci[)linarian.  After  the  war,  while  practicing  law,  he  found  his 
recreation  in  training  a company  that  he  had  organized.  When  the  Civil  War  came  he  was 
called  to  become  adjutant-general  of  his  native  State,  Indiana,  and  then  went  into  service 
as  a colonel,  receiving  an  appointment  as  major-general  after  the  surrender  of  P’ort  Donelson. 
bv  reason  of  his  military  genius.  His  career  as  an  army' otlicial  ended  as  second  member  of 
the  court  that  tried  the  assassins  of  President  Lincoln,  and  he  was  president  of  that  which 
tried  Capt.  Henry  Wirz,  commandant  of  the  Andersonville  prison.  From  1878  to  1881  he 
served  as  goveimor  of  Ftah  and  under  President  Hayes  he  was  appointed  governor  of  New 
Mexico,  where  he  wrote  the  last  part  of  ” Ben-Hur.”  Under  President  Gartield  he  was 
offered  a mission  to  South  .\merica,  which  he  d(^clined,  afterward  accepting  the  position  of 
minister  to  'I’lirkey.  While  holding  this  [)lace  he  was  in  most  pleasant  pcu'sonal  relations 
with  the  Sultan,  who  twice  recpiested  him  to  enter  the  ’J’urkish  service.  His  experience  in 
Alexico  interested  Gen.  Wallace  greatly’  in  that  country’  and  led  to  his  writing  ” 'I’lie  Fair 
God”  in  which  he  sought  to  present  a picture  of  that  remarkable  laud  as  it  was  centtiries 
ago.  Naturally,  in  sending  him  to  'rurkev.  President  Garfield,  who  had  enjoyed  “ Ben  Hur,” 
said:  “ I exi)ect  another  book  out  of  yon  A’our  official  duties  will  not  be  too  onerous  to 

allow  you  to  write  it.  Ijocateitin  Constantinople.”  4’he  beauty  and  the  history  of  the  city 
were  |)er8uasive  arguments,  enforcing  tin*  hint,  and  the  thought  was  in  Gen.  Wallace's  mind 
from  the  first.  The  fall  of  Constantinople  and  the  many  ev(*nts  centering  around  that  in  the 
history  of  nations  and  of  religions  furnished  a fascinating  th(*me,  atid  out  of  this  has  grown 
the  author’s  latest  work,  which  will  undoubtedly  add  another  triumph  to  the  list  that  has 
already  made  him  so  great  a favorite. 

Daniei.  U.  I'iuisk.  'I’here  is  tn)  calling  upon  earth  that  demands  greater  self  sacrifice, 
unselfishness  and  devotion  than  that  of  the  physician,  who  must  needs  incui'  tin*  risk  of  con 
tracting  fatal  disease  ami  who  must  forego  comfort  and  endure  fatigues  in  the  discharge  of 


60 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


his  duties.  Nor  is  tiiere  to  be  found  upon  the  globe  a nobler  spectacle  than  that  of  a physi- 
cian who  is  ti'iie  to  himself,  and  conscientionsly  proceeds  with  the  carrying  ont  of  the  obliga- 
tions resting  upon  him.  He  who  is  truly  successful  must  needs  live  up  to  the  full  measure  of 
liis  responsibilities  and  bear  the  burdens  that  rest  upon  him  with  a cheerful  resignation.  One 
recompense  is  liis,  at  least,  and  that  is  the  trust,  confidence  and  the  esteem  of  those  who  require 
his  services  in  the  times  of  illness;  for  no  one  gets  closer  to  the  hearts  of  those  with  whom 
he  is  associated  than  the  good  and  worth)'  ])hysieian.  Such  thoughts  are  naturally  awakened 
as  one  contemplates  the  life  and  the  work  of  the  estimable  subject  of  this  sketch,  who  not  only 
has  lived  a life  of  great  and  disinterested  usefulness  in  civil  life,  but  who,  also,  in  the  time  of 
his  country’s  ])eril  went  to  the  front  and  with  skillful  hands  ministered  to  the  wants  of  the 
sick  and  the  wounded,  laboring  unceasingly  for  the  relief  of  suffering.  Daniel  H.  Prunk, 
M.  D.,  of  Indianapolis,  was  born  near  Fincastle,  Botetourt  County,  Va.,  November  3,  1829; 
l)eing  tlie  son  of  Daniel  Prunk,  born  in  the  State  of  Maryland  in  1796,  served  his  country  in 
the  \\’ar  of  1S12  as  a biave  and  true  soldier  and  died  in  Illinois  in  1S61.  The  mother  of  our 
subject,  Catharine  (Edwards)  Prunk,  was  born  in  old  Virginia  in  1797  and  died  in  Minnesota 
at  the  age  of  eiglity  four  (in  1881  ).  The  father  of  our  sulqect  becoming  impressed  with  the 
folly  of  endeavoring  to  compete  with  slave  labor,  left  the  old  Dominion  in  the  fall  of  1831 
with  his  wife  and  seven  children,  and  on  his  journey  Northward  was  compelled  by  the 
severity  of  the  weather  to  winter  at  Xenia,  Ohio.  In  the  following  spring,  however,  the 
family  was  agaiti  in  motion,  pressing  forward  over  the  most  execrable  of  roads,  the  horses  be- 
ing frecjuently  stalled  in  (|uagmires, and  again  wading  side-deep  in  and  through  great  sloughs 
of  mud.  Again  and  again  in  the  most  difficult  yiarts  of  the  way,  the  children  were  trans- 
ported over  the  water  and  mud  in  the  strong  arms  of  their  brave  but  wearied  father.  The 
westward  journey  was  by  way  of  Crawfordsville,  Ind.,  which  finally  was  reached  and  passed, 
the  hearts  of  tiie  parents  growing  lighter  as  the  distance  diminished,  and  their  relief  was 
infinite  when  at  last  they  reached  Hennepin,  Bureau  County,  111.,  their  final  stopping  place. 
But  here  their  trials  and  hardships  they  soon  found  were  but  fairly  begun.  The  travel- worn 
father  proceeded  at  once,  it  being  in  the  syiring  of  1832  when  he  reached  his  destination,  to 
clear  a farm  and  establish  a home  for  his  family  in  the  then  far  West  wilderness.  The 
neighbors  were  few  and  lived  far  apart  and  the  fear  of  the  Indians  was  strong  in  the  breasts 
of  all,  for  this  was  the  time  when  Black  Hawk  had  stirred  up  the  hearts  of  his  savage  follow- 
ers to  resist  banishment  across  the  Mississippi,  and  Mr.  Prunk  only  saved  his  loved  wife  and 
children  from  the  tomahawks  of  the  red  demons  by  taking  refuge  in  the  old  Florida  fort, 
situated  about  three  miles  from  Hennepin.  Notwithstanding  the  many  besetments  and 
perils,  sturdy  and  brave  Daniel  Prunk  did  clear  hisland  and  erect  a home,  and  in  time  golden 
stalks  of  the  wheat  waved  in  his  field,  inviting  the  blade  of  the  sickle,  and  later,  the  tall 
tassels  of  corn  proclaimed  the  presence  of  the  ripened  ears  beneath.  But  society  was  imper- 
fectly organized  in  those  days  and  education  was  a precious  (juality,  because  the  school  houses, 
always  built  of  logs,  were  so  far  apart,  and  the  teachers  so  scarce.  Subscription  schools 
maintained  for  three  months  in  the  winter  were  the  very  best  facilities  enjoyed  by  the  most 
favored,  and  parents  rejoiced  when  this  opportunity  was  offered  their  children.  Those  who 
were  very  poor  were  compelled  to  deny  this  limited  privilege  to  their  offspring.  In  truth, 
those  who  had  settled  in  the  wilds  of  Bureau,  like  the  settlers  of  frontier  country  generally, 
had  come  together  there  imbued  with  the  one  great  idea  of  accumulating  property,  the  pri- 
vations endured  being  a fresh  stimulus  to  exertion,  and  the  leading  thought  shut  off  in  large 
measure  the  duties  and  obligations  of  cultivated  life.  Under  such  obvious  difficulties  and 
besetments  the  boyhood  and  youth  of  Dr.  Prunk  passed,  and  his  ambitious  spirit  chafed  under 
the  f)rivation8  he  endured.  His  awakened  mind  demanded  something  above  and  beyond  the 
drudgery  of  farm  life,  and  bidding  adieu  to  the  home  he  made  his  way  to  Lacon,  111.,  and 
there  he  worked  mornings,  evenings  and  Saturdays  in  order  to  defray  his  expenses  at  school, 
continuing  thus  until  he  was  cpialified  to  teach  school.  While  engaged  in  teaching  he  con- 
scientiously discharged  his  duties,  earnestly  seeking  to  impart  instruction  to  those  consigned 
to  his  care.  At  the  same  time  he  diligently  reviewed  his  studies  and  prosecuted  them  to 
further  I’esults,  and  with  praisworthy  economy  saved  every  possible  penny,  so  that  in  185(1 
he  entered  the  college  at  Mt.  Palatine,  111.,  where  he  remained  one  year,  and  then  in  1851, 
he  entered  Hock  River  Seminary,  where  among  his  classmates  were  John  A.  Rawlins,  after- 


61 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

ward  secretary  of  war  under  President  (irant,  and  Shelby  M.  Cullouj,  ex  governor  of  Illinois 
and  now  United  States  senator  from  that  state.  His  limited  means  compelled  him  to  return 
home  at  the  expiration  of  a year  and  during  the  next  fall  and  winter  he  again  taught  school. 
In  the  spring  he  began  the  study  of  medicine,  luider  the  preceptorship  of  Dr.  Joseph  Mercer, 
of  Princeton,  111.,  and  during  the  winter  of  that  year,  1S53,  he  attended  the  Eclectic  Medical 
Institute,  at  Cincinnati,  returning  the  following  winter,  and  the  winter  following  that,  finally 
graduating  in  1856,  receiving  the  diploma  of  a doctor  of  medicine  and  surgery.  Having 
thus  realized  a dream  and  ambition  that  had  fired  his  youth  to  energy  and  having  endured 
much  privation  in  order  to  accomplish  his  heart’s  great  desire,  he  cast  about  for  a favorable 
place  for  settlement,  with  the  purpose  strong  within  him  to  devote  his  life  earnestly  and  con- 
scientiously to  his  noble  jirofession.  He  hit  upon  Carthage,  a beautiful  village  in  the  suburbs 
of  Cincinnati,  where  the  gay  and  hajipy  young  people  were  wont  to  frequently  gather  from 
the  city  in  picnic  and  other  innocent  and  invigorating  gatherings.  It  was  at  one  of  these 
hajipy  parties  that  he  met  a most  accomplished  and  estimable  young  lady  from  the  Blue-Grass 
country,  towards  whom  he  was  attracted  from  the  first,  and  the  accpiaintance  ripened  into 
friendship,  love  and  marriage,  the  auspicious  event  last  named  occurring  one  year  later.  In 
the  year  following,  by  a special  arrangement,  he  took  charge  of  the  practice  of  Dr.  A.  Shep- 
herd, of  Springdale,  Ohio,  while  that  gentleman  was  absent  on  a foreign  tour,  and  upon  the 
return  of  the  latter  he  yielded  to  the  importunity  of  friends  and  settled  at  Rockford,  111., 
which  was  then  coming  to  the  front.  Every  outlook  was  bright  and  he  went  there  under  the 
most  encouraging  prospects,  it  now  seeming  he  had  reached  a point  where  he  might  begin  to 
reap  the  reward  of  his  long  and  faithful  work.  But  he  reached  Rockford  in  the  fall  of  1857, 
the  year  in  which  the  country  was  paralyzed  by’  the  great  financial  crash  that  spared  no  city  or 
town  or  country’  place,  and  no  i)Ower  could  resist  its  depression  or  rise  superior  to  its  influences. 
It  was  a keen  and  bitter  disappointment  to  Dr.  Prunk,  when  in  the  following  fall  he  found  it 
necessary  to  return  to  Princeton,  but  he  ke|)t  it  within  his  own  breast  and  bravely  did  his 
duty.  Reaching  Princeton  in  October,  1858,  he  formed  a partnership  with  his  old  precep 
tor.  Dr.  fiercer,  which  lasted  until  April  16,  1861,  when  special  inducements  offered  led  him 
to  .settle  at  Indianapolis,  and  this  at  the  time  when  the  great  body  of  the  North  quivered 
because  of  the  insult  to  the  flag  at  Fort  Sumter.  In  September  of  this  year  our  subject 
was  honored  by  Governor  Morton  with  a commission  as  assistant  surgeon  in  the  Nineteenth 
Regiment  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry,  to  fill  a vacancy.  After  passing  a highly  creditable 
examination  before  the  regular  board  he  was  assigned  to  duty  at  the  MarshallHouse  Hospital, 
at  Alexandria,  Va. , where  he  served  several  months,  when  the  critical  illness  of  his  wife  called 
him  home.  He  was  ordered  June  28,  1862,  by’  the  governor  to  report  to  Col.  Brown,  of  the 
Twentieth  Regiment  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry,  which  lay  at  Harrison’s  Landing,  Va., 
immediately  after  the  Seven  Days’  battle.  Rare  indeed  does  it  happen  in  the  history  of 
war  that  an  army  is  so  reduced  as  this  was,  by  the  ravages  of  disease,  the  casualties  of 
battle  and  the  fury  of  the  elements.  So  decimated  were  the  raidr  and  tile  that  scarcely 
sufficient  men  could  be  mustered  to  man  the  breastworks  and  trenches.  It  was  said  that  sucli 
soldiers  as  Hooker  and  Kearney,  who  were  inured  to  the  most  terrible  of  scones,  actually 
shed  tears  as  they  witnessed  the  trials  and  the  agony  of  the  army  and  saw  the  attenuated 
forms  of  the  disease  ravaged  men.  Men  and  horses  died  so  fast  that  there  were  none 
to  bury  them  and  the  stench  that  arose  was  frightful,  as  well  as  threatening  the  safely  of  the 
living.  Dr.  Prnnk  moved  among  such  terrible  scenes  as  these,  his  strength  taxed  (o  the 
utmost  t(j  meet  the  demands  made  uj)on  his  |)rofessional  services,  and  tinally  he  suc- 
cumbed (he  had  not  been  flesli  and  blood  bad  he  withstoo<l  it)  and  he  was  seriously  attacked 
with  a combination  of  camp  diarrluea  and  typhoid  fever.  Hence,  when  the  army  was 
ordered  to  evacuate  the  place,  ho  was  ship])ed  t<j  David’s  Island  Hos|)ital.  sixteen  miles  above 
New  York  city,  where  he  was  contined  to  his  lent  for  six  weeks.  During  his  absence  the 
Second  Battle  of  Bidl  Run  and  of  Genterville  had  been  fought,  and  tlu;  veteran  regiment  lay 
nea/’  Arlington  Heights,  very  much  reduce<l  in  numbers  and  under  marching  ordois,  for  tin* 
advance  on  Fredericksburg.  Dr.  Prnnk  was  order<*d  by  Gen.  Bany  to  take  charge  of  all  the 
sick  of  the  brigade  ami  to  conduct  them  to  the  'I’hird  Army  Corps  Hosj)ital,  mair  Alexandria, 
where  he  remained  in  charge  iiidil  alajut  the  middle  of  December,  1862,  when  he  resigiu'd 
and  returned  home.  But  he  did  not  remain  long,  his  heart  b(*ing  with  the  brave  boys  who 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


(52 

were  bearing  and  suffering  for  the  nation’s  cause,  and  he  was  soon  again  ready  for  active 
service.  Having  learned  that  there  was  a demand  for  competent  surgeons  at  Nashville  he 
proceeded  thither,  and  after  a two-days  searching  examination  by  the  United  States’  army 
board,  he  was  declared  to  be  altogether  satisfactory,  when  he  immediately  concluded  terms 
with  Dr.  A.  Henry  Thurston,  assistant  surgeon  general  of  the  United  States  army  and 
medical  director  at  Nashville,  and  was  ordered  to  duty  at  the  officers’  hospital.  He  subse- 
quently assisted  Dr.  Salter  in  organizing  the  Cumberland  Hospital,  which  had  a capacity  of 
3,ddD  })atient8,  and  he  remained  here  in  the  active  discharge  of  his  duties  until  October 
12,  1S(53.  During  his  leisure  hours  he  had  discovered  a new  preservative  and  disinfectant 
compound  for  embalming  bodies,  and  he  engaged  in  that  business  with  a decided  success 
during  the  remainder  of  the  war,  by  permission  of  Gen.  George  H.  Thomas,  having  his  head- 
(piarters  at  Nashville,  with  branches  at  Chattanooga,  Knoxville,  Dalton,  Atlanta,  Marri- 
etta  and  Huntsville.  He  rendered  valuable  service  to  the  remains  of  Gen.  McPherson  and 
other  fallen  heroes  during  the  Georgia  campaign.  When  the  war  Avas  over  Dr.  Pruuk 
returned  to  Iudianaj)olis  and  has  lived  here  ever  since,  devoting  his  time  and  energies  to  the 
practice  of  medicine,  in  which  he  has  been  signally  successful.  To  smooth  his  professional 
journey,  which  had  been  made  rough  by  the  interposing  barriers  of  “isms,”  and  to  divert 
the  tire  of  enemies  from  without  and  within  the  profession,  he  took  a course  and  graduated, 
at  the  close  of  the  winter  session  of  1875-76,  at  the  college  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons 
(allopathic  school),  just  twenty  years  alter  he  had  received  his  first  degree,  and  during  all 
these  years  he  had  j)racticed  with  most  gratifying  success.  Dr.  Prunk  has  been  eminently 
successful  in  his  practice  and  Ids  standing  as  a physician  and  surgeon  is  of  the  highest 
order.  Always  studious,  he  lias  prosecuted  his  studies  and  investigations  throughout  his 
career  with  the  most  unremitting  ardor,  while  he  has  enjoyed  the  advantage  of  instruction 
in  two  medical  colleges  and  had  a large  and  varied  experience  in  the  army,  to  say  nothing 
of  what  he  has  garnered  in  the  way  of  knowledge  in  his  extensive  private  practice.  He  is 
eminently  fitted  for  the  profession  he  adorns,  being  of  a profoundly  sympathetic  nature, 
unselfish,  sociable  and  possessed  of  charming  conversational  powers  and  the  most  agreeable 
manners.  As  a man,  a citizen,  father,  husband,  neighbor  and  friend — in  all  the  relations  of 
life,  he  is  an  exemplar,  worthy  to  be  followed  by  all  who  appreciate  the  good  and  the  hon- 
orable in  living.  As  a citizen  and  patriot.  Dr.  Prunk  takes  an  active  interest  in  public 
affairs,  and  in  politics  is  a Republican,  l)eing  in  hearty  accord  with  the  teachings  of  that 
j)arty.  In  religion  he  was  reared  in  the  Methodist  Church,  the  faithful  itinerants  of  that 
l)ody  having  found  their  way  into  the  great  remote  fastnesses  of  his  old  Illinois  home,  and 
he  learned  to  love  them  for  tlieir  devotion  to  the  cause  they  professed.  Hence  he  joined 
that  body  and  consistently  followed  its  teachings  from  the  time  of  his  connection  with  it  at 
at  Lacon,  111.,  in  1849,  until  1867,  when  he  joined  the  Ejnscopal  Church,  his  wife  being  a 
devout  member  of  that  church.  The  marriage  of  the  Doctor  to  this  most  worthy 
lady,  to  whom  refei’ence  has  previously  been  made,  occurred  March  30,  1858,  her 
name  being  Harriet  Augusta  Smith.  The  fruits  of  this  union  are:  Frank  Howard,  born  at 
Princeton,  Bureau  County,  111.,  March  14,  I860;  Harry  Clayton,  born  at  Indianapolis, 
August  17,  1861,  and  Byron  Fletcher,  born  at  Indianapolis,  December  20,  1866.  The 
accomplished  mother  of  these  children  merits  the  highest  distinction  because  of  her  true  and 
womanly  qualities,  which  endear  her  to  a choice  circle  of  friends.  She  is  possessed  of  superior 
gifts  and  endowments  of  mind  and  heart,  and  whether  as  wife,  mother  or  friend  in  the  social 
circle,  she  reflects  the  virtues  of  highest  womanhood.  Hers  are  the  (pialities  that  attach 
persons  to  her  strongly,  and  retain  them  xnider  all  conditions.  Mrs.  Harriet  Augusta  Prunk 
is  a native  of  Cincinnati,  although  soon  after  her  birth  her  parents,  William  J.  and  Lavinia 
(Lennox)  Smith,  moved  to  Covington,  Ky.,  where  she  was  reared  and  resided  until  her 
marriage.  Her  parents  were  natives  of  old  Virginia,  where  the  maternal  name  of  Lennox 
has  figured  prominently  for  many  generations,  her  grandfather  Lennox  having  been  a 
lieutenant  in  the  war  of  the  Revolution.  Receiving  a careful  and  thorough  preparatory 
education,  Mrs.  Prunk  at  an  early  age  entered  the  Wesleyan  Female  College,  an  institution 
that  had  attained  great  prominence  because  of  the  thoroughness  of  its  course,  and  that  was 
one  of  the  foremost  educational  in.stitutions  of  Cincinnati,  graduating  from  it  in  1859,  but  a 
short  time  before  her  marriage.  Very  early  in  life  she  evidenced  a rare  talent  in  declamation 


63 


AND  MAHION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

and  elocution,  wbich  developed  into  ati  exceptional  quality  of  reading  and  dramatic  power. 
This  gift  brought  her  into  great  prominence  when  at  college,  so  that  she  was  assigned  duties 
at  all  entertainments  within  its  walls,  as  well  as  at  social  gatherings,  amateur  entertain- 
ments, etc.  It  was  manifest  to  her  friends  that  she  possessed  this  quality  in  a high  degree, 
and  that  application,  which  is  inseparable  from  attainment  of  foremost  places  in  any  depart- 
ment of  art  or  knowledge,  would  develop  it  into*  dramatic  and  elocutionary  genius.  In 
Mrs.  Pruuk  was  the  innate  love,  strong  and  abiding,  for  the  art,  and  her  will  was  all  potent 
for  the  needed  laborious  study,  and  young  as  she  was,  she  applied  herself  with  assiduity,  and 
with  a continuity  that  would  have  reflected  credit  upon  a much  older  person.  Her  marriage 
did  not  end  her  progress  in  the  line  of  literary  work,  nor  cause  her  to  terminate  her  studies, 
for  she  devoted  ten  years  after  to  arduous  study  and  close  application,  with  the  result  of  at- 
taining to  a high  degree  of  perfection  the  ideal  artist,  qualitication  inherent  and  by  nature 
given,  only  waiting  to  be  nurtured  by  the  warm  sunlight  of  development  into  fruition  and 
maturity.  Her  instructors  were  professors  of  eminence  in  the  East,  who  were  the  more  en- 
thusiastic and  painstaking  in  instruction,  because  they  were  impressed  by  her  talent  and 
admired  the  spirit  that  imbued  her.  Ambitious  yet  to  acquire  all  possible  perfection,  she 
entered  in  October,  1877,  the  Boston  University  School  of  Oratory,  under  the  control  of  the 
late  Louis  B.  Monroe,  and  after  the  most  diligent  and  persistent  application  for  a period  of 
two  years,  she  graduated  from  that  celebrated  institution  in  May,  1879,  which  was  one  year 
le.ss  than  the  regular  course.  She  likewise  enjoyed  the  high  privilege  of  special  instruction 
from  Profs.  Steele  Mackaye  and  B.  li.  Kaymond,  of  Boston  and  New  York.  The  first  ap- 
pearance of  Mrs.  Prunk  l)efore  the  public  in  a j)rofe8sional  capacity  was  in  the  (Irand  Opera 
House,  Indianapolis,  in  October,  l878,  in  response  to  a pressing  invitation  from  the  leadiiig 
citizens  of  that  city,  and  the  city,  and  press  and  critics  united  in  praising  her  graceful 
presence,  remarkable  purity  and  quality  of  voice,  and  her  high  dramatic  powers.  Her  sec- 
ond appearance  was  in  Tremont  Temple,  Boston,  May  19,  1879,  before  a large  assembly 
composed  of  the  elite  of  that  cultured  city.  Her  reception  was  an  ovation,  and  the  press  of 
Boston  teemed  with  adulatory  praise  of  the  distinguished  Indianapolis  lady.  Since  then  she 
has  appeared  in  public  on  many  occasions,  but  principally  in  Indianapolis,  and  her  wonderful 
ability  and  constantly  augmenting  powers  have  combined  to  urge  her  adoption  of  the  plat 
form  as  a profession,  her  friends  insisting  that  such  endowments  and  faculties  as  hers  should 
not  be  lost  to  the  people,  and  in  response  to  numerous  requests  from  friends  and  leading 
citizens,  Mrs.  Pruuk  established  the  Indiana  Boston  School  of  Elocution  and  Expression, 
of  Indianapolis,  in  the  fall  of  1879,  of  which  institution  she  has  been  principal  since  its 
organization.  From  this  celebrated  school  there  has  been  many  graduates  from  different 
parts  of  the  United  States  that  are  to-day  doing  good  work  in  the  various  branches  of  the 
profession.  Some  are  ministers,  professors,  teachers,  elocutionists,  readers  and  on  the  his- 
trionic stage.  Mrs.  Pruuk  and  the  public  have  a right  to  be  proud  of  the  work  done  in  this 
school,  which  has  been  endorsed  by  some  of  the  best  known  men  in  the  United  States.  She 
loves  her  art,  and  from  her  soul.  She  is  true  and  noble  of  heart,  and  has  educated  in  the 
various  branches  of  the  art  many  pupils  without  recompense,  because  from  her  heart  she 
desires  to  lend  a helping  hand  to  those  who  are  deserving.  Mrs.  Prunk  is  also  principal  of 
the  dramatic  department  of  the  School  of  Music  of  Indianapolis,  and  her  work  is  endorsed 
by  many  distinguished  men  and  women  of  letters,  among  whom  may  be  mentioned,  William 
E.  Sheldon,  editor  of  New  England  Journal  of  Education;  Bight  Bev.  D.  If.  Knickerbocker, 
Bishop  of  Indiana;  Bev.  Edward  Bradley,  of  New  York  City;  Bev.  Dr.  Cleveland, of  Indian 
a[)olis;  Bev.  Dr.  Haines  of  Indianapolis,  and  many  others.  It  recjuires  but  the  willingness 
on  her  part  for  her  fame  t(j  become  coextensive  with  the  country.  The  highest  and  l)est  authori- 
ties are  agreed  that  she  has  no  peer  as  a delineator  of  character  and  interpreter  of  dramatic 
art,  and  that  has  been  acknowledgeil  wherever  she  has  appt'ared  and  by  the  numerous 
j)atrons  of  the  school  of  which  she  is  now  principal.  'I’o  the  people  of  her  own  city  and 
State  and  to  the  refined  and  cultured  circles  of  the  East  she  requires  no  introduction.  Her 
friends  place  her  alongside  of  Mrs.  Siddons,  the  resemblance  between  the  power  and  pres- 
ence of  both  l)eing  marked.  Mrs.  I'runk  combines  in  a positive  manner  those  mental  and 
physical  powers  which  constitute  excellence  in  her  art  and  which  in  any  other  situation  or 
jjiofession  would  cause  some  one  or  m(.)re  of  her  8])lendid  gifts  to  be  misjjlaced  or  to  lie  dor- 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


()4 

mailt.  Her  face  and  form  are  highly  attractive  and  she  ha.s  attained  that  degree  of  perfec- 
tion in  her  work  that  it  has  ceased  to  ayipear  as  art,  but  as  nature  itself.  Mrs.  Prunk  has 
been  a profound  student  of  the  forms  and  capabilities  of  language,  so  that  a delicacy  of 
emphasis  is  assured  by  which  the  meaning  of  an  author  is  most  intelligently  conveyed,  and 
no  critic  could  suggest  in  her  delivery  a shade  of  intonation  by  which  the  sentiment  could 
be  more  faithfully  or  fully  expressed.  With  an  uneijualed  genius  and  a passionate  love  for 
her  art,  and  having  the  utmost  patience  in  study,  and  a purely  sympathetic  nature,  there  is 
not  a passage  she  cannot  delineate,  and  the  most  delicate  shade  and  nicest  modification  of 
passion  she  siezes  with  philosophical  accuracy  and  renders  with  such  immediate  force  of 
nature  and  truth,  as  well  as  precision,  that  what  is  the  result  of  deep  study  and  unwearied 
patience  and  jiractice  appears  like  a sudden  inspiration.  A Boston  paper  says  of  Mrs. 
Prunk;  “ There  is  not  a height  of  grandeur  to  which  she  does  not  soar,  nor  a depth  of 
misery  to  which  she  can  not  descend,  nor  a chord  of  feeling,  from  the  sternest  to  the  most 
delicate,  which  she  cannot  cause  to  vibrate  at  her  will.”  One  of  Indiana’s  best-known 
writens,  after  attending  one  of  Mrs.  Prunk’s  entertainments,  wrote  the  following  of  her 
voice: 

TO  HATTIE  AUGUSTA  PHUNK. 

Vour  voice!  it  is  sweet  as  a day  in  .Iiine, 

When  buds  are  in  bloom  and  the  birds  attune 
Their  songs  to  the  gladness  that  pushes  througli 
The  air  and  the  flowers  and  the  heart  of  man. 

And  j'on  clothe  old  thoughts  with  a meaning  new 
tV'hen  yon  read  as  an  artist  only  can. 

Your  voice!  it  is  like  an  autumn  wind 
That  (juavers  and  moans  and  falters  behind 
The  triumphant  chorus  of  summer  days. 

But  which  be  the  sweeter — .June  tones  or  sad. 

It  doth  matter  not,  for  the  love  always 
Throbs  in  the  mournful  as  well  as  the  glad. 

Your  voice!  it  is  clear  as  a tinkling  stream 
That  ripples  and  purls  and  glances  between 
The  willows  that  lean  o’er  its  shining  breast. 

Yon  “ Bock  We  to  Sleep  ” with  the  rhythmic  flow 
Of  words  that  you  read,  and  a holy  rest 
f’radles  my  soul  when  your  voice  falls  low,  low. 

Like  a dream  of  a olden  lullaby 

That  sways  the  tired  heart  with  its  melody. 

«• 

* 

“ Her  personal  appearance  and  presence  are  stately  and  dignified,  while  her  command  of 
facial  expression  seems  almost  uidimited,  now  capable  of  delineating  the  sunniest  of  smiles, 
now  picturing  the  sternest  of  expressions,  now  lighted  up  with  the  beams  of  hope,  and  anon 
shrouded  in  the  gloom  of  desjia’ir.”  Unlike  a good  many,  who  seem  not  to  live  outside  of 
their  profession,  Mrs.  Prunk  shines  as  brilliantly  in  the  social  circle  as  on  the  platform,  is  a 
versatile  and  brilliant  conversationalist, quick  as  lightning’s  flash,  apt  at  repartee,  and  in  the 
arena  of  refined  sarcasm  able  to  cut  and  parry  with  all  the  polish  and  dash  of  the  witty, 
refined  and  accomplished  lady.  In  her  domestic  relations  she  is  by  nature  pre-eminently 
happy,  a noble  wife  and  a devoted  mother,  having  inherited  the  qualities  of  head  and  heart 
characteristic  of  her  late  much  beloved  mother,  a Christian  woman  of  broad  ideas,  unusual 
intelligence  and  charitable  in  the  highest  sense  of  the  word,  and  between  mother  and  daugh- 
ter there  existed  a remarkable  bond  of  devoted  affection  and  com{)anionship.  Mrs.  Prunk  is 
now  in  the  very  prime  of  life  and  cannot  have  yet  reached  the  zenith  of  her  physical  and 
intellectual  powers.  Assuredly  higher  honors  await  her  than  she  has  yet  achieved. 

Isaac  King.  The  subject  of  our  sketch,  although  in  the  very  prime  of  life,  has  filled 
high  and  responsible  positions  under  the  gifts  of  the  people  and  he  is  a citizen  who  is  held 
in  the  highest  esteem  by  the  people  without  regard  to  party.  Isaac  King,  ex-sheriff  of 
Marion  County,  was  liorn  at  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  February  15,  1840,  being  the  son  of  George 
and  Elizabeth  (McKinney)  King,  natives  of  Ireland  and  Penn.sylvania,  respectively.  The 
father  of  our  subject  was  bound  out  while  a boy  to  the  trade  of  a blacksmith  in  Maryland; 


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AND  MAD  ION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

his  master  not  being  a satisfactory  one,  he  some  time  after  his  service  began,  in  company 
with  some  other  boys  working  with  him,  ran  away  to  Philadelphia,  where  he  completed  his 
term  and  then  folloAved  the  same  work  as  a journeyman  for  a number  of  years.  Then  he 
went  to  Baltimore,  where  he  remained  for  a short  time  and  then  to  Cincinnati,  at  which  place 
he  lived  for  thirty-tive  years.  A man  of  the  deepest  religious  convictions,  he  was  finally  led 
into  the  Society  of  Shakers,  in  which  community  he  spent  the  closing  days  of  his  long  life, 
finally  dying  among  them,  in  Hamilton  Count}',  Ohio,  at  the  age  of  eighty-one.  His  widow 
is  living  in  Indianai)olis,  aged  eighty-seven.  This  couple  had  six  children,  four  of  whom 
are  living,  namely:  Julia,  wife  of  William  M.  Rubush;  George  King,  of  Tipton,  Ind.,  super 
intendent  of  the  poor  farm  of  that  county;  Anna  M.,  wife  of  Logan  Justice,  anil  Isaac,  our 
subject.  Charles  King,  a brother  of  our  subject,  who  died  at  Louisville,  was  a soldier  in  the 
late  war  and  Sarah,  a sister,  is  also  dead.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  was  brought  up  with 
the  Shakers  at  Whitewater  village,  Ohio,  until  he  was  seventeen  years  old,  receiving  what 
meagre  education  it  was  possible  for  the  society  to  get  for  the  youth  there.  The  life  there 
was  very  repulsive  to  him  and  he  resolved  at  any  hazard  to  get  his  younger  sister  from  out 
of  the  influence  of  the  place.  So,  at  the  age  of  seventeen  he  took  her  with  him  and  fled  the 
spot,  coming  to  Indianapolis.  He  was  young  to  have  so  grave  a responsibility  and  he  had 
no  trade  upon  which  to  fall  back,  while  his  education,  as  has  been  stated,  was  very  limited. 
But  his  heart  was  brave  and  with  a sublime  devotion  he  .sought  work,  gladly  accepting  any 
that  was  honest  and  that  would  give  food  and  clothing  to  his  sister,  whom  he  loved  with  a 
strong  devotion.  For  three  years  he  did  various  jobs  of  work  and  then,  at  the  age  of  twenty, 
began  to  learn  the  trade  of  a blacksmith.  He  began  his  apprenticeship  under  George  Van 
Antwerp  and  served  it  out  faithfully,  after  which  he  worked  as  a journeyman  for  five  years, 
at  the  expiration  of  which  he  purchased  a half  interest  in  the  business  of  his  employer.  Mr. 
King  has  carried  on  the  business  ever  since,  the  firm  name  b^ii^g  King  & Knight,  who  do  a 
general  business  in  the  line  named.  Politics  always  2)roved  a subject  of  great  interest  to 
him  and  his  jdeasant  manner,  good  fellowshijj  and  general  excellent  character  gave  him 
great  influence.  Hence  his  party  saw  in  him  a man  most  available  for  the  office  of  sheriff, 
a position  for  which  he  was  nominated  and  to  which  he  was  elected  in  1884  and  was  re-elected 
in  1881),  serving  two  full  terms.  Mr.  King  met  the  full  expectations  of  his  friends  and 
admirers  while  sheriff,  proving  himself  a most  efficient  and  honorable  official  and  administer- 
ing affairs  with  the  utmost  fairness.  He  has  served  very  accej)tably  as  an  alderman  from 
the  Fourth  District  two  terms.  The  {)olitical  faith  of  Mr.  King  is  that  of  a ju'enounced 
Democrat,  a party  to  which  he  has  always  been  loyal  and  for  which  he  has  worked  untiringly 
ever  since  he  attained  his  majority.  A resident  of  Indiana})olis  for  ujiward  of  thirty  years, 
he  is  thoroughly  identified  with  the  interests  of  the  city,  for  which  he  has  labored  earnestly 
always,  when  the  services  of  good  citizens  were  needed  to  effect  some  reform  or  to  inaugurate 
some  movement  for  the  general  good.  A number  of  organizations  know  him  as  brother  and 
fellow  worker,  among  which  are  the  Masonic  order,  Knights  of  Pythias,  Odd  Fellows,  Knights 
of  Honor  and  the  Elks.  He  was  married  first,  in  1878,  to  Miss  Nannie  -1.  Knight  and  a 
second  time  to  IMiss  Frankie  Faling.  He  is  the  father  of  two  children,  Alice  E.  and  Lloyd 
I.  King. 

John  T.  Puessly.  It  is  the  men  of  broad  and  comprehensive  views  who  give  life  to 
communities  and  build  cities — men  who  have  foresight  and  energy,  jiluck  and  push  to  for- 
ward their  enterprises  and  still  retain  an  untarnished  reputation  through  it  all.  Such  a man 
is  John  T.  Pressly,  ex  sheriff  of  Marion  Oounty,  Ind.,  who  is  now  retired  from  the  active 
affairs  of  life  and  is  enjoying  the  reward  of  his  early  industry.  He  was  born  in  Preble 
(/'ounty,  Ohio,  May  7,  1881,  a son  of  James  and  Elizabeth  (Hamilton)  Pressly,  the  former  of 
whom  was  born  near  Charleston,  N.  C.,  and  the  latter  in  Union  County,  Ind.  When  a 
young  man  .James  Pressly  settled  in  Preble  County,  Ohio,  where  he  carried  on  merchandis 
iug  for  a time  in  the  village  of  Morning  Sun,  putting  up  the  first  building  in  the  jilace.  In 
the  spring  of  1841  he  became  a resident  of  Marion  County,  and  having  in  the  meantime 
l)egun  the  study  of  medicine,  ho  began  piacticing  after  locating  in  Marion  County,  and  fol 
lowed  this  calling  for  a number  of  years.  His  death  occuried  in  1818,  his  wife  having  jue- 
ceded  him  to  her  long  home  by  a number  of  years.  .John  4’.  Pressly  was  about  thirteen 
years  of  age  when  his  jiarents  came  to  .Marion  County,  and  in  the  common  schools  of  this 


MEMOIRS  OE  INDIANAPOLIS 


(M) 

section  he  received  his  education.  Shortly  after  the  family  came  (o  Indianapolis  yonug 
Fressly  entered  the  employ  of  the  State  as  teamster  at  the  deaf  and  dumb  asylum,  a posi- 
tion he  held  nearly  two  years,  when  he  was  appointed  steward  of  the  asylum  to  fill  a 
vacancy.  He  continued  in  this  capacity  about  five  years,  then  resigned  and  became  a clerk 
in  Smith  & Hanley’s  store.  About  one  year  and  a half  later  he  began  railroading  and  for 
fifteen  years  be  was  a locomotive  engineer  on  the  Bee  Line  road.  In  the  meantime  he  con- 
ceived the  idea  of  investing  in  a saw  mill  and  for  some  time  he  furnished  lumber  to  the  rail- 
road company,  and  after  retiring  fiom  the  position  of  engineer  he  continued  in  the  saw  mill 
business  for  about  five  years  and  was  veiy  successful.  He  dealt  exclusively  in  walnut  lum- 
ber and  realized  over  .|4(),00()  from  the  business,  which  he  sold  in  1873.  In  1870  he  was 
prevailed  uj)ou  by  friends  to  accept  a nomination  to  the  city  coiincil  from  what  was  the 
eighth  ward,  which  had  a Democratic  majority  of  344  and  inclnded  all  territory  soi:th  of 
East  Street  to  the  city  limits.  The  popularity  of  Mr.  Fressly  failed  to  overcome  the  Demo- 
cratic majority  but  his  defeat  was  by  only  thirty-seven  votes.  The  following  year  he  was 
again  persuaded  to  be  a candidate  and  this  time  was  elected  by  157  votes,  serving  as  coun- 
cilman one  term.  In  1876  Mr.  Fressly  was  nominated  for  sheriff  by  the  Republicans  of 
Marion  County,  and  was  elected  by  over  1,1100  majority.  He  was  honored  by  a renomina- 
tion in  1878  and  again  elected,  serving  as  sheriff  four  years  in  all,  and  retiring  in  1880. 
Immediately  following  this  he  engaged  in  farming,  purchasing  a line  tract  of  400  acres  on 
Crawfordsville  pike  about  four  miles  northwest  in  Wayne  township,  which  he  continues  to 
conduct,  a considerable  portion  of  his  land  being  devoted  to  raising  stock.  He  has  been 
very  prosperous  and  has  beautiful  residence  pro{)erty  in  the  city.  He  was  married  June  25, 
1855,  to  Miss  Mar}’  A.  Dunn,  a native  of  Canada,  but  who  was  reared  and  educated  in 
Indianapolis,  and  to  their  union  two  children  have  been  given;  Annie  E.,  wife  of  Daniel 
Chenoweth,  and  Addie,  wife  of  John  F.  Carson,  of  the  firm  of  Carson  & Thompson,  attor- 
neys. Mr.  Fressly  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  order,  thirty-second  degree,  Scottish  rite. 
He  is  a church  member  in  good  standing  and  politically  has  always  been  a stanch  Republi- 
can. Earnest,  faithful  and  eminently  successful  in  the  discharge  of  his  official  duties,  he 
has  succeeded  in  winning  many  friends,  and  he  has  ever  taken  a lively  interest  in  every 
movement  having  for  its  object  the  social  and  moral  elevation  of  the  people.  He  is  affable 
and  agreeable  in  manners,  has  that  courtesy  that  springs  from  a kind  disposition,  and  he 
has  endeared  himself  to  all  with  whom  he  has  come  in  contact,  whether  professionally  or  as 
a member  of  society.  He  has  been  a widower  since  June  20,  1888. 

Cai’t.  Jacob  L.  Bieler.  This  prominent  business  man  was  boin  in  Germany  in  1839 
and  has  been  well  known  in  Indianajmlis  for  a good  while.  He  is  a son  of  Fiedel  Bieler,  a 
popiilar  and  successful  German  architect  and  contractor,  who  was  born  in  1804  and  died  in 
his  native  land  at  the  age  of  sixty-six  years.  He  was  a man  of  fine  educational  attainments 
and  was  exceptionally  skillful  and  artistic  as  an  architect  and  executed  many  important  con- 
tracts. He  had  four  sous  and  two  daughters,  of  whom  Jacob  L.  was  the  second  born. 
Capt.  Bieler  was  liberally  educated  in  Germany,  having  graduated  from  some  of  the  best  in- 
stitutions there.  He  possesses  fine  artistic  taste  and  natural  talent,  and  while  yet  a mere 
boy  placed  himself  under  competent  instruction  to  study  art  as  developed  under  the  most 
magical  hand  of  the  sculptor;  but  failing  health  compelled  him  to  forego  the  acquisition  of 
that  profession.  In  1856,  then  sixteen,  he  came  to  America  and  made  his  home  with  an 
uncle  in  Selma,  Ala. , who  was  a saddler  in  good  business,  and  assisted  him  until  1861. 
For  political  reasons  he  did  not  wish  to  remain  in  the  SoTith  after  the  beginning  of  the  Civil 
W'ar.  He  did  not  sympathize  with  the  Southern  movement  and  he  saw  the  undesirability 
of  remaining  in  that  country  without  being  able  at  the  same  time  to  espouse  the  cause  of  its 
people.  Coming  North,  he  decided  to  cast  his  fortune  with  those  who  went  to  do  battle  under 
the  stars  and  stripes.  Accordingly  he  lost  no  time  in  enlisting  inthe  Sixth  Indiana  (Morton’s) 
Battery,  and  at  once  went  with  his  command  to  the  seat  of  war.  He  participated  in  the 
fighting  at  Shiloh,  Corinth  and  other  points  grown  historic  through  having  been  the  scenes 
of  sanguinary  engagement  in  those  days.  He  was  disabled  near  Corinth  but  served  thereafter 
until  discharged.  Upon  his  return,  he  engaged  in  business  as  a saddler  and  harness  maker 
and  continued  successfully  for  about  fifteen  years.  In  1878  Ca[)t.  Bieler  was  elected  to  the 
city  council,  and  it  is  worthy  of  note  that  he  was  on  the  committee  on  public  improvement  at 


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the  time  when  the  great  work  of  improving  tlie  city  was  begun.  He  was  for  a time  con- 
nected with  the  city  treasurer’s  office  under  the  administration  of  Col.  Wiles.  In  1880  he 
was  elected  recorder  of  Marion  County.  In  all  these  important  positions  he  performed 
his  duties  with  great  credit  to  himself  and  to  the  entire  satisfaction  of  the  general 
public,  that  hardest  of  all  task  masters.  In  1891  he  assumed  the  management  of  the  An- 
heuser-Busch interests  at  Indianapolis,  and  under  his  skillful  and  energetic  direction  they 
have  grown  immensely  in  volume  and  popularity,  his  interests  extending  to  distant  parts  of 
the  State.  Capt.  Bieler  is  so  known  from  the  fact  that  he  has  long  been  Captain  of  the 
German  Veteran  organization.  He  is  also  lieutenant-colonel  of  the  popular  First  Kegi- 
ment  of  the  K.  of  P.  As  a prominent  member  of  the  G.  A.  K.  he  is  well  and  widely  known 
as  a member  of  George  H.  Thomas  Post.  He  is  also  identified  with  the  K.  of  P.  Masonic 
Fraternity  and  I.  O.  O.  F.,  and  different  societies  and  clubs,  besides  being  a member  of 
the  Board  of  Trade.  He  was  married  in  1863  to  Miss  Caroline  M.  Hines  of  Indianapolis,  and 
has  three  children,  one  sou  and  two  daughters.  Capt  Bieler  has  proved  himself  in  every  re- 
lation a good  and  useful  citizen,  always  taking  a decidetl  stand  on  the  side  of  practical  and 
useful  reform  or  improvement. 

VoLNEY  Thomas  Malott.  Prominent  among  the  people  of  Indianapolis  who  have  made 
for  themselves  honorable  names,  and  who  have  ac({uired  a competency  of  this  world’s  goods 
largely  through  their  own  unaided  efforts,  is  the  gentleman  whose  name  forms  the  heading 
for  this  sketch.  A native  of  the  Blue- Grass  State,  his  birth  occurred  in  Jefferson  County 
September  9,  1838,  being  a son  of  William  H.  and  Leah  P.  (McKown)  Malott.  In  1841  the 
family  moved  to  Salem,  Washington  County,  Ind.,  where  the  father,  abandoning  his  life 
pursuit  of  farming,  embarked  in  mercantile  pursuits  in  partnership  with  his  brother,  Major 
Eli  W.  Malott.  Here  he  died  November  5,  1845,  leaving  a widow  and  three  children  sur 
viving  him.  Not  long  after  this  the  family  was  further  afflicted  by  the  death  of  the  youngest 
child.  I''or  a second  helpmate  Mrs.  Malott  wedded  John  F.  Kamsey,  a prosperous  manu- 
facturer and  dealer  of  furniture  in  Indianapolis,  and  removing  to  this  city  made  that  her 
permanent  place  of  residence.  Thomas  received  his  tirst  schooling  in  Salem  under  the  direc- 
tion of  John  I.  Morrison,  afterward  State  senator  from  Washington  County,  and  later  State 
treasurer.  He  came  to  Indianapolis  in  1847,  and  entered  a private  school  kept  by  Rev.  W. 
A.  Holliday.  Later  he  took  his  last  scholastic  instruction  in  a half  public  school  kept  by 
Benjamin  L.  Lang  in  the  “Old  Seminary,”  an  institution  noted  in  the  early  days  of  the 
city.  At  intervals  during  his  school  vacations  his  aptitude  for  business  and  his  clerkly 
attainments  give  him  employment  as  clerk  and  messenger  in  the  Traders’  Bank  of  Indianap 
olis,  owned  by  John  Woolley  and  Andrew  Wilson.  At  the  age  of  sixteen  he  took  a jierma 
nent  place  in  the  Bank  of  the  Capitol,  of  which  IVIr.  Woolley  was  cashier  and  manager.  He 
acted  as  teller  of  this  bank  for  two  or  three  years  and  resigned  in  1857  before  the  storm  that 
overtook  the  State  free  banks  of  Indiana  organized  under  the  legislative  act  of  1853,  and  in 
which  that  institution  went  down.  Its  teller  was  soon  made  teller  of  the  Indianapolis  Bank 
of  the  State,  intended  by  its  founders  to  take  the  place  of  the  old  State  Bank,  which  has 
proved  of  incalculable  benefit,  as  well  as  profitable  to  the  State  and  other  stockholders.  But 
the  war  and  its  financial  necessities  broke  up  what  was  left  of  the  State  free  banks  under  the 
pressure  of  the  National  banks,  and  the  Indianapolis  branch  of  the  bank  of  the  State  passed 
from  existence  with  others  of  its  kind.  It  might  be  too  much  to  say  that  Mr.  Malott’s 
apprenticeship  with  the  banking  business,  if  such  it  may  be  termed,  which  ended  in  his 
twenty-fourth  year,  made  him  a safe  and  sagacious  financier  which  he  has  proved  himself  to  lx;, 
but  it  is  (juite  certain  that  it  served  as  a most  solid  foundation  for  the  structure  of  success  that 
had  been  erected  upon  it.  One  incident  of  this  period  illu.strates  the  versatility  of  his  appli- 
cation to  business  as  well  as  the  variety  and  accuracy  of  his  information  of  its  details.  W hen 
the  free  banks  began  to  shake  under  the  financial  strain  of  1857,  the  daily  papers  of  Indian 
apolis  foiiml  it  necessary  to  follow  the  market  changes  of  l)aidc  values  very  closely,  for  the 
fuiblic  took  and  gave  their  bills  usually  at  the  rate  indicated  in  the  reports  in  the  Indianap 
olis  morning  papers.  As  there  were  scores  of  these  banks  of  all  degreesof  prominence  scat 
tered  over  the  State,  and  their  bills  were  circulating  everywhere  at  home,  it  was  no  small 
task  to  keej)  track  of  the  constant  fluctuaticms,  but  our  I’oyish  bank  tellei-  did  it  so  carefully 
and  comj)letely  that  one  of  the  jiapers  regularly  obtained  its  currency  reports  from  him. 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


(‘)S 

This  was  an  enterprise  of  no  little  importance  for  a hoy  of  nineteen,  and  bis  reports  and  those 
furnished  the  other  pajiers  by  tlie  private  banking  house  of  Fletcher  & Co.  really  fixed  the 
market  rates  of  Indiana  currency  for  many  months.  In  August,  18()2,  Mr.  Malott  was 
elected  secretary  and  treasurer  of  the  Pern  & Indianapolis  Ilailroad  Company,  a position 
which  he  gained  at  the  early  age  of  twenty-four  years  through  his  reputation  as  a careful 
and  trustworthy  business  man.  The  road  had  not  ju’oved  very  successful  theretofore,  but 
improved  conditions  soon  followed,  and  aided  in  making  for  Mr.  Malott  a reputation  as  a 
railroad  manager  ecjualing,  if  not  surpassing,  his  early  re])ute  as  a banker.  In  1864  he  was 
made  a State  director  in  the  branch  bank,  of  which  he  had  previously  been  teller,  and  the 
cashiership  of  which  has  been  tendered  to  and  declined  by  him  in  1862.  He  was  now  put 
fully  in  the  parallel  paths  of  bank  and  railway  management,  in  which  he  has  moved  forward 
for  the  last  (prarter  of  a century.  It  is  notable  in  this  connection  that  it  has  rarely  happened 
in  any  country  that  a young  man  of  twenty-six  has  by  the  free  selection  of  com])etent  men, 
determined  solely  by  his  reputation  for  ability  and  trustworthiness,  been  j>laced  in  two  posi- 
tions of  sirch  res|)onsibility  at  the  same  time.  In  1865  he  was  the  acting  and  directing 
agency  in  organizing  the  Merchants’  National  Bank  of  Indianapolis,  and  was  made  cashier 
of  that  institution  while  still  retaining  his  position  as  secretary  and  treasurer  of  the  Peru  & 
Indianapolis  Railway  Company.  In  the  spring  of  1870  he  resigned  his  place  in  the  Mer- 
chants’ Bank  to  take  charge  of  the  construction  of  the  Michigan  City  & Indianapolis  Rail- 
road, which  was  finished  under  his  direction  the  following  year,  and  passed  with  the  Chicago, 
Cincinnati  & Louisville  Railroad  under  the  control  of  the  Indianapolis,  Peru  Chicago  Rail- 
road Company,  originally  the  Peru  & Indianapolis  Railroad  Company,  of  which  Mr.  Malott 
was  secretary  and  treasurer,  and  one  of  the  directors.  In  1875  he  was  elected  general  man- 
ager of  the  combined  lines,  and  in  1879  was  made  vice-president,  acting  as  president,  and 
taking  the  management  until  the  whole  concern  was  leased  in  1881  to  the  Wabash,  St.  Louis 
N Pacific  Railroad  Company.  The  advance  of  Mr.  Malott  in  his  banking  affairs,  though  he 
gave  less  time  to  them  than  he  could  devote  to  them  as  cashier  of  the  Merchants’  National 
Bank,  kept  pace  with  his  steadily  widening  reputation  and  responsibility  as  a railway  man- 
ager. In  1878  he  was  elected  ])resident  of  the  Merchants’  National  Bank,  but  four  years 
later  sold  his  interest  in  it  and  resigned  his  presidency  to  take  a large  interest  in  the  Indiana 
National  Baidr,  which  had  been  transformed  by  the  process  of  naturalization  from  the  Indi- 
anapolis branch  of  the  Bank  of  the  State  of  Indiana,  in  which  he  had  served  five  years  as 
teller,  anil  of  which  he  was  made  ])resident,  a position  which  he  has  held  to  the  present. 
When  the  affairs  of  the  Citizens’  National  Bank  were  wound  up  a few  years  ago,  Mr.  Malott 
bought  its  tine  stone  front  banking  building  and  installed  the  Indiana  National  Bank  therein, 
a fact  which  has  gone  far  to  establish  his  reputation  as  a conservative,  thoroughly  reliable 
and  successful  bank  manager,  was  the  triumph  with  which  the  Indiana  National  withstood 
the  local  stringency  in  1885,  when  three  private  banks,  two  of  them  among  the  oldest  in  the 
city,  went  down  together.  While  his  railway  and  banking  duties  imposed  ex^iensive  demands 
upon  his  time  and  energies,  Mr.  Malott  has  at  the  same  time  been  alive  to  the  value  of  enter- 
prises or  the  development  of  the  resources  of  the  State.  He  aided  in  organizing  the  Brazil 
Coal  Company,  not  alone  with  a view  to  enlarging  the  State’s  fuel  supply,  but  to  benefit  the 
lake  railways  which  brought  down  great  quantities  of  lumber  with  no  adequate  return  freight, 
a deficiency  which  was  supplied  by  the  block  and  bituminous  coal  of  the  great  southwestern 
field,  of  wh'ch  Brazil  has  always  been  the  metropolis.  With  the  same  view  of  enla7’ging 
railway  busine.ss  and  State  resources  needed  in  forming  the  earliest  and  most  extensive  ice 
dealing  firms  in  Indiana.  In  1886  he  helped  organize  the  Brazil  National  Bank,  of  which 
he  is  a director.  In  1888  he  assisted  Harry  Bates  and  others  to  open  an  oolitic  stone  quarry 
at  Romona,  the  product  of  which  was  largely  distributed  in  Chicago  and  the  North,  and  as 
far  east  as  New  York.  He  assisted  in  organizing  the  company  controlling  this  quarry,  and 
is  one  of  its  directors,  and  still  retains  his  interest  in  the  other  enterprises  mentioned  above. 
At  this  time,  in  connection  with  Mr.  Holliday,  and  others,  he  is  engaged  in  organizing  the 
Union  Trust  Company  of  Indianapolis.  He  has  also  built  several  of  the  largest  and  finest 
business  houses  in  the  city.  Soon  after  he  gave  up  the  acting  presidency  of  the  Indianapo- 
lis, Peru  & Chicago  Railroad,  he  was  elected  vice-president  and  manager  of  the  Union  Rail- 
way Company  of  Indianapolis,  a position  in  which  he  encountered  more  difficulties,  prob- 


69 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

ably,  than  in  any  other  part  of  bis  railway  service.  He  entered  the  Union  Company  in 
July,  1883,  and  in  the  following  September  aided  in  bringing  about  an  agreement  for  all 
the  companies  concerned  on  a new  plan  of  organization.  The  old  arrangement  formed  by 
three  companies  in  1849,  when  the  old  Madison,  now  part  of  the  Indianapolis  & Jefferson- 
ville lines  were  the  only  lines  completed  to  Indianapolis  and  the  other  two  were  barely  organ- 
ized, provided  for  the  enlargement  of  the  company  from  time  to  time,  by  the  admission  of 
other  companies,  as  their  roads  were  completed  and  it  Ijecame  necessary  for  them  to  use 
the  Union  tracks  and  dei)ot.  But  the  organization  has  remained  unchanged  in  other  respects, 
and  was  hardly  applicable  to  the  then  ])resent  condition.  Through  the  intlirence  of  Mr.  Malott 
this  scheme  of  organization  was  sanctioned  by  an  act  in  the  Legislature  in  1885,  which  fur- 
ther authorized  the  formation  of  Union  companies  in  all  the  cities  of  the  State  having  a 
population  of  50,000  or  more.  At  this  time  the  matter  of  a new  Union  depot,  or  station 
building  and  the  necessary  adjuncts  was  broached  and  discussed,  but  without  reaching  any 
conclusion  till  after  the  State  Legislature  had  legalized  the  change.  Meanwhile,  pending 
the  scheme  of  reorganization  and  the  legal  authorization  to  act  under  it,  the  Belt  Railway, 
then  circling  the  greater  jiart  of  the  city  in  connecting  all  the  railways  but  one,  was  used  for 
the  transfer  of  freight  by  but  one  or  two  roads,  the  others  running  through  and  across 
the  city  streets,  to  the  general  discomfort  and  danger  of  the  people.  One  of  Mr. 
Malott’ s first  important  acts,  as  manager  of  the  Union  Company,  was  to  require  all  the 
roads  to  make  their  transfers  of  freight  by  the  Belt  Railway  outside  of  the  city  when 
it  was  ])ossible  to  do  so  withoiit  serious  inconvenience.  This  order  was  issued  May  1, 
1884.  To  give  it  effect  he  superintended  the  extension  of  the  Belt  Railway  so  as  to 
connect  all  railroads  running  into  the  city.  After  the  legalization  of  the  new  organization 
of  the  Union  Company,  in  the  winter  of  1885,  the  subject  of  a new  station  building  came 
up  in  a more  definite  and  urgent  form.  Plans  were  jwepared  and  submitted  to  the  City 
Council  for  approval  in  1886,  additional  grounds  were  purchased,  a loan  was  obtained  on 
long  bonds  for  81,000,000,  and  work  on  the  building  was  begun.  The  structure  was  com- 
pleted in  September,  1888,  and  is  regarded  as  the  handsomest  and  most  commodious  station 
building  in  the  United  States.  This  grand  building,  costing  so  princely  a sum,  is  in  some 
sort  a memorial  of  Mr.  Malott’s  administration  of  the  affairs  of  the  Union  Railway  Com- 
pany, the  responsibilities  of  which  he  resigned  in  August,  1889.  May  18,  1889,  at  the  re- 
quest of  all  the  parties  concerned,  he  was  ai)poinled  by  Judge  Gresham  of  the  United  States 
Circuit  Court  receiver  of  the  Chicago  & Atlantic  Railroad  Company,  the  affairs  of  which 
occupied  his  time  almost  entirely  until  February,  1891,  when  the  receivership  was  closed, 
the  indebtedness  having  been  paid  in  full,  the  pro])erty  having  been  greatly  imju'oved  and 
Mr.  Malott  having  discharged  the  trust  reposed  in  him  with  the  entire  satisfaction  of  the 
court  and  of  all  interested  parties.  June  4,  1890,  Mr.  Malott  was  elected  ju-esident  of  the 
Chicago  A Western  Indiana  Railroad  Company  and  of  the  com})any  owning  the  Belt  Rail- 
road of  Chicago.  He  declined  a re-election  at  the  annual  meeting  of  the  stockholders  of 
these  corpcjrations  in  June,  1891,  not  having  sufficient  time  to  devote  to  the  business  which 
the  office  imposed  u|)on  him,  whereupon  the  office  of  chairman  of  the  board  of  directors 
was  created  and  the  juincipal  financial  matter  was  ])laced  in  the  hands  of  the  chairman. 
This  office  Mr.  Malott  accepted  and  has  since  held.  He  is  also  director  of  the  Chicago  A 
Erie  Riilroad  Company.  Mr.  Malott  was  never  a politician.  He  has  had  matters  of  more 
interest  and  importance  to  attend  to,  but  mainly  because,  though  a Re])ublican,  he  was  not 
a politician.  He  was  a|)pointed  by  the  State  officers  one  of  the  three  police  commissioners 
of  Indianapolis,  in  which  position  he  served  nearly  two  years. 

Sami'ki.  Sciicck.  Of  late  years  no  form  of  investment  has  become  so  ])0))ular  with  the 
conservative  public  as  judiciously  seh'cted  real  estate.  Just  now  the  marked,  is  active,  and 
among  those  conB|)icuous  in  the  operations  that  are  now  going  on  is  Samuel  Schuck.  a mem- 
ber of  tlm  firm  of  Samuel  Schuck  A Co..  Haughville,  I ml.,  dealers  in  real  estate,  loans, 
rents,  fire;  insurance*,  etc.  IMr.  Schuck  has  always  enje)ye*el  a high  reputation  anel  the  e-ste'cm 
and  confidence  of  all  having  elealings  with  him.  .411  who  (;e)me  in  contact  with  him  eithei’ 
seecially  ejr  in  a business  way,  jeronenine-e  him  a ge'utleman  in  evei'v  I'e'sjee'ct,  anel  leiitrons  can 
flepenel  upon  any  anel  all  re|)re‘8e*ntations  maih*  by  him,  anel  that  tlu'ir  inte*resls  will  always  he< 
protecteel.  He*  was  born  ne*ar  Daylon,  Ohie),  .August  1,  1859,  and  is  a soti  of  George  anel 


70 


MEMOIRS  OE  INDIANAPOLIS 


Mi  nnip  (Leightner)  Schuck,  natives  of  Germany.  The  father  remained  in  his  native  country 
until  1854  and  then  crossed  the  ocean  to  America.  He  was  married  near  Dayton,  Ohio,  to 
Miss  Leightner,  who  was  also  born  in  the  old  country,  but  who  came  to  the  United  States 
witli  her  parents  when  a little  girl  seven  years  of  age.  Mr.  Schuck  was  a potter  by 
trade  and  worked  at  the  same  most  of  his  life,  his  death  occurring  October  15,  1889,  near 
Wapakoneta,  Ohio.  The  mother  is  still  living  and  resides  in  Haughville,  Ind.  Samuel 
Schuck  attained  his  growth  near  Dayton,  Ohio,  and  was  educated  in  the  public  schools.  He 
was  engaged  in  tilling  the  soil  until  twenty-six  years  of  age,  after  which  he  came  to  Haugh- 
ville and  learned  the  core  making  trade,  at  which  he  worked  a short  time  when  he  was  made 
foreman,  continuing  in  that  capacity  for  four  years.  He  then  resigned  and  engaged  in  the 
real  estate  business  in’ April,  1891,  since  which  time  he  has  given  his  entire  attention  to  that 
and  to  insurance.  He  deals  in  real  estate  in  all  parts  of  the  country  and  represents  some  of 
the  leading  tire  insurance  companies.  Mr.  Schuck  was  married  May  0.  1891,  to  Miss  Odessa 
Hurst,  a native  of  Illinois,  and  the  daughter  of  Stephen  C.  and  Ellen  (Worrell)  Hurst.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Schuck  are  members  of  the  Methodist  Episcoj)al  Church  and  Mr.  Schuck  is  a Regular 
Baptist  and  one  of  the  stewards  of  the  same.  He  is  a Repul)lican  in  politics. 

Franklin  Hays,  M.  D.  It  has  come  to  be  a recognized  fact  with  the  medical  fraternity 
and  with  the  general  public,  that  owing  to  the  advance  of  science  and  the  multiplication  of 
facilities  for  accpiiring  knowledge  and  practice,  many  of  the  younger  physicians  of  to  day 
are  better  informed  and  more  skillful  practitioners  than  were  many  of  the  old  physicians  a 
couple  of  generations  ago.  In  every  large  city  in  the  United  States,  and  well  as  in  many  of 
the  better  of  the  country  towns,  the  young  doctor  is  the  more  popular  of  the  two  classes 
mentioned,  and  has  the  larger  practice.  During  recent  years  some  of  the  younger  physi- 
cians of  Indianapolis  have  gained  reputations  for  skill  and  efficiency  in  their  professions 
which  has  made  ((uite  a.  number  of  them  known  throughout  the  State  and  a few  of  them 
throughout  the  United  States.  A fair  representative  of  the  physicians  of  this  type  and  one 
who  has  done  much  to  sustain  the  reputation  they  have  attained  as  a class,  is  Dr.  Franklin 
Hays  who,  though  a young  man,  stands  by  virtue  of  real  merit  and  well  known  achieve- 
ments, among  the  most  ])rominent  medical  men  of  the  city.  Dr.  Hays  was  born  in  Eldo- 
rado, Ohio,  April  2,  1858.  On  his  father’s  side  his  ancestry  was  of  the  sturdy  j)ioneer  class 
who  located  in  the  commonwealths  of  Georgia  and  Tennessee,  where  the  family  became  con- 
spicuously identified  with  public  interests,  representing  their  States  most  ably  in  times  of 
war  and  in  times  of  peace,  and  in  the  Civil  War  some  of  them  achieved  distinction  both 
under  the  stars  and  strijies  and  the  stars  and  bars.  James  C.  Hays,  Esq.,  the  father  of  Dr. 
Hays,  was  a merchant  of  prominence  who  traced  his  lineage  to  this  tine  line  of  old  Southern 
pioneers.  The  Doctor’s  mother,  Sarah  J.  (Clevenger)  Hays,  is  descended  from  what  may  be 
comprehensively  described  as  Scotch-Irish  Presbyterian  stock,  leading  back  to  Colonial  days 
in  this  country,  and  numbers  among  her  kindred  many  persons  who  have  attained  distinction 
in  peace  and  in  war  since  the  days  of  the  Revolution,  notable  among  such  in  late  years  being 
Shubael  Clevenger,  the  well  known  Amei-ican  sculptor,  whose  genius  and  labors  have  made 
him  a name  on  both  sides  of  the  Atlantic.  The  parents  of  Dr.  Hays  removed  from  Ohio  to 
Indiana  and  lived  in  Columbus,  Bartholomew  County,  until  he  had  advanced  in  life  to  his 
eighteenth  year.  In  the  high  school  at  Columbus  he  accjuired  the  basis  of  a sound  educa- 
tion, and  later,  he  entered  the  Kentucky  University  at  Lexington,  where,  while  giving  due 
attention  to  the  curriculum  as  a whole,  he  made  a special  study  of  literature  and  the  natural 
sciences.  Upon  the  completion  of  his  collegiate  course  he  took  up  the  study  of  medicine 
under  the  direction  of  Dr.  Grove,  of  Columbus,  and  pursued  it  later  with  Drs.  Howard  and 
Martin,  of  Greenfield,  and  later  still  with  Drs.  P.  H.  and  Henry  Jameson,  of  Indianapolis, 
until  he  completed  the  course  in  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana,  from  which  he  was  gradu- 
ated with  much  distinction  in  1880  with  the  degree  of  M.  D.  While  yet  an  under  graduate 
in  this  institution  he  was  elected  an  assistant  to  the  chair  of  chemistry  and  toxicology. 
After  graduation  he  was  continued  as  assistant  in  the  chair  of  chemistry,  and  until  1883  was 
librarian  and  registrar.  In  the  year  last  mentioned  he  was  appointed  lecturer  on  dermatol- 
ogy and  venereal  diseases,  and  at  the  same  time  was  made  superintendent  of  Bobb’s  Free 
Dispensary.  In  the  interval  he  had  taken  a post  graduate  course  in  the  medical  department 
of  the  University  of  Pennsylvania,  and  had  further  perfected  himself  for  the  duties  and 


J 


LIBRARY 
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71 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA 

responsibilities  of  bis  profession  in  the  hospitals  of  Philadelphia  and  New  York  prior 
to  his  acceptance  of  the  chair  of  dermatology,  etc.,  above  referred  to.  His  valuable  labors 
in  connection  with  his  alma  mater  made  him  a leading  spirit  in  the  reorganization  of  the 
institution  which  resulted  in  the  establishment  of  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana  as  one  of 
the  foremost  colleges  of  the  West,  devoted  to  the  preparation  of  men  for  the  practice  of  the 
profession  of  medicine  and  surgery,  and  the  general  advancement  of  medical  learning. 
Three  years  later  Dr.  Hays  was  elected  to  the  professorship  in  the  faculty  of  this  institution, 
succeeding  the  late  Dr.  Charles  E.  Wright  in  the  chair  of  materia  medica  and  therapeutics,  to 
which  was  added  dermatology.  He  was  also  made  secretary  of  the  college  and  faculty,  and 
the  signal  ability  with  which  he  has  performed  the  functions  of  both  positions  to  the  present 
time  is  well  known  both  in  and  out  of  the  profession.  He  has  been  honored  by  the  Alumni 
of  the  college  by  an  election  to  its  presidency  for  one  term  and  to  its  secretaryship  for  three 
successive  terms.  He  is  an  active  and  valuable  member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical 
Society’,  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society  and  the  American  Medical  Association,  and  is  on 
the  consulting  staff  of  the  Indianapolis  City  Hospital,  the  City  Dispensary  and  St.  Vin- 
cent's Hospital,  of  the  last  named  of  which  he  was  for  several  years  attending  physician. 
While  the  duties  devolving  upon  him  in  these  relations  are  performed  with  the  utmost  fidel- 
ity, he  does  not  permit  them  to  encroach  on  the  time  which  belongs  legitimately  to  his  large 
general  practice  in  the  city.  When  it  is  further  stated  that  Dr.  Hays  has  a large  consulta- 
tion practice  in  Indiana  and  adjoining  States,  it  will  be  believed  that  he  must  of  necessity 
be  a very  busy  man,  and  all  physicians  and  many  business  men  will  concede  to  him  the  pos- 
session of  a wonderfully  sy’stematic  executive  capacity  and  a most  vigorous  physical  consti- 
tution as  the  first  retjuisite  to  the  accomplishment  of  the  vast  amount  of  labor  devolving 
upon  him  in  these  varied  relations.  Notwithstanding  all  the  demands  upon  his  time  and 
energies  which  have  been  referred  to  and  which  he  meets  with  a conscientious  devotion  to 
duty’,  he  manages  to  find  opportunity  for  social  duties,  in  the  performance  of  which  he  has 
gained  extensive  and  well  founded  popularity  in  the  large  circle  of  society  and  club  friends. 
An  active  Mason  of  high  standing  and  a member  of  many  of  its  orders,  including  the 
Ancient  Scottish  Hite,  the  Doctor  is  identified  also  with  the  order  of  the  Mystic  Shrine  and 
other  fraternal  organizations,  as  well  as  with  the  Commercial  Club  and  the  leading  social 
clubs  of  the  city.  In  the  city  of  his  adoption  Dr.  Hays  is  held  in  the  highest  esteem  as  a 
public  .sjurited  citizen,  always  ready  to  lend  his  aid  most  practically  and  in  a most  liberal 
degree  to  all  charities  and  movements  tending  to  benefit  his  fellow  citizens  or  any  deserving 
or  unfortunate  class  of  them.  He  was  happily  married  June  25,  18cS4,  to  Miss  Louella 
Graves  White,  daughter  of  the  late  Thomas  White,  Esq.,  of  IMemphis,  Tenn.,  well  known  as 
a banker  and  as  an  owner  of  exte7isive  ydantations.  Busch  Hays  and  Thomas  Whitcomb 
Hays  are  two  inteiesting  little  sons  who  complete  the  ha]>piness  of  the  Doctor’s  home.  It  is 
a well  recognized  fact  among  the  medical  fraternity  of  Indianapolis  and  the  State  of  Indiana 
that  no  endeavor  is  regarded  bv  Dr  Hays  as  too  laborious,  no  means  too  expensive  which 
gives  any  promise  of  aiding  him  to  keep  abreast  of  or  in  advance  of  his  profession,  and  with 
this  object  in  view,  he  has  supplemented  the  knowledge  he  has  gained  in  his  regular  medical 
course  in  his  practice  and  through  varied  and  studious  reading,  by  observation  obtained  in 
several  visits  to  the  ho8|)ital8  of  Euro])e  and  by  annual  tours  of  the  Ea.st  to  visit  the  leading 
hospitals  of  the  I'nit.ed  States. 

Napolkon  [I  Tavlor.  J’he  flippant  tone  of  many  writers  and  the  tendency  of  the  age 
to  cast  into  ridicule,  if  not  into  downright  contmnpt,  s(;  much  of  what  was  formerly'  regarded 
as  sacred,  has  had  its  effect  upon  opinion  as  to  the  merits  of  those  holding  offices  of  honor 
and  trust.  In  fact,  the  highest  servant  of  the  ])eo))le,  the  president  of  the  United  States, 
even,  is  not  prot«‘cted  from  the  sneers  of  the  scorner  and  the  witling.  In  this  age  of  ridi- 
cule, much  of  which  is  thoughtless  and  unmeaning  and  unmeant,  it  is  true,  it  is  yieculiarly 
gratifying  that  the  judiciary  has  esca|)ed  the  shafts  of  envy  and  the  darts  of  the  silly.  This 
speaks  volumes  in  praise  of  thosfi  into  whose  liands  is  given  such  gieat  power,  the  issues  of 
life  and  d(*ath  and  the  determination  of  the  l ights  of  propm  ty  the  judges  of  the  land.  And 
this  is  true  and  every  good  citizen  should  rejoice  greatly  that  it  is  so — that  while  con  ujit  imi 
has  often  found  its  way  into  high  jilaces,  and  many  officials  liavi*  b(>en  r('creant  to  their  trusts, 
the  ermine  has  remained  unspotted.  Nowhere  nndei' God’s  footstool  can  then*  he  found  a 


72 


MEMOIRS  OF  IMDIANAPOLIS 


class  of  men  wlio,  under  all  circumstances  and  conditions,  have  remained  so  time  to  them- 
selves and  so  true  to  the  sacred  and  important  trusts  given  into  their  hands  as  the  judges  in 
the  several  States  in  the  Union.  Worthy  a place  in  the  distinguished  ranks  where  he  is 
found  is  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  the  Hon.  Najioleon  B.  Taylor,  judge  of  the  Superior 
Court,  No.  1,  of  Indianapolis.  He  comes  of  a good  old  English  stock,  having  been  born  in 
Campbell  County,  Ky.,  in  October,  1820,  being  the  son  of  Robert  A.  and  Mary  (Vyze)  Tay- 
lor, natives  of  Mason  County,  Ky.,  and  of  Virginia,  respectively.  The  family  is  of  English 
origin  and  can  show  a worthy  and  honest  succession  for  several  generations.  The  paternal 
grandfather,  Robert  Taylor,  was  orderly  sergeant  in  Capt.  Bell’s  company,  under  Gen. 
Stevens  at  Yorktown,  and  was  present  at  the  surrender  of  Cornwallis.  This  patriotic  man 
was  also  in  the  Indian  wars  in  Kentucky  and  with  Gen.  Wayne  in  his  Indian  campaigns. 
A man  of  superior  education  and  of  great  good  sense,  he  was  very  popular  and  widely 
known.  To  his  avocation  as  a farmer  he  added  school  teaching  and  was  an  educator  of  de- 
cided repute.  As  soon  as  peace  was  declared,  in  1783,  he  removed  to  Mason  County,  Ky. , 
subsecjuently  going  to  Pendleton  County,  in  the  same  State,  where  he  died  in  1851.  The 
father  of  our  subject  was  a mechanic  and  a native  of  Mason  County,  Ky.;  was  reared  in 
Pendleton  County  until  he  was  seventeen  years  old,  when  he  enlisted  in  the  army  in  the  War 
of  1812,  serving  in  Capt.  Childress’  company  of  mounted  riflemen,  in  the  command  of  Gen. 
Williatu  Henry  Harrison.  After  peace  was  declared  he  learned  the  trade  of  a bricklayer  in 
Mason  County,  Ky.,  and  followed  the  same  all  his  life.  When  he  came  to  Indianapolis,  as 
he  did  January  26,  1826,  he  found  it  a small  village  of  300  inhabitants.  The  journey  was 
made  from  Kentucky  in  wagons  and  was  a slow  and  somewhat  inconvenient  mode  of  locomo- 
tion. He  first  rented  a little  house  at  what  is  now  the  corner  of  Washington  and  Alabama 
Streets,  Judge  Wick,  then  secretary  of  State,  occupying  the  opposite  corner.  The  father  of 
our  subject  became  a prominent  contractor  and  built  a large  number  of  houses  in  the  then 
fast  growing  city.  A pioneer  of  the  county  and  a man  of  ripe  intelligence,  with  deep  con- 
victions upon  every  subject  of  general  intere.st,  he  could  not  fail  of  being  widely  known,  and 
all  who  knew  respected  him.  His  convictions  in  politics  and  religion  were  especially 
earnest,  and  he  had  the  courage  to  express  his  views  when  the  occasion  seemed  to  require  it, 
he  being  a Democrat  of  the  Jackson  school  and  a devout  member  of  the  Christian  Church. 
This  tine  type  of  open  and  honorable  manhood  died  February  7,  1866,  his  wife  having  pre- 
ceded him,  she  passing  away  July  3,  1863.  Their  married  life  was  one  of  peace  and  happi- 
ness and  they  were  the  parents  of  six  children,  four  of  whom  are  living.  The  subject  of  our 
sketch  is  the  eldest  of  the  family  and  was  in  his  fifth  year  when  his  parents  came  to  Indian- 
apolis. Here  he  grew  to  manhood,  receiving  his  education  first  in  private  schools  and  then 
in  Marion  County  Seminary,  taking  a full  literary  and  scientific  course  and  becoming  a very 
good  Latin  and  Fi'ench  scholar.  Judge  Taylor  was  brought  up  to  work,  being  taught  that 
idleness  was  something  worse  than  a vice  and  that  it  might  be  a crime.  He  acquired  a me- 
chanical trade,  pursuing  the  same  diligently  when  he  was  not  at  school  and  when  the  duties 
of  the  farm  would  permit.  At  the  age  of  twenty-two  he  began  the  study  of  the  law,  to 
which  he  had  long  felt  a strong  drawing,  under  the  well-known  firms  of  Fletcher  & Butler, 
and  Quarles  & Bradley,  at  the  same  time  burning  the  midnight  oil  in  the  privacy  of  his 
own  chamber,  while  grappling  with  the  knotty  problems  laid  down  in  the  text-books.  He 
jiassed  his  examination  before  the  Supre7ue  Court  and  was  licensed  to  practice  in  1843. 
After  securing  his  license  he  continued  to  read  law  until  1848  without  attempting  to  prac- 
tice before  that  time,  being  resolved  to  thoroughly  inform  himself  before  accepting  cases 
from  clients.  From  the  date  last  named  until  he  was  elected  judge  of  the  Superior  Court, 
he  pursued  the  practice  with  conscientious,  and  painstaking  care,  giving  to  every  case  the 
best  energies  of  his  nature  and  seeking  the  vindication  of  his  clients  as  though  the  issues 
of  life  and  death  were  involved  in  it.  And  to  this  earnest  and  able  service  is  due  much  of 
the  fame  that  so  properly  attaches  to  his  name.  He  was  first  elected  to  his  present  high 
and  honorable  position  in  November.  1882,  and  has  held  it  continuously  ever  since.  In  the 
year  184‘J  he  formed  a law  partnership  with  John  L.  Ketcham,  which  lasted  two  years,  and 
in  1853  Gen.  John  Coburn  became  his  associate,  this  partnership  continuing  until  1856. 
From  this  date  until  1869  he  practiced  alone,  but  in  that  year  his  son,  Edwin  Taylor,  was 
taken  into  partnership  with  him,  and  this  continued  until  1872,  when  the  firm  name  be- 


f-iE.W 
OF  THE 

'-/iVU/ERSjTY  OF  ILLfNOI'^ 


1,-1 


ytJ 


73 


AXD  MARWN  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

came  Taylor,  Rand  & Taylor,  this  last  remaining  until  the  elevation  of  the  subject  of  our 
sketch  to  the  bench.  Judge  Taylor  was  elected  city  attorney  in  1853  and  held  that  re- 
sponsible position  until  185(1,  discharging  its  duties  with  distingriished  ability  and  with  a 
conscientious  regard  for  the  interests  of  the  city  and  of  the  community.  While  ])racticing 
law.  Judge  Taylor  enjoyed  a large  and  very  lucrative  practice  and  stood  confessedly  at  the 
head  of  the  bar  of  Indianapolis,  where  were,  as  now,  a most  able  body  of  lawyers.  He  was 
a most  able  and  forcible  speaker,  and  whether  addressing  the  court  or  a jury,  delivered  con 
vinciug  arguments  that  rarely  failed  of  winning  his  case.  So  carefully  was  every  case  pre- 
pared that  he  appeared  to  make  no  effort  at  all,  but  to  reach  results  by  a sort  of  sjtontaneous 
and  extempore  coups.  This  is  the  very  climax  of  genius,  to  do  great  things  witliout  seem- 
ing  to  put  forth  any  strength.  Among  the  various  duties  he  has  been  called  u[)on  to  ])er- 
form  was  that  of  school  trustee,  along  in  the  fifties,  and  this  he  discharged  with  the  same 
painstaking  care  that  has  marked  him  in  all  things.  He  fills  the  office  of  judge  with  great 
dignity  and  with  an  ability  that  stamps  him  the  peer  of  the  ablest  in  the  country.  His 
sense  of  justice  is  acute,  he  possessing  in  a remarkable  degree  what  the  lawyers  term  the 
judicial  mind.  Inflexibly  honest  and  no  respecter  of  persons,  his  decisions  are  character- 
ized by  fairness  that  is  never  questioned,  and  with  such  strict  regard  for  the  facts,  the  evi- 
dence and  the  law  and  {)recedeufs,  that  it  is  rarely  known  for  one  of  them  to  be  overruled, 
lor  a period  of  several  years  he  has  served  as  president  of  the  Marion  County  Library,  and, 
in  fact,  he  is  frequently  called  upon  to  discharge  some  duty  for  the  well-being  of  the  com- 
munity, his  kind  and  generous  nature  jireventing  him  from  declining,  and  his  known  ability 
and  fairness  causing  the  citizens  to  call  upon  him,  their  desire  for  his  services  causing  them 
to  overlook  the  fact  that  they  may  overtax  his  strength.  Rut  if  they  were  to  do  so  he  would 
be  the  last  one  to  make  complaint.  The  community  has  no  citizen  more  useful  and  neces- 
sary to  it  than  Judge  Taylor,  and  while  he  is  a devoted  member  of  the  Democratic  {>arty, 
his  friends  are  of  all  shades  of  political  conviction.  The  Judge  occiijiies  a beautiful  home 
on  North  Illinois  Street  and  his  dwelling  place  is  one  of  peace  and  ha])piness.  He  has 
reared  a family  of  six  children,  namely;  Edwin,  a lawyer  of  Evansville,  Ind.  ; Agnes,  JMary, 
(.atheriiie,  Harold  and  Josephine.  Happy  in  his  home  and  in  his  most  interesting  family, 
the  years  of  Judge  Taylor  pass  along  undisturbed,  and,  besides  a conscience  that  is  void  of 
ollense  toward  any  of  his  fellow  creatures,  he  is  sustained  by  a firm  and  unfaltering  faith  in 
the  religion  of  the  Bible.  He  is  a member  of  the  (Christian  Church.  Since  the  above  was 
written  Judge  Taylor  has  passed  from  earth,  his  death  biuiig  greatly  lamented. 

W iLMA.u  Hayden  Enolish.  This  distinguished  son  and  representative  of  Indiana  was 
born  at^  Lexington,  Scott  County,  August  27,  1822,  a son  of  Elisha  G.  English,  a pioneer 
of  the  State,  and  for  forty  years  the  incumbent  of  various  positions  of  trust  and  official 
importance.  Philip  Eastin,  his  maternal  grandfather,  was  a gallant  officer  in  the  war  of 
the  Revolution.  On  the  maternal  side,  his  mother  was  descended  from  Jost  Hite,  that  his 
toric  character  who  was  the  head  and  guide  of  the  German  colony  which  in  1732  settled  the 
^ irginia  Valley.  Major  Joseph  and  lieutenant  Isaac  Bowman,  both  identified  with  Indiana 
in  her  pioneer  day's  as  officers  under  Colonel  George  Rogers  Clark,  at  the  time  of  his  cam 
paign  thi'ough  this  part  of  the  country,  were  also  descendants  of  Jost  Hite.  The  former, 
who  was  second  in  command  of  the  expedition,  died  in  the  fort  at  Vincennes  during  the 
year  folhjwing  its  ca])ture  from  the  British.  Eor  his  military  sei’vices,  lueutenant  Bowman 
was  granted  a large  tract  of  land  on  the  Ohio.  o|)poaite  Louisville,  and  he  gave  a part  of  it 
as  the  original  town  site  of  Jeffersonville,  which  he  named  in  honoi'  of  President  .letferson, 
who  was  his  warm  personal  friend  and  who  drew  the  town  plat.  After  accpiiring  such  edu 
cation  as  the  common  schools  of  his  time  and  locality  alforded,  the  subject  of  this  sketch 
attended  Hanover  College  several  yeais,  and,  studying  law,  very  early  in  life  assunuMl 
impoitant  responsibilities.  W'hen  the  Democratic  State  convention  of  1840  was  held  at 
Indianapolis,  .Afr.  English  was  one  of  tin*  two  deh^gates  from  Scott  County  in  that  body, 
though  he  was  but  eigliteen  ye.ars  ohl  at  thetinm.  'Die  other  delegate  from  that  county  was 
his  father,  a rnmuber  of  the  Legislature  then  in  session,  and  the  two  cast  their  iidluence  for 
the  nomination  of  Tilghman  .\.  Howard  for  governor.  In  gr^ing  to  the  Stat<>  capital  Mr. 
English  traveled  (m  horseback,  there  being  then  no  railroads  in  the  State,  and  it  took  him 
three  days  to  make  the  jmirney.  'Tho  weathei'  was  extremely  cold  at  the  time  (the  conven- 


74 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


veiition  was  held  January  8)  but  the  you iiif  Democrat  tliought  little  of  that.  In  1843, 
when  -James  Whitcomb  was  nominated  for  j^overnor,  Mr.  English  was  principal  secretary  of 
tlie  convention.  To  follow  his  history  in  this  connection  down  to  the  present  time  would  be 
to  write  very  largely  the  history  of  every  Democratic  State  convention  in  Indiana  during 
the  past  tifty  years,  for  he  has  been  prominent  in  very  nearly  all  of  them.  Before  he  had 
attained  his  ma  jority  he  had  been  deputy  clerk  of  his  county  and  ])ostmaster  of  his  town, 
and  was  duly  licensed  to  j)ractice  law,  and  within  the  succeeding  two  years  he  was  licensed 
to  practice  in  the  Indiana  Supreme  Court,  and  that  too  under  the  old  rigid  system  of  thorough 
examinations.  He  was  the  principal  clerk  of  the  Indiana  House  of  Representatives  in 
in  1843  44.  and  in  18.70  was  principal  secretary  of  the  State  convention  which  framed  the 
constitution  of  Indiana,  and  he  was  a member  and  speaker  of  the  first  House  of  Representa- 
tives elected  under  that  constitution.  During  the  administration  of  President  Polk  he  held 
a clerkshi])  in  the  Treasury  Department  at  Washington,  and  about  1850  he  was  the  incum- 
bent of  a clerkship  in  the  United  States  Senate.  He  was  four  times  elected  to  Congre.ss 
and  served  during  the  eight  years  of  intense  excitement  immediately  preceding  the  Civil 
War,  a period  of  most  important  national  legislation,  with  which  he  was  closely  and  influen- 
tially identified.  He  was  the  author  of  a compromise  measure  relating  to  the  admission  of 
Ivansas  as  a State  which  became  a law  and  excited  much  acrimonious  discussion,  known  as 
“the  English  bill.”  He  was  a regent  of  the  Smithsonian  Institution  at  Washington  from 
1853  to  18()1.  During  all  this  ))eriod  of  jiolitical  prominence  and  activity  in  connection 
with  the  momentous  events  preceding  the  War  of  the  States.  Mr.  English  bore  himself  as  a 
statesman  and  patriot  and  has  ever  borne  the  reputation  of  an  uncompromising  foe  to  dis- 
rrnion.  In  18fil  he  declined  a nomination  to  Congress  in  order  to  engage  in  banking.  In 
1880  he  was  iinaniTiiously  nominated  for  Vice-President  of  the  United  States  on  the  ticket 
with  Gen.  Hancock.  This  ticket  received  a greater  number  of  votes  in  Indiana  than  the 
Democratic  State  ticket  had  received  a few  weeks  previously,  despite  the  fact  that  the 
result  of  that  and  other  State  elections  had  ]iretty  clearly  foreshadowed  a Republican  victoi’j 
in  the  Presidential  contest.  More  than  thirty  years  ago  IMr.  English,  in  connection  with  J. 
F.  D.  Lanier,  then  a great  banker  of  New  York,  but  before  that  time  a citizen  of  Indiana, 
and  George  W.  Riggs,  of  the  celebrated  banking  bouse  of  Corcoran  & Riggs,  of  Washing- 
ton. D.  C..  and  others,  established  the  first  “First  National  Bank  of  Indianapolis,”  and  he 
was  for  fourteen  years  its  ])resident.  During  that  long  period  it  was  one  of  the  most  ably 
conducted  and  prosperous  banks  in  the  country,  and  throucrh  his  administration  as  its  chief 
executive  office  M r.  Engl  ish  won  a reputation  as  a financier  unless  brilliant  than  that  which  he 
had  acquired  as  a statesman.  Mr.  Enefliah's  connection  with  the  convention  which  in  1850 
framed  the  constitution  of  the  State  and  his  membershiji  of  the  first  Legislature  elected  there- 
after. have  been  mentioned.  In  1885  there  was  a reunion  at  Indianapolis  of  the  survivors  of 
that  convention  and  assembly  and  of  all  previous  Legislatures.  It  was  an  event  of  the  utmost 
public  interest  and  was  particijvated  in  by  such  men  as  Thomas  A.  Hendricks,  Richard  M’. 
Thompson,  William  S.  Holman,  William  E.  Niblack,  Alvin  P.  Hovey  and  other  political 
celebrities  of  the  earlier  days,  and  during  the  session  it  was  determined  that  some  action 
should  be  taken  to  insure  the  perpetuation  of  the  early  history  of  the  Stale  and  its  public 
men,  and  in  view  of  his  well  known  literary  ability  and  his  intimate  knowledge  of  and 
enthusiasm  for  the  subject.  Mr.  English  was  selected  to  perform  this  patriotic  but  onerous 
task,  and  he  has  since  devoted  much  of  his  time  to  gathering  the  materials  for  and  writing 
this  work,  the  progress  of  which  is  of  so  much  interest  to  all  intelligent  citizens  of  the 
State  and  the  appearance  of  which  is  most  anxiously  awaited.  His  interest  in  everything 
pertaining  to  the  history  of  the  State  of  his  nativity  and  life-long  residence  is  very  great, 
and  for  several  years  he  has  been  president  of  the  Indiana  Historical  Society.  Mr.  Eng- 
lish for  ten  years  held  the  controlling  interest  in  all  the  street  railway  lines  in  Indianapolis 
and  for  a long  ]reriod  was  largely  identified  with  the  business  of  that  ]U'Osperons  city.  He 
was  one  of  the  originators  of  the  Indianapolis  Clearing  House,  and  its  ju’esident  as  long  as 
he  remained  in  the  banking  business.  He  was  also  the  author  of  the  first  resolutions 
adopted  in  favor  of  building  the  great  Indiana  State  soldiers  monument,  now  far  advanced 
towards  completion,  and  of  which  he  is  one  of  the  commissioners.  Mr.  English  was  married 
in  1847  to  Miss  Emma  M.  Jackson,  of  Virginia,  who  died  in  1877,  leaving  two  children. 


1 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  75 

Will  E.  English,  a popular  and  influential  citizen  of  Indianapolis,  and  Rose  English,  now 
the  wife  of  Doctor  Willoughby  Walling,  of  Chicago. 

Fred  J.  Mack.  One  of  those  business  men  whose  probity  is  well  known  and  whose 
career  has  been  distinguished  for  enterprise  is  Fred  J.  Mack,  house  and  fresco  painting  con 
tractor,  who  has  followed  this  line  of  work  from  the  time  he  was  seventeen  years  of  age. 
His  birth  occurred  in  Cleveland,  Ohio,  on  January  5,  1S54.  Fred  J.  Mack,  Sr.,  his  father, 
was  born  in  the  German  Empire  and  came  to  this  country  when  a young  man  of  twenty-six 
years,  and  up  to  1807  was  a resident  of  the  city  of  Cleveland,  then  moved  to  New  Haven, 
Ind.,  and  for  many  years  was  quite  extensively  engaged  in  the  boot  and  shoe  business,  but 
for  some  time  past  he  has  been  retired  from  active  life.  Before  coming  to  this  country  he 
served  for  some  time  in  the  German  army,  according  to  the  laAVs  of  that  country,  and  several 
years  after  his  arrival  in  Cleveland  was  married  in  that  city.  The  sulqect  of  this  sketch  re- 
ceived his  early  training  in  the  public  schools  of  Cleveland,  Ohio,  which  Avere  exceptionally 
good,  but  it  only  continued  until  his  thirteenth  year  at  which  time  he  began  working  in  a 
factory  in  Cleveland  and  later  in  New  Haven.  At  the  age  of  eighteen  years  he  came  to  In- 
dianapolis, and  here  served  an  apj)rentice8hip  with  Henry  Range,  the  fresco  painter,  and  to 
this  occupation  his  attention  has  been  given  ever  since,  but  much  of  his  attention 
is  given  to  house  and  sign  painting,  in  which  he  is  an  expert.  In  1877  Mr.  Mack 
began  business  for  himself  and  has  continued  ever  since  in  his  present  business.  He  has  a 
great  deal  of  extensive  and  ditflcult  work,  but  has  ever  vindicated  his  reputation  as  a skillful 
sign  painter,  and  now  has  all  the  contracts  that  he  can  possibly  fill.  His  capital  on  starting 
out  for  himself  was  almost  nothing,  but  through  honest,  business-like  methods  he  has  worked 
up  an  extensive  trade,  and  although  it  was  at  first  very  hard  to  gain  a foothold  on  the  ladder 
of  success,  he  finally  accomplished  this  and  has  accumulated  a competency.  Mr.  Mack  has 
been  a member  of  the  city  council  twice,  from  1882  to  1880,  and  served  on  the  first  commit 
te«“  on  public  light  and  the  committee  on  public  property,  being  chairman  of  the  latter.  In 
1801  he  was  chosen  a member  of  the  State  Legislature  from  iMarion  County,  and  while  a 
member  of  that  body  was  on  the  public  building  committee,  in  fact  was  a wide  awake  in 
telligent  and  active  legislator  whose  reputation  was  incorruptable  and  unassailable.  He 
has  always  taken  a deej)  and  actiAe  interest  in  the  political  affairs  of  the  day  and  the  success 
of  the  Democrat  party,  of  Avhich  he  is  a member,  has  ahvays  been  near  to  his  heart.  He  is  a 
member  of  the  Hendricks  Club  and  has  held  the  position  of  marshall,  and  is  chairman  of 
the  American  Democratic  Club.  Socially  he  is  a member  of  the  A.  F.  & A.  M.,  the  K.  of  P., 
the  Elks,  the  Druids  and  the  Commercial  Club.  He  also  belongs  to  the  Builders’  Exchange, 
the  Master  Painters’  Association,  and  Avas chosen  president  at  the  time  of  the  organization  of 
the  latter  society.  In  addition  to  these  orders  he  belongs  to  the  Castle  Hall  Association,  is 
a member  of  the  German  Ornhan  Society,  the  IMaennerchor  Singing  Society,  the  Independent 
'I'urners’  Society,  and  the  Manual  Training  Society,  and  also  assisted  in  t he  organization  of 
other  societies  of  note.  In  1870  he  Avas  united  in  marriage  to  .Miss  Josephine  Beck,  a native 
of  Germany  Avho  was  brought  to  this  country  by  her  parents,  and  their  union  has  been 
blessed  in  the  birth  of  four  sons  and  tAvo  daughters.  Mr.  Mack  is  universally  res})ecl(>d  in 
business  and  social,  as  Avell  as  in  political  circles,  and  has  become  noted  as  a generous  pro 
rnoter  of  humane  objects  and  a careful  adherence  to  those  details  that  aid  in  building  uj)  a 
man’s  name  in  connection  Avith  good  citizenship.  His  standing  in  business  circles  is  of  the 
highest  and  he  is  held  in  great  esteem  as  a man  of  ecjuitable  and  conservative  principles. 

John  Hart.je.  Were  it  j)08sible  to  get  at  the  antecedents  of  the  men  Avho  have  suc- 
ceeded and  who  have  failed  in  this  country,  it  would  be  clearly  demonstrated  that  the 
unsuccessful  are  they,  mainly,  who  embarked  in  a business  of  which  they  kneAV  nothing 
l)elieving  themselves  that  they  couhl  prosper  becau.se  somebody  else  had.  JohnHartje. 
florist,  Avith  f)lace  of  l)usiness  on  Illinois  Street,  l)etAveen  'rwenty  third  and  Twenty  fourth 
Streets,  I ndiaiiai)olis,  was  brought  u|)  to  the  business  Avhicli  he  noAv  folloAVs,  and  therefore 
couhl  hardly  fail  to  succeed.  He  has  had  thirteen  years  of  practical  (experience,  for  at  tluit 
period  he  started  in  the  business  as  an  employe  of  Henry  Hilker,  on  St.  Josej)h  Street. 
Born  in  Govington,  Ky.,.Ianuary  J.  I8t)5,  the  son  of  Frederick  Hartje,  Avho  was  born  in 
tiermany,  in  I82J,  he  came  to  the  United  Stales  after  reaching  matdiood.  He  resided  in 
Govington,  Ky.,  for  a number  of  years,  Avhere  he  worked  at  his  trade  of  cabinet  making,  in 


70 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


which  intsiness  he  was  remarkably  successful.  He  was  a Union  sympathizer  during  the  great 
Civil  War,  but  in  after  life  never  took  any  active  part  in  politics.  He  was  for  many  years 
an  active  worker  and  member  of  the  (Ternian  Methodist  Epi.scopal  Church  and  frequently 
served  as  sujierintendent  of  the  Sunday-school.  His  widow  still  lives  in  Covington,  Ky. 
John  Hartje  is  the  youngest  of  four  children  and  ol)tained  his  early  education  in  the 
public  schools  of  Covington.  When  about  thirteen  years  of  age  he  entered  the  estaldish- 
nieut  of  Henry  Hilker,  as  above  stated.  Although  he  has  only  been  established  in  busi- 
ness on  his  own  account  for  the  past  two  years,  he  has  made  many  valuable  improve- 
ments in  his  conservatories,  and  being  enterprising  and  ambitious  to  try  all  new  methods 
in  his  line  of  work,  although  he  at  all  times  uses  discretion  in  this,  he  will  without  doubt 
go  on  making  many  more  notable  improvements.  He  has  5,000  square  feet  under  glass 
and  makes  a specialty  of  raising  carnations  and  has  some  magnificent  new  varieties,  which 
he  produced  l)y  cai'eful  crossing.  He  is  a member  of  the  Indianapolis  Florist’s  Club,  and 
of  this  organization  was  secretary  for  three  jmars.  He  is  also  a member  of  the  Society 
of  Indiana  Florists,  was  assistant  secretary  five  years;  is  a member  of  the  American  Car- 
nation Society  of  the  Society  of  American  Florists  and  of  the  American  Chrysanthemum 
Society.  In  addition  to  growing  carnations,  he  devotes  some  of  his  time  to  the  raising 
of  violets  and  tine  chrysanthemums,  all  of  which  are  sold  at  wholesale  to  the  florists  who 
have  stores  in  the  city.  He  has  always  been  an  active  worker  in  the  interests  of  floricidture, 
and  has  rendered  valuable  services  during  the  chrvsanthemum  shows  held  in  Indianapolis. 

Wim  UAU  H.  Wisn.vim,  M.  D.  Cnly  four  of  the  charter  members  of  the  Indiana 
State  Medical  Society  are  living,  and  one  of  them  is  Dr.  William  H.  Wishard,  who  delivered 
the  address  at  the  fortieth  anniversary  of  that  body.  Dr.  Wishard  was  born  in  Nicholas 
County,  Ky.,  January  17,  1810,  and  is  of  Scotch-Irish  descent.  His  grandfather,  AVilliam 
Wishard.  was  a native  of  county  Tyrone,  Ireland,  who  there  married  Susan  Lyttle,  and 
who,  in  1775,  emigrated  to  America,  being  six  months  making  the  voyage  on  an  old-time 
sailing  vessel.  This  emigrant  settled  in  Delaware  and  served  the  cause  of  the  colonies  in 
the  war  of  the  Revolution,  participating  in  numerous  important  engagements.  After  Amer- 
ican independence  was  assured  he  removed  with  his  family  to  Red  Stone  Fort,  in  western 
Pennsylvania,  and  there  John  Wishard,  father  of  Dr.  William  H.  Wishard,  a grandfather 
of  Dr.  William  N.  Wishard,  was  born  in  17U2,  the  seventh  son  and  eleventh  child  of  his 
parents  in  order  of  nativity.  Late  in  the  year  1793  Mr.  Wishard,  the  emigrant  pioneer  and 
patriot,  improvised  a rude  tlatboat.  which  he  launched  u{)on  the  Monongahela  River,  and 
with  his  family  and  portable  effects  Hoated  down  to  Kentucky  and  located  on  Licking  River 
in  Nicholas  County,  in  the  midst  of  a dense  wilderness,  thus  l)ecoming  one  of  the  very 
earliest  pioneers  of  that  section  of  the  couidry.  Here  the  paternal  grandjiarents  of  our  sub- 
ject passed  the  remainder  of  tlieir  lives,  his  maternal  grandparents,  John  and  Martha 
Oliver,  who  were  natives  of  Virginia,  being  also  pioneers  of  Kentucky.  They  located  at 
Ijexinglon  about  1780,  and  John  Oliver  assisted  in  the  erection  of  the  old  fort  at  that  place. 
They  afterward  lived  and  their  remains  lie  buried  in  Nicholas  County, Ky.,  where  John  Wish- 
ard was  reared  and  devoted  his  life  to  agricultural  pursuits  until  his  removal  to  Indiana. 
He  married  Agnes  H.  Oliver  and  reared  a family  of  eleven  children,  six  of  whom  are  living. 
Upon  emigrating  to  Indiana  he  located  on  the  Bluff  road  in  Jolmson  County,  nine  miles  and 
a lialf  south  of  Indiana])olis,  where  he  encamped  on  the  evening  of  October  26,  1825,  hav- 
ing  purchased  land  there  the  year  before.  On  the  night  after  their  arrival,  and  on  many 
nights  thereafter  during  succeeding  years  the  family  heard  the  wolves  howling  in  the 
wilderness  all  about  them.  During  the  Blackhawk  and  Indian  W’ars  John  Wishard  com- 
manded a company  of  mounted  riflemen  and  was  later  colonel  of  a regiment  organized  in 
Johnson  County.  He  died  at  Greenwood,  Ind.,  September  8,  1878,  his  wife  having  died  in 
August,  1819.  Dr.  WAlliam  H.  Wishard  was  in  his  tenth  year  when  the  family  came  to 
Indiana.  Being  the  eldest  of  the  family  he  was  obliged  to  busy  himself  constantly  in  a.ssist- 
ing  his  parents  in  various  ways,  and  many  were  the  e.xciting  scenes  in  which  he  participated 
or  of  which  he  was  a witness.  Late  one  night  in  the  fall  of  1826,  when  returning  from  mill 
alone  in  the  darkness  of  dense  forest,  and  considerably  more  than  a mile  from  the  cabin  of 
any  settler,  he  unexj)ectedly  came  u|)on  a pack  of  wolves  disputing  the  possession  of  a 
wounded  deer  they  had  captured.  It  was  an  unpleasant  situation,  to  say  the  least,  for  a 


t 


OF  THE 

I’r-JfVPRQfTV  OP  njjNf 


(A4JAJ 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  JNDIANA. 


77 


boy  of  twelve  years  to  tiiid  his  only  })athway  home  blocked  by  fifteen  or  twenty  hungry 
wolves,  but  summoning  all  his  courage  and  retaining  his  presence  of  mind  in  a wonderful 
degree  for  one  so  young,  he  made  a detour  through  the  brush  wood  at  one  side  of  the  road 
and  as  silently  and  as  expeditiously  as  possible  ])assed  out  of  the  vicinity  of  this  maddened 
pack  of  the  most  dreaded  denizens  of  the  forest  and  in  due  time  reached  his  father’s  house 
in  safety.  In  those  pioneer  days  opportunities  for  obtaining  an  education  on  the  frontier 
were  very  meager  and  were  continetl  entirely  to  those  afforded  by  the  subscri])tion  schools 
during  the  winter  months,  the  balance  of  the  year  being  devoted  to  clearing  the  land  and 
putting  in,  harvesting  and  storing  the  crops.  Under  these  conditions  Dr.  Wishard  grew  to 
manhood,  but  he  took  the  best  possible  advantage  of  every  opportunity  afforded  him,  and  at 
the  age  of  twenty  two  began  the  study  of  medicine  under  the  direction  of  Dr.  Benjamin  F. 
Noble,  of  Greenwood.  Johnson  County.  He  took  his  first  course  of  lectures  at  the  Ohio 
Medical  College  at  Cincinnati,  and  began  practice  as  a partner  of  his  preceptor  at  Green 
wood  in  the  spring  of  1840.  This  partnership  was  teianinated  three  years  later.  Mean- 
time, in  the  winter  of  1848  -40,  Dr.  Wishard  was  graduated  from  the  Indiana  Medical  Col- 
lege at  La  Porte.  During  the  Civil  War  he  served  two  years  as  a volunteer  surgeon,  a part 
of  the  time  in  field  service  and  a part  of  the  time  in  charge  of  hospital  boats  on  the  Missis- 
sippi River.  In  1804  he  located  at  Southport,  Marion  County,  where  he  soon  ac(}uired  a 
large  and  successful  practice.  In  October,  1870,  he  was  elected  coroner  of  Marion  County, 
and  removed  to  Indianajiolis,  and  in  1878  he  was  re-elected,  serving  two  terms,  aggregating 
four  years.  Since  hjcating  in  this  city'  he  has  had  an  extensive  and  most  lucrative  practice, 
and,  although  now’  well  advanced  in  years,  he  continued  to  do  much  active  and  exacting 
work.  The  younger  physicians  of  the  city  regard  him  as  one  of  the  fathers  of  the  profes- 
sion in  the  State,  for  he  had  had  an  unbroken  ))ractice  extending  through  a long  period  of 
fifty-three  years.  He  was  one  of  the  charter  meitd)ersof  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society, 
and,  as  has  been  stated,  he  is  one  of  only  four  of  its  charter  members  who  are  now  living. 
He  was  jiresident  of  the  society  in  1887,  and  as  such  delivered  a most  interesting  historical 
address  at  the  fortieth  anniversary  of  its  organization.  He  is  a member  also  of  the  Marion 
County  Medical  Society  and  of  the  National  Medical  Association.  Dr.  Wishard  was  married 
December  17,  1840,  to  Harriet  N.  Moreland,  dairghter  of  Rev.  John  R.  Moreland,  the  sec 
ond  pastor  of  the  First  Presbyterian  Church  of  Indianapolis,  and  celebrated  his  golden  wed 
ding  February  17,  1800.  Nine  children  were  boi'ii  to  Dr.  and  Mrs.  ^Vishard,  four  of  whom 
(lied  in  infancy  or  childhood.  Those  living  at  the  ])resent  time  are  Dr.  William  N.  Wishard 
and  his  l)rother8,  Albert  W’.  and  Geoige  W.  Wishard,  and  their  sisters,  Harriet  -1.  and 
Flizabeth.  In  his  early  life  Dr.  Wishard  was  in  jjolitics  an  old  line  Whig.  In  1850  he 
voted  for  Gen.  Fremont,  the  first  nominee  of  the  Republican  |)arty  for  the  presidency  of  the 
United  States,  and  he  has  voted  for  every  nominee  of  that  J)arty  for  the  same  distinguished 
office  fnjin  that  day  to  this.  He  is  a member  of  the  G.  A.  R.,  and  in  everything  pertaining 
to  it  takes  the  deepest  interest.  He  and  his  family  are  members  of  the  Presbyterian  Church, 
and  the  Doctor  has  represented  the  Indianaj)olis  Presbytery  in  general  assembly  at  Phila- 
delphia, New  York,  Pittsburgh,  Cincinnati,  and  Portland,  Ore. 

T.  B.  Linn.  'I’he  subject  of  this  sketch  is  a gentlemen  of  ripe  intelligence  and  a man 
of  large  benevolence  and  broad  sympathies.  He  is  a citizen  of  Indianapolis  and  the  su- 
preme r(;corder  of  the  order  of  Chosen  Friends,  which  owes  its  name  to  his  suggestion,  while 
through  his  agency  this  organization  has  taken  a strong  and  permanent  hold  upon  public 
confidence.  Mr.  Linn  was  born  in  Millersburg,  Ohio,  January  28,  1842,  bm’ng  the  son  of 
Cicero  and  Mai’garet  B.  ('I'idball)  Linn;  the  father  having  been  l)orn  in  f)eff'(*r8on  County, 
May  12,  1812,  and  the  iiKjther  near  Wheeling,  W.  Va.,  Decembi'r  81,  1817.  The  parents 
emigrated  toOhioat  an  early  day,  the  father  settling  iit  Millersburg  when  about  eighteen 
years  old,  following  the  occupat  ion  of  a mercdiant  tailor  unt  il  1850.  'J’hen  Ih;  began  farming, 
an  avocation  he  has  since  followed,  he  now  residing  upon  a farm  eight  miles  w('st  of  Millers- 
burg. The  paternal  great  grandfather  of  our  snliject  was  a patriot  soldier  of  the  Revolu 
tionary  Warand  also  fought  in  the  War  of  1812.  He  came  to  this  country  from  Germany, 
his  nativf*  hom*!,  and  blazed  out  a home  for  himself  in  Westmoreland  County,  J'enn.,  and 
founded  the  town  of  Burgettstown,  which  was  named  after  himsiJf.  He  was  killed  by  ac 
cident  in  this  (;ounty  (Westmoreland),  when  over  eighty  years  of  age.  'I’he  ancestors  of  the 


78 


MEMOIRS  OE  INDIANAPOLIS 


mother  of  our  subject  descended  from  Dr.  Browuhill,  court  physician  of  William,  Prince  of 
Orange  (William  III,  of  England),  who  was  taken  prisoner  in  one  of  the  Scottish  wars  and 
kept  for  a number  of  years,  when  he  effected  his  escape  and  came  to  America  with  his  wife 
and  only  daughter.  The  latter  met  and  fell  in  love  with  Mr.  Tidball  when  on  the  journey 
and  afterward  married  him;  from  this  marriage  sprang  the  Tidball  family  in  the  United 
States.  Grandfather  Tidball  was  a prominent  physician  of  Millersburg,  where  he  died, 
after  a life  of  great  usefulness;  and  his  family  consisted  of  two  sons,  who  became  Presby- 
terian ministers,  and  tive  daughters,  the  mother  of  our  subject  being  second.  The  parents 
of  our  subject  had  thirteen  children,  namely:  John  B.,  a farmer  of  Sterling,  Colo.;  Zech- 
ariah  S.,  deceased;  Thomas  B. , our  subject;  Cicero  B. , a jeweler  of  Houston,  Tex. ; Elizabeth 
A.,  deceased;  Ezekiel  C.,  a physician  of  Monmouth,  111.,  Maria  J.  McClellan,  of  Canton, 
Ohio;  William  J.,  a physician  of  lola,  Kan.;  Casper  M.,  deceased;  Julia  M.  Appelman,  de- 
deased;  Sarah  A.  Hull,  deceased;  Albert,  deceased,  and  Alberta,  deceased.  The  subject  of 
our  skefcli,  the  third  meml)er  of  this  large  family,  was  reared  in  Holmes  County,  Ohio,  on  a 
farm,  where  he  worked,  assisting  his  father  in  the  fields  and  his  mother  in  the  house,  enjoy- 
ing only  such  educational  advantages  as  were  afforded  in  a country  school.  At  the  age  of 
sixteen,  with  gripsack  in  hand,  he  left  home  to  attend  the  academy  in  the  town  of  his  birth, 
where  he  spent  ten  months.  In  the  spring  of  1859,  when  but  seventeen  years  old,  he  took 
charge  of  a country  school  and  continued  teaching  until  the  outbreak  of  the  war;  then,  August 
24,  1861,  he  enlisted  in  Company  B,  Sixteenth  Ohio  Volunteer  Infantry,  carrying  a musket, 
and  serving  with  his  regiment  through  Kentucky,  Tennessee,  West  Virginia,  Mississippi, 
Louisiana  and  Texas,  taking  part  in  the  many  engagements  in  which  his  regiment  partici- 
pated, among  which  were  the  siege  of  Vicksburg  and  many  minor  battles.  He  was  dis- 
charged October  31,  1864,  at  Camp  Chase.  Upon  his  return  home  our  subject  was  married 
to  Miss  Lizzie  Shafer,  of  Brookville,  Ind. , and  entered  upon  the  profession  of  teaching, 
which  he  followed  until  the  spring  of  1870,  having  had  charge  of  the  schools  at  College 
Corner,  Ohio;  Fair  Haven,  Ohio,  and  others,  the  two  named  for  a term  of  years.  Entering 
the  service  of  the  Cincinnati,  Hamilton  and  Indianapolis  Railroad  Company  in  1870,  he  was 
stationed  at  College  Corner,  Ohio;  then  at  Liberty,  Ind.,  and  then,  in  August,  1872,  removed 
to  Indianapolis  to  take  charge  of  the  supplies  and  books  in  the  machinery  department  of 
that  road,  remaining  with  it  until  the  order  of  Chosen  Friends  demanded  his  entire  at- 
tention. Mr.  Linn  made  his  first  appearance  among  society  men  in  Septeml)er,  1867,  by 
uniting  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  in  Border  Lodge,  No.  224,  and  soon 
became  widely  known  as  an  earnest  woi’ker  in  the  cause.  In  the  following  February  he  took 
the  sublime  degrees  of  the  Encampment  branch  of  Odd  Fellows,  in  Bethel  Encampment  No. 
73,  serving  as  scribe  and  chief  patriarch.  He  represented  his  encampment  in  1870  in  the 
grand  encampment  of  the  State  of  Indiana.  Mr.  Linn  is  also  a member  of  Canton  No.  2,  of 
the  Patriarchs  Militant,  of  Indiana,  being  a charter  member,  and  was  twice  elected  to  pro- 
gressive chairs  of  his  subordinate  lodge,  and  was  each  time  comj)elled  to  resign  on  account 
of  distance  and  inability  to  attend.  He  was  a third  time  unanimously  elected  vice,  and 
afterwanl  noble  grand  of  his  lodge,  making  a record  such  as  is  very  seldom  equaled, 
namely:  Traveled  158  miles  each  week  to  attend  his  lodge  and  missing  birt  two  meetings 
while  filling  the  chairs.  Mr.  Linn  served  in  the  grand  lodge  as  representative  in  1876,  and 
proved  himself  a most  useful  member,  being  recognized  as  an  Odd  Fellow  of  wide  range  of 
knowledge  and  an  enthusiastic  and  useful  meml)er.  Our  subject  united  in  January,  1877, 
with  Washington  Lodge,  No.  114,  Knights  of  Honor,  and  a few  months  later  became  a 
charter  member  of  Ho})e  Lodge,  No  6,  Knights  and  Ladies  of  Honor,  in  both  of  which  he 
was  elected  to  the  higliest  honors,  being  sent  twice  as  representative  to  the  grand  lodge  of 
the  Knights  of  Honor  and  was  sent  as  representative  to  and  became  a charter  member  of  the 
grand  lodge  of  Knights  and  Ladies  of  Honor.  Our  subject  became,  in  December,  1880,  a 
member  of  Indianapolis  Council,  No.  238,  of  the  Royal  Arcanum,  and  in  the  following  Decem- 
ber  was  unanimously  chosen  regent.  In  March,  1883,  he  represented  his  council  in  the  grand 
council  of  the  Royal  Arcanum.  Mr.  Linn  was  made  a master  mason  in  Capital  City  Lodge, 
No.  312,  in  January,  1886,  and  in  December  of  the  same  year  received  his  thirty-second  de- 
gree of  freemasonry.  He  has  served  as  senior  warden  of  the  subordinate  lodge, 
and  is  now  holding  the  office  of  captain  of  the  guard  in  Indianapolis  consistory  and  master 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  7t) 

of  entrances  in  Saraiah  Council.  He  is  a member  of  George  H.  Thomas  Post,  G.  A.  R., 
No.  17,  and  became  a charter  meml)er  of  Encampment  No.  SO,  Union  Veteran  Legion, 
in  November,  1890,  in  which  he  is  now  tilling  the  office  of  lieutenant-colonel.  Mr. 
Linn  has  been  connected  with  most  of  the  secret  societies  of  the  country,  in  all  of 
which  he  has  taken  an  active  part  and  thoroughly  familiarized  himself  with  the  work 
and  history  of  them,  his  interest  being  very  great  and  his  intelligence  enabling  him  to 
grasp  the  beauties  of  the  symbols  and  mysteries  pertaining  to  them.  He  is  a lifelong 
Republican  but  has  never  sought  or  held  political  office,  with  the  exception  of  council- 
man from  the  First  w^ard  of  the  city,  a position  he  did  not  seek  but  was  pushed  forward 
by  his  friends  and  elected  by  a majority  of  sixty  nine,  in  a Democratic  ward,  and  being  the 
only  Republican  elected  from  a Democratic  ward.  Since  the  year  1879  Mr.  Linn  has 
devoted  his  entire  time  to  the  Order  of  Chosen  Friends,  being  one  of  the  organizers  of 
that  thriving  and  popular  body.  The  first  conversation  between  Albert  Aleon  and  Mr.  Linn 
in  relation  to  the  order  took  place  in  February,  1878,  more  than  a year  jtrior  to  the  foun 
dation  of  the  order.  Day  after  day  Mr.  Linn  was  found  soliciting  his  friends  to  assist  him 
in  the  formation  of  the  order,  or  rather,  an  order  like  this  of  the  Chosen  Friends.  Within 
the  first  six  months  he  had  secured,  as  was  su2)posed,  a sufficient  membership  to  form  the 
Supreme  Council,  and  when  stated  meetings  would  arrive  he  was  generally  the  first  one  at 
the  appointed  place.  The  Order  of  Chosen  Friends  is  indebted  to  him  for  the  name  it  bears 
and  when  enough  names  had  been  secured  to  form  the  head  of  the  order,  Mr.  Linn  and 
Mr.  Alcon  were  appointed  a committee  to  draft  the  constitution  and  laws,  and  those  they 
framed  are  the  fundamental  principles  of  the  order  to-day.  These  two  decided  by  a grab 
into  a handful  of  beans  that  Mr.  Linn  should  do  the  work  of  drawing  up  the  said  con.stitu- 
tion  and  laws.  Mr.  Linn  also  furnished  a portion  of  the  ritual,  the  beautiful  charges  of 
the  marshal  and  of  the  vice  counsellor  being  tbe  products  of  his  pen.  Much  more  could  be 
said  of  Mr.  Linn’s  connection  with  this  order  and  his  arduous  and  protracted  labors  in  con- 
nection therewith;  this  should  be  said  and  emphasized,  that  Mr.  Linn  practically  gave  birth 
to  this  order  and  contributed  the  lion’s  share  of  the  work  at  the  time  of  its  organization. 
He  was  at  work  in  season  and  out  of  season,  encouraging  the  disheartened,  strengthening 
the  weak,  lifting  the  fallen  and  advising,  counselling  and  originating,  with  an  invincible 
courage  and  a ripe  intelligence  that  convinced  and  persuaded.  Mr.  Linn  served  as  secretary 
at  the  preliminary  meetings,  and  at  the  organization  of  the  Supreme  Council  was  elected  its 
first  sujireme  recorder,  was  re  elected  in  October,  1879,  in  October,  1881,  in  September, 
1888,  September,  1885,  Septemlier,  1887,  Sejitember,  1889,  and  in  September,  1891,  thus, 
continuously  filling  that  most  arduous  position  from  the  inception  to  the  present  time.  He 
organized  the  first  two  councils,  to  wit:  Alpha  Council,  No.  1,  at  Indianajiolis  and  Ohio, 
No.  1,  at  Wooster,  Oliio;  both  of  them,  through  his  untiring  personal  efforts.  As  an  extern 
poraneous  speaker  he  ranks  among  the  very  first  in  the  entire  field  of  secret  societies  in  the 
United  States.  Endowed  by  nature  with  a vigorous  constitution,  lie  is  capable  of  the  great- 
est conceivable  aimmnt  of  sustained  labor  and  lie  has  worked  far  into  the  night  for  a pro- 
tracted period  for  the  order,  for  which  he  has  so  strong  an  attachment,  this  being  necessary 
in  order  that  the  organization  might  be  established  upon  a firm  basis.  The  growing  pojiu- 
larity  and  the  rajiid  building  up  of  the  Chosen  Friends  attest,  t he  jiovverful  efforts  put  forth' 
liy  .Mr.  Linn,  who  certainly  has  lieen  instant  in  season  and  out  of  season  ever  since  the 
order  was  started.  He  has  worked  up  the  membership  to  40,0()(),  an  astonishing  number 
when  it  is  considered  that  it  is  less  than  fourteen  years  since  it  was  first  put  forward  for  the 
favor  of  tlie  jieople.  What  an  admirable  showing  is  this:  the  total  amount  paid  in  death 
cases  has  been  87, 18(5, ()58. 21 ; in  disabilities,  .“iflO  1,880;  making  a total  of  $7,590,988.24. 
Surely  this  is  a record  of  which  any  man  may  lie  proud.  How  many  widows  have  lieen 
saved  from  want  tlirougli  its  agency,  how  many  children  provided  with  bread  and  how  many 
have  been  cared  for  in  time  of  disability.  By  their  fruits  shall  ye  know  them  and  thus 
Judged  .Mr.  Ijinn  merits  the  plaudits  of  “well  done,  thou  good  and  faithful  servant.’’  Our 
subject  is  a member  of  Clifford  Avenue  .Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  as  also  is  his  wife, 
and  he  takes  an  active  interest  in  this  as  in  other  organizations  with  which  lie  is  connected. 
.Mr.  an<l  .Mrs.  Linn  are  the  parents  of  six  children,  all  living,  namely:  Mrs.  Ijove  Mitten, 
Lillie  A.,  (Jicero  11.,  .Maude  E.,  Frederick  E.  aud  Margaret  F.  .Mr.  Linn  is  deservedly 


80 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


most  popular  among  bis  wide  extended  accjuaintance,  being  a man  of  most  pleasant  manners 
and  kind  disposition,  agreeable  in  conversation  and  abounding  in  a sympathy  that  keeps 
him  in  touch  with  his  fellow  creatures. 

Dr.  Uorert  Hehsler.  Long  before  the  good  Samaritan  dressed  the  wounds  of  the 
poor  fellow  he  found  on  the  Jericho  road  the  healer  of  diseases  was  distinguished 
for  his  humanity  and  his  kindness.  Whatever  the  skill  of  the  physician  and  surgeon, 
he  can  never  be  truly  great  unless  he  is  truly  touched  with  the  spirit  of  man’s  infirmities, 
and  moved  of  a heartfelt  purpose  to  relieve  suffering  for  the  sake  of  the  race.  In  the  list  of 
the  successful  young  physicians  of  Indianapolis  stands  the  name  of  Dr.  Robert  Hessler,  who 
owes  his  nativity  to  the  Buckeye  State,  born  in  Cincinnati,  June  7,  18(31.  His  father,  Robert 
Hessler,  Sr.,  was  a native  of  Saxony  and  came  to  America  when  a young  man.  After  resid- 
ing in  different  jiarts  of  the  United  States  he  located  at  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  and  was  there 
married  to  Miss  Mary  Oodar,  a native  of  Bavaria,  who  came  to  America  with  her  parents 
when  small.  Robert  Hessler,  Sr.  was  a skilled  artisan  and  at  the  close  of  the  war  located  at 
Batesville,  Ind.,  where  he  resided  several  years.  His  death  occurred  in  1877.  His  wife 
survives  him  and  resides  at  Conner.sville,  Ind.  Of  the  seven  children  born  to  his  parents 
our  subject  is  the  eldest  in  order  of  birth,  and  his  early  scholastic  training  was  received  in 
the  public  schools  at  Batesville  and  Connersville.  Later  he  learned  the  cabinet  maker’s 
trade  and  for  several  years  assisted  his  father  in  that  work.  After  the  death  of  the  latter  all 
the  responsibility  of  caring  for  the  family  fell  upon  the  shoulders  of  young  Hessler,  and 
while  at  work  at  the  bench  he  prepared  himself  for  college,  reciting  to  a high  school  teacher 
once  a week.  On  the  organization  of  the  Indiana  weather  service,  in  1882,  he  was  appointed 
observer  for  Fayette  County.  During  the  past  few  years  the  observations  have  been  kept 
up  by  other  members  of  the  family.  In  1885  he  entered  the  Indiana  State  University,  and 
two  years  later  was  appointed  assistant  in  chemistry  in  that  institution,  holding  that  position 
two  years.  During  the  winter  of  1889-1)0  he  attended  the  Medical  College  of  Ohio  at 
Cincinnati.  He  received  the  degree  of  A.  B.  from  the  State  University  and  recently  the 
degree  of  Master  of  Arts.  In  the  fall  of  1890  he  came  to  Indianapolis  where  he  entered  the 
Medical  College  of  Indiana  to  complete  his  medical  education,  attending  school  during  the 
day  and  instructing  fellow-students  in  pathology  evenings.  In  the  spring  of  1891  he  grad- 
uated and  entered  competitive  examination,  receiving  an  appointment  as  house  physician  to 
the  city  hospital.  That  position  he  held  until  May,  1892,  since  which  time  he  has  been 
engaged  in  private  practice.  On  leaving  the  hospital  he  was  appointed  demonstrator  of 
minute  pathological  anatomy  in  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana,  a position  he  still  holds. 
In  the  spring  of  1898  he  was  appointed  pathologist  to  the  city  hospital  and  to  the  city 
dis))eusary.  These  |)Ositions  offer  unusual  opportunities  for  the  scientific  study  of  diseases. 
As  one  result  Dr.  Hessler  has  accumulated  a very  extensive  series  of  slides  illustrating  nearly 
the  entire  range  of  the  human  body  in  health  and  in  disease.  Dr.  Hessler  is  an  accom- 
plished naturalist  and  botanist,  with  an  extensive  acquaintance  throughout  the  State  in  this 
line.  He  has  been  a frequent  contributor  to  scientitic  and  medical  journals,  and  is  a 
member  of  the  Indiana  Academy  of  Science  and  the  Indiana  State  and  Marion  County 
Medical  Societies. 

William  J.  Shinn.  One  of  the  substantial  and  progressive  business  men  of  Indianapo- 
lis, Ind.,  is  William  J.  Shinn,  who  is  the  present  very  efficient  secretary  of  the  Capital  City 
Fence  Company.  He  was  born  in  Grundy  County,  Mo.,  February  5,  1840,  a son  of  John 
and  Elizabeth  (Leachman)  Shinn,  both  of  whom  were  born  on  Blue  Grass  soil,  but  when 
unmarried  and  quite  young  they  located  with  their  parents  in  Putnam  County,  Ind.,  where 
they  became  acquainted  and  were  eventually  married  in  1830.  In  1839  they  moved  to  the 
wilds  of  northern  Missouri  and  located  among  the  Indians  in  Grundy  County  where  they 
tilled  the  soil  until  the  father’s  death,  in  1852,  when  a comparatively  young  man.  In  1850 
he  crossed  the  plains  to  California  in  search  of  gold  but  after  remaining  in  the  West  for 
about  a year  he  returned  to  his  home  in  Missouri  via  the  Isthmus  of  Panama  and  the  Gulf. 
After  the  death  of  the  husband  and  father,  the  mother  came  to  Indiana  and  thereafter  was  a 
resident  of  Putnam  County  until  her  death  in  1873,  having  been  for  many  years  a worthy 
and  consistent  member  of  the  Baptist  Church.  She  bore  her  husband  seven  children,  of 
whom  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  the  second,  only  four  of  whom  are  now  living,  the  oth- 


81 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

ers  dying  when  quite  young.  The  school  days  of  Hon.  William  J.  Shinn  were  spent  in 
Grundy  County,  Mo.,  and  Putnam  Couutj^  Ind.,  during  which  time  he  attended  the  old-time 
log  school-house  and  accpiired  apractical  English  education,  sufficient  to  tit  him  for  the  prac 
tical  duties  of  life.  Upon  leaving  school  he,  in  1857,  entered  a mercantile  establishment  in 
Filmore,  Ind.,  and  followed  this  occupation  off  and  on  for  about  sixteen  years,  a part  of  the 
time  in  the  town  of  Lizton,  Hendricks  Co.;  the  greater  portion  of  the  time  was  in  business 
by  himself.  From  that  time  until  about  fifteen  years  ago  he  tilled  the  soil  successfully  in 
Putnam  County,  but  at  the  end  of  that  time  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  located  on  the  west 
side,  his  family  continuing  to  reside  in  Putnam  County  until  six  years  ago.  Immediately 
after  arriving  in  Indianapolis  he  turned  his  attention  to  dealing  in  stock,  as  a commission 
merchant,  and  up  to  within  three  years  followed  that  occupation  with  satisfactory  results. 
For  one  year  following  this  he  was  an  assistant  in  the  county  auditor’s  office,  then  becajue 
an  employe  of  the  Cleveland  Fence  Company  and  for  about  twelve  months  was  one  of  their 
most  expert  salesmen.  Upon  severing  his  connection  with  this  company  he  aided  in  the 
organization  of  the  Capital  City  Fence  Company,  of  which  he  has  since  been  secretary.  In 
1878  he  located  at  the  stock  yards  and  soon  after  was  elected  a member  of  the  board  of 
trustees  of  that  {)lace,  on  the  Democrat  ticket,  overcoming  a large  Ilepublican  majority.  In 
1888  he  was  chosen  president  of  the  board  and  served  very  successfully  and  ably  as  such  for 
two  consecutive  years.  May  7,  1890,  he  was  elected  a member  of  the  school  board,  of  which 
he  was  for  one  year  secretary  and  two  years  president.  Mr.  Shinn  was  married  in  1801  to 
Miss  Charity  Woods  of  Filmore,  Ind.,  who  died  the  following  year,  and  in  18(35  Miss  Sarah 
F.  Wilson  became  his  second  wife,  and  to  them  three  sons  and  one  daughter  have  been  given. 
Socially  Mr.  Shinn  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.,  West  Indianapolis  Lodge,  No.  244,  and  in 
his  political  views  is  a stanch  Democrat. 

Feed.  A.  Mueller.  From  the  very  earliest  ages  the  art  of  preparing  the  compounds 
that  arrest  and  remove  pain  and  heal  the  sick  has  been  regarded  as  among  the  highest  of 
human  functions,  and  thus  it  is  that  so  much  interest  and  im2)ortance  attach  to  the  calling  of 
the  druggist  in  our  own  day.  Among  the  leading  and  most  reliable  members  of  the  phar- 
maceutical jrrofession,  in  Indianapolis,  may  be  mentioned  Ferd.  A.  Mueller,  who  has  had  an 
experience  of  twenty  years  in  the  drug  trade.  The  business  was  established  early  in  the 
sixties  and  passed  into  the  hands  of  L.  H.  Mueller  in  18(55.  In  1887  it  2>assed  into  the 
hands  of  J.  G.  Mueller,  and  in  1891  into  the  hands  of  its  present  proju'ietor,  who  is  one  of 
the  practical  and  accomplished  chemists  and  {)harmaci8ts  in  the  city,  being  jJeculiarly  (piali- 
fied  for  the  succe.ssful  professional  career  he  is  {)ursuing.  He  is  a Hoosier  by  birth,  his 
parents,  Charles  G.  and  Margaret  (Heumann)  Mueller,  being  natives  of  Saxony,  Germany, 
and  immigrating  to  ATuerica  in  1852.  The  father  was  engaged  in  business  in  Indianajrolis 
for  many  years.  Ferd.  A.  Mueller  grew  to  manhood  in  Indianapolis,  was  educated  in  the 
j)ublic  schools  and  at  Cincinnati  College  of  Pharmacy,  where  he  remained  for  four  years. 
Besides  he  had  private  instruction  in  chemistry  with  Wayne  & Dickory,  noted  chemists.  After 
graduating  from  the  above  mentioned  college,  March  18,  188(5,  with  high  honors,  Mr. 
Mueller  spent  some  time  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  in  the  drug  business.  From  there  he  came  to 
Indianapolis  and  engaged  in  business  with  his  brother,  but  in  January,  1891,  betook  jmsses- 
sion  of  the  store  purchased  from  his  brother,  and  has  been  actively  engaged  in  business 
since.  He  is  a member  of  the  Indiana  Pharmaceutical  Association,  Marion  County  Druggist 
Association  and  also  a number  of  other  home  institutions  and  societies.  Mr.  Mueller  has  the 
confidence  of  the  public  and  his  extensive  business  is  not  confined  to  this  city  alone  but 
extends  throughout  the  whole  country  in  sf)ecialties,  mixtures,  medicines,  etc.,  which  he 
manufactures  and  puts  up.  A special  feature  is  made  of  the  [)rescriptiou  dej)artment, 
physician’s  formula  and  family  recipes  being  dispensed  at  any  hour  of  the  day  or  night  with 
tliat  accuracy  and  precision  which  have  ever  characterized  i\Ir.  Mueller’s  oixu’ations  in  this 
important  department  of  his  profession. 

Edward  Daniels.  Although  still  iti  the  dawn  of  a successfid  career,  Mr.  Daniels  is  one 
of  the  prominent  attorneys  of  Indianapolis,  a city  well  re()resented  by  some  of  the  country’s 
most  talented  legal  lights.  His  {)resent  position  has  been  accpiired  by  arduous  study  and  a 
strict  adherence  to  an  lionorable  course,  and  as  a citizen  he  is  well  <ind  favorably  known  to  his 
fellow  townsmen.  His  father,  Joseph  J.  Daniels,  now  residing  in  Rockville,  Ind.,  isa  native 
« 


82 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


of  the  Buckeye  State,  and  a descendant  of  English  ancestors  who  settled  in  the  Empire  State 
after  reaching  this  country.  Edward  Daniels  was  also  a native  of  Ohio,  born  in  Greene 
County,  in  November,  1854,  and  came  with  his  parents  to  southern  Indiana  when  a child. 
In  addition  to  a common -school  education  he  attended  Wabash  College,  Indiana,  and  gradu- 
ated from  that  institution  in  1875.  Later  he  went  to  New  York  city,  attended  Columbia 
College  Law  School  one  year,  and  in  1878  was  admitted  to  the  bar.  From  there  he  came  to 
Indianapolis  and  entered  the  law  office  of  Baker,  Hord  & Hendricks,  where  he  remained  until 
1882  before  becoming  a member  of  the  tirm.  He  and  his  present  partner,  Albert  Baker,  son 
of  ex-Goveruor  C.  Baker  (deceased),  are  the  only  surviving  members  of  the  tirm  now,  Mr. 
Baker,  Jr.  having  become  a member  of  the  linn  at  the  same  time  with  our  subject.  Mr. 
Daniels  has  always  adhered  to  the  principles  of  the  Republican  i)arty  but  has  never  been 
active  in  politics.  In  the  year  18b2  he  was  a candidate  for  the  State  Senate  but  was  defeated 
by  a small  majority.  In  religion  he  is  a member  of  the  First  Presbyterian  Church  and  is 
active  in  his  support  of  all  worthy  enterprises.  He  married  Miss  Johnston,  daughter  of 
Wylie  W.  Johnston,  now  of  Wichita,  Kan.,  in  1887. 

Ernest  A.  Weukm.vn,  M.  D.  Whatever  may  be  said  of  the  laws  of  heredity  it  is  an  un- 
deniable (act  that  sons  do  frecpiently  follow  in  the  footsteps  of  their  fathers  and  display  re- 
markable talent  in  the  same  line  that  gave  eminence  to  their  sires.  A case  in  point  is  that 
of  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  Dr.  Ernest  A.  Wehrman,  who  was  born  in  Monroe  County, 
Ohio,  April  11,  1848,  being  the  son  of  Frederick  Wehrman,  a native  of  Germany,  who  was 
reared  and  educated  in  that  country,  graduating  as  a physician  and  becoming  eminent  in  his 
profession.  He  studied  at  the  famous  university  of  Gottingen  and  was  head  physician  and 
surgeon  of  the  hospital  at  Gottingen  for  seven  years.  On  coming  to  America  in  1836  he 
located  at  Wheeling,  then  in  Virginia,  where  he  carried  on  a general  practice  for  a period  of 
eleven  years.  At  the  expiration  of  this  time  he  settled  with  his  family  in  Monroe  County, 
Ohio,  where  he  died  of  consumption  in  1851.  This  worthy  and  distinguislied  man  was  mar- 
ried at  Wheeling  to  Mary  Zink,  a native  of  Switzerland,  who  came  to  this  country  at  the  age 
of  seven  with  her  parents.  She  survived  her  husband  for  many  years,  her  death  finally 
occurring  in  Ohio  in  1886.  Our  subject  was  reared  in  his  native  county  and  received 
instruction  in  the  public  schools  until  he  was  sixteen,  when  he  began  to  teach  in  winter 
months  and  attend  select  schools  of  Ohio  and  Virginia  in  the  summer,  continuing  until  he 
had  received  an  excellent  education.  In  the  fall  of  1870  he  entered  the  St.  Louis  Homeo- 
pathic College,  but  in  the  following  summer  attended  the  St.  Louis  Medical  College  and  in 
the  fall  of  187 1 entered  the  Hahnemann  Medical  College  at  Philadelphia,  from  which  he 
graduated  in  the  siiring  of  1872.  Returning  to  his  Ohio  home  he  entered  upon  the  general 
practice,  devoting  his  summers  for  the  next  three  years  to  that  work  and  giving  the  winters 
to  clinics  in  the  medical  colleges  of  St.  Louis  and  Philadel{)hia.  He  has  also  attended  the 
post  graduate  school  of  New  York  for  two  sessions,  and,  in  fact,  has  availed  himself  of  every 
j)ossible  means  for  adding  to  his  knowledge,  being  an  earnest  and  honest  student  and  inves- 
tigator. He  has  always  been  in  fulltoiich  with  the  times,  being  an  eager  reader  of  the  maga 
zines  and  periodicals  of  the  profession.  In  1878,  eager  for  more  light  and  knowledge,  the 
Doctor  went  abroad  and  for  the  next  three  years  spent  nearly  his  entire  time  in  the  general 
hospital  of  Vienna,  where  he  was  brought  face  to  face  with  the  various  forms  of  disease  and 
enjoyed  the  advantage  of  association  with  some  of  the  brightest  minds  of  the  ju'ofession.  Re- 
turning to  America  in  1881  he  practiced  in  Ohio  until  1882,  when  he  came  to  Indianapolis, 
where  he  has  since  acquired  a very  large  and  lucrative  practice  which  has  been  remarkable 
for  its  success.  Dr.  Wehrman  ranks  among  the  leading  physicians  of  the  city  and  is  recog- 
nized as  a learned  and  most  skilled  practitioner.  Since  locating  in  this  city  he  has  twice 
visited  the  hospitals  of  Vienna,  Berlin  and  London  and  has  attended  two  post-graduate 
courses  in  New  York.  The  Doctor  confines  his  work  exclusively  to  general  practice  in  the 
office,  and  he  has  gained  a wide  reputation  for  his  successful  treatment  of  diseases.  He  is  a 
firm  believer  in  the  principle  that  the  physician  in  order  to  be  successful  must  avail  himself 
of  every  possible  agency  for  gaining  added  knowledge  and  that  new  forms  of  disease  present 
themselves  and  that  new  modes  of  treatment  are  being  revealed  from  time  to  time  that  may 
be  highly  efficient.  He  is  one  who  would  never  cease  to  study,  to  investigate  and  to  learn, 
but  would  always  be  in  fullest  possession  of  the  latest  and  the  best  knowledge  concerning 


/ 


LISRARY 
OF  THE 

UNIVERSITY  OF  ILLINOI' 


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A • f .c»> 


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S3 


A\D  MABION  COUXTY,  INDIANA. 

diseases  and  their  cure.  He  is  a man  who  is  highly  esteemed  in  the  social  circles  of  the 
city,  and  is  admired  l\v  the  educated  for  his  erudition.  Dr.  Wehrmau  was  married  in  1882, 
in  Illinois,  to  Elizabeth  Eisenmeier,  a native  of  Trenton,  111.,  who  has  borne  him  three 
children. 

Rev.  Geokoe  E.  Swan.  Experience  has  convinced  the  careful  observer  that  there  is  a 
thousand  times  more  goodness,  wisdom  and  love  in  this  world  than  men  imagine.  Goodness 
is  generous  and  diffusive;  it  is  largeness  of  mind  and  sweetness  of  temper — balsam  in  the 
l)lood  and  justice  sublimated  to  a richer  spirit.  The  greatest  man  is  he  who  chooses  right 
with  the  most  invincible  resolution;  who  resists  the  sorest  temptation  from  within  and  with 
out;  who  bears  the  heaviest  burdens  cheerfully;  who  is  calmest  in  storms  and  most  fearless 
under  menaces  and  frowns;  whose  reliance  on  truth,  on  virtue  and  on  God  is  most  unfalter- 
ing. Biography,  especially  the  biography  of  the  gi-eat  and  good,  who  have  risen  by  their 
own  exertions  to  eminence  and  usefulness,  is  an  inspiring  and  ennobling  study.  Its  direct 
tendency  is  to  reproduce  the  excellence  it  records.  In  the  life  of  Rev.  George  E.  Swan  we 
find  that  which  should  inspire  the  youths  of  this  and  coming  generations  to  lives  of  useful- 
ness and  greatness,  and  it  is  with  pleasure  that  we  note  a few  of  the  most  important  events 
of  his  career.  He  was  born  in  Essex  County,  England,  October  12,  1854,  and  he  is  one 
of  the  heirs  in  the  celebrated  case  of  Jennings  vs.  Jennings,  descrifjed  in  Dickens’  Bleak 
House  as  Jarndynce  vs.  Jarndynce.  Our  subject  was  educated  in  the  schools  of  London, 
England,  and  came  to  America  alone  when  he  was  but  nineteen  years  of  age.  First  he  lo- 
cated in  Duluth,  whei’e  he  worked  in  the  custom  house,  and  then  went  to  Fairbault,  Minn., 
where  he  studied  live  years,  part  of  the  time  at  Shattucks  School,  and  at  Seabury  Divinity 
School,  graduating  from  the  latter  in  1880  with  the  degree  of  B.  D.  From  there  he  went  to 
Fergus  Falls,  Minn.,  as  missionary  for  one  j'ear,  and  then  took  charge  of  St.  John’s  Church 
at  Moorhead,  Minn.,  where  he  remained  until  1887.  He  then  came  to  Indianapolis  and 
took  charge  of  Grace  Cathedral,  then  located  on  the  corner  of  Pennsylvania  and  St.  Joseph 
Streets.  At  that  time  there  was  a very  small  congregation  but  under  his  ministry  this  largely 
increased  and  a newchurch  built  at  Seventh  and  Central  Avenue.  I’hen  in  February,  1891  he 
took  charge  of  the  Mary’s  Hall,  a select  day  and  boarding  school  for  young  ladies,  under  the 
auspices  of  the  Episcopal  Church  and  now  holds  that  position.  He  is  a man  of  scholarly 
attainments  and  wide  learning,  and  an  able  and  forcible  speaker.  He  impresses  all  with 
whom  he  comes  in  contact  as  being  an  earnest,  efficient  and  faithful  laborer  in  his  Master's 
service.  In  November,  1888,  our  subject  was  married  to  Miss  Marion  C.  Hawley,  daughter 
of  Rev.  Dr.  F.  J.  Hawley,  dean  of  Minnesota,  and  later  rector  of  SI.  John’s  Parish,  West 
Indies.  Mr.  Swan  has  one  son,  John  Fletcher,  and  a daughter,  Marion  Hart. 

N.  S.  Dnioos,  who  has  been  identified  with  the  drug  business  of  Indianapolis  for  many 
years,  is  now  located  at  850  East  Washington  Street  where  he  has  a neatly  fitted  up  phar- 
macy. He  carries  a full  and  well  assorted  stock  of  everything  usually  found  in  a well  regu 
lated  store  of  this  character  and  is  doing  a fairly  prosperous  business. 

John  R.  Pearson.  If  continuous  elections  to  positions  of  trust  and  honor  are  a criterion 
by  which  a man’s  po[)ularity  is  gauged,  then  John  R.  Pearson  enjoys,  to  an  unusual  degree, 
the  high  esteem  of  his  fellow  man.  A native  of  the  Birmingham  of  America,  Pittsburgh, 
Penn.,  his  birth  occurred  March  27,  1819,  his  father  being  Richard  Pearson,  an  English- 
man by  birth.  The  elder  Pearson  was  a man  of  more  than  usual  force  of  character  and  dis- 
cernment, a shrewd  financier,  was  one  of  the  i)r()genitors  of  the  Allegheny  Valley  Railway 
with  which  he  was  identified  for  over  a (juarter  of  a century,  and  for  a i)eriod  of  thirty-live 
years  was  connected  with  the  old  Pittsburgh  Bank.  'I’he  family  is  yet  prominently  con 
nected  with  the  political,  financial  and  social  conditions  of  Pittsburgh.  To  a large  extent 
John  It.  Pearson  has  inherited  his  superior  business  qualifications  from  his  father.  Born  at  a 
time  when  Pittsburgh  was  just  beginning  to  demonstrate  to  the  worhl  her  admirable  location 
as  a manufacturing  center,  he  grew  to  manhood  with  her  develo[)ment,  imbibing  the  same 
spirit  (;f  enthusiasm  and  enterj)rise  that  ptumeated  her  veins.  After  following  wholesah^ 
merchandising  in  his  native  city  fora  time  he  (h'cided  that  sonic*where  in  the  great  West  his 
opj)ortunities  for  l)ettering  his  condition  would  not  be  as  much  lestricttal  as  at  I’ittsburgh, 
and  accordingly,  in  I87<t,  cairn;  to  Indianapolis  and  bi'caine  tin*  head  of  the  well  known  house 
of  Pearson  A I.)ickson.  'I'his  firm  became  a lienefactor  of  the  city,  in  a manin'r,  by  insti- 


84 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


tutiug  many  improvements  among  which  was  the  erection  of  the  Grand  Opera  House  in  sixty 
days’  time.  Mr.  Pearson  helped  to  organize  the  Citizen’s  Gas  Company  and  was  selected  to 
superintend  same  until  it  was  financially  consolidated  with  the  old  gas  company.  After  this 
event  he  continued  as  superintendent  until  the  purchase  of  the  plant,  and  of  that  of  the 
Natural  Gas  plant  by  a New  York  corporation  and  since  then  has  been  general  manager  and 
assistant  to  the  president.  Not  long  after  his  location  in  Indianapolis  Mr.  Pearson  was 
selected  by  his  neighbors  for  political  preferment  and  has  served  niuuerous  terms  in  the  City 
Council,  has  been  president  of  the  Police  Board  and  chairman  of  the  Committee  on  finance. 
Preferring  active  business  pursuits  to  the  uncertain  game  of  politics,  he  has  firmly  declined 
to  enter  the  political  arena.  Mr.  Pearson  has  made  life  an  undisputed  success  so  far,  and 
being  but  in  the  prime  of  life  his  views  of  the  future  can  have  only  a roseate  hue.  What  he 
might  have  lacked  in  a social  degree  has  been  more  than  remedied  by  his  marriage  with 
Miss  Hattie,  the  daughter  of  the  late  James  Dickson.  The  poet  has  said,  and  truly,  that: 

“ Into  each  life  some  rain  must  fall, 

Some  clays  must  be  dark  and  dreary.” 

This  is  true  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Pearson.  One  son  was  born  to  them  who  lived  long  enough 
to  give  much  promise  of  the  future.  Death  dashed  fond  hopes  and  bright  dreams  to  the 
earth  when  the  youth  was  sixteen  years  old. 

Ira  HoLLiNCiswoKTii.  From  the  biogra])hy  of  every  man  may  be  gleaned  some  lessons 
of  genuine  worth,  for  it  is  here  that  we  discover  the  secret  of  his  success  or  failure.  If  he  has 
“))assed  to  that  bourne  whence  no  traveler  returns,”  it  is  all  the  more  necessary  that  his 
name  should  be  perpetuated  for  the  benefit  of  his  descendants  and  for  future  generations. 
Ira  Hollingsworth’s  life  was  marked  by  all  that  goes  to  make  up  useful  and  noble  manhood, 
and  in  him  was  the  stuff  ot  which  noble  citizens  are  made.  He  was  born  near  Dayton, 
Ohio,  A])ril  2‘2,  1808,  a son  of  Joseph  and  Sarah  J.  (Cox)  Hollingsworth,  both  of  whom 
were  born  in  South  Carolina.  Ira  Hollingsworth  resided  in  his  native  county  until  he  was 
about  eleven  years  of  age,  at  which  time  the  family  removed  to  Randolph  County,  Ind., 
and  settled  on  a farm,  where  the  rest  of  his  boyhood  and  eai  ly  manhood  were  spent.  He 
was  educated  in  the  old-time  subscrijction  schools  which  were  in  vogue  in  his  day  and  which 
were  held  in  rude  log  cabins.  Upon  reaching  manhood  he  engaged  in  farming,  as  his 
father  had  done  before  him,  and  during  the  long  winter  months  when  he  could  do  nothing 
else,  he  devoted  his  time  to  making  shoes  for  his  neighbors.  He  resided  in  Randolph 
County  until  1837,  then  sold  his  farm,  which  he  had  improved,  and  came  to  Marion  County^ 
arriving  in  Pike  Township  April  19,  1837,  where  he  bought  a farm  of  15G  acres  for 
$1,200  cash,  now  valued  at  $15,000.  This  land  was  but  little  improved  at  that  time,  and 
the  work  of  clearing  and  again  establishing  a home  was  gone  over  again.  He  continued 
to  reside  on  this  place  until  his  death,  which  occurred  May  24,  1874,  and  during  this  time 
he  made  a wide  acquaintance  and  won  universal  esteem.  He  never  interested  himself  in 
politics  to  any  great  extent,  but  served  his  township  in  official  capacities,  being  one  of  the  trus- 
tees for  a number  of  years.  He  was  very  successful  as  a farmer,  and  a more  charitable  or 
benevolent  man  could  not  be  found  in  all  the  country  round.  Mr.  Hollingsworth  was 
married  in  1827  to  Miss  Deborah  Bennett,  a native  of  Guilford  County,  N.  C.,  born  May 
If),  1808,  a daughter  of  Joseph  and  Ruth  (Mills)  Bennett,  who  were  also  natives  of  the 
Old  North  State.  The  Bennett  family  were  English,  and  all  were  adherents  of  the  Quaker 
faith.  Joseph  Bennett  died  in  North  Carolina  about  the  year  1814,  and  a few  years  after 
his  death  his  widow  and  children  removed  to  Indiana,  coming  the  entire  distance  in  a one- 
horse  wagon.  They  settled  in  Randolph  County  in  1821  or  1822,  where  the  mother  made 
her  home  until  1848,  when  she  removed  to  Hamilton  County,  and  there  was  called  from  life 
in  May,  1863,  at  the  advanced  age  of  about  ninety  years.  Ira  Hollingsworth  and  his  wife 
became  the  parents  of  fourteen  children,  seven  boys  and  seven  girls,  thirteen  of  whom 
grew  to  manhood  and  womanhood:  Joseph  B.;  Ruth  A.,  married  James  M.  Hume,  and  died 
May  25,  1865;  Sarah  J. ; Eliza,  married  Charles  Hanes,  and  died  November  2,  1886;  Eliz- 
abeth, died  July  29,  1884;  Job,  died  at  the  age  of  six  months;  Francis  M.,  Martin  L., 
resides  near  Arkansas  City,  Kan.,  and  was  married  in  1858  to  Martha  E.  Eudailey;  William 
H.  H. ; Sylrania,  married  J.  W.  Wright,  and  resides  on  a farm  in  Franklin  County,  Kan.  ; 


AXD  MABIOX  couxry,  IXDIAXA. 


85 


Lieurania;  John  S. ; Oliver  H.  P.,  and  Victoria.  The  mother  of  these  children  died  on 
May  14,  1892,  she  and  her  husband  having  been  charter  members  of  the  North  Liberty 
Christian  Church  in  May,  1841,  and  were  closely  connected  and  identitied  with  the  same  for 
many  j'ears,  their  home  being  commonly  known  as  the  jireacher’s  home  on  all  occasions. 
Mr.  Hollingsworth  was  officially  connected  with  the  church  as  elder  for  many  years.  Polit- 
ically he  was  a Whig  and  Abolitionist,  in  fact  he  was  always  in  sympathy  with  downtrod- 
den humanity.  He  and  his  brother  Dan  cast  the  first  Abolitionist  votes  in  Pike  Township, 
and  were  designated  at  the  time  as  fools,  but  Mr.  Hollingsworth  said  at  the  time  that  he 
hoped  to  live  to  see  the  seed  bear  fruit,  and  afterward  thanked  God  that  his  hopes  were 
realized.  He  was  a most  kind  and  affectionate  father,  very  generous  toward  his  children, 
and  in  addition  to  giving  each  and  every  one  of  them  good  educational  advantages,  materi- 
ally assisted  them  in  getting  settled  in  homes  of  their  own,  and  always  provided  them  with 
comforts  and  conveniences  so  far  as  lay  within  his  power.  He  was  a strong  temperance  man, 
one  of  the  original  organizers  and  active  workers  in  that  cause  in  his  township.  He  was  a 
man  whom  to  know  was  to  honor,  and  his  many  kindly  deeds  will  live  through  many  years 
to  come. 

D.vxiel  Hollingsworth.  This  gentleman  is  one  of  the  oldest  representatives  of  that 
pioneer  family  now  living  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  may  be  said  to  be  one  of  its  most 
worthy  representatives,  for  his  walk  through  life  has  been  characterized  by  the  most  unde- 
viating energy,  by  a desire  to  do  as  he  would  be  done  by,  and  by  the  utmost  public  spirit. 
Mr.  Hollingsworth  was  born  in  Randolph  County,  Ind.,  December  I,  1821,  a son  of  Joseph 
Hollingsworth,  who  was  born  in  South  Carolina,  in  1777,  where  he  was  reared  to  manhood 
and  married  IMiss  Sarah  J.  Cox,  a native  of  the  same  State  as  himself.  At  an  early  period 
in  the  history  of  the  State  they  removed  to  Ohio,  but  later  settled  in  Randolph  County,  Ind., 
where  Joseph  Hollingsworth  entered  240  acres  of  land,  nearly  all  of  which  was  heavily  covered 
witli  timber.  On  this  land  he  erected  a cabin  of  })oles  ami  began  to  clear  the  land  prepara- 
tory to  the  establishment  of  a home,  and  there  after  ])assing  through  the  usual  hardships 
and  privations  incident  to  the  life  of  the  pioneer,  their  efforts  began  to  lie  rewarded  and  in 
due  course  of  time  they  became  possessed  of  an  abundance  of  this  world’s  goods.  Mr.  Holl- 
ingsworth was  an  adherent  of  the  Quaker  faith  and  was  a devout  member  of  that  church  the 
greater  portion  of  his  life.  In  1837  the  family  first  came  to  Marion  County,  and  took  up 
their  residence  in  Pike  Township,  where  l\Ir.  Hollingsworth  died  about  one  year  later,  his 
wife  following  him  to  the  grave  about  two  weeks  later.  To  this  worthy  couple  a family  of 
ten  children  were  given,  all  of  whom  were  residents  of  Pike  County  at  one  time,  but  only 
three  of  whom  are  now  living:  Eliza,  Kuhn  and  Daniel.  Those  deceased  are:  Mary, 
George,  Lydia,  Jonathan,  Ira,  Asa  and  Jeremiah.  The  subject  of  this  sketch,  Daniel  Holl- 
ingsworth, is  the  youngest  of  his  fatlier’s  family,  and  like  the  majority  of  the  farmers’  boy.i 
of  his  day,  his  time  was  spent  in  wielding  the  hoe  on  the  home  place,  and  in  attending  such 
district  schools  as  were  held  in  the  vicinity  of  his  rural  home.  In  this  manner  his  early  life 
was  spent  and  during  this  time  he  developed  into  a tine  specimen  of  physical  manhood.  He 
never  attended  a free  school,  but  in  his  day  the  three  R’s  were  taught  in  the  typical  log 
cabin  of  pioneer  days,  and  all  the  schools  were  conducted  on  the  subscription  ])lan.  Not- 
withstanding these  adverse  circumstances  he  made  reasonable  progress  in  his  studies,  and 
while  laboring  on  the  home  farm  he  became  well  versed  in  all  kinds  of  agricultural  labor 
and  was  especially  skillful  as  a rail  splitter.  He  has  followed  the  occupation  of  farming  in 
Ihke  Townshij),  Marion  County,  ever  since  his  sixteentli  year,  and  in  this  occupation  has 
been  prosperous,  being  also  extensively  and  successfully  engaged  in  buying  and  selling  hogs. 
He  has  lieen  retired  from  the  active  duties  of  life  for  some  years,  and  is  in  the  enjoyment  of 
liberal  means,  the  result  of  his  own  energy  and  foretliought.  He  now  resides  at  New 
■Augusta.  H<‘  was  married  in  November,  1840,  to  Miss  Emily  Pollard,  a native  of  Kentucky, 
born  December  !<»,  1823,  a daughter  of  Allison  and  Mary  (Ashley)  Pollard,  also  natives  of 
that  State,  and  to  them  three  children  have  been  given:  Elizabeth  A.,  MaryC.,  who  married 
B.  F.  .Abrams,  and  is  now  deceased,  and  John  who  resides  in  Htmdricks  Countv,  Ind.  ]\Tr. 
anil  Mrs.  Hollingsworth  have  been  active  members  of  the  Chi'istian  Churcli  for  over  half  a 
century,  and  they  and  four  other  persons  are  the  only  chartiw  memliers  of  that  church  now 
living.  I’his  clinrch  is  known  as  the  Nortli  Liberty  Christian  Church  and  was  organized  by 


80 


MEMOIRS  OF  lEDlAXAPOLIS 


Kev.  Thomas  Lockhart  in  1841.  Mr.  Hollingsworth  was  for  many  years  an  elder  in  this 
church.  Politically  he  was  originally  a Whig,  but  since  its  organization  he  has  voted  the 
Republican  ticket,  although  he  is  a prohibitionist  in  principle.  He  went  in  debt  for  his  first 
forty  live  acres  of  land  but  by  thrift  and  industry  ])ro8pered  and  eventually  became  the 
owner  of  a tine  tract  of  land  comprising  150  acres.  During  his  early  years  of  farming  he 
cut  many  an  acre  of  wheat  with  a reap  hook  for  50  cents  per  day,  but  closed  his  active  career 
in  easy  circumstances.  He  is  still  the  owner  of  forty  acres  of  valuable  land  in  Pike  Town- 
ship, besides  his  fine  residence  property  in  New  Augusta,  and  also  owns  100  acres  in  Hen- 
dricks County,  lud.  June  30,  1803,  a wheat  reaping  contest  with  reap  hooks  was  partici- 
pated in  by  ten  old  citizens  of  the  county,  witnessed  by  several  hundred  citizens  and  Mr. 
Hollingsworth  secured  the  first  premium  of  $5  for  reaping  the  greatest  amount  in  a given 
time.  He  was  past  seventy-one  years  of  age  when  this  occurred,  which  clearly  demonstrates 
that  father  Time  has  touched  him  lightly  and  that  many  more  years  of  usefulness  are  with- 
out doubt  before  him. 

Fkancis  M.akion  Hollinosworth.  a successful  farmer  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  is 
Francis  M.  Hollingsworth,  who  is  a son  of  Ira  and  Deborah  (Bennett)  Hollingsworth,  and 
was  born  in  Pike  Township,  this  county,  January  30,  1837,  being  the  first  of  a family  born 
in  Marion  County.  He  was  reai  ed  on  a farm  in  his  native  township,  and  was  an  attendant  of 
the  district  schools  for  about  three  months  out  of  the  year  during  his  youthful  days.  He 
remained  at  home  until  he  attained  the  age  of  about  twenty  years,  then  went  to  Kansas  and 
cast  his  first  vote  against  the  Lecompton  Constitution.  He  removed  to  that  State  for  the 
purpose  of  locating  a claim,  and  after  an  experience  of  nearly  two  years  of  frontier  life,  he 
gladly  returned  to  Marion  County  and  began  farming  in  his  native  township,  where  he  has 
continued  to  reside  ever  since,  his  attention  being  devoted  to  tilling  the  soil  and  to 
the  raising  of  and  dealing  in  stock,  especially  during  the  war,  up  to  1875,  since  which 
time  the  most  of  his  attention  has  been  given  to  farming  and  dairying.  He  became 
interested  in  politics  about  the  organization  of  the  Republican  party,  of  which  he  has  since 
been  a stanch  supporter,  and  he  has  always  taken  an  active  interest  in  the  political  affairs  of 
the  times,  and  wields  considerable  influence  in  political  circles.  In  October,  1872,  he  was 
elected  to  the  position  of  justice  of  the  peace  of  Pike  Township,  in  which  capacity  he  served 
nearly  eight  years.  At  the  pre.sent  time  he  is  serving  his  fourth  term  as  notary  public, 
making  a period  of  sixteen  years  that  he  has  continuously  held  this  office.  Mr.  Hollings- 
worth was  married  on  February  27,  1862,  to  Miss  Cynthia  M.  Hightshue,  who  was  born 
August  14,  1839,  a daughter  of  Nicholas  and  Jane  (Runnells)  Hightshue.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Hollingsworth  have  three  children:  Albert,  Fred  and  Frank.  Mr.  Hollingsworth  has  been 
a member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity  for  the  past  twenty-three  years,  and  in  this  order  has 
tilled  most  of  the  chairs.  He  and  his  wife  have  been  active  members  of  the  Ebeneezer 
Christian  Church,  at  Traders’  Point,  for  the  past  fifteen  years;  he  has  served  as  one  of 
the  elders  for  ten  years,  and  at  the  present  time  is  senior  acting  elder.  Of  fifteen  years 
of  active  membership,  he  is  serving  his  thirteenth  year  as  superintendent  of  the  Sunday- 
school. 

Mrs.  Elizabeth  Kinsley.  This  intelligent  and  wide-awake  lady  is  a product  of  the 
Buckeye  State,  where  she  was  born  June  22,  1818.  At  the  age  of  thirteen  years  she  was 
brought  by  her  parents,  John  and  Elsie  (Oliphant)  Parish,  to  Indiana,  and  here  has  made 
her  home  up  to  the  present  time.  Her  father  and  mother  were  married  in  Albion,  Ohio,  in 
1807,  but  the  former  was  a Kentuckian  by  birth  and  removed  to  Albion,  Ohio,  when  a young 
man,  and  there  met  ami  married  Miss  Oliphant.  He  died  when  Elizabeth  was  a small  girl, 
leaving  his  widow  with  four  girls  and  three  boys  to  care  for,  the  names  of  the  latter  being 
Mary,  Reuben,  Sarah,  William,  Elizabeth,  John  and  Sophia.  John  is  now  a resident  of 
Marion  County.  Elizabeth  grew  to  womanhood  in  the  “ Hoosier  State”  and  received  fair 
educational  advantages  in  her  girlhood,  attending  the  common  schools  in  the  vicinity  of  her 
home  and  assisting  her  mother  in  the  duties  of  the  home.  She  was  first  married  to  Isaac 
^Vhitinger,  by  whom  she  became  the  mother  of  eight  children,  only  one,  Jane,  now  living; 
her  home  is  in  Hamilton  County,  Ind.,  and  she  is  the  wife  of  Frank  Creig.  The  second 
marriage  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  to  Isaac  Jackson,  by  whom  she  had  one  son, 
Isaac,  Jr.,  who  is  a prosperous  citizen  of  Broad  Ripple,  Ind.  Her  third  marriage  was  to 


87 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Alexander  Kinsley,  to  whom  she  was  married  in  1855.  This  marriage  also  resulted  in  the 
birth  of  one  child,  Mary,  who  was  born  June  29,  1857,  who  now  with  her  husband,  Perry 
M.  Deford,  lives  on  the  old  home  farm  with  her  mother.  She  was  married  to  Mr.  Deford 
in  1875,  and  their  union  has  resulted  in  the  birtli  of  two  children:  Frederick  B.,  born  in 
June,  1884,  and  Clara,  who  was  born  in  March,  1891.  Perry  M.  Deford  is  a young  man  of 
high  principles,  intelligent,  pushing  and  enterprising,  and  is  doing  well  in  a financial  way. 
His  parents,  George  W.  and  Ella  (Williams)  Deford,  were  married  in  Franklin  County,  Ind., 
in  1831,  and  their  union  resulted  in  the  birth  of  ten  children,  who  were  named  as  follows: 
Sidrick  C.,  John  W.,  Martha  J.,  Mary  H.,  William  H.,  Malinda,  Margaret  C.,  Francis  A., 
Perry  IM.  and  Charles  W.  Of  the  Deford  family  John  W.  and  William  Henry  were  soldiers 
in  the  Union  army  during  the  Civil  War,  with  which  they  served  until  the  close  of  hostili- 
ties, being  loyal  and  faithful  to  the  cause  they  espoused.  Alexander  Kinsley  was  one  of 
the  pioneer  settlers  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  at  the  time  of  his  settlement  here  Indian- 
apolis consisted  of  only  a few  log  huts.  Mr.  Kinsley  was  a man  of  genial  and  kindly  dis- 
position, was  a thrifty  agriculturist,  and  was  strictly  honorable  in  every  sense  of  the  word. 

Hon.  Daniel  W.  Yoorhees,  whom  Indiana  Democrats  so  delight  to  honor,  is  a native 
of  Ohio,  his  birth  occurring  in  Butler  County,  September  26,  1827,  and  is  a son  of  Stephen 
Yoorhees,  a native  of  Kentucky,  and  a grandson  of  Peter  Yoorhees,  of  New  Jersey  nativity. 
When  only  two  months  old  his  parents  moved  to  Fountain  County,  Ind.,  and  this  State  has 
ever  since  been  his  home.  Asbury  University  graduated  him  in  1849,  and  here  he  obtained 
a wide  reputation  as  an  orator  of  sujierior  ability,  and  the  high  regard  of  the  faculty.  He 
studied  law  and  in  1852  was  solicited  by  Hon.  E.  A.  Hannegan,  formerly  United  States 
Senator,  to  become  his  partner,  which  he  accepted.  In  1853  he  was  appointed  State  at- 
torney of  his  circuit  by  the  governor,  and  thus  obtained  the  foundation  of  his  justly  earned 
reputation  as  a superior  criminal  lawyer.  In  1856  he  was  the  Democratic  nominee  for 
Congress,  and  although  defeated,  reduced  the  opposing  majority  nearly  1 ,800  votes.  In 
1857  he  moved  to  Terre  Haute,  and  the  year  following  was  appointed  United  States  district 
attorney  by  President  Buchanan.  In  I860  and  in  18()2  he  was  elected  to  Congress,  and  in 
1864,  although  declared  elected,  his  election  was  successfully  contested.  In  1868  he  was 
again  elected  to  Congress,  and  re  elected  in  1870.  In  November,  1877,  he  was  appointed 
Unite  1 States  senator  to  succeed  Governor  Morton,  and  has  ever  since  occupied  this  po- 
sition by  election.  During  the  special  session  of  Congress  called  by  Pres.  Cleveland 
he  was  the  leader  of  his  party,  and  the  advocate  of  the  President  in  bringing  about  the  re- 
peal of  the  so  called  Sherman  act.  Unquestionably  Mr.Yoorhees  is  one  of  the  most  brilliant 
men  that  has  ever  held  office  within  the  State’s  jurisdiction.  Not  only  has  he  an  established 
reputation  as  a great  statesman,  but  his  fame  as  a criminal  lawyer  is  equally  as  brilliant.  He 
has  always  lieen  an  unswerving,  uncompromising  Democrat.  His  great  ability  as  a states- 
man and  lawyer  is  respected  and  acknowledged  by  all,  regardless  of  politics.  Mr.  Yoorhees 
married  Miss  Jane  Hardesty  in  1850,  and  four  children  have  blessed  their  union.  “The 
Tall  Scycamore  of  the  Wabash,”  as  he  is  known,  occupies  a prominent  page  in  the  volume 
devoted  to  America’s  greatest  sons. 

Demakchus  C.  Hrown.  While  the  life  of  an  educator  is  generally  barren  of  incidents 
for  popular  laography,  it  is  still  true  that  the  work  of  a [uotracted  life  in  this  sphere  must 
have  many  points  of  interest  to  juactical  thinkers,  to  philosophical  speculators  on  education, 
and  to  the  great  work  of  educational  progress.  Years  industriously  employed  in  any  de- 
partment of  human  labor  cannot  be  without  its  fruits  and  its  lessons.  Demarchus  C.  Brown 
was  born  in  Indianajiolis,  Ind.,  June  21,  1857,  and  was  educated  in  the  public  schools  there 
and  at  Butler  University,  graduating  from  the  latter  institution  in  1879,  witli  the  degree  of 
A.  B.  Subseipiently  he  took  a post-graduate  course  and  was  given  the  degree  of  M.  A. 
Following  this  he  taught  in  the  university  as  tutor  for  two  years  and  then  s]ient  a year  at 
the  T’niversity  of  Tiibingen,  Germany.  He  was  for  some  time  in  IIh;  British  .Museum  also. 
In  1883  he  returned  home  and  acted  as  assistant  professor  of  Greek  for  one  year,  when  he 
was  appointed  to  fill  the  Greek  chair.  4'hat  position  he  filled  until  June,  1892,  and  in  August 
of  that  year  he  went  to  I’aris,  France,  where  he  studied  French  until  November,  1892.  He 
then  became  a member  of  tlio  Aimwican  School  of  Arclijeology,  at  Atliens,  Greece,  whither 
he  had  gone,  and  remained  in  that  city  until  the  spring  of  1893,  when  ho  returned  to  Indian- 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


apolis,  Iiid.,  and  resumed  the  Greek  chair  in  Butler  University.  Mr.  Brown  is  a member  of 
the  Phi  Delta  Theta  Fraternity,  and  of  the  Christian  Church.  He  was  married  in  1881  to 
Miss  Anna  Rudy,  daughter  of  P.  O.  Rudy,  of  Paris,  111,,  who  died  in  1891  without  issue. 
Philip  Brown,  father  of  subject,  was  a native  of  Ohio  and  a merchant,  principally.  His 
death  occurred  in  1864.  The  mother  of  our  subject  was  originally  Julia  Troester  and  her 
death  occurred  in  1873. 

Dur  Henry  S.  Cunningham.  The  value  to  any  community  of  a professional  man  is  not 
marked  merely  by  his  learning  and  skill,  his  proficiency  in  medical  and  surgical  practice,  but 
also  by  his  character,  both  private  and  professional,  his  honorable  adherence  to  medical 
ethics  and  his  personal  integrity  and  benevolence  of  purpose.  When  a physician  combines 
(bese  characteristics  it  is  with  great  jJeasure  that  we  record  his  life  work,  and  such  a man  do 
we  find  in  Dr.  Henry  S.  Cunningham.  This  physician  of  Indianapolis  had  his  birth  in  Arm- 
strong County,  Penn.,  Sejitember  1,  1839,  and  remained  in  his  native  county  until  eighteen 
years  of  age.  Being  left  an  orphan  at  a tender  age  he  educated  himself  and  is  a self-made 
man  in  every  jiarticnlar.  He  has  known  the  demands  of  poverty,  but  his  honesty,  goodness, 
energy  and  stick-to-it  iveness  have  brought  their  rewards,  which  he  and  his  family  are  now 
enjoying.  He  attended  the  public  school  and  when  thirteen  years  of  age  entered  the  acad- 
emy at  Worthington,  Penn. , to  study  higher  branches.  There  he  remained  until  eighteen 
years  of  age,  working  his  way,  after  which  he  entered  grammar  school  at  New  Haven,  Conn., 
fora  year.  After  this  for  a number  of  years  he  taught  school  and  worked  at  mechanics.  In 
1862  he  began  the  study  of  medicine  with  Starling  Loving  at  Columbus,  Ohio,  and  graduated 
from  Starling  College  there  June  30,  1865.  He  then  came  to  Indiana,  Hancock  County,  and 
located  at  Warrington,  but  owing  to  ill  health  did  not  enter  upon  his  practice  until  April, 
1866.  He  remained  at  Warrington  until  the  spring  of  1869  when  he  located  at  Winchester, 
Randolph  County,  where  he  continued  until  tlio  spring  of  1871.  From  there  he  went  to  Mon- 
treal, Canada,  and  entered  the  medical  department  of  Bishop  College  where  he  graduated 
April  4,  1872,  with  the  Canadian  C.  M. , M.  D.  degree.  In  April  of  the  following  year  he 
came  to  Indianapolis  and  from  the  first  had  a successful  practice.  For  two  years  he  was  on 
the  staff  of  Bolib’s  Free  Dispensary  in  the  early  seventies.  Professor  William  B.  Fletcher,  super- 
intendent. He  is  a member  of  the  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  of  the  Province  of 
Quebec.  He  was  one  of  the  charter  members  of  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  but  is  not 
an  active  member  now.  He  was  a memlier  of  the  original  Academy  of  Medicine  during  its 
existence.  Dr.  Cunningham  is  the  author  of  “Lectures  on  Physiological  Laws  of  Life  and 
Hygiene,”  published  in  1882,  which  was  kindly  received  by  the  profession  and  has  had  an 
extensive  sale.  He  was  physician  to  the  German  Protestant  Orphan  Home  at  Indianapolis, 
from  October,  1887,  up  to  October,  1891,  when  he  resigned  and  was  regularly  appointed  as 
consulting  physician,  a position  he  yet  occupies.  The  Doctor  is  a member  of  the  Western 
Association  of  Writers  and  at  the  annual  meeting  in  June,  1893,  at  Spring  Park,  Warsaw, 
Ind.,  he  read  a paper  liefore  that  body  on  “Man’s  Individuality  and  Responsiliility.”  He  is 
a man  of  education,  a ready  writer,  and  is  well  known  in  the  city  as  one  of  the  leading 
practitioners.  He  is  also  a member  of  the  present  executive  board  of  Western  Association 
of  Writers.  Socially  hois  a member  of  the  Masonic  Order,  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  A.  O.  of  D.  and 
Chosen  Friends.  He  has  served  as  president  of  the  board  of  health  of  Indianapolis.  In 
the  year  1864  he  was  married  to  Miss  Emma  Mills,  a native  of  Pennsylvania,  and  three  chil- 
dren have  been  born  to  their  union.  Mrs.  Cunningham  died  of  consumption  but  the  children 
are  living.  The  Doctor’s  second  marriage  occurred  in  1876,  to  Miss  Carrie  Fairfield,  a na- 
tive of  Syracuse,  N.  Y. , and  a daughter  of  John  D.  and  Charlotte  (Knapp)  Fairfield.  She 
died  on  December  18,  1887.  The  Doctor  adheres  to  the  platform  of  the  Democratic  party. 

Hon.  Cyrus  F.  Mosier.  The  facility  with  which  the  American  soldier  laid  down  the 
implements  of  warfare,  at  the  close  of  the  great  conflict  between  the  northern  and  south- 
ern States,  and  adapted  himself  to  the  pursuits  of  civil  life,  has  been  the  wonder  of  all 
nations,  and  scarcely  less  surprising  than  gratifying  to  the  American  people  themselves. 
W' hile  not  a few  very  jirofound  citizens  of  the  Republic  were  speculating  as  to  what  was  to 
become  of  the  thousands  of  men  mustered  out  of  the  armies  of  the  United  States,  the  rpies- 
tion  was  solved  by  the  ex-soldiers  themselves,  who  quietly  stepped  into  the  ordinary  walks 
of  life,  to  become  the  very  flower  of  American  citizenship,  and  the  chief  promoters  of  a 


LIBRARY 
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89 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

national  progress  which  is  without  a parallel  in  history.  In  ability,  industry,  integrity  and 
morality,  in  respect  for  the  rights  of  others,  and  everything  that  goes  to  make  uj)  a good 
citizen,  the  manhood  of  the  nation  suffered  nothing  as  a result  of  the  war,  but  on  the  con- 
trary it  has  been  demonstrated  that  the  beardless  boys  who  left  the  farm,  the  workshop,  the 
storeroom  and  the  college,  to  tight  the  battles  which  were  to  preserve  the  life  of  the  nation, 
came  out  of  the  conflict,  as  a rule,  better  fitted  for  that  kind  of  systematic,  tireless  and  per- 
sistent effort  which  wins  success,  than  the  young  Americans  of  any  generation  since  the 
revolutionary  jieriod.  This  fact  cannot  fail  to  impress  itself  upon  either  the  writer  of 
American  history  proper,  or  of  that  branch  of  history  which  consists  of  the  biographies  of 
those  who  have  achieved  sufficient  distinction  to  make  the  record  of  their  lives  of  interest  to 
the  j)ublic.  Whenever  we  attempt  to  write  the  history  of  a great  euter[)rise,  we  find  among 
its  chief  promoters,  men  who  were  at  Vicksburg,  Donelson,  Gettysburg,  or  Appomattox;  we 
find  the  same  class  of  men  on  the  bench,  at  the  bar,  in  the  pulpit,  in  high  official  positions, 
and  in  the  field  of  medicine,  and  wherever  we  find  them,  with  rare  exceptions,  they  reflect 
the  highest  credit  upon  their  respective  callings.  The  sirbject  of  this  sketch  was  one  who 
donned  the  blue  uniform  and  fought  bravely  for  the  old  flag,  serving  with  distinction 
through  the  Rebellion.  He  comes  of  good  old  fighting  stock,  his  paternal  grandfather  hav- 
ing fought  and  died  for  independence.  Mr.  Mosier  was  born  on  June  21,  1840,  and  is  a 
descendant  of  English  ancestors,  inheriting  their  thrift  and  enterprise.  He  is  the  son  of 
Cyrus  and  Rebecca  (Weeks)  Mosier,  natives  of  the  Empire  State,  where  the  father,  in  con- 
nection with  the  millwright  trade,  carried  on  a carriage  manufactory.  The  Weeks  family 
was  related  to  the  Mosier  family  on  the  mother’s  side,  and  several  members  of  this  family 
were  killed  in  the  noted  Wyoming  massacre.  The  parents  of  oirr  subject  had  born  to  their 
union  thre6  children,  as  follows:  Horace  (deceased),  Cyrus  F.,  and  Charles  who  was  drowned 
in  a spring.  Cyrus  F.  was  but  two  months  old  when  his  father  died,  and  his  mother  after- 
ward removed  to  Corning,  N.  Y.,  where  she  resided  for  six  years.  From  there  she  moved 
toward  the  setting  sun  and  settled  in  New  Haven,  Ind.,  where  she  married  Rufus  McDonald, 
one  of  the  prominent  men  of  that  section.  By  this  union  two  children  were  born,  only  one. 
Rufus,  now  living.  The  original  of  this  notice  has  known  the  demands  of  poverty,  and 
consorted  with  them  if  any  man  has,  but  his  honesty,  goodness,  energy  and  perseverance 
have  biought  their  rewards  of  which  he  and  family  are  now  enjoying.  When  but  a boy  he 
started  out  to  tight  his  own  way  in  life,  and  tirst stopped  at  Newville,  Ind.,  where  he  secured 
employment  and  schooling  during  the  winter  months,  for  six  years,  working  during  the 
summer  seasons  for  his  schooling  the  following  winter.  At  the  end  of  this  time  he  was 
offered  the  princi|)a]ship  of  this  .school  and  after  serving  in  that  capacity  for  some  time,  he 
accepted  other  positions.  Mr.  Mosier  is  not  an  educated  man  in  the  technical  sense  of  the 
word,  but  he  harmonizes  cause  and  effect  so  logically,  that  he  is  recognized  as  one  whose 
0[)inion  is  of  much  weight.  In  1801,  on  the  first  call  for  troops  in  ihe  State,  he  was  the 
first  man  to  enlist  in  the  call  from  De  Kalb  County.  He  joined  Company  F,  First  Twelfth 
Regiment  as  private  and  later  was  made  sergeant  of  Company  E,  Fifty-fifth  Regiment. 
Still  later  he  was  made  tirst  lieutenant  of  Company  I),  One  Hundred  and  Eighteenth  Regi- 
ment, and  served  in  that  ca|)acity  for  two  years  and  one  month,  or  until  about  the 
close  of  hostilities.  He  was  captured  with  about  T.OOO  men,  but  made  good  his 
Rsca[)e  l)efore  seeing  the  inside  of  prison  walls.  He  was  in  many  hotly  contested  battles 
during  service,  arnl  no  bi'avcr  soldier  Inal  the  red  sod  of  a battle  field.  Retui  ning  home 
after  the  war.  he  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  brick,  continue<l  this  two  years,  and 
then  located  in  New  Haven,  fnd.,  where  he  was  employed  as  a teacher  in  the  vicinity.  For 
seventeen  years  he  was  one  of  the  prominent  educatoi's  of  that  section,  and  in  that  capacity 
his  peculiar  capabilities  shone  foith  in  their  brightest  splendor.  He  served  two  terms  as 
city  attorney  of  New  Haven,  and  being  a Repul)lican  and  the  town  being  strongly  Demo- 
cratic, demonstrated  very  clearly  the  hold  Afr.  Mosier  had  upon  the  affections  of  tlie  peojile. 
From  there  he  move  I to  .^^HVsville.  fnd.,  and  started  a news|)aper,  but.  in  the  spring  of 
1877  he  removfsl  to  Bristol,  Elkhart  County,  and  started  the  lirislol  Rdiiuc.r,  a publication 
whicfi  has  much  to  do  with  molding  |)ub!ic  sentiment  inside  its  circulation,  and  which  influ- 
<mea  suit  .Mr.  Mo-iier  two  terms  to  the  Indiana  fjegislature  from  this  county  in  1882,  a 
jiosition  he  tille  I with  credit  to  himself  and  his  party.  Had  he  not  declined  peremptorily, 


90 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


he  miglit  have  been  returned  in  bS88,  ])ut  like  the  true  gentleman,  he  felt  he  had  been 
honored  enough,  and  stood  aside,  cheerfully,  only,  however,  to  work  the  harder  for  his  suc- 
cessor. He  still  owns  and  controls  the  Bristol  Bcntner  and  its  crisp  and  trenchant  editorials 
command  an  ever  widening  area  of  circulation,  while  they  carry  with  them  that  weight  and 
authority  which  a clear,  calm  and  intelligent  jiulgment  must  always  secure.  Mr.  Hosier  is 
the  president  of  the  People’s  Mutual  Benefit  Society,  a position  he  has  held  for  years,  and 
though  subject  to  de])Osition  by  the  stockholders  at  their  annual,  he  is  nevertheless  period- 
ically made  his  own  successor,  which  compliments  his  integrity,  evidences  his  popularity, 
and  in  so  many  words  says;  “Leave  well  enough  alone.”  He  has  erected  a good  substan- 
tial business  block  in  Bristol,  with  his  other  business.  He  is  deeply  interested  in  anything 
that  i^oints  to  tlni  ehwation  of  the  city  of  his  adoption,  is  popular  with  the  masses,  urbane 
toward  all,  and  if  there  be  anything  wanting  in  his  makeup  to  make  him  a Christian  gentle- 
man, no  one  has  discovered  it.  He  enjoys  bis  well-earned  reward  with  dignity,  while  his 
home  is  a green  spot  after  day's  duty  is  over,  Mrs.  Hosier  being  a true  counterpart  of  her 
excellent  husband,  and  as  cheerful  and  generous  a dispenser,  and  what  may  be  said  of  him 
can  be  said  of  few,  that  he  is  never  spoken  ill  of,  and  while  there  may  be  better  people  in 
the  city,  it  will  take  the  um])ire  of  ceremonies  to  discover  them.  He  is  a man  of  stalwart 
simplicity  and  tine  descrimination  between  right  and  wrong,  and  having  the  courage  of  his 
convictions,  he  is  a tighter  no  matter  what  the  odds.  He  has  a plain  but  forcible  manner  in 
ap[)ealing  to  public  sentiment,  which  makes  him  one  of  the  ])eople  as  an  integer,  and  which 
would  elevate  him  politically,  if  he  pos.sessed  the  assurance  of  the  average  office-seeker,  but 
being  built  on  a more  modest  jdane,  it  works  to  his  disadvantage,  though  probably  more  to 
his  taste.  One  of  the  strongest  traits  of  his  character  is  prudence,  never  acting  until  all 
doubt  is  removed,  and  the  outcome  logically  weighed,  and  when  decided,  he  rides  down 
obstacles  against  all  luas;  honorable  in  expense,  liberal  in  contributions  to  what  promises 
utility,  but  unworthy  calls  on  his  charity  get  the  cold  shoulder,  and  it  may  truly  be  said  that 
nature  and  fortune  find  in  him  a combine  seldom  met,  which  is  why  he  and  Elkhart  get  on  to- 
gether well,  and  why  each  is  proud  to  own  the  other,  and  may  he  and  his  live  long  in  the  friend- 
ship of  the  city  of  their  adoption.  Mr.  Hosier  was  elected  a member  of  the  school  board  and 
ex  officio  member  county  board  of  education  for  three  terms  in  succession  and  was  secretary 
of  the  board  at  the  same  time.  He  is  treasurer  of  the  Fidelity  Building  & Savings  Union 
of  Indianapolis,  wheie  he  spends  much  of  his  time,  and  socially  he  is  a member  of  the 
I.  O.  O.  F.  and  the  G.  A.  K.  He  was  married  on  May  ‘24,  1803,  to  Miss  Drusilla  L.  Roe, 
and  they  have  one  child  living,  Horace.  Urtis  V.  and  Inez  B.  are  deceased.  Horace  occu- 
])ies  the  chair  of  manager  of  the  loan  department  of  Fidelity  Building  & Loan  Company, 
at  a good  salary,  although  only  twenty  years  of  age. 

W.  A.  StTf.LtvAN.  Among  the  prominent  railroad  men  of  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  stands  the 
name  of  W.  A.  Sullivan,  who  is  a native  of  that  city,  born  June  27,  1859,  and  who  was 
educated  in  the  f)ublic  schools  there.  lu  1872  he  left  school  and  began  working  for  the 
Jeffersonville,  IMadison  & Indianapolis  Railroad,  as  messenger  boy  at  ludianajmlis,  and 
after  a few  months  returned  to  the  employ  of  the  Big  Four  Railroad  for  which  he  had 
worked  six  weeks  prior  to  being  emjiloyed  by  the  Jeffersonville,  Madison  & Indianapolis 
Railroad.  March  1873  he  began  his  duties  as  messenger  boy  for  this  company  and 
in  the  spring  of  1874  he  was  ])romoted  to  a clerkship  which  ])lace  he  tilled  until  1880  when 
he  was  made  chief  clerk,  tilling  that  position  in  a very  satisfactory  manner  for  fourteen 
months.  He  was  then  made  secretary  to  Superintendent  J.  W.  Sherwood  and  continued  in 
that  capacity  for  sixteen  months.  On  January  1,  1883,  he  was  made  agent  of  the  Big  Four, 
and  this  position  he  now  holds.  He  is  one  of  the  most  efficient  and  capable  railroad  men  and 
sustains  the  reputation  of  the  Big  Four  as  the  most  ailmirably  managed  of  the  great  trans- 
portation lines  entering  Indianapolis.  In  March,  1891,  he  was  elected  a member  of  the 
Board  of  Public  Safety.  Socially  he  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  order,  also  the  Elks,  and 
the  National  Association  of  the  Local  Freight  Agents’  Association.  On  May  21,  1884,  Mr. 
Sullivan  was  married  to  Miss  Addie  K.  Buchanan,  daughter  of  Cajit.  James  M.  Buchanan, 
of  Indianapolis.  Two  children  have  been  born  to  this  union,  Mabel  Marie  and  William 
Buchanan. 


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LIBRARY 
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I. 


91 


AXD  MAIUOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Albert  E.  Sterne,  M.  D.  The  aim  of  the  modern  physician  is  higli  and  it  is  no  longer 
possible  for  a person  to  pick  up  a smattering  of  medicine  here  and  there,  nail  up  his  shingle 
and  strike  out,  hit  or  miss,  when  called  upon  to  prescribe  in  cases  of  illness.  The  demand 
of  the  age  is  for  gentlemen  of  culture,  refinement  and  scholastic  finish,  who  shall  add  to 
literary  education  a thoroi;gh  course  of  professional  education  in  some  established  institution 
of  recognized  authority.  Dr.  Albert  E.  Sterne,  of  Indianapolis,  has  met  these  requirements 
most  fully,  and  beyond  even  what  is  expected  or  fultilled  in  most  cases.  This  most  accom- 
plished young  man  has  prepared  most  fully  for  the  noble  profession,  having,  in  fact,  used 
every  possible  agency  for  the  equipment  of  himself  for  the  successful  practice  of  medicine. 
Thus  fortified,  he  has  started  out  with  the  confidence  and  the  esteem  of  his  brethren  and  is 
rapidly  building  up  a desirable  practice  as  the  result  of  his  superior  attainments.  His  future 
•is  already  assured  and  success  is  before  him.  Albert  E.  Sterne  was  born  in  Cincin- 
nati, April  28,  1800,  the  son  of  Charles  E.  Sterne,  a native  of  Germany,  who  came  to 
America  when  a boy  and  settled  at  Peru,  lud.,  and  in  after  years  established  the  Peru 
Woolen  ilills,  in  connection  with  a brother.  He  was  a most  successful  manufacturer  and 
business  man  and  owned  a great  deal  of  real  estate  in  Cincinnati,  Indianapolis  and  other 
places.  He  married  Eugenia  Fries,  a native  of  Bavaria,  uho  came  to  America  with  her 
parents  when  very  small.  Her  father  was  a professor  in  a gymnasium  in  Germany.  The 
father  of  our  subject  died  in  1880  and  his  mother  in  the  following  year.  Our  subject  was 
reared  in  Peru,  where  he  attended  the  public  schools  until  he  was  eleven  years  old, 
when  he  left  for  Prof.  Kinney’s  celebrated  school  at  Ithaca,  N.  Y..  where  he  remained 
a year,  and  then  entered  the  Mt.  Pleasant  Military  Academy  at  Sing  Sing,  N.  Y. , attending 
a course  of  four  years,  after  which  he  entered  the  classical  department  of  Harvard  Uni- 
versity, at  the  age  of  seventeen,  and  graduated  in  the  class  of  1887.  In  the  fall  of  that 
year  he  went  to  Germany,  studying  medicine  in  Strasburg  for  two  and  one-half  years.  He 
went  thence  to  Berlin,  where  he  remained  three  years,  graduating  from  the  University  of 
Berlin  August  12,  1891.  In  the  meantime,  during  his  vacations,  he  studied  in  the  hospitals 
of  Paris,  Eondon,  and  other  Euro[)ean  cities,  visiting  all  the  hospitals  of  Europe,  and  being 
an  interne  of  the  Berlin  Charity  and  Dublin  Rotunda  hospitals.  The  doctor  then  returned 
to  the  United  States  in  December,  1892,  locating  at  Indianapolis,  where  he  at  once 
began  the  general  })ractice,  but  it  his  purpose  to  make  a specialty  of  nervous  diseases, 
having  made  an  extended  and  special  study  of  this  most  important  subject.  Dr.  Sterne  is 
a member  of  the  American  Medical  Association,  of  the  Indiana  State  and  the  Marion  County 
Medical  Associations,  of  the  Indianapolis  Surgical  Society,  and  is  also  a member  of  the 
American  Association  of  Physicians  at  Berlin,  being  a charter  member  and  one  of  the 
founders  of  the  latter  association.  To  a scholarly  mind  and  a most  intimate  knowledge  of 
his  profession  Dr.  Sterne  ad<ls  a genial,  {)leasant,  agreeable  manner,  a nature  that  is  in  full 
sympathy  with  his  fellows  and  a spirit  of  Inroad  and  liberal  charity.  In  him  is  a combi- 
nation  of  all  that  is  necessary  to  the  comj)lete  modern  physician  and  he  is  fast  making 
friends  in  this  city. 

Prof.  Allen  R.  Benton.  One  of  the  pioneer  educators  of  the  State  of  Indiana,  Prof. 
Allen  liichardson  Benton  is  a native  of  the  Empire  State,  born  in  Cayuga  County,  ()ctol)er  1, 
1822.  He  received  his  [)rimary  education  in  the  common  schools  of  his  native  county  and 
latei-  entered  Elbridge  Academy,  in  Onondaga  County,  N.  Y.  After  leaving  that  institution 
he  farmed  and  taught  in  the  public  schools  until  he  eidered  Fulton  Academy,  Oswego  County, 
N.  Y.,  in  1812,  and  gradiiided  at  Jiethany  College,  W(!st  Virginia,  in  1817.  From  Bedhany 
he  came  to  Rush  County,  Ind..  and  locatfMl  at  Fairviow,  where  he  was  principal  of  Fairview 
.Academy  for  six  years.  Prof.  Benton  organized  that  school  and  made  it  a very  ])ros])erous 
one,  l)eginTiing  with  about  twenty  fivi^  pupils  the  first  year,  but  on  account  of  its  |)opularity 
the  board  of  cotdrol  limittal  the  numb(*r  to  seventy.  After  the  first  year  the  cprota  was 
always  full  and  vacancies  eagerly  waitcal  for.  fjeaving  the  Academy  in  1851,  Prof.  Beid.on 
spent  the  fall,  winter  and  spring  in  the  University  at  Rochester,  N.  Y.,  taking  a ])ost 
graduate  course.  In  the  spring  of  1855  he  came  to  Indianapolis,  wlnme  ho  had  been 
elected  professor  of  ancient  languages  in  the  Northwestern  Christian  University  (now 
Butler  University).  I’revious  to  opening  the  University  in  the  fall,  our  subject  opened  a 
select  school  in  the  college  building  and  continued  this  until  taking  his  chair  as  professor  of 


92 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


ancipiit  languages.  He  held  the  chair  above  mentioned  until  1H61,  when  he  was  elected 
president  of  the  college,  tilling  that  position  until  1868,  and  in  the  meantime  teaching 
ancient  languages.  In  the  last  named  year  this  well-known  educator  moved  to  Alliance, 
Ohio,  where  he  accepted  the  chair  of  Latin  in  Alliance  College.  In  1809  he  was  elected 
president  of  the  college  and  served  in  that  capacity  during  1869-70,  and  until  the  spring 
of  1871.  He  then  was  called  to  organize  the  University  of  Nebraska,  at  Lincoln,  and  was 
elected  its  tirst  chancellor,  which  ])osition  he  held  for  five  years.  This  university  has  now 
1,000  students.  In  1876  Prof.  Benton  returned  to  Indianapolis  and  was  elected  to  the  chair 
of  philosophy  and  biblical  literature  in  Butler  University,  which  chair  he  now  holds.  In 
1886  he  was  elected  president  of  Butler  University  and  held  that  position  in  addition  to  his 
duties  as  ])rofessor  of  philosophy  and  biblical  literature  up  to  l891,  when  he  resigned  as 
))resident  but  still  hohls  his  professorship.  Prof.  Benton  has  delivered  many  addresses  that 
have  been  published  but  has  never  written  anything  esjiecially  for  j)ublication.  He  does  not 
belong  to  any  of  the  secret  organizations.  The  early  life  of  onr  subject  was  passed  on  a 
farm  and  he  was  actively  engaged  with  the  duties  of  the  same  until  twenty-one  years  of 
age.  He  entered  Elbridge  Academy  when  twelve  years  old  and  was  regarded  as  very  profi- 
cient in  languages  and  mathematics.  At  Bethany  College  he  was  given  tirst  honors  in  lan- 
guages and  mathematics  and  was  offered  the  chair  of  mathematics  in  that  institution,  but 
refused.  He  is  a man  of  ])rofound  learning,  an  able  linguist  and  forcible  speaker.  He  im- 
presses all  with  whom  he  comes  in  contact  as  being  an  earnest,  efficient  and  faithful  laborer 
in  the  cause  of  education.  He  is  a man  of  popular  address,  fine  social  (pralities  and  marked 
originality  of  thought  and  expression.  Prof.  Benton  was  married  in  Oswego  County,  N.  Y., 
in  1851,  to  Miss  Silence  Howard,  daughter  of  Dr.  Bansom  Howard,  who  was  a cousin  of 
William  Cullen  Bryant’s  grandmother,  Silence  Howard.  Three  children  have  been  born  to 
this  union:  Grace,  wife  of  James  S.  Dales,  comptroller  of  the  University  of  Nebraska; 
Howard  Allen,  married  Miss  Frances  Stephenson,  daughter  of  Dr.  A.  C.  Stephenson,  and 
resides  in  Indianapolis;  and  Mattie,  wife  of  Willard  E.  Stewart,  ex-county  judge,  at  Lin- 
coln, Neb.  Allen  Benton,  father  of  the  Professor,  was  born  in  New  York  State,  near  Albany, 
but  his  father,  Isaac  Benton,  was  a native  of  Litchfield,  Conn.  For  forty  years  Allen  Ben- 
ton practiced  medicine  in  Cayuga  County,  N.  Y. , and  was  an  honor  to  his  profession. 
Deborah  Willey,  the  maiden  name  of  our  subject’s  mother,  was  a native  of  East  Haddam, 
Conn.  By  her  marriage  to  Dr.  Benton  she  became  the  mother  of  these  children:  Heman, 
a farmer  now  residing  in  Cayuga  County,  N.  Yh  ; Prof.  Allen  R.  (subject  of  this  sketch); 
Matilda,  wife  of  John  M.  Shepard,  a minister  of  Cayuga  County,  N.  Y. ; Charles  Darwin,  a 
farmer  of  Cayuga  County,  and  Dr.  James  D.  The  latter  was  surgeon,  first  of  the  One 
Hundred  and  Eleventh  New  York  Regiment,  but  was  afterward  transferred  to  another  regi- 
ment and  served  through  the  war.  He  died  in  1891  as  a result  of  exposure  during  that 
trying  period.  The  father  of  these  children  passed  away  in  1879,  following  his  wife,  who 
had  breathed  her  last  in  1867.  The  father  was  of  English  and  the  mother  of  Scotch  origin. 
Both  were  honorable,  upright  citizens  and  their  family  holds  an  honored  and  influential 
place  at  the  homestead  in  western  New  York. 

Daniel  Bates  Hosbrook  affords  in  his  life  and  its  success  another  evidence  that  indus- 
try, economy  and  integrity  constitute  the  keynote  to  honorable  competency.  After  a long 
and  honorable  career  he  has  retired  fiom  the  active  duties  of  life  and  now  enjoys  a pleasant 
and  comfortable  home  in  the  southeastern  part  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis.  He  was  born 
in  Hamilton  County,  Ohio,  December  9,  1822,  and  received  his  early  education  and  training 
in  the  common  schools  of  that  county.  His  father,  Daniel  Hosbrook,  was  county  surveyor 
of  this  county  for  several  years,  and  young  Daniel  assisted  his  father  in  surveying  and  upon 
the  farm  from  his  fifteenth  to  his  twenty-first  year,  and  in  the  meantime  by  diligent  study 
and  application  he  thoroughly  qualified  himself  as  a surveyor  and  civil  engineer  and  removed 
to  the  city  of  Indianapolis  in  the  year  1846.  Here  he  soon  found  employment  in  his  profes- 
sion and  was  elected  to  the  office  of  county  surveyor  of  Marion  County,  which  office  he  held 
for  several  terms  and  afterward  was  elected  to  the  office  of  civil  engineer  of  the  city  of  In- 
dianapolis. He  has  been  for  a number  of  years  consulting  engineer  for  the  county  commis- 
sioners of  Marion  County,  and  as  such  made  the  plans  for  and  superintended  the  construction 
of  a large  number  of  bridges  built  by  the  county  commissioners.  He  has  been  a member  of 


AND  MABION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


93 


the  Methodist  Episcopal  Clinrcli  for  lifly  years  and  an  official  member  for  forty  years.  In 
the  year  1851  Mr.  Hoshrook  was  married  to  Miss  Mary  A.  Hightshoe.  His  said  wife  having 
died  he  was  married  a second  time  in  1805  to  Miss  Louisa  Hightshoe,  a half  sister  of  his 
first  wife.  He  has  two  children  living,  namely:  Frank  Hoshrook  and  Clara  Denny,  wife  of 
Elmer  Denny.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  had  four  brothers  and  live  sisters,  four  of  whom 
are  still  living,  to-wit:  Hervey  Hoshrook,  of  Indianapolis,  Ind.;  John  L.  Hoshrook.  Mahlon 
Hoshrook,  both  of  Hamilton  County,  Ohio,  and  Elizabeth  Trost,  wife  of  John  Trost,  of 
Marion  County.  Ind.  Mr.  Hoshrook  is  well  known  and  highly  respected  by  all  on  account 
of  his  sterling  honesty,  unswerving  integrity  and  honorable  and  upright  dealing  through  a 
long  and  useful  life. 

Charles  Kieman.  The  occupation  of  the  florist  has  of  late  years  been  followed  as  a 
profession,  and  the  growing  desire  to  ornament  lawns  and  gai'dens,  and  to  grow  flowers  for 
ornamental  decoration,  makes  the  calling  a highly  important  one.  Not  even  in  winter  does 
the  goddess  Flora  restrict  her  gifts,  for  in  the  conservatories  and  green-houses  a constant 
supply  of  the  most  beautiful  exotics  is  everywhere  available.  Indianapolis  has  acquired 
cpiite  a reputation  as  a center  of  floriculture,  and  one  of  the  most  prominent  names  known 
in  this  connection  is  that  of  Ilieman.  Charles  Ilieman,  one  of  the  pioneer  and  long  one  of 
the  most  prominent  florists  of  this  city,  was  born  in  Germany,  January  12,  1832,  and  first 
came  to  America  before  he  was  twenty  years  old,  later  becoming  a legally  naturalized  citi- 
zen. He  was  educated  in  his  native  land,  and  before  leaving  there  became  familiar  with 
floriculture.  At  tlie  age  of  nineteen  he  became  a steward  on  an  ocean  vessel,  and  in  that 
capacity  crossed  the  ocean  seven  times,  gaining  a valuable  experience  and  finally  remaining 
in  the  coiintry  which  he  conceived  to  offer  better  advantages  to  young  and  enterprising  men 
than  those  afforded  in  Germany.  Locating  in  Hamilton,  Ohio,  he  naturally  engaged  in 
floriculture,  and  becoming  well  known  as  a florist,  built  up  quite  an  extensive  trade.  In 
1872  he  came  to  Indianapolis,  and  l)efore  opening  business  on  his  own  account,  was  for  a 
time  in  the  employ  of  the  old-time  florist,  A.  Wiegand.  In  partnershij)  with  Lewis  Stone 
he  began  lousiness  in  the  Exposition  building.  They  were  driven  out  by  fire,  and  Mr.  Ilie- 
man located  on  Tennessee  Street,  where  he  erected  five  very  laTge  green-houses.  Thence  he 
removed  in  1887  to  Mississippi  and  Twenty-second  Streets,  and  his  establishment  fronting 
200  feet  on  Mississipj)i  Street  and  extending  back  180  feet  on  Twenty-second  Streets,  has 
become  one  of  the  landmarks  of  that  part  of  the  city.  When  the  fact  that  Mr.  Ilieman 
started  out  in  life  a penniless  boy,  is  considered  in  connection  with  the  success  he  won,  it 
must  be  admitted  that  he  demonstrated  unusual  business  capacity.  Work  was  his  watch- 
word, and  ho  knew  no  leisure  during  all  the  years  necessary  to  assure  the  permanency  of  his 
enterprise.  He  was  in  all  things  an  admirable  business  man  and  a public  spirited  citizen, 
ahvays  doing  his  part  nobly  in  any  work  having  for  its  object  the  benefit  of  his  fellow  men.  In 
politics  he  was  a Ile])ublican,  though  he  was  not  in  the  active  sense  a j)olitician.  He  was  a 
liberal  and  hel[)ful  member  of  Zion’s  Church,  was  a patron  of  the  German  Orphan  Asylum, 
and  was  identified  with  the  Knights  of  Honor,  both  as  a member  and  an  officer.  Mr.  Ilie- 
man married  Mary  Agues  Deering,  who  died  in  1803,  leaving  him  two  sons,  John  and 
Henry.  In  180-1  he  married  Barbara  A.  Wagner,  who  was  born  in  Germany  in  1817,  a 
daughter  of  Andrew  Wagner,  a carriage- maker,  who  came  to  the  United  States  in  1852, 
bringing  his  family  and  locating  in  Baltimore,  where  he  died,  and  in  1857  the  family 
rerncjved  to  Hamilton,  Ohio,  where  Miss  Wagner  met  and  married  IVIr.  Ilieman.  Mrs.  Wag- 
ner is  still  living  at  the  advanced  age  of  eighty-six  years,  a member  of  Mrs.  llieman’s 
household.  Mr.  Ilieman  di(;d  January  24,  1890.  By  his  second  marriage  lie  had  two  sons, 
Jvlward  E.  and  Otto  4.  Ilieman,  and  a daughter,  Lydia,  now  the  wife  of  George  J.  Gerzen 
denner,  of  Indianapolis.  .Mrs.  Ilieman  is  a devout  communicant  of  Zion’s  Church.  The 
business  e.stalilished  and  conducted  so  long  and  so  successfully  by  Mr.  Ilieman  is  now  man- 
aged with  eijual  success  by  his  family.  A distinct  specialty  is  made  of  cut  llowers  and 
much  attention  is  given  to  the  bedding  trade.  'This  is  one  of  the  inqiortant  industries 
of  the  kind  in  Indianapolis,  and  thrc.'ugh  the  long  years  of  its  oxistmice  it  has  become  tirmly 
established  and  most  po|)ular. 

Henry  William  Kieman.  The  culture  of  llowers  is  one  that  adds  much  to  the  happiness 
and  pleasure  of  the  great  majority  of  people,  and  this  being  a fact,  an  allwise  Providence 


94 


MEMOinS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


placed  it  within  the  power  of  nearly  every  one  to  cultivate  this  taste  for  the  beautiful,  for  if 
they  lack  suitable  conveniences  in  their  own  homes  for  their  culture,  the  numerous  tioral 
establishments  in  all  large  cities  will  readily  supply  their  wants.  Henry  W.  Rieman  is  at 
the  head  of  a well  stocked  estaldisement  at  b99  S.  East  Street,  Indianapolis.  He  deals  in 
all  kinds  of  jilants,  flowers  and  designs,  and  his  trade  not  only  embraces  all  parts  of  the 
city,  but  also  the  surrounding  country.  Designs  of  all  kinds  suitable  for  weddings,  funerals, 
parties,  etc.,  are  arranged  on  short  notice  and  in  the  most  satisfactory  manner.  Mr.  Rieman 
is  a native  of  the  Province  of  Hanover,  Germany,  where  he  was  born  in  1857,  a son  of 
Henry  Rieman,  who  was  a florist  for  a nobleman  in  the  Province  of  Hanover,  and  under  his 
father’s  able  instruction  young  Henry  obtained  his  first  knowledge  of  the  business.  The 
father  came  to  the  United  States  on  a visit  thoirgh  he  did  not  remain  here  but  a short  time,  and 
upon  his  return  to  the  Fatherland  once  more  entered  the  service  of  his  former  employer. 
Henry  W.  Rieman  was  educated  in  his  native  land,  and  at  the  age  of  twenty  years  came  to 
the  United  States,  and  for  some  time  made  his  home  in  Cincinnati,  after  which  he  spent  two 
years  in  Connersville,  and  then  became  a resident  of  Indiana})olis,  which  place  has  since  been 
his  home.  He  entered  the  employ  of  J.  S.  Hillbrandt,  who  is  the  owner  of  a small  conserv- 
atory, for  three  years,  and  then  became  associated  in  the  business  with  Charles  Rieman,  an 
uncle.  This  connection  was  severed  soon  after,  and  Mr.  Rieman  then  entered  the  employ 
of  Mr.  A.  Wiegand,  with  whom  he  remained  four  years.  He  then  embarked  in  business  for 
himself,  and  in  the  short  interval  of  his  business  career,  six  years,  he  has  built  four  green- 
houses. It  was  his  intention,  if  he  has  not  already  done  so,  t<j  build  two  more  during  the 
summer  of  1893.  His  houses  are  stocked  with  most  rare  and  beautiful  flowers,  and  in  the 
various  flower  shows  that  have  been  held  he  has  carried  off  many  premiums.  At  the  flower 
show  in  Cincinnati  in  1892  he  took  the  silver  medal  and  $50  ])remium  for  the  second  best 
seedling  chrysanthemum  when  over  500  entries  from  different  sections  of  the  country 
had  been  made.  He  has  also  taken  many  premiums  in  Indianapolis.  He  belongs  to  the 
society  of  Indiana  florists,  being  j)resident  of  the  local  club,  and  he  is  also  a member  of  the 
National  Society  of  American  Florists.  In  1883  he  was  married  to  Miss  Mary  Richter,  of 
Indianapolis,  by  whom  he  has  two  sons  and  two  daughters.  He  and  his  wife  are  members 
of  the  Zion  Church. 

Arthur  V.  Brown.  Po])ular,  efficient  and  faithful,  such  would  be  the  verdict  passed 
upon  the  character  and  the  official  standing  of  oirr  subject  by  any  good  citizen  of  Indianapolis, 
of  whom  the  (piestion  might  be  asked.  Arthur  V.  Brown,  the  county  attorney  of  Marion 
County,  was  born  at  New  Bethel,  Marion  County,  Ind. , March  17,  1863,  being  the  son  of 
Dr.  Samuel  M.  and  Mahala  (Brady)  Brown,  natives  of  South  Carolina  and  of  Marion  County, 
Ind.,  resj)ectively.  Tlie  father  came  to  Marion  County  about  the  year  1848,  locating  at 
New  Bethel,  is  a graduate  of  the  Cincinnati  Medical  College  and  practices  at  New  Bethel. 
The  maternal  grandfather,  Henry  Brady,  came  to  Marion  County  in  1819,  settling  about  five 
miles  east  of  what  is  now  Indianapolis.  He  was  a well  known,  intelligent  and  very  popular 
gentleman.  By  profession  he  was  a surveyor  and  civil  engineer  and  was  elected  several  times 
to  the  house  and  the  Senate  of  the  Legislature  of  Indiana;  was  a member  of  the  house  when 
the  new  constitution  was  adopted.  This  accomplished  gentleman  was  a soldier  of  the  War 
of  1812.  He  died  in  the  city  of  Indianapolis  in  the  year  1885.  One  daughter  of  his  is 
living,  Mrs.  Margaret  Liugenfelter,  of  this  city.  Our  subject  is  the  fourth  child  of  a family 
of  nine  and  was  brought  up  in  New  Bethel,  where  he  attended  the  2>ublic  schools  and  gradu- 
ated from  the  Butler  University  in  1885.  At  once  he  began  the  study  of  law  with  Harrison, 
Miller  & Elam  and  was  admitted  to  the  bar  in  1886.  Beginning  the  practice  alone  he  has 
built  up  a large  business  and  a lucrative  one.  In  September,  1891,  he  was  appointed  county 
attorney  and  was  principal  deputy  prosecuting  attorney  under  John  W.  Holtzman  for  two 
years.  In  1886  he  was  appointed  by  the  county  commissioners  as  attorney  for  poor  prisoners, 
a position  he  held  for  two  years.  For  a period  of  two  years  he  was  secretary  of  the  Hendricks 
Club  and  during  the  past  two  years  has  been  its  treasurer.  Mr.  Brown  is  a very  bright 
Mason,  a thirty-second  degree  member  and  a member  of  the  Mystic  Shrine;  also  a member 
of  the  Sigma  Chi  society.  Mr.  Brown  is  a very  bright  and  most  promising  young  man, 
whose  future  is  gilded  with  the  sure  promise  of  good  things.  He  is  a very  ardent  Democrat 
and  most  loyally  stands  by  and  works  for  the  nominees  of  his  party. 


95 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Hon.  Michael  A.  Downing  is  a native  of  Scott  Couut}^  Ind.,  and  was  born  in  1835,  a son 
of  John  Downing  and  grandson  of  Michael  Downing,  a man  of  warlike  spirit  who  fought 
under  Mad  Anthony  ^Yayne  in  the  War  for  independence,  helped  conquer  the  Indians  in  the 
Northwest  Territory  and  later  took  part  in  the  Pigeon  Roost  battle  in  this  State  and  in  due 
order  served  his  country  in  the  War  of  1812.  The  Downing  family  came  to  the  western 
country  from  Virginia,  by  tlatboat  via  the  Kanawha  and  the  Ohio  Rivers,  settling  at  the  falls 
of  the  Ohio  on  the  Indiana  side.  Mr.  Downing’s  father  located  near  New  Frankfort,  and 
when  the  immediate  subject  of  this  sketch  was  four  years  old  removed  to  Burgess  Ferry, 
Jackson  County.  There  the  boy  was  given  every  possible  educational  advantage.  After 
leaving  the  common  school,  he  entered  that  excellent  old  institution.  Blue  River  Seminary 
in  Washington  County.  Later  he  was  a student  at  Greeucastle  and  finished  his  education 
at  Franklin  College.  During  the  few  years  preceding  his  college  days  and  for  a time  after- 
ward Mr.  Downing  assisted  his  father  in  farming  and  store-keeping  operations  at  Tampico, 
Jackson  County.  In  1856  he  became  the  commercial  representative  of  the  A.  Downing  & 
Co.,  smelting  works  in  Greene  County.  The  following  year  found  him  a wholesale  and 
retail  grocer  at  Louisville,  where  he  lived  for  twenty  years  and  became  known  as  an  able  and 
successful  business  man  and  a safe  and  reliable  leader  in  public  affairs.  He  waschosdn  to  rep- 
resent his  ward  in  the  Louisville  Board  of  Aldermen  in  1860,  and  from  that  time  until  1877, 
when  he  removed  to  Indianapolis,  he  was  constantly  in  office  as  alderman,  member  of  the 
Legislature  or  in  some  other  prominent  position.  During  his  service  in  the  Kentucky  Leg- 
islature Dr.  Norvin  Green,  president  of  the  Western  Union  Telegraph  Company,  was  one  of 
his  colleagues  and  during  his  hr.st  session  his  room  mate,  and  during  his  second  session  Mr. 
Downing  occupie^l  a room  in  connection  with  Dr.  E.  D.  Standiford,  president  of  the  Louis- 
ville and  Nashville  Railroad.  In  1876,  after  fourteen  years  successful  management  of  the 
Louisville  stockyards,  Mr.  Downing  was  induced  to  interest  himself  in  the  Belt  Railway  and 
stock  yards  projected  in  Indianapolis,  an  enterprise  which  a number  of  intiuential  men  had 
tried  without  avail  to  bring  to  a successful  issue,  and  which,  under  his  guidance,  was  soon 
made  an  assured  success,  though  only  after  many  difficulties  had  been  overcome.  Mr.  Down- 
ing had  its  general  management  during  the  entire  period  of  construction  and  retained  it 
until  in  1882,  the  line  was  leased  to  the  Union  Railway  Company,  and  is  now  one  of  the  prom- 
inent directors  and  stockholders  in  this  institution  so  important  to  the  leading  interests  of 
the  city.  In  1884,  in  connection  with  other  Indianapolis  capitalists,  Mr.  Downing  bought 
the  St.  Louis  and  Florisant  Narrow  Gauge  Railway,  now  after  several  changes  of  name, 
known  as  the  St.  Louis  Cable  and  Western  Railway,  of  which  he  was  jiresident  through  all 
of  its  vicissitudes,  and  in  that  capacity  ho  secured  the  franchise  for  the  first  cable  system 
constructed  in  St.  Louis,  though  strenuously  opposed  in  some  influential  quarters.  By  this 
achievement  he  secured  to  St.  Louis  a splendid  system  of  rapid  transit  which  has  had  much 
to  do  with  the  wonderful  growth  and  development  of  that  city  since  that  time.  The  juop 
erty  with  all  its  franchises  was  sold  to  a Boston  syndicate  most  profitably  by  Mr.  Downing 
and  his  associates.  Next,  in  connection  with  Ex-Governor  Evans  of  Colorado,  W.  N.  Byers, 
formerly  proprietor  of  the  Rocky  Mountain  News  and  others,  he  built  the  first  system  of 
cable  roads  in  successful  ofieration  in  Denver,  in  which  ho  had  a large  amount  of  stock  and  of 
which  he  was  the  general  manager  during  its  construction  and  until  1889  when  he  resigned 
and  returned  to  his  old  home  at  Indianapolis.  Upon  his  retirement  the  directors  of  the  com- 
pany recorded  in  the  archives  of  the  corporation  a set  of  resolutions  thanking  him  sincerely 
for  his  efficient  work  as  the  builder  and  first  general  manager  of  these  lines.  Early  in  the 
administration  of  Governor  Gray,  Mr.  Downing  was  ap[)ointed  by  that  official  one  of  the 
[)olice  commissioners  of  Inilianapolis,  but  his  private  business  was  so  pressing  in  it.s  demands 
upon  him  that  he  resigned  after  two  years’  service.  He  was  also  [)resident  of  the  State 
Board  of  Education  appointed  under  the  present  law.  Ho  is  a past  master  Mason  and  is  a 
member  of  the  Commercial  Club  and  other  popular  and  prominent  organizations.  He  was 
married  in  1851  to  Susan  L.  Duncan,  daughter  of  .iohn.son  Duncan,  of  Hardin  County',  Ky., 
and  has  two  sons  and  two  daughters  all  of  whom  are  well  known  and  honoi’ed  residents  of 
Indiana|)olis. 

John  H.  Cakson,  ,M.  I).  'I’lie  profession  of  tlu'  physician  is  perhaps  one  of  the  most 
trying  on  brain  and  body  of  any  in  tin;  field  of  science,  for  it  absorbs  the  attention  of  him  who 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


m 

practices  it  conscieutiously,  both  day  and  night  and  brings  into  play  all  the  latent  powers  of  his 
l)eing.  At  an  early  age  Dr.  Carson  manifested  a decided  taste  and  talent  for  the  medical  pro- 
fession— his  kindly  natnre  instinctively  turning  to  that  broad  field  of  human  suffering  for 
his  life  work — a profession  whose  noiseless,  yet  ofttimes  marvelous  triumphs,  are  unknown  to 
the  multitude.  He  was  born  in  Ontario,  Canada,  February  9,  1862,  and  is  a son  of  James 
and  Phfebe  (Wright)  Carson,  the  former  a native  of  the  green  isle  of  Erin  and  the  latter  of 
Canada  but  of  Irish  descent.  Dr.  Carson’s  early  educational  advantages  were  received  in 
the  common  school  and  when  but  twelve  years  of  age  he  started  out  to  make  his  own  way  in 
life.  For  four  years  he  clerked  in  a store  after  which  he  began  teaching  school  and  followed 
this  profession  for  a number  of  years.  In  1886  he  entered  the  Northwestern  University  of 
Illinois,  attended  two  years,  and  then  entered  De  Pauw  University  at  Greencastle  where  he 
continued  one  year.  While  securing  an  education  he  was  obliged  to  work  during  vacation 
to  get  the  nece.ssary  means  for  his  schooling,  and  thus  made  the  most  of  his  time.  He  began 
the  study  of  medicine  with  Hagan  A Allen  of  Plainfield,  and  subsecjuently  entered  The  Medical 
College  of  Indiana  from  which  he  graduated  in  1892.  Following  this  he  began  the  general  prac- 
tice of  his  profession  in  West  Indianajmlis  and  has  been  unusually  successful,  having  acquired 
a large  practice  for  a young  physician.  He  has  been  registrar  of  the  Medical  College  of 
Indiana  for  two  years  and  is  a member  of  Indiana  State  and  Marion  County  Medical  Societies. 
Socially  he  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  and  I.  O.  R.  M.,  and  also  the  A.  O.  U.  W.  In  the 
month  of  June,  1885,  he  was  married  to  Mi.ss  Gertrude  Dietz,  a native  of  Canada,  and  two 
children  have  blessed  this  union — Ingriffe  D.,  and  Gertrude  Irene.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Carson 
are  members  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  in  which  he  is  steward,  and  both  are  highly 
esteemed  for  their  many  estimable  (jualities. 

John  J.  C.vruigek.  The  constant  change  in  the  ownership  of  property  in  the  growing 
city  of  Indianapolis,  and  on  account  of  the  loans  being  always  made  and  released  on  it  neces- 
sitates those  who  make  the  deals  and  standing  between  buyer  and  seller,  loaner  and  lessee,  the 
real  estate  agent,  to  be  possessed  of  the  best  judgment  and  knowledge.  Among  the  repre- 
sentative men  who  have  embarked  in  this  line  of  business  perhaps  the  most  capable  are  John 
J.  Carriger  & Co.  John  J.  Carriger  has  had  a wide  and  successful  ex{)erience  in  real  estate 
and  is  active  in  every  measure  advanced  for  the  general  good  of  the  city.  He  is  also  deeply 
interested  in  the  insurance  business  and  has  been  unusually  successful  in  this.  Mr.  Carriger 
is  a native  of  the  Hoosier  State,  born  in  Boone  County,  near  Jamestown,  May  5, 1843,  and  his 
parents,  George  M.  and  Sarah  D.  (George)  Carriger,  were  natives  of  Tennessee,  the  former 
born  in  Carter  and  the  latter  in  Sullivan  County.  The  parents  celebrated  their  nuptials  in 
their  native  State  and  in  1838  moved  to  Boone  County,  Ind.,  where  they  entered  land.  The 
father  was  the  eldest  of  nine  children,  all  now  dead,  and  he  passed  to  the  silent  majority 
March  10,  1891,  when  eighty-six  years  and  nineteen  days  old.  His  wife  still  survives, 
and  although  over  eighty  years  of  age  is  in  comparatively  good  health.  He  was  one  of  the 
pioneers  of  Boone  County  and  passed  most  of  his  life  on  the  farm  he  had  carved  out  of  the 
wilderness.  He  was  a prosjierous  tiller  of  the  soil  and  became  the  owner  of  TOO  acres  of 
laud  that  was  divided  among  his  children.  During  the  early  days  of  Boone  County  Mr. 
Carriger  farmed  during  the  summer,  but  in  the  winter  months  taught  school.  The  youth, 
ful  days  of  our  subject  were  passed  on  his  father’s  farm  and  in  attending  the  log  cabin  school, 
where  his  father  wielded  the  birch.  On  October  7,  1861,  in  company  with  his 
brother,  Godfrey  M. , he  enlisted  in  ComjianyF,  Fortieth  Indiana  Regiment  as  corporal,  and 
while  in  camp  at  Lafayette  was  taken  with  measles.  He  returned  home  and  as  soon  as  well 
joined  his  regiment  at  Bardstown,  Ky.,  and  served  continuously  for  three  years  and  two 
months.  He  was  in  the  battles  of  Shiloh,  Corinth,  Perryville,  Ky. , Stanford,  Ky. , Silver 
Springs,  Stone  River  and  numerous  other  engagements.  His  regiment  was  foremost  at  the 
battle  of  Chattanooga  and  out  of  125  days,  ninety-seven  days  were  passed  under  fire,  in- 
cluding, besides  the  engagements  already  mentioned.  Devil’s  Back  Bone,  Resaca,  New 
Hope  Church,  Kenesaw  Mountain,  Marietta,  Peach  Tree  Creek,  Atlanta,  Jonesboro,  etc., 
and  serving  through  the  Georgia,  Alabama  and  Tennessee  campaigns.  He  was  present  at 
the  battle  of  Franklin  but  did  not  take  part,  being  released.  He  was  never  wounded  but  had 
several  narrow  e.scapes.  His  brother,  Godfrey  M.,  was  taken  sick  at  Corinth  but  was  sent 
from  there  to  Evansville,  Ind.,  and  there  died.  Arriving  home  on  December  9,  1864, 


A\D  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  ‘.IT 

John  J.  was  engaged  in  farming  with  his  fatlier  for  one  year  and  on  Saturdays  traded 
horses.  During  that  year  he  relates  he  made  $200  farming  and  .$210  trading  hoi’ses.  On 
December  3,  1805,  he  went  to  Cincinnati,  bought  a stock  of  general  merchandise  and 
shipped  the  same  to  Jamestown  where  he  engaged  in  business.  He  also  carried  on  general 
trading  in  stock,  grain  and  lumber,  and  until  January  1,  1878,  he  shipped  annually  000  or 
700  cars.  About  that  time  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  continued  in  the  same  line  of  busi- 
ness until  1883  when  he  engracred  in  the  real  estate  business  which  he  has  continued 
successfully  since.  Hr.  Carriger  was  one  of  the  charter  members  of  the  Board  of  Trade,  and 
at  present  he  is  one  of  the  members  of  the  real  estate  committee.  The  annual  business  of 
Mr.  Carriger  amounts  to  a quarter  of  a million  per  year,  in  trades,  real  estate  and  exchange. 
He  is  a member  of  the  A.  O.  U.  \V.  and  has  held  all  the  offices  of  the  subordinate  lodge 
Prospect,  No.  45.  He  is  also  a member  of  the  Union  Veteran  League.  Mr.  Carriger 
selected  his  companion  in  life  in  the  per.son  of  Miss  Sarah  F.  Neff,  a native  of  Hendricks  County 
and  daughter  of  .Jacob  and  Augusta  (Skinner)  Neff,  and  their  nuptials  were  celebrated  Novem- 
ber 30,  1805.  Six  children  have  blessed  this  union:  Theodore  M. ; Myrtle  and  Gertrude, 
twins,  the  former  deceased;  Harry,  deceased;  Grace  and  Charles  E.  In  his  political  views 
Mr.  Carriger  is  a stanch  supporter  of  Republican  principles. 

J.  E.  Bell.  Youth  is  not  a bar  to  promotion,  for  the  American  people  have  learned 
that  ability  is  not  measured  by  the  length  of  time  a man  has  spent  upon  earth.  Some  men 
might  live  a thousand  years  and  never  know  anything  and  others  are  bright  and  able  to  take 
their  places  among  men  long  before  they  have  arrived  at  mature  manhood.  The  sulqect  of 
our  sketch  belongs  to  the  latter  class,  for  he  was  bright  at  school,  brilliant  as  a student  of 
law  and  now  that  he  is  a member  of  the  bar  has  a good  practice,  which  rapidly  increases 
from  year  to  year.  J.  E.  Bell,  the  deputy  city  attorney  of  Indianapolis,  was  born  in  Union 
County,  Ind. , November  28,  1805,  being  the  son  of  -John  M.  and  Mary  J.  (Luse)  Bell, 
natives,  re.si)ectively,  of  .Juniata  County,  Penn. , and  of  Butler  County,  Ohio.  The  father  came 
to  Indiana  when  about  fifteen  years  old  and  settled  at  Billingsville,  Union  County,  where  he 
learned  the  trade  of  a carpenter;  but  soon  relinquished  that  and  took  u|)  with  farming,  which 
he  still  follows.  Still  a resident  of  Union  County,  he  is  a very  prominent  man  of  that  section, 
having  represented  the  counties  of  Union,  Franklin  and  Ripley  in  the  Slate  Legislature.  The 
great-grandfather  of  our  subject  was  a soldier  in  the  war  of  the  Revolution  and  was  with 
Washington  one  winter  at  Valley  Forge.  Our  subject  is  one  of  six  children  and  was  reared 
in  Union  County,  attending  the  common  schools  of  that  county  and  the  high  school  of  Lil)erty ; 
after  which  he  attended  the  normal  school,  at  Lebanon,  Ohio,  and  finally,  graduated  from 
the  law  department  of  the  University  of  Michigan,  Ann  Arbor,  in  1888.  Brought  up  on  the 
farm,  he  attended  school  during  the  winter  and  worked  during  the  summer;  at  the  age  of 
seventeen,  instead  of  I>eing  a [)upil  in  the  winter  he  taught  school,  and  to  the  satisfaction  of 
pupils  and  patrons.  This  he  repeated  for  the  next  three  winters.  After  graduating  in  1888 
he  went  home  and  harvested  his  wheat  crop  and  in  the  following  fall  he  came  to  Indian 
apolis,  where  he  was  a perfect  stranger,  not  knowing  a single  soul  in  the  whole  city,  .ludge 
Swift,  then  judge  of  the  circuit  court  of  Union  County,  accompanicul  him  and  intro- 
duced him  to  .John  R.  Wilson,  the  present  county  clerk  into  whose  office  he  went  for  a few 
months,  in  order  to  get  acquainted.  Subse<|uently  Mr.  Bell  opiuied  an  office  and  began  the 
j)ractice  alone,  and  continued  alone  at  No.  8.1  North  Pennsylvania  Street  (except  during  the 
so.ssion  of  the  General  Assembly  of  1889  when  he  was  reading  clerk  of  the  House  of  Repre 
sentatives)  until  .January,  18‘.j3,  when  he  movetl  to  the  office  of  Ayres  & -Jones,  being 
a[)pointed  by  .Mr.  .Jones  as  deputy  city  attorney.  He  was  formerly  under  Leon  O.  Bailey,  in 
the  same  position,  but  resigntal  it.  Mr.  Bell  is  very  popular,  having  the  happy  faculty  of 
making  and  holding  friends.  He  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  order  and  of  the  Odd  Fellows, 
in  both  of  which  organizations  he  is  greatly  esteemed.  Our  subject  was  married  in  18S8  to 
Miss  Anna  L.  Miller,  who.  as  is  her  husband,  is  a member  of  the  Tabernacle  Presbyterian 
Church,  he  being  a member  of  the  Board  of  Deacons.  Mi‘.  Bell  worked  his  own  way  through 
school  and  is  in  every  sense  of  the  word  a self-made  man.  Every  dollai’  ho  iniide  while  jjur 
suing  his  studies  went  to  the  defraying  of  his  expenses  and  his  sturdy  self  reliance  and  calm 
purpose,  united  with  his  signal  ability,  stamp  him  a man  who  cannot  fail  to  make  his  way 
through  life  along  paths  that  are  high. 


98 


MEMOIliS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Randall  J.  Abrams.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  has  won  his  way  alone  and  unaided  to 
the  position  of  honor  and  trust  he  recently  held  as  city  clerk  of  Indianapolis.  He  was  born 
in  Baltimore,  Md.,  SejAember  22,  1857,  and  is  the  son  of  John  and  Ann  (Condon)  Abrams, 
natives  of  Yorkshire,  England,  and  of  Dublin,  Ireland,  respectively.  The  parents  came  to 
this  country  before  their  marriage,  their  union  taking  place  in  Baltimore.  The  father  of 
our  subject  was  a farmer  and  gardener  while  residing  at  Baltimore.  The  father  came  to 
Indianapolis  in  1899  and  now  resides  here.  The  maternal  grandfather,  Edward  Condon, 
came  to  America,  and  settled  at  Baltimore  at  an  early  day,  where  he  died  at  the  age  of 
ninety-three.  The  grandmother  Condon  (Elizabeth)  died  at  the  age  of  eighty-one.  The 
subject  of  our  sketch  is  one  of  eleven  children,  five  of  whom  are  living,  namely:  Ann,  Ran- 
dall J.,  Belle,  Charles  and  Wallace.  Randall  J.  was  reared  at  Baltimore,  where  he  was 
educated  in  the  public  schools.  Learning  the  sawmaker’s  trade,  he  served  his  full  time 
and  followed  it  until  1888,  when  he  was  appointeil  custodian  of  the  State  capitol,  holding 
that  position  until  his  election  as  city  clerk,  in  October,  1891,  which  otlHce  he  acceptably  tilled. 
Mr.  Abrams  came  to  this  city  an  entire  stranger,  but  now  his  friends  are  legion,  for  every 
one  likes  him.  He  is  a [lopular  member  of  the  Knights  of  Pythias  and  a stanch  and  active 
supporter  of  the  Democratic  party  in  every  contest.  Our  subject  was  married  in  February, 
1889,  to  Miss  Ella  M.  Leeds,  of  this  city,  who,  with  her  husband,  is  a member  of  the 
Ba})ti8t  Church. 

Hon.  Richard  W.  Thompson  was  a native  of  Culpeper  County,  Va.,  born  in  June,  1899, 
and  was  descended  from  one  of  “ the  first  families  of  Virginia.  ” When  twenty-two  years 
old  he  emigrated  to  Indiana,  taught  a private  school  at  Bedford,  and  later  opened  the  Law- 
rence County  Seminary.  Subsecjuently  he  read  law,  was  admitted  to  the  bar  in  1834,  and 
the  same  year  was  elected  to  the  State  Legislature,  and  re-elected  in  1838.  In  1839  he  was 
elected  to  the  State  Senate,  and  during  his  career  as  a State  legislator  not  only  displayed 
great  ability  and  foresight,  Imt  was  instrumental  in  effecting  very  important  legislation. 
Upon  the  resignation  of  Lieut.  Gov.  Wallace,  Mr.  Thompson  was  president  of  the  Senate 
jjt'o  tempore,  aiid  held  the  office  of  acting  governor  during  the  administration  of  Hon.  Noah 
Noble.  As  a Whig  he  was  nominated  and  elected  to  Congress  in  1841  from  the  Second 
district,  and  declining  a renomination  moved  to  Terre  Haute  in  1843,  where  for  nearly  a 
half  a century  he  was  engaged  in  the  jiractice  of  the  law.  In  1847  he  was  again  nominated 
for  Congress  by  the  Whig  party,  and,  accepting  the  nomination,  was  re-elected  and  became 
a national  character  because  of  his  prominence  in  legislative  matters.  Although  tendered 
the  Austrian  mission  by  Pres.  Taylor  in  1849,  he  declined  the  appointment,  preferring 
to  remain  in  his  native  country.  During  the  war  of  the  Rebellion  he  rendered  the  Union 
active  and  valuable  services,  was  commandant  of  Camp  Dick  Thompson,  near  Terre  Haute, 
and  also  served  as  provost  marshal  of  the  district.  In  1807  he  was-  elected  judge  of  the 
Eighteenth  Judicial  District,  but  declined  the  candidature  of  a second  term.  For  a number 
of  years  he  lived  in  retirement,  steadily  refusing  political  preferment,  and  turning  his  attention 
toliterary  and  educational  pursuits,  his  large  and  valuable  library  alfordinghim  an  ample  field 
for  study.  In  March,  1877,  President  Hayes  appointed  him  to  his  cabinet  as  Secretary  of 
the  Navy,  and  so  ably  di<l  he  till  the  duties  of  that  position  that  he  brought  order  out  of 
chaos,  simplified  the  duties  of  his  subordinates,  dismissed  unnecessary  emjiloyes,  established 
his  department  on  a sound  basis  and  saved  several  million  dollars  to  the  Government  that 
had  previously  been  frittered  away.  Mr.  Thompson  is  one  of  the  men  whose  name  bears 
an  imperishable  imprint  on  the  page  of  Indiana  history.  He  is  now  in  his  eighty-fifth  year, 
hale  and  hearty;  he  has  been  a participant  in  sixteen  presidential  campaigns,  and  on  Sep- 
tember 3,  1893,  made  one  of  the  ablest  political  speeches  of  his  life,  comprising  six  columns 
of  newspaper  print. 

Gov.  James  D.  Williams,  or  more  popularly  known  as  “ Blue- Jeans  ” Williams,  repre- 
sented the  old  type  of  the  true  gentleman.  He  was  not  gifted  with  the  polish  that  comes 
of  a finished  education,  or  that  is  usual  in  the  case  of  public  men.  A Democrat  of  the 
Jeffersonian  school  in  all  that  the  term  imjilies,  a man  of  remarkable  force  of  character, 
simple  and  unostentatious  in  his  intercourse  with  his  fellowmen,  honest  as  the  day  was  long, 
it  is  no  wonder  that  ‘‘Blue- Jeans”  Williams  obtained  a stronghold  upon  the  hearts  of  the 
masses.  He  was  born  January  16,  1808,  in  Pickaway  County,  Ohio,  moved  with  his  par- 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  UD 

ents  to  KnoxConoty,  Ind. , when  teu  years  old,  was  reared  to  hard  work  ou  the  home  farm, 
and  was  taught  to  believe  that  it  was  far  better  to  be  able  to  boast  of  his  skill  in  plowing, 
•learing,  splitting  rails,  swinging  the  cradle  and  the  like,  than  it  was  to  boast  of  his  educa- 
tion. As  a consequence  his  schooling  was  of  a very  meager  character;  but  what  he  lacked 
in  this  respect  was  modified  to  a considerable  extent  by  desultory  readings,  and  in  his  in- 
tercourse with  men  of  learning.  When  twenty  years  old  his  father  died,  and  the  care  of 
the  family  devolved  upon  him,  and  three  years  later  occurred  his  marriage  with  Nancy 
Huffman.  When  thirty  one  years  of  age  he  began  his  public  career  by  becoming  a justice 
of  the  peace,  but  in  1843  resigned  and  was  elected  to  the  State  Legislature.  From  1843  to 
1874  llr.  Williams  was  almost  continually  in  the  Legislature  of  the  State,  either  as  Kepre- 
sentative  or  Senator.  In  the  year  last  mentioned  he  was  elected  to  represent  his  district  in 
Congress,  was  made  chairman  of  the  committee  on  accounts  of  the  House,  and  while  not 
making  a brilliant  record  in  his  one  term  as  Congressman,  he  gave  a thoroughly  able  and 
honest  representation.  In  1870,  much  to  his  surprise,  he  became  the  nominee  of  the 
Democracy  of  the  State  for  the  Governorship  of  Indiana.  It  was  in  this  campaign  that  his 
opponents  made  sport  of  his  homesi)un  clothes  and  plain  appearance,  and  obtained  for  him 
the  sobriquet  of  “ Blue- Jeans. ’’  It  was  one  of  the  most  remarkable  campaigns  of  this 
most  remarkable  country,  and  is  comparable  to  the  “ Tipj)ecanoe  and  Tyler  too,”  and  the 
Lincoln-Douglas  elections.  Mr.  Williams  was  elected  by  over  5,000  votes  over  Gen. 
Benjamin  Harrison,  ex-President  of  the  United  States,  and  served  four  years. 

A.  A.  Youn'o.  The  l)usine8s  of  the  merchant  is  not  only  one  that  may  be  the  road  to 
success,  but,  what  is  better,  in  this  country,  certainly,  it  is  one  of  the  most  honorable  of 
avocations  and  those  engaged  in  it  are,  as  a class,  composed  of  the  very  alilest  and  brightest 
of  the  land.  It  is  the  way  to  social  distinction,  to  wealth  and  to  fame,  if  one  wishes  the 
latter.  In  the  list  of  worthy  and  honorable  business  men  of  Indianapolis,  that  of  our  sub- 
ject appears  as  one  in  every  way  entitled  to  the  confidence  and  the  esteem  of  his  fellow  citi- 
zens. He  is  a member  of  the  city  council  from  the  third  ward  and  was  born  in  Johnson 
County,  Ind.,  April  5,  1852.  Mr.  Young  is  the  sou  of  Je.sse  and  Sarah  (Demaree)  Young, 
who  came  to  Indiana  at  an  early  day  and  settled  in  Johnson  County,  where  the  father  car- 
ried ou  a farm.  He  now  lives  at  Des  Moines,  Iowa,  retired  from  active  pursuits.  He  has 
been  a member  of  the  Legislature  of  Iowa  and  held  other  official  positions.  He  is  the  father 
of  four  sons,  all  living,  and  a daughter  dead.  The  names  of  the  sons  are;  William  S.,  of 
Franklin,  Ind.;  Joseph  B.,  of  Blackhawk,  Colo.;  Noble  W.,  a farmer  of  Monona  County, 
Iowa,  and  Archibald  A.,  our  sulqect.  William  S.  was  a soldier  in  Company  F,  Seventh 
Indiana,  and  lost  a leg  at  Cedar  Mountain.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  was  taken  by  his 
parents  to  Fairfield,  Iowa,  when  but  au  infant.  He  remained  here  until  he  was  fifteen,  but 
was  deprived  of  an  education,  because  of  constant,  chronic  illness.  At  the  age  of  fifteen  he 
left  Iowa  and  returned  to  Franklin,  Ind.,  with  his  brother,  William  S.,  and  went  to  school 
during  the  winter,  working  on  the  farm  during  the  summer.  Afterward  he  attended  two 
terms  of  Franklin  College.  This  is  all  the  schooling  that  he  received  and  it  will  be  seen  that 
he  is  a self-taught,  as  he  is  a self  marie  man.  What  schooling  he  received  he  had  to  pay  for 
and  at  the  age  of  seventeen  he  entered  the  dry  goods  store  of  R.  V.  Ditmers,  of  Franklin, 
with  whom  he  remained  until  the  fall  of  1872,  when  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  was  em 
ployed  in  what  was  then  known  as  the  Peo|)le’s  Store,  conducted  by  W.  IM.  Davis.  Here  lur 
remained  until  the  fall  of  1870,  when  the  firm  went  out  of  business.  lie  then  took  service 
with  L.  S.  Ayres  A Co.,  in  IMay,  1877,  with  whom  he  remainc'd  until  February,  18‘J3,  when 
Im  organized  the  firm  ot  Young,  Dildim  &c  McMuriay,  merchant  tailors,  at  Nos.  12  and  I I 
North  Meridian  Street.  This  firm  carries  a very  large  and  fine  stock  of  goods  and  are  first 
class  tailors.  Mr.  Young  was  elected  a meml)er  of  the  city  council  in  Octobei',  18'Jl,  and  has 
.served  his  constituents  rno.st  acceptably,  at  the  same  time  working  faithfully  for  the  interests 
of  the  city.  Prior  to  his  election  he  made  the  race  for  ahhu'man  from  the  second  district, 
but  was  unsuccessful.  Mr.  Young  believes  in  social  organizations  and  is  a member  of  the 
K.  of  P.  and  of  the  II.  A.  Our  subject  was  married  in  1877  to  Miss  Georgia  A.  Sloan,  and 
this  union  has  been  blessed  with  three  sons:  llowai'd  S.,  Kalph  A.  and  Ilyron  C.,  all  prom 
ising  and  interesting  lads.  .Mr.  and  Mrs.  Young  are  memlx'rs  of  Tabernacle  Presbyterian 
Church,  of  which  he  is  a deacon.  He  is  a stanch  Republican  and  tiauisuier  of  the  lt(q)ul)lican 


10(1 


MEMOim  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


County  committee.  Mr.  Young  has  a number  of  interests  in  the  city,  being  secretary  of  the 
Illinois  and  Seventh  Streets  Savings  and  Loan  Association,  treasurer  of  State  Loan  and  Sav- 
ings Association  League  and  a member  of  the  Commercial  Club.  He  enjoys  the  fullest  con- 
lidence  of  all  who  know  him  and  is  a reliable  business  man  in  every  sense  of  the  term. 

Peter  Sindlingek.  As  a wholesale  and  retail  dealer  in  meats  in  Indianapolis  there  is 
not  one  who  has  a more  enviable  reputation  for  promptness,  enterprise  and  honesty  than 
Peter  Sindlinger,  whose  establishment  is  located  at  207  West  Michigan  street,  and  has  been 
in  successful  operation  since  1878.  His  trade  has  already  grown  to  immense  jjroportions  and 
he  does  a well-known  annual  business  of  over  .'flOO, 000.  His  ice  house,  packing  house  and 
other  buildings  occupy  ground  200.k800  feet,  all  of  which  improvements  were  made  by  Mr. 
Hindlinger  at  a cost  of  825,000,  in  addition  to  which  he  has  a slaughter  house  at  the  Union 
Stock  Yards,  a plant  which  cost  $7,000.  He  has  two  retail  stalls  for  meats  at  the  city 
market,  and  two  large  wholesale  wagons  are  kept  constantly  busy  disposing  of  his  goods 
throughout  the  city.  Mr.  Sindlinger  is  a product  of  the  city  of  Cincinnati,  (Ohio,  where  he 
was  born  on  Christmas  day,  1852,  a .son  of  Gotleib  and  Eva  (Spitzfaden)  Sindlinger,  who 
came  from  Germany,  which  country  has  given  to  America  some  of  its  best  citizens.  The 
father  was  brought  to  this  country  by  his  parents  at  about  the  age  of  one  year,  and  in  the 
“City  of  Brotherly  Love”  he  was  reared  and  educated.  Upon  embarking  in  business  for 
himself  it  was  as  a meat  merchant,  a calling  he  followed  successfully  for  several  years.  This 
business  he  continued  to  follow  for  some  time  after  locating  in  Cincinnati,  from  which  place 
he  later  enlisted  in  the  Mexican  War.  He  was  wounded  in  one  of  the  leading  battles  and 
while  in  the  service  contracted  rheirmatism  which  resulted  in  his  death  November  19,  1881. 
He  came  to  Indianapolis  in  18G2  and  at  one  time  was  a member  of  the  city  council  from  the 
old  fifteenth  ward.  He  was  one  of  the  enterprising  business  men  of  the  place  and  success- 
fully conducted  a meat  market  until  his  death.  Peter  Sindlinger  was  a lad  when  his  parents 
came  to  Iudiana[)olis,  and  although  he  attended  school  until  he  was  twelve  years  of  age,  he 
was  then  olrliged  to  go  to  woik  and  commenced  learning  the  butcher’s  trade  in  his  father’s 
establishment,  and  so  thorough  was  his  training  and  so  intelligent  was  he  in  acquiring  an 
insight  into  the  business  that  he  decided  to  make  it  his  chief  occupation  through  life  and 
time  has  shown  the  wisdom  of  his  choice.  His  success  has  been  assured  from  the  start  for 
he  has  exercised  the  utmost  good  judgment  at  all  times  and  has  ever  been  at  the  helm  to 
guide  his  bark  of  business  into  smooth  and  profitable  waters.  He  is  of  a genial  and  social 
(lisposition  and  belongs  to  the  Masonic  and  Knights  of  Pythias  fraternities  and  to  the 
Butchers’  Association.  He  was  married  January  8,  1878,  to  Mias  Emma  F.  Kuhir,  a native 
of  Indianapolis  and  a daughter  of  Charles  J.  and  Fredericka  S.  (Reiuert)  Kuhn,  and  to  their 
union  three  children  have  been  given;  Mamie,  Frieda  and  William.  Mr.  Sindlinger  and  his 
family  are  members  of  the  German  Lutheran  Church  and  in  political  matters  he  has  always 
affiliated  with  the  Democrat  party. 

Martin  J.  Murphy.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  is  a young  man  under  forty,  who  has 
trusted  to  his  own  strong  arm  and  his  healthy  brain  and  has  not  been  disappointed.  Martin 
J.  Murphy  began  life  without  capital  and  his  privileges  were  somewhat  limited,  but  a 
steady  purpose  to  do  with  his  might  what  was  in  sight  has  brought  him  forward  until  he  is 
now  a councilman-at-large  and  president  of  the  city  council  of  Indianaj)ol]s.  Mr.  Murphy 
was  born  at  Madison,  Ind.,  October  25,  1853,  and  is  the  son  of  Martin  and  Catharine  (Cos- 
grove) Murphy,  natives  of  Ireland,  who  came  to  America  before  their  marriage,  about  the 
year  1851,  and  were  married  at  Madison.  The  father  died  at  Indianapolis  in  1873,  and  the 
mother  in  Kentucky  about  the  year  1808.  They  were  the  parents  of  five  children,  four  of 
whom  are  living,  our  subject  being  the  eldest.  He  was  reared  at  Madison  and  attended  the 
school  of  the  Catholic  Sisters  until  he  was  thirteen,  after  which  he  went  to  the  public  semi- 
nary two  terms  and  then,  when  less  than  fourteen,  started  out  to  make  his  own  living. 
Without  a single  doubt  as  to  the  result  he  began  at  day  labor,  being  employed  on  the  grad- 
ing of  the  Louisville,  Cincinnatti  & Lexington  Short  Line  and  on  the  Shawueetown  & 
Edgewood  Railroad,  his  work  being  the  driving  of  horses,  for  which  he  received  very 
small  wages,  but  he  contrived  to  get  enough  to  eat.  About  the  year  1870  he  caine  to 
Indianapolis  and  worked  for  a season  in  the  wheel  factory.  Subsequently  he  ran  on  the 
Indiana,  Bloomington  & Western  Railroad,  being  a fireman  for  about  four  years  and 


101 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

worked  as  an  engineer,  and  went  out  with  the  strike  of  1877.  Following  this  he  went 
to  work  in  the  rolling  mill  and  thence  to  Lafayette,  Ind.,  where  he  was  an  engineer  in 
the  hominy  mills  for  some  time,  and  then  returned  to  Indianapolis  and  went  to  work  in 
the  car  works.  Later  he  was  in  the  service  of  the  Electric  Light  Company,  and  then,  in 
1888,  he  entered  the  office  of  the  County  Auditor  and  was  a deputy  for  nearly  live  years. 
In  April,  1892,  he  entered  into  the  undertaking  business  with  Mr.  Callier,  under  the  firm 
name  of  Callier  & Murphy,  located  at  No.  59  West  Maryland  Street.  Our  subject  was 
elected  to  the  City  Council  as  a member  at  large  in  October,  1891,  having  served  for  the 
two  years  previous  as  a councilman  from  the  thirteenth  ward,  being  first  elected  in 
October,  1889.  He  was  nominated  by  the  Democratic  caucus  for  president  of  the  council 
during  his  first  term,  but  was  defeated  by  a combination  of  Republicans,  and  of  Demo- 
crats who  did  not  attend  the  caucus  of  the  party.  He  was  elected  president  of  the  conn- 
cil-at-large  at  the  first  meeting  of  the  council,  and  has  served  as  such  since  January,  1892. 
Mr.  Murphy  is  a member  of  the  Ancient  Order  of  Hibernians,  and  is  a man  of  social 
impulses  and  personally  very  popular.  He  was  married  in  1875,  and  his  wife  died  in  1890, 
leaving  two  children:  Mamie  and  Dolly,  who  are  at  St.  John’s  Academy.  Mr.  Murphy  is 
one  of  the  solid  and  representative  men  of  the  city,  who  owes  his  prominence  to  his  own 
ability  and  to  the  help  of  no  one  but  himself. 

Charles  H.  Adam.  The  name  of  Charles  H.  Adam  is  a familiar  one  in  the  railroad  as 
well  as  of  the  political  circles  of  Indianapolis,  he  being  a trusted  employe  in  the  former  and 
a faithful  follower  in  the  latter.  He  is  treasurer  of  the  School  Board  of  the  city,  and  the  city 
passenger  and  ticket  agent  of  the  Cincinnati.  Hamilton  & Dayton  Railroad,  and  was  born  at 
Bueckeburg,  Germany,  November  7,  1860.  Our  subject  is  the  son  of  William  C.  andDoretta 
(Tieste)  Adam,  who  came  to  this  country  in  1806,  landing  at  New  York  City  and  coming 
direct  to  Indianapolis,  where  they  now  reside.  They  are  the  parents  of  eight  children,  seven 
of  svhom  are  living,  onr  subject  being  the  eldest  of  the  family.  He  was  but  six  years  old 
when  he  came  here,  and  he  received  his  education  in  the  public  and  the  German  schools  of 
this  city,  finishing  with  a full  course  in  a business  college,  graduating  from  it  at  the  age  of 
seventeen.  Starting  out  to  learn  the  trade  of  a baker  he  grew  tired  of  it  in  less  than  a year 
and  gave  it  up.  After  trying  a number  of  things  he  secured  a position  with  the  Burdsal 
wholesale  paint  and  glass  house  as  shipping  clerk,  and  held  it  for  three  years.  He  was  then 
employed  at  the  Union  Station  ticket  office,  and  in  1889  was  made  ticket  agent  of  the  Cin- 
cinnati. Hamilton  A Dayton  Railroad  at  the  corner-  of  Kentucky  Avenue  and  Illinois  Street, 
where  he  is  still  stationed.  In  June,  1892,  he  was  elected  a member  of  the  School  Board, 
and  was  elected  treasurer  of  that  laxly  in  the  following  month.  Beside  this  position  he  is 
secretary  of  the  Southeastern  Building  & Loan  Association.  Mr.  Adam  is  a member  of  the 
the  K.  of  B.,  and  is  highly  esteemed  in  that  order.  He  was  married  in  1884  to  Miss 
Josephine  Jose,  of  this  city,  who  has  borne  him  one  son,  Carl.  Mr.  Adam  is  a member  of 
the  German  Lutheran  Church,  and  since  his  eighteenth  l)irthday  has  been  a member  of  the 
Indianapolis  Maennerchor,  the  pioneer  singing  society  of  this  city;  he  has  served  on  the 
executive  board  in  this  society  for  the  past  ten  yeai's.  In  politics  he  is  an  uncomf)ro- 
mising  Democrat,  and  his  voice  and  vote  are  always  cheerfully  used  for  the  advancement  of 
the  interests  of  the  party.  Mr.  Adam  at  one  time  sold  pajiers  on  the  street,  and  paid  his 
tuition  in  the  Gorman  school  by  serving  as  janitor  of  the  building,  From  these  beginnings 
he  has  risen  to  his  present  influential  and  dignified  position. 

Henry  J.  Brown,  .\gehas  not  laid  its  dignifying  hand  upon  our  subject,  but  the  weight 
and  responsibility  of  many  of  the  local  positions  of  Franklin  Township  have  been  assigned  to 
him  because  of  his  peculiar  fitness  as  a man  of  ability  and  rare  judgment.  He  is  an  intelli- 
gent and  ent(*r|)rising  young  business  man,  and  a native  of  this  county,  his  birth  having  oc- 
curred in  New  Bethel,  .April  J,  185d.  His  educational  advantages  were  received  in  thecoin- 
mon  schools  thei’e  and  in  the  Normal  School  at  Lebanon,  Ohio.  Ijeaviug  school  at  the  age 
of  nineteen  years  he  returned  to  New  Bethel,  Ind..  and  assisted  his  father  to  till  the  soil  for 
about  a year.  From  there  ho  went  to  D(mver,  Colo. . remained  there  for  about  four  months 
and  tlien  ladurinxl  to  New  Bethel  whe7e  ho  bi'gan  clerking  for  Jaim's  D.  Jtrnmley  in  a gen 
oral  store.  A 3’ear  or  so  later  he  bought  a half  interest,  and  about  one  year  later  he  and  A1 
bert  Hfdins  bought  out  Mr.  Brumley,  after  which  time  the  linn  was  conducted  under  thelilh' 


102 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


of  Brown  & Helms  for  al)ont  two  years.  In  1880  Mr.  Brown  bouglitont  his  partner  and  has 
carried  on  the  business  alone  ever  since.  He  now  owns  a large  two-story  frame  building  and 
this  is  filled  with  his  stock.  In  his  political  views  Mr.  Brown  affiliates  with  the  Democratic 
party  and  is  active  in  his  sup])ort  of  its  platform  and  principles.  In  1890  he  was  elected 
trustee  of  Franklin  township  for  four  years,  but  owing  to  a change  of  law  he  will  hold  that  posi- 
tion until  August,  1895.  Mr.  Brown  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  Acton  Lodge,  and  a 
charter  member  of  the  Acton  Lodge,  K of  F.  He  served  as  vice  chancellor  of  the 
latter  organization,  but  resigned  the  position  on  account  of  business.  For  some  time  he  has 
held  membership  in  the  Baptist  Church.  In  the  year  1877  he  was  married  to  Miss  Flora 
Schooley,  daughter  of  Thomas  Schooley,  of  Indianapolis,  and  two  children  have  been  given 
them,  Ernest  T.,  born  in  1880  and  Raymond  A.,  born  in  1885.  The  father  of  our  subject  is 
Dr.  S.  M.  Brown. 

Henry  F.  Barnes,  M.  D.  The  itrofession  of  medicine,  while  a very  inviting  field  for 
the  student  and  the  humanitarian,  is  one  that  demands  much  self  denial  and  the  exercise 
of  repression  and  the  sacrifice  of  the  ordinary  methods  of  advancing  one’s  interests.  It 
has  been  urged,  and  with  great  show  of  reason,  that  these  causes  explain  the  exalted  char- 
acter and  the  superior  virtues  that  so  strongly  characterize  the  profession  the  country  over. 
In  other  words,  the  self-abnegation  demanded  for  the  truly  successful  man  in  this  profes- 
sion is  such  that  good  men  only  are  willing  to  assume  the  duties  and  responsibilities  of  such 
a life.  The  city  of  Indianapolis  is  peculiarly  fortunate  in  the  personnel  of  its  practioners, 
the  ethical  code  being  maintained  at  the  highest  possible  standard,  and  the  individual 
members  l)eing  gentlemen  of  culture  and  refinement,  and  physicians  of  repute  and  emi- 
nence. In  the  number  the  name  of  Dr.  Henry  F.  Barnes  appears  most  prominent,  his 
attainments  in  his  profession,  his  courteous  treatment  of  his  brethren,  the  success  he  has 
attained  in  the  practice,  and  his  broad  and  considerate  and  devoted  care  of  those  who  require 
his  professional  services,  all  combining  to  give  him  an  enviable  distinction  among  physi- 
cians and  a deserved  popularity  with  the  public.  Especially  does  he  have  the  confidence  of 
those  who  have  had  his  presence  in  the  sick  chamber  and  have  observed  how  devoted  his 
care  of  those  who  suffer.  Dr.  Barnes  has  passed  his  sixtieth  year,  yet  his  natural  vigor 
has  not  abated,  and  he  practices  with  all  the  zeal,  enthusiasm  and  sympathy  for  suffering 
that  stamped  him  thirty  years  ago.  Henry  F.  Barnes,  M.  D.,  of  Indianapolis,  was  born 
at  Orleans,  Ind. , August  11,  1829,  being  the  son  of  Dean  Barnes,  who  was  born  near  Lex- 
ington, Ky.,  and  was  a pioneer  trader,  merchant  and  hotel  keeper  of  Springville,  Lawrence 
County,  Ind.,  shipping  produce  for  forty  miles  around  that  place,  in  tlatboats,  to  New 
Orleans.  The  father  of  our  subject  was  a justice  of  the  peace  for  thirty  years  and  served 
two  terms  as  treasurer  of  Lawrence  County.  He  married  Mahala  Athon,  a native  of 
Rockbridge  County,  Va.,  and  a daughter  of  Judge  Joseph  Athon,  a teacher  of  the  higher 
branches  of  mathematics  at  Washington  City,  in  the  latter  part  of  the  eighteenth  cent- 
ury. Dean  Barnes  and  his  wife  are  dead,  the  former  passing  away  at  Mitchell,  Ind., 
in  1873,  from  the  effects  of  being  removed  from  a burning  hotel,  in  which  he  was  confined 
to  his  bed  from  an  attack  of  pneumonia  at  the  time  the  fire  broke  out.  He  was  a success- 
ful business  man  and  acquired  a large  amount  of  property,  most  of  which  he  lost  by  going 
security.  The  paternal  grandfather  of  Dr.  Barnes,  Henry  Barnes,  was  a pioneer  settler 
of  Xenia,  Ohio,  and  was  captain  of  light  horse  cavalry  at  Fort  Meigs  during  the  War  of 
1812.  He  was  afterward  a successful  business  man  at  Xenia,  having  ac(juired  a snug  fort- 
une, and  he  died  at  the  age  of  eighty-seven.  The  ancestors  of  the  maternal  grandfather 
of  Dr.  Barnes,  Joseph  Athon,  came  from  Scotland  about  the  middle  of  the  seventeenth 
century  and  were  relatives  of  Lord  Fairfax,  and  the  late  Dr.  James  S.  Athon,  at  one  time 
Secretary  of  State  of  Indiana,  was  a descendant  of  the  same.  Our  subject  Avas  about  two 
years  old  when  his  parents  settled  in  Springville,  Lawrence  County,  where  he  remained 
and  was  reared,  receiving  a common-school  education.  He  was  for  a number  of  years 
engaged  with  his  father  buying  stock  and  selling  the  same  at  Green  Bay,  Wis. , which  was 
on  the  frontier  at  that  time,  and  the  youth  was  frequently  brought  into  contact  in  the  way 
of  trade  with  the  Indians,  whom,  however,  he  always  found  peaceful.  At  the  age  of  seven- 
teen he  entered  the  Union  School,  of  Xenia,  Ohio,  taking  an  eight  months’  course,  and  was 
chosen  valedictorian  of  his  class.  Following  this,  he  remained  at  home  for  a few  weeks, 


103 


AND  MAH  ION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

then  went  to  Grreencastle  and  took  an  irregular  scientitic  course  and  languages  in  what  was 
kuown  as  Asbury  University.  At  the  age  of  nineteen  he  began  the  study  of  medicine  in 
the  office  of  Dr.  Janies  S.  Athon,  at  Charleston,  lud.,  matriculating  afterward  at  Jefferson 
Medical  College,  where  he  took  two  courses  of  lectures  and  graduated  in  the  class  of  1854, 
having  previously,  in  1853,  graduated  from  the  Edward  Parisli  College  of  Pharmacy. 
During  the  second  course  he  practiced  medicine  in  Philadelphia,  and  at  New  Washington, 
Ind.,  between  the  first  and  second  courses,  making  sufficient  money  to  carry  him  through 
the  medical  college.  He  is  a self-made  man,  finding  it  nece.ssary  to  earn  the  money  which 
procured  him  his  literary  and  professional  education.  After  graduating  he  settled  at  Bed- 
ford, Ind.,  and  entered  upon  the  jiractice  with  Dr.  Winthrop  Foote,  a leading  practitioner 
of  southern  Indiana.  In  the  fall  of  1854  circumstances  called  Dr.  Barnes  to  Paoli,  Ind., 
where  he  practiced  until  the  fall  of  1855.  In  September,  1855,  he  was  chosen  senior  phy- 
sician at  the  Indiana  Hospital  for  the  Insane,  now  the  Central,  having  special  charge  of  the 
female  department,  and  was  elected  for  six  consecutive  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he 
entered  upon  a large  and  lucrative  jiractice  in  Indianapolis.  When  the  great  battle  of 
Pittsburgh  Landing  was  in  progress.  Dr.  Barnes  was  commissioned  by  Gov.  Morton  as  one 
of  the  additional  surgeons  to  the  Eleventh  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry,  commanded  by 
Gen.  Lew  Wallace,  and  was  detailed  to  Shiloh  Hospital  after  that  battle,  in  addition  to 
serving  the  Eleventh,  and  rendered  most  efficient  aid  while  down  there.  Upon  his  return  to  In- 
dianapolis he  at  once  resumed  the  practice,  and  enjoyed  a large  and  very  lucrative  income. 
In  1870,  at  the  solicitation  of  a number  of  friends,  he  removed  to  Louisville  and  at  once 
entered  upon  a very  gratifying  practice,  which  continued  until  1877,  when,  his  old  preceptor 
and  j)artner,  Dr.  James  S.  Athon,  dying,  he  \vas  induced  to  return  to  Indianapolis,  where 
he  found  a most  satisfactoiy  practice,  which  has  continued  to  the  present  time.  In  1865 
Dr.  Barnes  was  appointed  by  the  commissioner  of  pensions  at  Washington,  D.  C.,  a pension 
surgeon,  a position  he  held  until  1869.  In  the  years  that  have  passed  since  leaving  the 
insane  hospital  service  he  has  been  chosen  by  the  courts  of  this  and  other  States  to  give 
expert  testimony  where  the  plea  of  insanity  has  been  set  up  and  has  received  the  largest 
possible  fees  for  that  service.  Prior  to  the  Doctor’s  removal  to  Louisville,  he  was  one  of 
the  founders  of  the  Indianapolis  Academy  of  Medicine,  and  one  of  a committee  of  three  to 
establish  a fee  bill  for  the  government  of  the  physicians  of  Indianapolis  and  vicinity.  He 
was  also  an  active  member  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society.  After  his  location  at 
Louisville,  in  1870,  he  became  an  active  meml)er  of  the  Medico  Chirurgical  Society  of 
Louisville,  was  a member  of  the  Kentucky  State  Medical  Society  and  an  honorary  member 
(jf  the  Ohio  State  IMedical  Society.  He  was  the  author  of  "‘A  Discussion  of  Insanity  from 
a Medico-Legal  Standpoint,”  for  the  Kentucky  State  Medical  Society,  and  an  article  enti- 
tled ‘‘Oerebral  Congestion,”  for  the  Medico-CIiirurgical  Society  of  Louisville,  both  of  which 
were  published  in  the  Richinoxd  (lud  Loninville  Medical  Jonnutl,  and  highly  eulogized  by 
the  profession  generally.  The  Doctor  has  produced  many  other  able  articles  of  importance 
during  his  professional  career.  About  ten  years  ago  Dr.  Barnes  was  elected  president  of 
the  Life  and  Endowment  Association  of  Indiana,  one  of  the  largest  and  best  insurance 
companies  of  its  kind  in  tlie  State,  and  has  held  that  position,  with  the  exception  of  one 
year,  ever  since.  In  the  year  1868  he  was  at  the  head  of  the  Democratic  ticket  for  the 
office  of  State  senator  from  the  iTidianajmlis  district,  and  came  near  being  elected,  in  the 
face  of  nearly  2,000  majority  of  the  opposing  j)arty,  in  this  county  alone,  one  of  his  asso- 
ciates on  the  Democratic  ticket  being  1,900  votes  behind.  In  the  same  year  he  was  made  a 
member  of  the  State  (Central  Committee,  for  the  cential  district  of  Indiana,  serving  two 
years  efficiently.  Dr.  Barnes  makes  a 8j)ecially  of  diseases  of  tlie  mind  and  nervous  system, 
including  the  li(pu)r  and  oj)ium  habit,  etc.,  and  is  an  ex|)ert  and  hiuding  physician  and  sur 
geon,  being  uni versally  recognized  as  such  by  the  j)rofession  and  by  the  j)eople  of  Indianap- 
olis. He  combines  with  a rar(!  kncnvledge  of  his  profession  pleasant  ami  agreeable  maniu'rs 
and  a broaii  and  conscientious  charity.  Dr.  Barnes  was  married  in  1863  to  Mrs.  Fannie  B. 
Seabolt,  and  again  in  1880,  to  ^largaicd  V.  Merl,  who  dicnl  of  consum])tion  December  18, 
1890,  leaving  three  children,  namely.  Pearl  A.,  Beatrice  M.  and  Hattie  F.,all  of  them  bright, 
intelligent  and  most  intei-esting  children,  who  would  attrad  attention  anywhere  on  account 
of  their  sweet  and  winning  ways.  Recently  the  Doctor  was  induced  on  account  of  their 


104 


MEMOIRS  OF  IXDJANAPOLIS 


health  to  take  them  on  an  extended  tour  of  ItodlOO  miles,  through  the  Southern  States,  Cal- 
ifornia, Mexico,  Utah,  Colorado  and  other  Western  States  and  Territories,  and  on  his  return 
visiting  the  World’s  Fair  at  Chicago.  Dr.  Barnes  has  all  the  zeal  and  energy  and  studious 
and  investigating  spirit  that  inspired  him  a quarter  of  a century  ago.  While  conservative 
and  prudent,  he  is  at  the  same  time  progressive  and  active  in  promoting  mea.sures  calculated 
to  keep  the  profession  in  full  touch  with  the  spirit  and  genius  of  the  age.  Blessed  with 
good  health,  and  in  possession  of  an  active  and  vigorous  mind,  and  enjoying  a very  lucrative 
juactice.  Dr.  Barnes  may  be  truly  said  to  Ijave  made  a most  decided  success  of  his  life,  as 
well  as  having  good  reason  to  look  forward  to  many  years  of  further  usefulness  in  his  profes- 
sion. The  Doctor”s  only  living  sister,  Mrs.  Virginia  A.  Williams,  is  residing  at  Indianap- 
olis. She  is  a lady  of  much  dignity  and  personal  beauty,  and  possessed  of  many  accom 
plishmeuts.  He  has  two  l)rothers,  J.  D.  and  William  A.  Barnes,  worthy  gentlemen  respect- 
ively of  Abilene  and  Olcott,  Kan. 

Hon.  David  Tuepie,  one  of  the  present  senators  from  Indiana  in  the  United  States  Con- 
gress, is  justly  recognized  as  a man  of  superior  ability  and  one  of  the  foremost  lawyers  of 
the  State.  After  receiving  a good  practical  education  he  studied  law,  was  admitted  to  the 
bar  at  liOgansjiort,  Tnd.,  in  1849,  was  apjiointed  judge  of  the  Common  Pleas  Court  in  1854 
and  in  185(5  was  elected  to  the  bench  of  the  Circuit  Court.  In  1853,  and  again  in  1858,  he 
was  elected  to  the  lower  house  of  the  State  Legislature.  In  1803  he  was  elected  United 
States  senator  to  succeed  (tov.  Josepli  A.  Wright,  and  after  the  expiration  of  his  term  was 
engaged  in  the  jiractice  of  his  profession  in  Indianapolis.  He  also  served  Marion  County 
in  the  State  Legislature  several  terms,  and  the  session  of  1874-75  was  elected  speaker.  In 
1878  he  was  appointed  one  of  the  three  commissioners  selected  to  revise  the  laws  of  Indiana, 
and  as  such  served  three  years.  In  1880  he  received  the  appointment  from  President  Cleve- 
land of  United  States  district  attorney  for  the  State  of  Indiana,  serving  as  such  until  March, 
3,  1887.  He  was  elected  to  his  present  seat  of  United  States  senator  February  2,  1887, 
and  the  day  following  his  retirement  from  the  United  States  marshalship  witnessed  his  induc- 
tion to  a membership  in  the  highest  legislative  body  of  our  land.  Judge  Turjiie  is  not  only 
a Democrat  in  the  highest  political  sense  of  the  word,  but  is  a Democrat  in  the  widest 
acceptation  of  the  term.  Of  unquestioned  ability,  a ready  debater,  a fluent  orator,  he  stands 
to-day  among  the  foremost  men  of  the  State. 

iMilton  H.  Daniels.  One  of  the  most  positive  truths  taught  by  modern  science  is  that 
mental  and  physical  (jualities  are  hereditary  in  man  and  this  statement  of  fact  is  as  old  as 
Moses,  who  declared  that  the  generations  to  come  should  feel  the  intluence  of  the  father’s 
actions.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  is  descended  from  a worthy  ancestry  and  owes  his  vigor 
of  body  and  his  strong  mentality  to  his  jiarents  and  his  parents’  parents.  He  was  born  in 
Orove,  now  called  Oroveland,  Allegany  County,  N.  Y. , August  3,  1837;  being  the  son  of 
Dr.  William  and  Betsy  (Baldwin)  Daniels,  of  Germantown,  N.  Y.,  and  of  Woodbridge, 
Conn.  ,*  respectively ; the  father  being  of  Welsh  and  the  mother  of  English  descent.  The 
great-grandmotber  of  our  subject  on  the  father’s  side  was  the  sister  of  that  sturdy  philoso- 
pher and  august  statesmen,  Benjamin  Franklin.  This  family  settled  in  Massachusetts  at  an 
early  day,  some  of  them  also  going  to  Vermont.  The  great-grandfather  on  the  father’s 
side  was  a soldier  in  the  Revolutionary  War,  and  was  killed  near  W^orcester,  Mass.,  toward 
the  close  of  that  protracted  struggle.  The  maternal  grandmother  was  a cousin  of  Gen. 
Wooster.  The  paternal  grandfather,  George  Daniels,  was  a farmer,  who  lived  at  German- 
town Flats,  where  he  also  died.  The  maternal  grandfather,  Maj.  Baldwin,  was  a soldier  of 
the  War  of  1812,  and  died  at  the  age  of  forty.  He  was  a carpenter  by  trade  and  a very 
skillful  user  of  tools  as  well  as  a very  good  manager.  The  father  of  our  subject  was  a phy- 
sician and  graduated  at  the  Fairfield  Medical  College  of  New  York;  was  married  in  1836, 
located  at  Grove,  N.  Y.,  and  two  years  after  moved  to  Warehouse  Point,  Conn.,  where  he 
died  January  11,. 1842.  The  mother  of  our  subject  died  at  the  age  of  tifty-three  while  the 
Civil  War  was  in  progress.  She  and  her  husband  were  the  jiarents  of  four  children,  two  of 
whom  are  living,  namely;  Milton  H..  our  subject,  and  William  L., of  Minneapolis.  Milton  H. 
Daniels  was  reanM  in  Warehouse  Point  and  Danbury,  Conn.,  until  he  was  twenty-one  years 
of  age,  receiving  his  education  at  the  Academy.  He  was  brought  up  in  the  mercantile  busi- 
ness and  proved  himself  a very  level  headed  young  man,  with  decidedly  enterprising  raeth- 


AND  MAD  ION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


105 


ods.  The  sound  of  war  stirred  him  to  the  very  soul  and  his  whole  being  was  exercised  on 
behalf  of  the  Union.  At  the  very  outbreak,  in  April,  1801,  he  enlisted  in  Company  I, 
Third  Regiment  Connecticut  Volunteer  Infantry,  as  a corporal,  serving  three  months.  He 
took  part  in  the  disastrous  battle  of  Bull  Run,  and  in  August,  1801,  at  the  expiration  of  his 
term  of  enlistment  he  re  enlisted,  entering  Company  E,  of  the  Seventh  New  A'ork  Northern 
Black  Horse  Cavalry,  under  Col.  A.  J.  Morrison,  of  Troy,  N.  A’.,  and  served  until  the  following 
March,  when  the  company  was  mustered  out.  In  July,  1802,  he  and  Capt.  James  E.  Moore 
raise<l  a company  known  as  Company  C,  of  the  Seventeenth  Connecticut  Infantry,  and  our  sub- 
ject went  out  as  a tirst  lieutenant.  At  the  battle  of  Cettysburg  Capt.  Moore  was  killed  and 
Lieut.  Daniels  was  commissioneil  captain  of  the  company,  serving  as  such  until  Mai'ch, 
1801,  when  he  resigned  on  account  of  suffering  from  the  effects  of  a wound  received  at  the 
siege  of  Charleston  by  the  explosion  of  a shell.  Going  to  Florida  he  remained  until  July, 
1871,  being  employed  as  a bookkeeper  there  for  M.  W.  Drew,  of  Jacksonville.  Previous  to 
this,  however,  he  had  served  as  clerk  of  the  court  at  Enterprise,  Volusia  County,  Fla.  Dur- 
ing the  latter  part  of  liis  stay  in  Florida  he  was  engaged  in  the  boot  and  shoe  business,  but 
he  finally  became  dissatisfied  with  the  South,  and  July  2U,  1874,  he  came  to  Indianapolis 
and  for  two  years  was  agent  for  the  Protective  Life  Insurance  Com])any  of  Chicairo.  At 
the  expiration  of  this  time  he  engaged  in  the  real  estate  business  at  No.  Ibi  East  Washing- 
ton Street  for  a jieriod  of  two  years,  after  which  for  four  years  he  was  with  the  Sun  and 
Glol)e  and  was  secretary  of  the  State  Central  Greenback  Committee.  During  the  next  eight 
years  he  was  in  the  pension  business,  or  j)ension  attorney.  In  April,  1892,  he  was  elected  a 
justice  of  the  peace,  and  is  serving  in  that  capacity  at  the  present  time.  Capt.  Daniels  is  a 
lover  of  social  life  and  the  companionship  of  his  fellows,  being  a member  of  a number  of 
organizations,  among  which  are  the  Masonic  order,  the  order  of  Chosen  Friends,  the  Grand 
.\rmy  of  the  Republic  and  the  Golden  Chain.  He  was  married  in  1858  to  Amanda  M.  Hos- 
kins, of  Clarksville.  Otsego  County,  N.  Y.,  who  died  at  Port  Orange,  Fla.,  February  2,  1809, 
leaving  one  child.  William  Hoskins  Daniels,  who  lives  near  Cooperstown,  N.  Y.  Ca{)t.  Dan- 
iels was  married  again  June  13,  1877,  to  Charlotte  8.  Warren,  of  Marlboro,  Mass.,  who  is  a 
meml)er  of  the  Protestant  Episcoj)al  Church  and  a most  popular  member  of  the  large  circle 
of  estimable  people  among  whom  she  moves.  Capt.  Daniels  is  a man  of  strong  convictions 
upon  all  the  leading  social  and  political  issues  of  the  day  and  has  the  courage  to  vt)ice  his 
sentiments  when  the  occasion  demands  it.  At  the  same  time  he  has  great  respect  for  those 
who  differ  with  him.  and  among  the  number  of  his  hosts  of  particular  friends  are  men  of  all 
religicjus  and  political  views. 

Bnx.iAMiN  C.  Sh.\w.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  is  a worthy  and  highly  esteemed  citizen 
and  an  ex-scJdier,  who  made  for  himself  a most  enviable  record  during  the  war  between  the 
States  of  the  Federal  union.  Beniamin  C.  Shaw,  adjutant  general  of  that  noble  organization, 
the  Union  Veteran  Legion,  is  a native  of  the  Buckeye  State,  having  been  born  at  Oxford, 
Ohio,  February  3,  1831.  He  comes  of  a most  worthy  stock,  being  the  son  of  Jose])h  and 
Sarah  t'Serring)  Shaw,  the  father  being  a native  of  North  Carolina  and  the  mother  of  Cin- 
cinnati, being  the  first  female  child  born  iti  that  place.  The  grandfathers  of  our  subject 
were  ])atriots  and  soldiers  of  the  Revolntionaiy  War,  the  paternal  giandfather  being  a 
native  of  Irelaml,  who  settled  in  the  Old  North  State  and  marri»‘d  a Graham,  a member  of 
the  family  which  has  sup|>lied  so  many  illustrious  public  men  of  that  name  in  North 
Carolina.  'I'he  Serritig  family  came  from  England  and  settled  in  New  Jersey,  locating  at, 
Cincinnati  in  179"),  where  they  lived  in  peace  and  enjoyed  th(‘  coididence  and  esteem  of 
their  neighbors  and  friends.  'I’he  fathei’  of  our  subject  was  a hatter  l)y  ti'ade,  having 
learned  it  infhe  celebrated  ‘•Beard’s”  factory  iti  his  native  Stab'.  At  the  outbreak  of  the 
War  of  1812  he  enlisted  in  the  Ijight  Horse  (,'avalry  and  was  one  of  the  heroes  of  that 
devoted  band.  When  the  war  was  over  he,  with  five  others,  rode  on  horseback  from 
his  mountain  horm*  in  Carolina  to  the  then  struggling  village  of  Cincinnati,  wheri*  he 
followed  his  trade  for  a short  time  and  then  became  a contractor  on  the  Afiama  Canal; 
afterward  building  a [lart  of  the  Codrein  pike,  from  O.xford  to  Cincinnati.  Finally  ho  gave 
up  the  business  of  a contractor  and  his  last  years  won-  spent  upon  a farm  near  Oxford, 
Ohio,  where  he  died  in  181.7;  his  wife  surviving  until  November,  1881.  He  was  the  father 
of  ten  children,  only  two  of  wliom  are  living,  namely:  Mrs.  .Mary  Woodard  and  Ifenja 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


min  C.,  onr  subject;  the  sister  living  in  Jasper  County,  Ind.  Our  subject  was  reared  upon 
a farm  until  he  was  eighteen  years  old,  attending  the  public  schools  of  the  district,  where  he 
received  such  instruction  as  they  were  able  to  afford,  which  was  somewhat  primitive.  He 
now  felt  the  necessity  of  doing  something  on  his  own  account  and,  in  February,  1848,  went 
to  Oreensburg,  Decatur  County,  Ind.,  where  he  began  the  trade  of  wagon-making,  which 
he  learned  and  followed  until  the  outbreak  of  the  Civil  War,  when,  tired  with  prtriotic  zeal, 
he  was  in  the  ranks  with  the  first  of  the  volunteers,  enlisting  April  18,  18t)l,  in  Company  F, 
Seventh  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry.  This  was  the  tir.st  regiment  that  made  an  assault  upon 
the  Confederates,  and  our  subject  made  the  detail  which  carried  the  first  wounded  officer  of 
the  command.  Col.  B.  F.  Kelley,  off  the  field,  the  colonel  being  in  command  of  the  First 
Virginia  Regiment.  He  and  his  men  captured  the  Confederate  Gen.  Porterfield’s  baggage 
wagon,  including  his  personal  effects,  and  also  his  official  papers.  Immediately  after  this 
engagement  our  subject  was  appointed  provost  marshal  and  with  his  company  was  detailed 
to  take  charge  of  Philippi,  the  first  town  captured  during  the  war,  and  being  in  Barbour 
County,  W.  Va.  Col.  Shaw,  our  brave  subject,  capti;red  all  of  the  baggage  and  other  wagons 
of  the  enemy  at  the  battle  of  Carrick’s  Ford,  with  a force  of  but  thirty  men,  in  July,  1861, 
the  colonel  being  at  this  time  a lieutenant.  The  first  company  that  tendered  its  services  to 
Jefferson  Davis  was  composed  of  cadets,  students  at  a college  at  Augusta,  Ga. , and  of  these 
our  subject  captured  thirteen,  and  for  his  services  in  this  battle  he  received  the  warm  thanks 
and  praise  of  Col.  E.  Dermont,  of  the  Seventh  Indiana.  These  events  transpired  in  the 
three  mouths’  service,  the  enlistment  being  for  that  period,  and  our  subject  being  a lieuten- 
ant at  that  time.  At  the  expiration  of  his  term  he  promptly  re-enlisted  in  the  Seventh 
Indiana,  and  went  out  for  three  years  as  captain  of  Company  G,  and  was  promoted  to  the 
rank  of  major,  after  the  battle  of  Greenbrier,  in  November,  1861,  in  which  he  bore  a very 
brave  ])art.  During  the  first  battle  of  Winchester,  March  3,  1862,  at  a crisis  in  this  hot  and 
fierce  contesf  he  was  recpiested  to  command  the  Third  Brigade  of  Shields’  Division.  Acting 
with  the  promptness  that  the  occasion  demanded.  Col.  Shaw  ordered  the  First  Virginia 
Infantry  to  move  by  right  flank  and  forward  to  a stone  fence;  then  ordered  the  Seventh  Ohio 
and  the  Seventh  Indiana  to  deploy  column  and  assault  the  Confederate  battery  immediately  in 
front.  During  the  giving  of  these  orders  his  horse  was  shot  five  times,  and  being  a powerful 
animal  it  struggled  violently  and  dashed  Maj.  Shaw  against  a tree,  lacerating  his  left  lung, 
which  formed  a cicatrice  and  from  which  he  has  not  fully  recovered.  Falling  upon  some 
“nigger  head”  stones  at  the  base  of  the  tree  his  spinal  column  was  wrenched,  causing  a 
total  })aralysis  and  he  was  supposed  to  be  dead  for  more  than  an  hour.  At  dusk,  however, 
two  soldiers  passing  among  the  heaps  of  dead  and  wounded  discovered  him,  when  one  said 
to  the  other;  “This  is  Maj.  Shaw,  of  the  Seventh  Indiana;  let’s  get  him  out  of  these  stones,’’ 
at  the  same  time  seizing  him  by  the  shoulder  and  drawing  him  into  shape.  Our  subject 
aroused  by  this  friendly  action,  declared  he  was  not  hurt  much  and  directed  that  his  horse 
be  caught  and  he  be  ()laced  uj)on  it,  for  that  if  the  Seventh  Ohio  and  the  Seventh  Indiana 
did  not  capture  the  Confederate  battery  the  day  was  lost.  Poor  fellow,  while  he  lay  there 
unconscious  the  two  regiments  had  done  the  very  thing  he  spoke  of;  but  he  was  delirious 
and  for  twenty-four  hours  did  nothing  but  rave,  giving  orders  rapidly  and  in  his  fever  fight- 
ing the  enemy  over  and  over  again.  His  illness  was  near  unto  death  and  in  June,  1862,  he 
resigned  and  came  home,  when  he  organized  the  Sixty-eighth  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry, 
composed  of  more  than  1,000  men  and  went  out  with  this  splendid  command  as  lieutenant- 
colonel;  having  been  tendered  a colonel’s  commission,  but  declined  it  on  account  of  his 
physical  condition.  In  fact,  he  was  a very  great  sufferer  and  nothing  l)ut  the  most  sublime 
patriotism  could  have  nerved  him  up  to  the  endurance  of  the  fatigues  and  hardships  of 
service.  As  it  was  he  was  compelled  to  resign  in  1863,  June  1,  the  injuries  received  at  the 
battle  of  Winchester  rendering  him  incapable  of  further  active  work  of  any  kind.  Col.  Shaw 
was  a prisoner  in  the  body  of  Bragg’s  army  for  three  days,  when  he  was  paroled  and 
exchanged.  In  this  brief  time  he  got  well  acquainted  with  a number  of  the  enemy  and  was 
known  to  them  as  the  “protesting  officer,”  who  always  would  have  his  own  way  and  would 
say  what  he  pleased  in  the  interests  of  his  men.  It  was  evident  that  his  manner  pleased 
them,  for  he  was  placed  by  Gen.  Bragg  in  charge  of  the  4,200  paroled  Union  prisoners. 
After  the  regiment  was  exchanged  and  sent  to  tlie  front  it  was  made  the  infantry  guard 


107 


AND  MARIOX  COUNTY,  TXDIANA. 

to  convoy  thirty  seven  boat  loads  of  provisions  from  Louisville  to  Nashville,  up  the  Cumber- 
land River,  Col.  Shaw  having  charge  of  the  left  wing,  rear  guard,  on  the  steamer.  Fort 
Wayne.  At  Harpeth  Shoals  the  rear  boats  were  attacked  by  Gen.  Forrest,  and  two  of  these 
signaled  they  were  disabled,  when  Col.  Shaw  ordered  them  to  prepare  to  lash  themselves  to 
the  Fort  Wayne,  at  the  same  time  ordingthe  remaining  boats  to  proceed  to  Nashville,  where 
they  arrived  at  10  p.  m.,  he  arriving  fourteen  hours  later  with  the  cripjtled  ones  and  finding 
Gov.  Andrew  Johnson  and  Gen.  Mitchell  anxiously  awaiting  him  with  other  officers,  their 
fears  being  that  he  w'as  captured.  Col.  Shaw  made  a brief  verbal  report  that  he  had  taken 
the  disabled  l)oats  from  Forrest  and  ran  away  with  them  safely;  but  his  arrival  was  hailed 
with  great  delight  by  the  officials.  On  leaving  the  service  our  subject  did  so  with  a heavy 
heart,  because  his  whole  soul  was  wua))ped  up  in  the  Union  cause,  and  he  burned  to  be  at  the 
front.  By  a special  order  Gen.  Rosecrans  detailed  a chaplain  to  take  care  of  him  and  bear 
him  to  his  home.  He  went  to  Greensburg,  his  home,  and  sold  out  his  business  interests, 
being  warned  by  his  physicians  that  he  co^dd  not  possibly  live.  With  deliberation  and  the 
courage  that  comes  of  duty  honestly  and  faithfully  discharged,  he  made  all  his  ])reparations 
for  the  great  change  that  must  come  to  all.  He  arrived  at  Greensburg  on  the  day  of  the 
county  convention  and  w'as  tendered  the  unanimous  nomination  for  county  auditor,  but  he 
declined  it,  although  deeply  impressed  w'ith  the  testimonial  of  the  kind  feeling  of  his  neigh- 
bors and  friends.  In  the  fall  of  lSf)8  after  he  had,  to  the  surprise  of  himself  and  friends, 
gained  some  strength  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  carriages, 
a business  he  conducted  for  some  time,  but  Avhich  he  was  tinally  compelled  to  retire  from  on 
account  of  the  great  depreciations  from  the  1S78  panic.  Col.  Shaw  was  chairman  of  the 
Republican  county  committee  of  Decatur  in  18b0,  and  in  18()7  was  the  nominee  of  the 
Workingmen’s  party  for  mayor  of  Indianapolis,  but  was  defeated.  Again,  in  1870,  he  was 
a candidate  of  his  party,  this  time  for  State  senator,  but  was  again  defeated,  the  opposing 
party  being  too  strongly  in  the  majority.  In  the  year  1874  he  was  nominated  on  the  Demo 
cratic  ticket  for  State  treasurer  and  was  elected  by  over  17,000  majority,  and  was  re-elected 
in  1870,  serving  two  terms.  He  was  made  chairman  of  the  Democratic  State  Central  Com- 
mittee in  1878  and  served  one  term,  since  which  time  he  has  not  taken  any  active  part  in 
politics.  During  the  past  few  years  he  has  spent  his  time  very  (piietly,  endeavoring  to  recover 
from  a very  serious  attack  of  the  grip.  Col.  Shaw  takes  a most  lively  interest,  as  all  good 
citizens  should,  in  all  public  affairs,  and  is  a man  of  great  public  sf>irit  and  loyalty — to  city, 
county.  State  and  country.  His  time  is  now  given  chiefly  to  the  management  of  the  Union 
Veteran  League.  Beside  being  connected  with  this  oiganization  Col.  Shaw  is  a Knight 
Templar,  a member  of  tlje  G.  A.  R.  and  of  other  bodies,  in  all  of  which  he  is  recognized  as  a 
man  of  decided  ability  and  a gentleman  of  refined  and  courteous  manner,  being  just  toward 
all  and  charitable  in  all  things.  He  was  married  happily  in  1850  to  Elizabeth  A.  Coj",  who 
bore  him  ten  children,  but  three  of  whom  are  living,  namely;  Fannie,  Ida  and  Edna.  The 
life  of  Col.  Shaw  has  been  a very  busy  and  useful  one,  notwithstanding  his  most  serious 
l)odily  alllictions,  which  would  have  killed  outright  any  man  of  less  vital  energy.  He  was  a 
trust('e  of  the  Rurdue  University  from  1874  to  1875.  and  served  on  the  building  committee 
of  the  same;  was  a directoi'  for  two  years  on  the  City  B(dt  Railway,  and  was  a member  of 
the  Citizens’  Executive  Committee  to  arrange  for  the  Twenty  sevent h National  Encfimpment 
of  the  G.  A.  R.,aud  selected  one  of  the  seven  citizens  to  expend  tin*  $75, 0(H)  donated  for 
encampment  |)urposes.  In  187f)  he  was  selected  and  appointed  one  of  three  expert  judges 
on  carriages,  l)ut  the  board  expecting  him  to  remain  in  Philadelphia  through  tlu^  six  months 
of  the  Centennial  Exposition  lie  resigned  the  honor.  Whatevei'  Col.  Sliaw  has  been  called 
upon  to  do  he  has  always  done  it  well  and  has  received  the  aj)pi()val  of  all  fcu'the  tidelity  with 
which  he  discharged  the  trusts  and  honors.  Widely  known  tliroughout  Indiana  and  else- 
where. he  is  held  in  the  highest  esteiun  and  is  n'gaiahal  as  :i  man  of  unimpeachable 
integrity,  honest  in  all  his  convicticms  and  true  to  himself  and  his  neighbors  and  everybody. 
He  has  been  called  upon  to  endure  great  bodily  suffering,  l)ut  he  has  borne  his  yol«!  uncom 
plainingly  and  has  gone  ahead  meeting  the  duties  of  life  witli  a stout  heart,  unfalteringly 
doing  whatsoever  his  hands  found  to  do,  in  a sublime  faith  that  all  things  work  togcdher  for 
good  totliose  who  lead  righteous  lives. 


108 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


John  R.  Haynes,  IM.  D.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  is  one  of  the  brightest,  most 
advanced  and  popular  lepresentatives  of  the  scliool  of  homeopathy  in  Indianapolis,  and  is 
in  the  enjoyment  of  a most  lucrative  practice  as  the  result  of  his  skill  and  success  in  the 
practice  of  medicine.  Dr.  Haynes  has  enjoyed  the  advantages  of  su])erior  education,  is  a 
close  observer  of  men  and  things,  and  has  especially  apjJied  himself  to  a broad  and  com- 
piadiensive  knowledge  of  all  things  pertaining  to  his  ])rofession.  He  was  born  in  Otsego 
Oonniy,  N.  Y. , IMarch  18,  1828,  of  mo.st  worthy  and  patriotic  ancestry.  His  paternal 
grandparents,  George  N.  and  Ijydia  Haynes,  were  of  German  and  English  descent,  respect- 
ively, and  came  to  this  country  jnior  to  the  Revolutionary  War,  settling  in  New  York. 
George  N.  Haynes  served  in  the  Continental  army  throughout  the  memorable  struggle  under 
George  \\  ashing! on  and  was  major  of  a New  York  regiment.  Returning  home  after  the 
war,  he  devoted  himself  unremittingly  to  farming  until  his  death,  which  occurred  about  the 
year  1822,  his  wife  jireceding  him  a few  months.  Of  the  six  children,  Samuel  Haynes 
lived  upon  a farm  in  his  native  county  in  New  York  until  his  death,  in  1845.  He  was  the 
fall  ler  of  nine  children  (his  wife  being  Olive  Danley),  our  subject  being  one  of  these,  and 
another,  James,  served  in  the  late  war,  ]>artici|)ating  in  many  of  the  leading  battles,  and 
after  the  battles  were  over  and  the  war  ended,  he  died  from  the  effects  of  exposure,  etc., 
incident  to  that  war.  Our  subject  was  reared  in  his  native  county,  remaining  upon  the 
farm  and  attending  school,  until  he  was  seventeen  years  old,  at  Otsego,  when  he  entered  the 
New  Yoik  City  Er.iversity,  from  which  he  graduated  in  the  classical  and  scientific  course  in 
the  year  1844.  Three  years  later  he  began  the  study  of  medicine  at  New  York  City  and 
took  two  courses  of  lectuies  at.  the  University  of  New  Yoik  tind  finally  graduated  from  the 
1‘lcleetic  Mediciil  Institute  at  Cincinnati  in  184b.  He  then  located  at  Newport,  Ky.,  where 
he  carried  on  a general  practice  for  about  twelve  years.  In  the  year  1869  he  came  to 
Indianapolis  and  has  followed  the  practice  of  his  profession  ever  since.  He  is  a member  of 
the  American  Institute  of  Homeopathy  and  is  one  of  the  originators  of  the  Indiana  Institute 
of  Homeopathy,  having  been  treasurer  of  the  latter  for  tifteen  years.  The  Doctor  was  one 
of  the  most  active  promoters  of  the  Hahnemannian  (International)  Association.  Dr.  Haynes 
was  married  in  1847  to  Miss  Mary  E.  Ladd,  a native  of  Pennsylvania,  who  had  removed 
four  3'ears  previously  to  Kentuckj^  with  her  parents.  The  Doctor  and  his  estimable  wife  are 
members  of  the  Presbyterian  Church,  in  which  body  they  are  held  in  the  highest  esteem. 
The  Doctor  and  his  wife  have  a wide  circle  of  friends,  and  both  of  them  display  in  the 
social  circle  those  charms  for  which  they  are  distinguished  in  the  highest  degree.  The 
Doctor  never  takes  a very  active  part  in  politics,  but  he  is  a sincere  believer  in  the  principles 
of  the  Republican  party  and  always  supports  its  candidates.  He  was  one  of  the  originators 
of  the  International  Hahnemannian  Association,  where  they  admit  nobody  but  pure  and 
undetiled  lujineopaths. 

Hon.  Caleb  S.  Denny.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  born  on  a farm  in  Monroe  County, 
Ind.,  May  18.  1859.  His  father,  James  H.  Denny,  was  a native  of  Mercer  County',  Ky.,  and 
his  mother.  Harriet  R.  Littrell,  was  born  in  Boutetort  County',  Va.,  in  sight  of  the  Natural 
Bridge.  The  parents  of  Mr.  Denny  lived  for  a number  of  years  in  Kentucky,  but  finally  set- 
tled permanently  in  Indiana,  being  strongly  opposed  to  slavery.  When  Caleb  was  three 
y'ears  old  his  father  removed  to  Warrick  County,  Ind.,  where  the  family  lived  on  a farm  near 
the  town  of  Boonville  until  the  time  of  his  father’s  death,  in  1861.  Mr.  Denny  received 
such  education  as  the  winter-term  country  schools  of  that  locality  provided  up  to  the  time  of 
his  father’s  death,  when  he  was  lef(  alone  with  his  mother  on  the  farm,  all  of  his  brothers 
having  gone  to  the  war.  When  he  was  thirteen  y'ears  of  age  the  farm  was  rented  and  he 
was  apprenticed  to  the  tinner’s  trade,  where  he  worked  for  one  year.  A select  school  having 
at.  that  time  been  organized  in  Boonville  by  a teacher  from  the  East,  he  got  the  consent  of 
his  mother  and  his  boss  to  ipiit  the  trade  and  start  to  school.  He  succeeded  in  two  years  in 
preparing  himself  to  enter  the  freshman  class  at  Asbury  (now  DePauw)  University,  which  he 
did  in  the  fall  of  1866.  Here  he  remained  for  two  years,  completing  his  sophomore  year, 
at  which  time  he  was  compelled  to  quit  for  lack  of  funds  to  jiroceed  further.  He  taught 
school  for  one  year,  hoping  to  return  and  complete  his  college  course  at  the  end  of  that  time, 
but  receiving  a projiosition  to  come  to  Indianapolis  as  assistant  State  librarian,  he  accepted, 
and  at  the  end  of  the  term  found  himself  twenty-one  years  of  age,  which  he  considered  too 


library 

OF  THF 


n . ’ ■* 


'.‘i 


; 


109 


AM)  MARIOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

old  to  re  enter  college.  He  therefore  took  nj)  the  study  of  law  in  iudiana[)olis,  which  he  had 
to  some  extent  prosecuted  while  teaching  and  while  in  the  State  library.  He  was  admitted 
to  the  coiTrts  of  Marion  County  the  following  year,  and  in  1878  to  the  Snj)reme  Court  of  the 
State  and  the  Federal  Courts,  being  then  twenty-three  years  of  age.  After  practicing  one 
year  he  was  appointed  deputy  attorney-general  of  Indiana,  where  he  remained  until  the  fall 
of  1874, the  election  of  that  year  having  changed  the  political  complexion  of  the  State  offices. 
He  re  entered  the  practice  in  Indianapolis  and  continued  therein  uninterruptedly  until  Janu- 
ary, 1882,  at  which  time  he  entered  upon  the  duties  of  city  attorney,  having  been  elected  to 
that  office  by  the  joint  convention  of  the  Common  Council  and  Board  of  Aldermen  for  the 
term  of  three  years.  He  received  the  caucus  nomination  of  the  Republican  members  over 
the  incuml)ent,  John  A.  Henry,  Esq.,  and  several  other  prominent  attorneys  of  the  city,  and 
at  the  election  received  twenty  six  votes,  being  all  the  Republican  votes  in  said  bodies,  the 
Democratic  members,  being  eight  in  all,  casting  their  votes  for  Hon. Napoleon  B.  Taylor,  now 
judge  of  the  Superior  Court  of  Marion  County.  At  the  end  of  this  three  years  IMr.  Denny  was 
re-elected  city  attorney  for  another  term,  but  at  the  end  of  one  year  was  nominated  for  mayor  of 
Indianapolis  by  the  Re})nlilican  convention  held  in  the  summer  of  1885.  The  campaign  of 
that  year  was  the  most  remarkable  in  the  history  of  the  city.  The  Democrats  nominated 
Thomas  Cottrell,  an  old  and  well  known  citizen,  for  mayor,  on  a “liberal  ” platform,  which 
meant  a lax  enforcement  of  the  saloon  ami  gambling  laws.  The  Re[)ublicans  ado})ted  a 
platform  which  declared  in  the  strongest  terms  for  a rigid  enforcement  of  those  laws  and 
denounced  the  domination  of  the  Licjuor  League.  A camjiaign  was  made  strictly  u})ou  that 
issue.  Many  of  Dr.  Denny’s  friends  who  were  “ liberally  ” inclined  insisted  that  he  must 
not  stand  upon  the  platform  as  made, citing  to  him  a long  line  of  party  defeats  on  that  issue. 
Blit  in  all  his  jmblic  utterances  he  declared  that  he  did  stand  upon  the  platform  squarely 
and  jireferred  defeat  rather  than  to  swerve  one  inch  upon  that  subject.  He  was  elected  and 
at  the  end  of  two  years  was  unanimously  renominated  by  his  jiarty  and  again  elected  liy  a 
largely- increased  majority  over  a very  popular  young  Democrat,  Dr.  George  F.  Edenharter. 
The  issue  was  largely  the  same  as  the  one  two  years  before.  Mr.  Denny  declined  another 
nomination  at  the  end  of  that  term  and  engaged  in  the  ))ractice  of  his  profession.  The  pecu- 
liar condition  of  city  affairs  in  1893  again  induced  him  to  become  his  party’s  choice  for 
mayor  in  opjiosition  to  IMayor  Sullivan.  After  a remarkable  campaign  he  became  mayor  of 
Indianapolis  again,  the  result  of  the  election  being  a change  of  about  t),(K)()  votes  over  the 
previous  election.  In  1874  he  marrieil  Miss  Carrie  Lowe,  the  daughter  of  an  old  citizen  of 
Indianapolis.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Denny  have  three  children. 

C.  T.  Beufori),  M.  D.  There  is  no  man  more  highly  esteemed  in  the  community  than 
the  family  medical  practitioner;  and  there  is  not  among  all  the  physicians  of  Indianapolis  a 
physician  who  is  held  higher  in  the  public  favor  than  Dr.  C.  T.  Bedford.  This  gentleman 
was  born  in  Springboro,  Warren  County,  Ohio,  October  7,  1840,  a son  of  Jose|)h  A.  and  Amy 
(Collinsj  Bedford,  of  English  descent  but  natives  of  Pennsylvania.  Dr.  Bedford  received  his 
early  education  in  his  native  State.  At  the  age  of  lifteen  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  be 
came  a student  in  the  pulilic  schools  of  the  city.  In  July,  1801,  he  enlisted  in  Company  E, 
Eighth  Indiana  Infantry  as  a private,  and  served  continuously  until  discharged  Septemlier 
12,  1S04,  meantime  being  promoted  to  second  sergeant.  He  participated  in  the  liattle  of 
Pea  Ridge,  was  at  the  siege  of  Vicksburg,  took  part  in  the  Warfare  at  Jackson,  Miss.,  in  the 
service  from  Vicksburg  to  Texas,  in  the  Bed  Biver  Campaign,  in  the  tight  ing  in  Shenandoah 
Valley  under  Gen.  Sheridan  and  in  nundi  incidental  service.  In  1872  Dr.  Bedford  began 
the  study  of  medicine  and  in  the  s[)ring  of  1875  was  giaduated  from  the  I’hysioMedical  Col 
lege  of  Iniliana.  Immediately  after  he  was  elected  jirofessor  of  chemistry  and  toxicology 
ami  filled  that  chair  al)out  live  years, -when  he  was  elected  to  the  chair  of  obstetrics  and 
diseases  of  women  and  children  which  he  still  occupies.  He  has  lieen  si'cretary  of  the  fac 
ulty  of  this  institution  for  the  past  Iwidve  years,  and  is  a inemlier  of  tlie  American  Medical 
Society  of  Pliy.sio  . Medical  Physicians  and  Surgeons  and  the  Indiana  Stati*  Physio  Medical 
Association  in  whiidi  he  has  filleil  all  important  positions.  He  has  bemi  for  three  succt'ssive 
terms  a menibor  of  the  city  council  and  was  appointed  chairman  of  the  committee  on  health 
and  jiresident  of  the  city  hospital  board.  He  has  had  a large  and  inc.reasing  gmieral  |>rac 
tice  since  1875  and  is  regardeil  as  one  of  the  most  successful  and  reliable  physicians  and  sur- 


no 


MEMOIR^^  OF  IMJIANAPOLIS 


geons  in  the  city.  In  1885  he  established  the  popular  '‘Physio-Medical  Drug  Store”  at  the 
corner  of  Indiana  Avenue  and  Ohio  Street.  This  is  the  only  concern  of  the  kind  in  the 
United  States,  and  besides  its  extensive  retail  trade  does  a wholesale  business  which  reaches 
all  parts  of  the  Union.  Dr.  Bedford  was  married  in  1805  to  Miss  N.  P.  Fink,  a native  of 
Ohio  who  was  reared  in  Indiana.  Her  parents  were  William  and  Margaret  (Toops)  Fink,  of 
German  descent  but  natives  of  Pennsylvania.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Bedford  have  had  born  to  them 
four  children,  of  whom  only  one — Bertie — is  living.  Dr.  Bedford  is  an  enthusiastic  ” Old 
Soldier,”  as  the  veterans  of  the  late  war  are  called,  and  is  a member  of  the  Grand  Army  of 
the  Rejmblic  and  of  the  Union  Veteran  Legion  of  that  grand  organization.  He  is  also  iden- 
tified with  the  lioyal  Arcanun,  the  Chosen  Friends  and  other  similar  organizations,  and,  as 
is  also  his  wife,  is  a member  of  Robert’s  Park  Church.  While  not  in  any  sense  of  the  term, 
as  it  is  usually  api>lied,  a politician.  Dr.  Bedford  takes  that  interest  in  the  public  affairs  of 
his  city.  State  and  country  which  may  be  expected  in  one  who  has  risked  his  life  for  the 
maintenance  of  our  national  integrity.  He  affiliates  with  the  Republican  party,  and  is  influ- 
ential in  its  local  councils.  As  a citizen  he  is  pid:)lic  spirited  and  helpful  toward  all  public 
interests,  for  no  man  has  the  prosperity  and  well  being  of  the  great  mass  of  his  fellow  citi- 
zens more  nearly  at  heart  than  he. 

Hon.  Robekt  W.  McBride.  The  family  of  which  Judge  McBride  is  a distinguished 
member  is  of  Scotch-Irish  descent,  and  came  to  the  United  States  soon  after  the  Revolution- 
ary War,  and  previous  to  the  War  of  1812.  Augustus,  father  of  Robert  W.,  was  born  in 
Ohio,  and  was  there  reared  and  married  to  Martha  A.  Barnes,  also  a native  of  Ohio,  and  of 
English  descent.  Some  of  these  ancestors  served  as  soldiers  in  the  Revolutionary  War.  In 
the  war  with  Mexico  in  1840-47  Augustus  McBride  enlisted  in  the  Seventh  United  States 
Infantry,  and  was  in  the  army  of  Gen.  Scott  in  its  campaign  against  the  City  of  Mexico, 
participating  in  all  the  assaults  on  the  various  citadels  guarding  the  national  roads  which  led 
to  the  capital.  After  the  triumphal  occupation  of  the  city  by  the  army  of  Gen.  Scott,  and  in 
February,  1848,  Augustus  McBride  unfortunately  died,  and  now  lies  buried  in  the  land  of 
the  Montezumas.  He  left  a widow  and  family  to  mourn  his  untimely  death,  and  also  left 
them  a heritage  of  honor  and  patriotism.  At  the  time  of  his  father’s  death  Robert  W.  McBride 
was  about  six  years  old,  his  birth  having  occurred  in  Richland  County,  Ohio,  January  25, 
1842.  He  was  therefore  too  young  to  realize  his  great  loss  or  to  be  able  to  forecast  the  trials, 
struggles  and  self  denials  of  the  future  without  a father’s  guidance  and  care.  But  life  was 
real  and  before  him,  and  he  was  compelled  to  rely  mainly  on  his  own  resources  of  body  and 
mind.  He  attended  the  district  school  in  Ohio  and  in  Iowa,  and  an  academy  once  main- 
tained at  Kirkville,  Iowa.  In  1859,  when  in  his  eighteenth  year,  having  passed  the  local 
examination  for  teachers,  he  applied  for  and  was  given  the  task  of  teaching  district  school  in 
Mahaska  County,  Iowa,  and  was  so  successful  that  he  continued  to  follow  this  occupation  for 
three  years.  It  .was  now  1862,  and  a bloody  war  was  upon  the  land,  and  all  was  confusion 
and  uncertainty.  In  the  autumn  of  this  year  Mr.  McBride  went  to  Mansfield,  Ohio,  where 
he  accepted  a position  as  clerk  in  the  store  of  B.  S.  Runyan,  and  remained  there  about  a 
year.  On  November  27,  1863,  he  enlisted  in  the  ‘‘Union  Light  Guards,”  an  independent 
squadron  of  cavalry  of  picked  men  organized  by  Gov.  David  Tod,  and  was  duly  mustered  in 
at  Columbus.  The  men  composing  this  fine  squadron  had  been  selected  by  the  county 
military  committees  throughout  the  State,  and  Mr.  McBride  had  been  chosen  to  represent 
Richland  County.  Mr.  McBride  remained  with  the  “Guards”  for  about  six  months,  when 
he  met  with  a severe  accident,  and  was  permanently  disabled  for  active  service,  and  has 
remained  lame  to  this  day.  Upon  his  recovery  from  the  accident  he  served  on  detached  duty 
as  clerk  of  a military  commission,  and  later  at  the  central  guard  house  at  Washington.  In 
January,  1865,  he  was  transferred  to  the  war  department  and  served  as  clerk  under  Lieut. - 
Col.  Breck  in  the  adjutant  general’s  office  until  his  company  was  mustered  out  of  service,  and 
honorably  discharged  September  14,  1865.  Upon  his  discharge  from  the  army  he  was 
promptly  appointed  to  the  clerkship  in  the  office  of  the  quartermaster  general,  but  he  had  a 
higher  ambition  than  a subordinate  position  under  the  Government,  and  after  a service  as 
such  for  two  months  he  resigned  and  returned  to  Mansfield.  While  yet  a boy,  aged  sixteen, 
he  had  taken  a fancy  to  the  study  of  law  and  had,  as  opportunity  would  permit,  studied 
the  principal  text-books  of  that  profession.  This  study  he  continued  while  teaching  and 


Ill 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

while  in  the  service,  so  tliat  when  the  war  closed  iie  had  mastered  the  elements  of  law. 
The  winter  succeeding  his  return  from  the  war  he  taught  school  in  Richland  County,  hut  the 
next  spring  went  to  Waterloo,  Ind.,  and  engaged  as  clerk  for  R.  M.  & W.  C.  Lockhart. 
The  next  winter  he  again  began  teaching  in  Ohio,  but  before  the  term  was  over  he  received 
the  appointment  of  enrolling  clerk  for  the  State  Senate  of  Indiana,  and  served  with  credit 
until  the  Legislature  adjourned.  In  April,  1867,  he  was  admitted  to  the  bar  at  Auburn, 
DeKalb  County,  and  the  following  September  formed  a partnership  for  the  practice  with 
Hon.  J.  I.  Best,  with  whom  he  was  associated  until  July,  1869.  He  became  associated  with 
Joseph  L.  Morlan  in  the  jiractice  December  15,  1870,  and  so  continued  until  the  death  of 
the  latter  in  1878,  William  H.  Leas  having  been  associated  with  them  two  years.  Since 
1878  Mr.  McBride  has  carried  on  the  practice  alone.  As  a lawyer  he  has  become  distin- 
guished throughout  the  State.  Absolutely  self  made,  he  has  left  no  stone  unturned  to 
become  a master  of  his  profession  Soon  after  he  began  the  practice  he  acquired  a high 
reputation  as  a practitioner  of  unusual  al)ility,  persistence,  force  and  adroitness,  and  as  a 
result  rose  ra])idly  to  the  top  of  his  profession  and  enjoyed  a large  practice  and  the  irnbounded 
confidence  of  his  fellow  lawA'ers  and  the  people.  As  an  all-round  lawyer  he  has  probably  no 
superior  among  the  bar  of  northern  Indiana.  He  is  calm,  dispassionate,  eloquent,  and  all 
his  arguments  are  firmly  grounded  upon  legal  and  e(piitable  principles,  and  hence,  he  always 
has  great  weight  with  the  court.  In  1882,  so  prominent  had  he  become  and  so  great  was 
the  confidence  of  his  professional  brethren  in  his  sound  sense,  legal  knowledge  and  personal 
honor,  that  he  was  elected  judge  of  the  thirty-tifth  judicial  circuit,  comprising  the  counties 
of  DeKalb,  Steuben  and  Noble.  \1  hen  he  entered  upon  the  discharge  of  his  judicial  duties 
the  ljusiness  of  the  district,  owing  to  the  ill  health  of  his  j)redecessor,  was  two  years  l)ehind 
and  in  a chaotic  condition;  but  in  a little  more  than  a year,  so  hard  did  he  work,  the  docket 
was  cleared,  and  so  remained  until  the  end  of  his  term.  His  decisions  were  noted  for  their 
fidelity  to  just  principles  and  law,  and  few  were  ever  reversed  by  the  Siqjreme  Court-  never 
a criminal  case.  No  other  circuit  judge  of  the  State  was  more  jtrompt  in  the  discharge  of 
his  duties  than  Judge  McBride.  In  1890  he  removed  to  Elkhart  and  the  same  fall  was  a 
candidate  on  the  Rej)ublican  State  ticket  for  judge  of  the  Supreme  Court,  but  went  dowti 
with  the  entire  Repnl)lican  ticket  in  defeat.  On  December  17,  1890,  he  was  appointed 
judge  of  the  Supreme  Court  by  Oov.  Hovey,  to  fill  the  vacancy  occasioned  by  the  death  of 
Judge  Mitchell.  He  is  a member  of  the  board  of  trustees  of  DePauw  University,  and 
assisted  in  organizing  the  National  Oiiard  of  the  State,  and  was  the  first  lieutenant-colonel 
of  the  Third  Regiment  of  Infantry  and  is  second  colonel.  He  is  a thirty-second  degree 
Mason,  {)ast  eminent  commander  of  Apollo  Commandery,  No.  19,  at  Kendallville,  a member 
of  the  committee  on  grievances  and  app(?als  in  the  grand  lodge,  a member  of  the  State 
Encampment  of  the  G.  A.  R.,  and  a nienil)erof  the  grand  lodge?  of  I.  O.  O.  F.  of  K.  of  P , 
and  the  A.  O.  U.  \V.  He  is  an  enthusiastic  student  of  the  natural  sciences,  and  is  one  of  the 
best,  if  not  the  best,  ornithologist  and  botanist  in  northern  Indiana,  having  pursued  these 
studies  as  a recreation.  He  is  also,  and  has  been  for  more  than  twenty  years,  an  active 
memt)er  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  On  September  27,  1868,  he  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Ida  S.,  daughter  of  Doctor  Chamberlain,  of  Waterloo,  Ind.,  a lady  of  rare 
I'er.sonal  accornjJishments,  by  whom  he  has  four  children : Daisy  I,  born  September  25,  1869; 
Charles  H.,  born  November  10,  1871;  Herbert  W.,  born  October  5,  1878,  and  Maitha  (\, 
boi'ii  February  18,  1876.  No  family  in  the  State  stands  higher,  socially  or  neighborly,  and 
no  citizen  is  held  in  deeper  respect  than  Judge  McBride.  IMrs.  McBride  is  at  this  time 
(1892)  Department  President  of  the  Woman’s  Relief  Corps  Auxiliary  to  the  (J.  A.  R. 

Jamks  .Johnston.  'J’ln?  subject  of  this  sketch  is  a well  known  (ntizen  of  fiidianapolis  who 
has  improved  every  o.oport unity  for  gaining  knowledge  and  availed  himself  of  (>very  chaiuie 
for  the  betterment  of  his  condition  and  more  than  this  cannot  b(?  said  of  the  most  successful 
mati  who  has  ever  lived.  .James  .Johnston  has  lived  :i  life  of  ])eace  with  his  neighbors  and 
has  done  unto  others  as  In?  would  hav(?  had  them  do  unto  him  under  similar  circumstances 
and  he  enjoys  the  conlidencf?  and  the  (‘steem  of  all  who  know  him.  H(?  was  born  in  Dear 
born  County,  Jnd.,  .June  19,  1881,  and  is  the  son  of  George?  and  Catharine  ( Kearney ) .Johns 
ton,  natives  of  Virginia  and  Kent  ucky,  respect ively.  The  paternal  grandfather  of  onr  sub 
ject  was  a soldier  of  the  Revolutionary  War  and  his  son,  the  father  of  our  subject,  was  a 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIAN AROIJS 


\V1 

civil  engineer,  but  he  devoted  the  greater  portion  of  hia  time  to  farming  and  the  milling 
business.  He  came  to  Indiana  in  1811  and  settled  near  Vincennes,  and  in  1812  removed  to 
Hamilton,  Ohio,  three  years  latergoingto  Dearborn  County,  Ind.,  when  it  was  ahowlingwil- 
derness.  The  Indians  used  to  visit  him,  remaining  about  the  grounds  until  his  mother  could 
l)ake  them  a loaf  of  bread,  being  very  friendly,  but  usually  quite  hungry.  He  entered  a 
tract  of  laud  and  with  his  brothers,  David  and  Joseph,  built  a log  cabin  in  which  the  family 
lived  until  they  were  able  to  put  up  a substantial  one  of  hewn  logs,  which  in  those  primitive 
and  simple  days  was  considered  somewhat  of  a sumptuous  affair.  The  father  of  our  subject 
erected,  with  his  brothers,  the  first  grist-mill  that  was  established  in  that  section  of  country 
and  had  to  cover  the  hoj)per  to  keep  off  the  rain.  The  mill  was  a great  accommodation  to 
people  and  many  of  the  settlers  came  long  distances  to  get  their  grain  ground.  They  ran 
the  mill  and  the  farm  until  the  fall  of  1861  and  he  died  soon  after,  December  29,  1861;  the 
mother  of  our  subject  living  eighteen  years  longer  passing  away  in  1879.  They  had 
live  sons  and  foitr  daughters,  four  of  the  nine  now  living,  namely:  Joseph,  James,  Nora  and 
George  W.  The  father  was  a well-educated  and  a well-informed  man  of  sound  views  and 
practical  good  sense  and  his  neighbors  would  have  gladly  had  him  fill  offices  of  honor  and 
trust,  but  he  would  not  under  any  circumstances  accept  a public  ])Osition  of  any  kind, 
although  he  was  solicited  again  and  again.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  was  reared  in  Dear- 
born County  and  was  educated  in  the  common  and  the  high  schools  of  that  county.  He  was 
reared  upon  the  farm,  where  he  did  all  manner  of  work  which  came  to  hand  and,  besides, 
served  a full  time  at  the  mill  work.  The  latter  was  followed  by  him  until  the  outbreak  of 
the  war,  when  he  tried  to  become  a soldier  but  he  was  rejected.  He  then  turned  his  atten- 
tion to  school  teaching  and  taught  fcjr  seven  winters,  working  on  the  farm  and  in  the  mill 
during  the  summer  season.  In  the  winter  that  he  was  nineteen  years  old  he  started  in  a flat- 
boat  well  loaded  down  the  Ohio  River,  selling  to  what  purchasers  could  be  found  and  pro- 
ceeding as  far  as  New  Orleans.  The  trip  was  so  satisfactory  that  it  was  repeated  for  several 
winters.  Mr.  Johnston  came  to  Indianapolis  on  November  18,  1869,  and  subsequently  en- 
gaged in  the  real  estate  busine.ss,  which  he  carried  on  until  he  was  elected  a justice  of  the 
peace,  in  April,  1890,  an  office  he  will  hold  for  four  years.  He  served  one  term  as  member 
of  the  city  council  of  Indianapolis  from  the  Twenty-fourth  IVard,  to  the  entire  satisfaction 
of  his  constituents  and  to  the  good  of  the  community.  Mr.  Johnston  is  a director  of  the 
Washington  Central  Building  A Loan  Association,  a position  he  tills  with  an  eye  single  to 
the  good  of  those  who  elected  him  to  that  position.  Our  subject  was  married  to  Mary  J. 
Russell,  by  whom  he  has  had  four  children,  namely:  Norman  R. , David,  Elizabeth  and 
Allen.  He  was  married  a second  time  to  Elizabeth  R.  Riley,  who  is  an  active  member  of  the 
Sixth  Presbyterian  Church.  Politically  Mr.  Johnston  is  a Democrat  and  a sincere  believer  in 
those  principles  which  were  so  ably  advocated  by  Hendricks  and  other  great  men  of  the 
party.  Our  subject  is  held  in  great  esteem  and  confidence  by  his  fellow  citizens,  who  regard 
him  as  a man  of  strict  integrity  and  honorable  in  all  his  dealings. 

William  Fortune  was  born  in  Booneville,  Ind.  on  May  27,  1863.  He  is  of  Eng- 
lish-German extraction  on  his  father’s  side  and  French  on  his  mother’s  side.  His  child- 
hood, between  his  third  and  tenth  years  was  passed  in  Tennessee,  eastern  Illinois  and  southern 
Indiana.  The  family  returned  to  Booneville  in  1873.  In  1874  he  became  a printer’s 
ajiprentice  in  the  office  of  i\\e  Booneville  Standard.  The  editor  of  the  paper,  M.  B.  Craw- 
ford, was  a man  of  scholarly  attainments,  who  interested  himself  in  giving  the  boy  a careful 
training  for  newspaper  work.  He  was  encouraged  to  write  for  the  paper  while  serving  as  an 
apprentice.  His  first  independent  venture  was  in  his  fourteenth  year — the  publication  of  a 
small  daily  paper  during  the  week  of  the  county  fair,  the  most  important  event  of  the  year  in 
the  town.  The  limitations  of  the  business  made  it  necessary  for  him  to  do  all  the  writing, 
type-setting,  and  press  work,  allowing  himself  but  two  houi's  of  sleep  each  night.  At  sixteen 
he  was  intrusted  with  both  mechanical  and  editorial  charge  of  the  Standard.  The  duties 
required  much  work  at  night  as  well  as  during  the  day,  but  he  also  t ook  upon  himself  the  task  of 
writing  the  history  of  his  native  county,  devotingto  it  two  hours,  from  lOto  1 2,  each  night.  Hav- 
ing completed  this  work,  which  had  been  carried  on  without  even  the  members  of  his  own  family 
knowing  what  he  was  about,  he  severed  his  connection  with  the  Standard,  and  then  devoted 
himself  exclusively  to  interesting  the  people  of  the  county  in  his  work.  He  was  then  not 


113 


AND  MAIUON  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

quite  eighteen  years  old  and  was  at  the  disadvantage  of  being  known  as  a mere  boy,  l)nt  the 
difficulties  besetting  the  venture  were  overcome  to  sucli  an  extent  that  he  made  it  tinancially 
successful.  He  then  started  out  to  tind  employment  which  would  give  him  a more  thorough 
training  for  newspaper  work.  He  was  given  a position  as  a reporter  on  the  Indiattapolis 
Journal.  He  afterward  became  city  editor  of  the  Jomnial,  but  after  holding  the  position  a 
few  years,  retired  on  account  of  failing  health,  due  to  night  work.  In  1888  he  started  the 
Sunday  Press,  a paper  which  took  high  rank,  and  attracted  much  attention,  but  was  discon- 
tinued at  the  end  of  three  months.  During  the  next  year  his  time  was  fully  occupied  with 
special  political  correspondence  for  the  New  York  Tribune,  Pliiladeljihia  Press,  Chicago 
Tribune,  and  other  newspapers.  In  the  same  year  he  became  editorially  connected  with  the 
Indianapolis  Neivs.  He  was  offered  the  position  of  Washington  correspondent  of  the  Chicago 
Tribune  but  declined  it.  In  January,  1890,  he  wrote  a series  of  editorial  articles  for  the 
News,  suggesting  public  spirited  work  that  should  be  undertaken  by  citizens  of  Indianapolis 
for  the  promotion  of  the  prosperity  and  welfare  of  the  city,  and  urging  organization  for  this 
purpose.  The  articles  were  so  timely  and  so  well  received  that  they  at  once  resulted  in  the 
organization  of  the  Commercial  Club,  which,  within  one  month,  grew  from  a nucleus  of 
twenty-seven  to  a membership  of  800.  He  was  elected  secretary  of  the  club.  His  editorial 
connection  with  the  News  terminated  some  months  afterward,  when  it  became  apparent  that 
the  Commercial  Clnlj  work  would  absorb  his  entire  time.  In  the  same  year  he  started  a 
magazine  devoted  to  municipal  engineering,  the  first  in  the  United  States  devoted  exclusively 
to  the  improvement  of  cities,  which  has  liecome  one  of  the  foremost  technical  publications  of 
the  country.  It  is  published  by  the  Municipal  Engineering  Company,  of  which  he  is  presi- 
dent. He  was  the  moving  spirit  in  the  organization  of  the  Indianapolis  Press  Club,  in  1891, 
and  was  elected  the  first  president  of  it.  He  was  the  president  of  the  Century  Club  in  1892. 
He  was  a friend  of  Ben  D.  House,  one  of  the  most  meritorious  of  Indiana’s  poets,  and, 
together  with  Col.  Eli  Lilly,  Daniel  L.  Paine  and  Meredith  Nicholson,  published  a memorial 
edition  of  House’s  poems  in  1892,  the  circulation  of  which  was  limited  to  the  friends 
of  the  poets.  He  started  the  movement  to  induce  the  It.  A.  R.  to  hold  its  twenty- 
seventh  national  encampment  in  Indianapolis,  and  managed  the  campaign  which 
brought  it  to  this  city.  He  was  elected  executive  director  of  the  citizens  organization  in 
charge  of  the  arrangements  for  the  encampment,  a position  involving  the  most  trying  re- 
sponsibilities, and  he  is  the  first  man,  not  a veteran,  upon  whom  they  have  been  placed. 
Although  born  in  the  third  year  of  the  war,  he  is  an  honorary  member  of  the  “Old  Guard.” 
He  proposed  the  Indiana  road  congress,  and  as  chairman  of  the  committee  in  charge,  con 
ducted  the  arrangements  for  it.  He  has  done  some  magazine  writing,  notable  for  the 
Century.  In  1884  he  was  married  to  Miss  May  Knubbe,  of  Michigan  City,  Ind.  They  have 
three  children,  a son  and  two  daughters. 

Dk.  Wini.Aun  N.  Gates.  Perhaps  no  public  servant  deserves  more  grateful  recognition 
than  a dentist.  Dr.  Willard  W.  Gates,  a native  of  Dublin,  Ind.,  was  born  August  0,  1894, 
son  of  Oliver  Gates,  also  a native  of  the  Hoosier  State,  as  was  also  the  mother,  Mary  (A1 
bright)  Gates.  Both  parents  are  living  and  are  now  residing  in  Indianapolis.  Dr.  Willaid 
W.  Gates  was  about  five  years  of  age  when  he  came  with  his  parents  to  Indianapolis,  and  in 
this  city  he  was  reared  and  educated.  When  eighteen  years  of  age  he  l)egan  the  study  of 
dentistry  with  Dr.  A.  J.  Morris,  continued  with  liiin  for  two  years  and  the  following  two 
years  was  with  Dr.  L.  W.  Comstock.  In  1887  Dr.  Gates  entered  Indiana  Dental  College 
and  graduated  from  that  institution  in  1889.  He  then  established  himself  in  a business  of 
his  own  and  lias  been  very  successful.  He  is  thorough  master  of  his  art,  both  in  its  median 
ical  and  scientific  features,  and  he  has  every  new  and  improved  apjiliance  for  making  the 
extraction  of  teeth  as  easy  and  painless  an  operation  as  possibh*.  He  is  a member  of  tlie 
Indiana  State  Dental  Association,  ami  is  also  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.  He  was 
married  on  December  28,  1887,  to  Miss  Lillie  Bryan,  a native  of  Indianapolis  and  the 
daughter  of  John  T.  and  Margaret  (Smock)  Bryan,  Two  children  have  been  born  to  this 
union:  Bryan  and  Earl.  I'lie  Doctor  and  wife  are  members  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  and  in  politics  he  is  a stanch  Kepiiblican. 

Edwahi)  Thomas  Bowser.  .Marion  County,  Ind.,  is  an  Eden  of  line  farms  and  agricnlt 
Ural  tracts.  I’liere  are  comparatively  few  very  small  tracts,  and  eacli  farmer  tries  to  outdo 
8 


114 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDTANAPOLIS 


Ills  neighbor  in  tlie  cultivation  and  improvement  of  bis  land.  Of  the  many  tine  attractive 
jjlaces  none  are  more  conspicuous  than  that  belonging  to  our  subject.  Mr.  Bowser  is  a 
native  born  resilient  of  this  county,  his  birth  occurring  April  27,  1841,  to  the  union  of  Henry 
and  iMary  A.  (Moore)  Bowser.  The  father  was  born  in  the  Keystone  State  in  1810,  and 
when  five  years  of  age  was  taken  by  his  parents  to  Miami  County,  Ohio,  thirty-six  miles  from 
Cincinnati,  where  he  remained  until  twenty-one  years  of  age,  never  receiving  but  about  two 
mouths’  schooling.  His  mother  taught  him  to  read  and  write.  He  came  with  his  parents  to 
Marion  County,  Ind.,  in  1881,  and  located  on  Lick  Creek,  three  miles  southeast  of  Indian- 
apolis. The  following  year  he  married  Miss  IMoore,  daughter  of  Thomas  Moore,  and  his 
father  then  gave  him  IbO  acres  of  land,  part  of  it  lying  in  \\'arren  and  part  in  Center  town- 
ships. There  Mr.  Bowser  jiassed  the  remainder  of  his  days,  his  death  occurring  in  1882.  He 
was  a man  well  respected  by  all  and  served  as  supervisor  of  Warren  township  several  terms. 
He  was  a Whig  until  that  party  ceased  to  be  an  organization  and  then  affiliated  with  the  Re- 
publican party.  To  his  marriage  were  born  ten  children,  as  follows;  Thomas  died  at  the 
age  of  three  months:  Catherine,  died  at  the  age  of  twenty-two  years;  John  W.  died  at  the 
age  of  twenty  years;  James  died  at  the  age  of  eight  years;  Edward  Thomas  (subject);  Fannie 
A.,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  John  E.  Miles  (she  left  six  children,  Ira,  Ida,  Mary,  Annie,  Ar- 
thur and  William);  Sarah  E.,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  William  Rowney  (she  left  one  child, 
Harry);  William  Bowser,  of  Marion  County,  married  Miss  Florence  L.  Shimer  and  they  have 
four  children  (Harry,  Maggie,  Asa  and  Mary);  Mary  Bowser  became  the  wife  of  Edgar  Head 
of  Marion  County,  and  Charles  G.  died  in  infancy.  The  father  of  these  children  died  in  1882 
and  the  mother  in  April,  ten  years  later.  The  father  was  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church.  Our  sul)ject’s  paternal  grandfather,  Henry  Bowser,  was  born  in  Pennsylvania  and  died 
in  Indana  in  the  year  1848.  The  great-great-grandfather  emigrated  from  Germany  to  America 
early  in  1700,  and  our  subject’s  great  grandfather  was  born  on  the  ocean  while  his  parents 
were  making  the  voyage.  Our  subject  was  educated  in  the  common  schools  of  Center  town- 
ship and  attended  from  two  to  three  months  each  winter.  On  account  of  ill  health  he  was 
obliged  to  ipiit  school  when  twenty  years  of  age  and  he  remained  under  the  parental  roof 
until  thirty-five  years  of  age.  In  Decembei’,  187(5,  he  married  Miss  Martha  J.  Kitley, 
daughter  of  Richard  Kitley,  a member  of  one  of  the  old  pioneer  families  of  Marion  County. 
After  marriage  our  subject  lived  on  his  father’s  farm  in  a separate  house  one  year,  and  then 
moved  to  Clark  Township,  Johnson  County,  Ind.,  where  he  bought  eighty  acres  of  land, 
sixty  five  acres  of  which  were  cleared.  He  paid  .$8,800  for  this.  On  this  farm  he  made  his 
home  for  eight  years,  and  in  1884  he  bought  eighty-two  acres  of  the  old  Richard  Kitley 
farm.  On  this  farm  was  a fine  brick  house  of  slate  roof.  Mrs.  Bowser’s  share  of  the  estate 
was  ninety-nine  acres,  which  is  in  her  name.  Mr.  Bowser  traded  his  eighty  acres  in  John- 
son County  and  in  addition  paid  $1,050  for  forty-five  acres  and  the  house  in  which  he  now 
lives.  This  is  situated  on  an  elevation,  and  it  is  said  to  be  one  of  the  handsomest  locations 
for  a residence  in  Marion  County.  Mr.  Bowser  is  a member  of  the  Baptist  Church,  and,  like 
his  father,  is  a Republican  in  politics.  Richard  Kitley,  father  of  Mrs.  Bowser,  was  born  in 
Ohio,  November  19,  1825,  and  came  to  Indiana  with  his  parents  when  a child.  He  settled 
in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  there  his  death  occurred  September  5,  1879.  He  was  married 
three  times,  his  first  wife  being  Miss  Martha  Davis,  whom  he  married  May  4,  1848.  Three 
children  were  born  to  them:  Lucy  A.,  wife  of  William  Moore  of  Marion  County;  John,  who 
died  in  infancy,  and  Martha  .1.,  wife  of  Edward  T.  Bowser,  our  subject.  Mrs.  Kitley  died 
Se[)tember  15,  1854,  and  Mr.  Kitley  on  September  18,  1855,  married  Miss  Elizabeth 
Smithers,  who  bore  him  four  children,  Willis  J.,  Hester  M. , Sarah  Elizabeth  and 
Stephen  A.  D.  Mr.  Kitley  selected  his  third  wife  in  the  jierson  of  Mrs.  Susan  Willard,  nee 
Wilson,  who  died  January  0,  1881,  without  issue.  Mr.  Kitley  bought  eighty  acres  of  land 
in  Johnson  County,  and  added  to  the  original  ti'act  until  he  became  the  owner  of 
about  500  acres.  He  was  a Douglas  Democrat  but  siibscijuently  became  a Republican. 
Socially  he  was  a member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity  but  was  never  a member  of  any  church. 
His  father,  Mrs.  Bowser’s  grandfather,  was  John  Kitley,  and  he  w'as  the  father  of  these 
children:  John,  Rebecca,  Alex,  Hoag,  Ibbie,  Francis,  Richard  and  Jane. 

George  R.  Colter.  Among  the  successful  and  thorough  going  business  men  of  Indi- 
anapolis stands  the  name  of  Geoige  R.  Colter  who  is  a self  made  man  in  every  sense  of  the 


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115 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

term.  Thrown  on  his  own  resonrces  at  an  early  age  he  began  an  independent  career  with 
no  capital  save  a goodly  supply  of  pluck,  energy  and  muscle,  and  has  met  with  a reasonable 
amount  of  good  luck  in  all  his  enterprises.  He  is  at  present  councilman  of  the  tenth  ward, 
having  been  elected  to  that  position  in  November,  1891,  and  discharges  the  duties  iucum 
bent  upon  this  position  in  a manner  reflecting  credit  upon  himself  and  upon  his  constituents. 
He  is  said  to  have  been  the  first  white  child  born  on  the  site  of  North  Vernon,  Jennings  County, 
Ind. , his  birth  occurring  on  August  81,  1853,  and  he  remained  at  his  birthplace  until  1802 
when  he  went  to  Franklin,  Ind.  In  1864  he  made  his  appearance  in  Indianapolis  and  dur- 
ing the  remainder  of  the  war  was  a newsboy  in  that  city.  In  1867  he  learned  cigar  making, 
became  very  proficient  in  this,  and  continued  in  the  business  until  1881  when  the  strike 
occurred.  He  was  chairman  of  the  striking  board.  Following  this  he  engaged  in  the  liquor 
business  and  this  he  has  continued  up  to  the  present  time.  He  has  one  of  the  leading  houses 
in  the  city  and  this  standing  has  been  acc^uired  only  l)y  close  attention  to  every  detail  of  the 
business,  and  especially  to  the  selection  and  assortment  so  as  to  keep  it  all  times  up  to  the 
highest  standard  of  excellence.  Mr.  Colter  is  a self-educated  man,  all  his  schooling  having 
been  received  during  the  night  sessions,  and  every  dollar  he  possesses  has  been  made  by 
hard  work.  He  owns  a tine  building  at  his  place  of  business  and  a good  home.  He  was  the 
third  in  order  of  birth  of  eight  children,  three  of  whom  are  living.  In  his  political  views  he 
is  a Democrat,  the  only  one  of  his  name  advocating  the  views  of  that  party.  Socially  he  is 
a member  of  the  Red  Men,  uniform  rank,  and  also  K.  of  P. , uniform  rank.  He  is  a member 
of  the  Elks  order.  Cigar  Maker’s  Union  and  Cleveland  and  Hendrick’s  club.  He  was  mar- 
ried in  1880  to  Miss  Mary  Drinket  and  the  fruits  of  this  union  have  been  one  child,  Archie. 

Hox.  Ch.vrles  Kahlo.  This  free  country  of  America  affords  numberless  instances  of 
men  who  have  made  their  way  alone  in  life,  having  nothing  upon  which  to  depend  but  their 
own  strong  arms  and  a determination  to  do  and  to  succeed.  Such  men  are  always  self- 
reliant,  their  necessities  having  taught  them  that  what  is  done  must  be  done  through  them 
selves  alone.  They  are  worthy  and  well  qualified  to  perform  what  duties  they  are  called 
upon  to  discharge  and  are  almost  without  exception  leaders  of  thought  in  their  communi- 
ties and  lead  lives  of  great  usefulness.  In  considering  the  gentlemen  of  this  class  in 
Indianapolis,  the  name  of  Hon.  Charles  Kahlo  suggests  itself  forcibly,  for  the  reason  that 
he  has  attained  his  distinguished  position  without  the  backing  of  family  or  friends,  but  has 
made  his  way  onward  and  upward  in  the  world  by  the  force  of  his  own  talents.  Charles  Kahlo 
was  l)orn  of  worthy  parents  at  IMagdeburg,  Prussia,  July  4,  1840,  being  the  son  of  Henry 
and  Dorathy  Kahlo.  The  father  of  our  subject  was  active  in  politics  in  his  native  country 
and  left  there  after  tlie  great  disturbance  of  1849,  and  settled  at  Defiance,  Ohio,  where  he 
embarked  in  the  mercantile  business,  having  a large  establishment  and  was  doing  a most 
prosperous  business,  when,  in  1858,  death  came  and  took  him  from  his  family.  Thus  at  the 
early  age  of  thirteen,  our  subject  was  left  fatherless  and  was  thrown  upon  his  own  resources. 
That  [)luck  which  has  always  been  so  strong  a characteristic  of  the  man  and  to  which  he  is 
so  greatly  indebted  for  his  marked  success  in  life,  was  present  in  him  then,  and  he  engaged 
with  a dry  goods  merchant  to  work  for  his  board  and  clothes,  finding  such  02)portunities  as 
he  could  for  getting  an  education.  He  remained  with  his  emjrloyer,  working  earnestly  and 
applying  himself  to  do  his  full  duty,  and  from  time  to  time  he  was  promoted  from  one  station 
to  another,  his  salary  being  increased  with  each  j)romotion  and  being  equal  to  that  j)aid  to  em- 
ployes of  much  more  advanced  years.  When  the  war  broke  out  he  was  strongly  moved  by 
love  for  the  country  of  his  adoi)tiou,  and  felt  it  to  be  his  imjierative  duty  to  go  to  the  front  and 
help  t(r  defend  the  imperilled  nation.  He  did  go  and  just  as  he  did  his  full  duty  in  the  store  of 
his  em[)loyer,  so  he  was  every  inch  asoldier  and  made  a noble  rcicoi'd  for  himself  in  the  army, 
|)roving  himself  a true  and  courageous  soldier  and  a loyal  and  patriotic  citizen.  In  April, 
1861 , at  the  first  call  for  troojrs  he  enlisted  in  the  thret;  imnith’s  service  in  the  Fourteenth 
Ohio  Volunteer  Infantry,  and  was  elected  second  lieutenant.  In  September  following 
he  again  enlisted,  this  time  for  three  years,  in  (Jompany  (i.  Thirty-eighth  Ohio  Volunteer 
Infantry,  and  did  not  lay  down  his  sword  until  the  war  was  over  and  he  was  honorably  dis- 
charged, with  a nicord  as  good  as  that  of  any  man  who  enlisted,  because  he  did  his  full 
duty,  never  shirked  a responsiliility  or  failed  to  come  up  to  what  wuis  expected  of  him.  He 
held  a commission  throughout  the  entire  period,  and  during  tin*  latter  part  of  the  war  was 


no 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


on  the  staff  of  Geu.  Miller.  During  his  service  he  was  with  both  the  western  and  eastern 
armies.  Returning  home  he  lost  no  time,  but  went  to  work  at  once,  going  into  the  manufact- 
ure of  wagon  and  carriage  wood  stock,  at  Defiance,  Ohio,  and  was  president  of  this  com- 
pany for  a period  of  fourteen  years.  In  the  year  1870  he  removed  to  Logansport,  Ind., 
and  there  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  wagon  material,  employing  from  120  to  150  men. 
Busy  as  had  been  his  life  as  a manufacturer,  and  he  never  under  any  circumstances  neg- 
lected any  duty  connected  with  it,  still  he  has  always  manifested  a lively  interest  in  politics, 
believing  it  to  be  the  duty  of  every  citizen  to  take  part  in  the  affairs  of  government,  this 
))eing  a government  of  tlie  people.  His  sympathies  and  affiliations  were  always  with  the 
Republican  party  and  the  entire  weight  of  his  influence,  and  this  has  always  been  consider- 
able, has  been  cast  in  favor  of  that  party.  In  June,  1878,  his  party  recognizing  his  popu- 
larity and  deeming  it  an  iionor  due  him,  and  an  office  that  he  would  fill  with  distinguished 
al)ility,  nominated  him  unanimously  for  the  State  Senate,  from  the  district  composed  of 
Cass  and  Carroll  Counties,  which  was  Democratic,  with  a majority  ranging  from  600  to  800. 
He  made  a vigorous  and  skillful  campaign  and  was  elected  by  a majority  of  230,  he  being 
the  first  and  only  Republican  wlio  was  ever  elected  to  the  State  Senate  from  that  Democratic 
stronghold.  He  served  a term  of  four  years,  and  as  his  friends  predicted,  he  made  a faith- 
ful and  most  useful  member  of  the  higher  house  of  the  Legislature,  bringing  into  his  work 
the  experience,  the  judgment  and  the  strong  business  sense  that  j)ertain  to  him.  Mr.  Kahlo 
served  as  a member  of  tiie  State  central  committee  in  1880  and  was  a delegate  to  the 
Republican  national  convention  in  Chicago  in  1886  which  nominated  James  A.  Garfield 
for  l*resident.  After  Garfield  was  inaugurated  his  friends  were  anxious  that  the  dis- 
tinguished services  of  Mr.  Kahlo  should  be  recognized,  and  he  was  immediately  appointed 
by  Garfield  as  consul  geneial  to  Berlin,  but  he  accepted  the  mission  to  Australia  instead. 
This  position  Mr.  Kahlo  filled  with  ability  during  that  administration  and  subsequently 
engaged  in  mining  on  an  e.xtensive  scale  in  that  country,  and  was  the  means  of  opening 
up  the  great  mines  of  that  region,  which  are  now  operated  upon  a most  extensive  scale, 
and  Mr.  Kahlo  had  the  first  smelting  furnace  that  was  in  operation  in  Australia.  He 
introduced  the  American  process  there  with  (juite  a staff  of  mining  experts  from  this 
country,  some  of  whom  Mr.  Kahlo  imported  direct  from  the  United  States,  for  the  carrying 
out  of  his  enter[)rise  successfully.  This  business  he  conducted  most  profitably  for  three 
years  and  could,  at  the  expiration  of  that  time,  have  left  Australia  with  a handsome  fortune, 
but  he  was  persuaded  to  develoji  more  mines,  which  necessitated  the  making  of  further  large 
investments  in  some  enterprises  which  proved  very  unfruitful,  so  that  his  accumulations 
were  swept  away  <piickly.  Even  then  he  could  have  gotten  out  with  a handsome  sum  of 
money,  but  being  a man  of  honor  he  stood  by  his  friends,  although  he  knew  the  outcome — 
remained  as  the  captain  of  a ship  by  his  sinking  vessel — and  he  went  down  with  all  lost 
but  his  honor,  and  the  confidence  the  respect  and  the  esteem  of  those  friends,  which  after 
all  is  more  than  money.  This  calamity  completely  discouraged  him  and  he  returned  to  the 
United  States,  locating  at  Indianapolis,  mainly  with  the  object  of  giving  his  sons  a profes- 
sional education,  which  he  has  accomplished.  Dr.  George  Kahlo  being  a graduate  of  Bellevue, 
and  afterward  had  charge  of  Holland  hospital  with  honors.  Dr.  Harry  Kahlo  graduated  as 
a dentist  in  New  York  city,  and  also  graduated  from  the  Indianapolis  Medical  College. 
Both  sons  are  now  practicing  in  this  city  under  most  encouraging  auspices,  are  worthy 
sons  of  a worthy  sire  and  reflect  credit  upon  their  rearing.  Mr.  Kahlo  organized  the  Indi- 
ana Mutual  Building  & Loan  Association  in  1896  and  it  has  grown  into  the  largest  organiza- 
tion of  its  kind  in  the  State,  thanks  to  the  excellent  management,  the  energy  and  the  execu- 
tive ability  of  Mr.  Kahlo,  who  is  its  general  manager  and  secretar}'.  It  now  has  loaned  out 
upward  of  $860,000  to  its  shareholders  and  the  security  is  more  than  double  the  amount 
loaned.  In  the  management  of  this  important  institution  Mr.  Kahlo  displays  a signal 
knowledge  of  financial  matters,  as  well  as  an  energy  that  has  surprised  his  friends,  even, 
who  supposed  they  understood  the  measure  of  his  strength.  Its  success  is  truly  wonderful 
and  is  a proud  monument  to  the  labors  and  efforts  of  Mr.  Kahlo.  Mr.  Kahlo  is  a very 
popular  man  and  was  always  able  to  retain  his  friends  even  in  the  midst  of  a heated  cam- 
paign, when  they  were  on  the  opposite  side.  This  is  because  he  always  fought  fair,  was 
good  natured  and  always  ready  to  oblige.  He  was  honored  by  Gov.  Chase  by  being 


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AND  MAD  ION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

made  a member  of  Lis  staff,  and  was  honored  in  the  same  manner  l)y  Gov.  Matthews, 
who  renamed  him  for  the  position,  Mr.  Kahlo  beiug  the  only  Republican  on  the  staff. 
He  also  serves  with  the  same  rank,  that  of  colonel,  on  the  staff  of  Gen.  Carnahan,  in 
the  Uniform  Rank,  K.  of  P.  Our  subject  was  married  [fi  1804  to  Miss  Cornelia  Colby, 
whose  father  was  a very  prominent  physician  of  Ohio,  and  whose  family  is  an  old  and 
honored  one.  She  has  borne  him  six  children,  three  of  whom  are  living.  The  members  of 
the  family  are  iniited  with  the  Tabernacle  church.  Resides  the  various  organizations  named 
with  which  Mr.  Kahlo  is  connected  he  is  also  a member  of  the  L.  L.  and  of  the  Columbia 
Club,  and,  wliatever  his  connection,  he  is  held  in  highest  esteem  in  those  bodies  and  is  use- 
ful and  influential  in  them. 

Hos.  Is.\AC  P.  Gray,  prominent  in  State  and  national  politics,  was  born  October  18, 
1828,  in  Chester  County,  Penn.,  and  is  a son  of  John  and  Hannah  (Worthington)  Gray. 
His  ancestors  were  members  of  the  Society  of  Friends,  or  more  commonly  known  as  Quakers, 
his  great-grandfather  coming  with  William  Penn  from  England.  Receiving  but  a common- 
school  education  in  youth,  he  embarked  in  mercantile  pursuits  at  New  Madison,  Ohio,  re- 
moved to  Union  City,  Ind.,  in  1855,  where  he  continued  merchandising,  but  later  began  the 
practice  of  law,  having  previously  qualified  himself  for  that  profession.  During  the  war  of 
secession,  he  commanded  the  Fourth  Indiana  Cavalry  for  a time,  but  ill  health  necessitated 
his  withdrawal  from  an  active  military  career,  and  returning  home  he  helped  recruit  the  One 
Hundred  and  Forty-seventh  Indiana  Infantry.  Until  the  organization  of  the  Republican 
party  Col.  Gray  was  a Whig.  As  a Republican  he  was  defeated  for  Congress  in  1800,  but 
two  years  later  was  elected  to  the  State  Senate,  where  he  served  four  years.  In  1870  he  was 
appointed  minister  to  the  Island  of  St.  Thomas,  ^Yest  Indies,  but  declined  the  honor.  In 
1871  his  political  views  underwent  a change,  and  since  that  time  he  has  been  an  active  Demo- 
crat. He  was  nominated  by  acclamation  and  elected  lieutenant  governor  in  1870,  and  upon 
the  death  of  James  D.  Williams,  became  governor  of  the  State.  As  the  candidate  of  the 
Democratic  party  in  1884,  he  was  nominated  for  governor  of  the  State  by  acclamation  on 
the  first  l)allot,  and  upon  election  gave  it  an  excellent  administration.  For  the  past  two 
presidential  terms  he  has  been  proTninently  mentioned  as  a candidate  for  either  the  first  or 
second  ])lace  on  the  Democratic  presidential  ticket,  but  the  uncertain  game  of  politics  has 
decided  in  each  instance  in  favor  of  others.  By  a))pointment  of  Pres.  Cleveland,  in 
1898,  he  became  minister  to  IMexico.  Gov.  Gray  is  a man  of  unquestioned  ability  and  of 
unbounded  ambition.  He  married  Miss  Eliza  Jacpiain  1850,  and  to  this  union  there  are  two 
living  children. 

Dr.  Robert  Nathaniel  Todd  (deceased),  son  of  Levi  L.  Todd,  was  born  Janu- 
uary  4,  1827,  near  Lexington,  Ky.,  which  place  had  been  the  home  of  his,  father’s 
family  for  two  generations.  Robert  was  the  seventh  born  in  a family  of  nine  children, 
two  of  whom  died  in  infancy;  the  remainder  having  reached  maturity,  though  only 
two  survive  him.  His  family  removed  to  Indiana  in  1884  and  from  that  time  until  the  time 
of  his  death,  which  occurred  June  18,  1888,  ho  made  his  home  in  this  vicinity.  His  early 
advantages  were  indifferent,  a common-school  education,  such  as  the  country  at  that  time 
afforded,  with  such  a knowledge  of  Latin  as  he  himself  could  pick  uj),  was  all.  He  made 
rapid  progress  in  his  .studies  at  school,  showing  more  than  ordinary  aptness  for  figures,  and 
although  physically  delicate,  he  gained  in  health  and  strength  as  he  grew  older.  During 
his  youth  he  performed  a great  deal  of  hard  labor  upon  the  farm,  but  when  nineteen  years 
of  age  he  began  the  study  of  law  at  .South  Bend  with  Judge  Liston,  his  l)rother  in-law.  At 
the  expiration  of  a year  and  a half  he  I'eturned  to  the  farm  and  there  remained  until  broken 
down  by  hard  labor  and  ill  health,  he  was  compelled,  at  the  end  of  two  years,  to  abandon 
farm  work  entirely.  After  having  remained  at  home  a number  of  months  an  invalid,  and 
after  having  almost  despaired  of  regaining  his  health,  he  visited  Dr.  David  Todd,  of  Dan- 
ville, i)y  whom  he  was  induced,  after  some  hesitation,  to  commence  the  study  of  medicine, 
which  he  did  more  as  a diversion  from  low  spirits,  not  exp(>cling  ever  to  be  well  enough  to 
turn  it  to  practical  account.  His  health,  however,  soon  l)egan  to  im))rove,  and  the  next 
year  he  aflernh'd  lectures  at  the  old  “ Indiana  G(‘ntial  Mcalical  Gollege,”  which  was  organ 
ized  al)Out  that  time  under  the  rule  of  Drs.  Bobl),  .Mears,  Deming,  Dunlap,  ami  others  (the 
first  of  Indianapolis’  medical  colleges).  In  the  next  year,  1851,  he  graduated  and  the 


MEMOIRS  OF  IMDrANAPOLIS 


]1.S 

following  fi|)ring  settled  at  Southport,  where  he  remained  until  the  breaking  ont  of  the 
llehellion.  Previous  to  this,  in  the  spring  of  IHhd,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Margaret  White, 
of  that  neighborhood.  Shortly  after  the  l)reaking  out  of  the  war  he  was  appointed  surgeon 
of  the  Twenty-sixth  Indiana  Volunteers  and  went  soon  after  with  his  regiment  to  Missouri, 
where  he  remained  on  duty  in  camj)  and  hospital  for  about  twenty  months,  when  he  was 
called  home  by  the  illness  of  his  wife,  whom  he  found  rapidly  sinking  with  consumption. 
She  died  in  a short  time,  leaving  him  a family  of  five  children,  the  two  youngest  being  but 
a few  months  old.  Having  resigned  his  jiosition  xipon  his  return  home,  he  soon  after  removed 
to  the  city  and  again  entered  the  Glovernment  service  as  surgeon  at  Camp  Morton,  where, 
associated  with  Dr.  Kipp,  of  the  regular  army,  and  under  the  medical  directorship  of  Dr. 
Bobbs,  he  continued  until  the  close  of  the  war.  In  the  year  following  his  removal  to 
Indianapolis  he  was  married  to  Mrs.  IMartha  J.  Edgar,  who,  with  three  children  of  his 
tirst  and  four  of  his  second  marriage,  now  survive  him.  In  the  year  1(S69  the  organiza- 
tion of  the  Indiana  Medical  College  was  effected,  in  which  he  was  chosen  as  teacher  of 
theory  and  practice.  There  he  remained  until  the  spring  of  1874,  when  he  resigned  his 
chair  and  shortly  afterward,  ujiou  the  organization  of  the  College  of  Physicians  and  Sur- 
geons (himself  having  been  the  originator),  he  was  assigned  the  same  department,  holding 
it.  until  the  union  of  the  two  medical  schools,  in  1878,  under  the  style  of  The  Medical 
College  of  Indiana,  when  he  was  elected  to  the  same  chair  he  had  occupied  in  the  two 
other  organizations,  viz.:  principles  and  jiractice  of  medicine.  That  position  he  continued 
to  fill  until  the  time  of  his  death.  He  was  the  tirst  representative  from  his  State  upon 
the  judicial  council  of  the  American  Medical  Association,  which  position  he  held  for  sev- 
eral successive  terms  and  to  which  he  was  again  elected,  in  his  absence,  at  the  last  meeting. 
He  was  ]iresident  of  the  State  Society  in  1871,  was  an  active  worker  for  seven  years  upon 
the  provisional  board,  erected  by  the  Legislature,  and  whose  work  was  the  erection  and  fitting 
up  of  the  large  building  occupied  by  the  female  department  of  the  Hospital  for  the  Insane, 
and  was  one  of  the  physicians  to  the  Deaf  and  Dumb  Asylum  for  nearly  eight  years.  He 
served  a single  term  in  the  Legislature  as  representative  in  1856-57,  but  aside  from  this  he 
held  no  position  disconnected  with  his  profession,  to  which  most  of  his  life’s  effort  was  faith- 
fully given,  never  abating  his  interest  in  State  or  local  society  matters,  but  being  a regular 
attendant  of  his  county  society  as  long  as  his  health  would  allow.  As  a practitioner  of  medi- 
cine he  was  eminently  successful;  as  a teacher  he  was  clear  and  explicit,  easily  understood 
and  well  rememl)ei'ed;  as  a lecturer  his  manner  was  easy,  dignified  and  not  ungraceful.  His 
words  were  well  chosen.  Ids  language  was  plain  but  forcible,  sometimes  elocpient,  and  he 
always  commanded  the  attention  of  his  auditors.  As  is  commonly  the  case  with  men  of  his 
cast  he  was  not  financially  successful.  Though  commanding  a large  and  lucrative  business 
for  many  years,  he  failed  to  improve  the  o|iportunities  offered,  which  were  ample  for  the 
accumulation  of  a fortune.  But  he  esteemed  money  only  for  its  uses  and  with  a liberal  hand 
he  gave  it  to  meet  the  wants  of  others;  frequently,  indeed,  to  his  own  injury.  No  matter 
how  often  imposed  upon  in  the  matter  of  benevolence,  he  rarely  failed  to  respond  to  the 
call  of  want  or  distress,  and  oiily  those  who  were  intimate  with  him  knew  how  much  of  his 
time  and  of  his  best  efforts  in  private  {)ractice  were  devoted  to  impecunious  sufferers.  If  it 
!)e  esteemed  a great  end  in  life  to  be  remembered  when  gone  from  this  world,  how  much 
better  to  live  in  the  warm  light  of  love  and  sympathy,  if  it  ])e  but  for  a single  generation, 
within  a cii'cle  that  personal  rect)gnition  can  compass,  than  to  have  a name  in  marble,  read 
through  curiosity  rather  than  affection,  and  a heritage  under  the  cold  sky  of  fame,  even 
though  it  be  world  wide.  Grudge  him  not,  reader,  this  line  of  memorial,  whoso  fidelity  is 
worthy  of  some  better  monument. 

Levi  L.  Todd,  M.  D.  There  are  men,  and  the  number  is  by  no  means  small,  who 
drift  into  what  we  are  accustomed  to  look  u])on  as  the  learned  profession  in  the  same  way 
that  thousands  of  other  men  in  the  lower  walks  of  life  drift  into  the  ordinary  bread-winning 
occupations.  Having  no  special  preference  for  any  calling,  and  without  feeling  that  they 
have  any  jiarticidar  fitness  for  a certain  profession,  they  find  themselves  drifting  in  that 
direction  as  a result  of  associations  or  environment,  and  in  the  course  of  time  they  find 
themselves  shouldering  responsibilities  for  which  they  have  scant  liking,  carrying  burdens 
which  rest  heavily  upon  them,  and  laboring  in  a field  which  has  for  them  no  attraction  other 


119 


AXD  MARIOX  COUXTY,  IXDIANA. 

than  what  it  yields  in  the  way  of  annual  income.  The  successful  physician  whose  name  heads 
this  sketch  impresses  even  those  who  meet  him  in  a casual  way  as  a man  who  has  drifted 
easily  and  natiirally  into  the  medical  profession,  who  realizes  that  he  has  made  no  mistake 
in  the  choice  of  his  vocation,  and  feels  thoroughly  at  home  in  the  position  which  he  occu- 
cupies.  This  first  impression  deepens  with  a more  intimate  acquaintance,  and  familiarity 
with  his  life  leads  to  the  unbiased  and  imjiartial  view  that  the  unusual  success  he  has 
achieved  is  the  logical  sequence  of  talent  rightly  used,  together  with  energy  and  industry 
never  misapplied.  Dr.  Levi  L.  Todd  is  a product  of  the  Blue-Grass  State,  born  near  Lex- 
ington in  the  latter  part  of  the  year  1S30,  in  the  region  where  his  ancestors  had  resided  since 
Revolutionary  times.  His  grandfather,  Gen.  Robert  Todd,  was  an  associate  of  Boone, 
Harod,  Bryan  and  others  in  the  early  settlement  of  the  State.  Tlie  maternal  grandfather, 
Capt.  Nathaniel  Ashby,  came  from  tbe  Old  Dominion  soon  after  the  close  of  the  seven 
years’  war  through  w'hich  he  served,  and  settled  in  the  same  locality.  The  father  of  our 
subject.  Judge  Levi  L.  Todd,  removed  to  Indiana  in  1834,  settled  in  Marion  County,  and 
there  his  death  occurred  in  18fi7.  Dr.  L.  L.  Todd,  the  original  of  this  notice,  was  the 
youngest  of  a family  of  nine  children,  all  but  two  of  whom  attained  adult  years.  His  early 
life  was  one  of  unusual  toil  and  labor,  and  marked  by  vicissitudes  and  trials.  Even  more 
than  the  ordinary  occurrences  which  so  painfully  emphasize  life  fell  to  his  lot.  Still  he 
seems  to  have  regarded  his  life  as  an  uneventful  one  in  incidents  of  interest  to  others.  He 
worked  hard  during  his  boyhood,  and  up  to  the  age  of  twenty-two  years,  when  he  left  the 
farm  for  the  last  time.  He  availed  himself  of  the  ordinary  winter  time  opportunities  of 
country  schools,  and  when  seventeen  years  of  age  took  two  terms  in  the  Danville  County 
Seminary,  and  later  a year  and  a half  in  Wabash  College.  He  was  a student  of  'medicine 
the  first  year  with  Dr.  David  Todd,  of  Danville,  and  the  remainder  of  the  time  with  his 
brother,  the  late  Dr.  R.  N.  Todd.  His  first  course  of  medical  lectures  was  at  the  Univer- 
sity of  Louisville,  during  the  time  that  Gross,  Flint  and  Silliman  were  connected  with  that 
institution,  and  graduated  from  the  same  in  March  of  the  year  185(5.  The  Doctor  was 
married  in  the  following  winter  to  Miss  Susan  G.  Todd,  of  Paris,  Ky.,  and  in  the  spring 
of  1858,  moved  to  Paris,  111..  Avhere  he  resided  and  |)racticed  his  ])rofession  for  sixteen 
years.  After  the  second  year  he  was  employed  almost  constantly,  and  much  of  the  time  in 
service  pressing  and  hard  to  endure.  With  bad  roads,  and  in  a climate  abounding  in  the 
worst  changes  that  western  weather  could  supply,  he  suffered  a great  deal  from  nervous 
disorders  incident  to  ex])osure  and  overwork,  l)ut  was  seldom  confined  to  his  bed.  He  was 
appointed  medical  inspector  of  the  drafted  men,  was  a member  of  the  Edgar  County 
Society  and  also  the  Society  of  the  Wabash  Valley,  being  president  and  secretary  of  the 
latter.  He  has  been  a member  and  an  occasional  attendant  upon  the  meetings  of  the 
American  Medical  As.socialion  since  about  the  year  1871.  He  is  also  a member  of  the 
Marion  County  IMedical  Society,  being  j)resident  of  the  same,  and  contributed  a number  of 
papers  to  that  society,  some  of  which  have  been  jmblished  in  the  transaction  of  the  State 
Society.  The  Doctor  came  to  this  city  from  Paris,  111.,  in  January,  1874,  and  during  the 
whole  time  up  to  the  pi-esent,  has  been  constantly  ])racticing  his  profession.  His  family 
consists  of  a wife  and  four  daughters.  In  the  ])rofessional  career  of  Dr.  Todd  it  will  be 
observed  that  every  energy  was  called  into  i)lay  in  his  chosen  calling.  With  that  earnest- 
ness of  endeavor  and  will  ])ower  which  are  the  salient  and  strong  jroints  that  determine  an 
individuality  and  inspire  coiilidence  in  one  as  a safe  and  conservative  practitioner,  any  ful 
.some  praise  or  extended  eulogy  of  the  ju'ofessional  or  social  life  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch 
would  be  superfluous  lieia*  or  in  any  community  where  he  is  known.  The  stead}',  [lersist- 
ent  fondness  for  his  profession  is  a marked  chaiact(>ristic  of  his  every  day  contact  with  the 
infirmities  and  suffering  that  come  within  range  of  his  counsel  and  medical  skill  In  the 
varied  vicissitudes  of  his  life,  filled  wiih  a multiplicity  of  cares,  he  has  found  time,  like  his 
distinguished  brother,  the  late  Dr.  R.  N.  'I’odd.  to  cultivate  his  taste  in  literary  ])ursuits  as 
evidenced  by  the  fact  of  his  active  and  refeidive  mcMiioiy  in  calling  u|)  (piotations  from  many 
distinguished  authors  l)oth  of  |)rosean(l  poefry.  Whiftier.  Holmes  amPBurns  are  seemingly 
his  favorite  authors.  The  Doctor  is  in  fidl  fruition  of  his  professional  life  and  jierfect 
manhood.  'I’he  frost  of  accumulated  years  have  setth'd  g(>ntly  upon  hitn,  but  have  not 
ruffled  the  facial  liim  of  a wholesome,  honored  cart'or.  He  is  still  in  flu^  front  rank  among 


120  MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 

his  conteinporaripH,  and  capable  of  accomplishing  a large’  amount  of  labor  in  the  practice  of 
his  life  work. 

W.  H.  Hawkins.  The  younger  Pitt,  had  his  lot  been  cast  in  the  United  States  in  this 
day  and  generation  would  not  have  found  it  necessary  to  defend  himself  against  the  “ atro- 
cious crime  of  being  a young  man,”  as  charged  against  him  because  of  his  precocious  men- 
tal development.  In  this  Republic  there  is  no  prejudice  against  a man  merely  because  he 
chances  to  develop  in  advance  of  the  conventional  idea  as  to  time  of  maturity,  but  on  the 
contrary  it  is  more  likely  that  the  fact  will  be  used  as  a cause  for  rewarding  Ids  ability  by 
jiromoting  him  to  places  of  honor  and  trust.  The  subject  of  our  sketch,  W.  H.  Hawkins,  of 
Indianapolis,  is  a young  man  who  has  demonstrated  over  and  over  again  that  the  wisdom  of 
age  rests  upon  his  shoulders  and  the  judgment  of  tried  experience  guides  his  actions,  yet  so 
far  from  this  being  a bar  to  his  advancement,  his  friends  point  to  the  fact  with  pride  and  as 
convincing  proof  that  man  ought  to  be  weighed  by  his  capacity  and  not  by  the  duration  of 
his  days  upon  the  earth.  Mr.  Hawkins  was  born  in  Sullivan  County,  Ind.,  December  31, 
1858,  and  is  the  son  of  Jesse  and  Fannie  F.  (Pinkston)  Hawkins,  natives  of  the  same  county. 
The  paternal  grandfather,  John  W.  Hawkins,  was  a native  of  South  Carolina  and  a pioneer 
of  Sullivan  County,  who  served  his  country  in  the  War  of  1812,  holding  the  rank  of  major. 
He  was  a farmer  and  pursued  that  avocation  until  his  death,  and  his  son,  the  father  of  our 
subject,  was  also  a tiller  of  the  soil.  The  latter,  imbued  with  the  same  spirit  that  moved 
his  sire  in  the  War  of  1812,  enlisted  in  the  Civil  War  in  the  Forty-tirst  Indiana  Volunteers, 
afterward  known  as  the  First  Cavalry  Regiment;  was  taken  jirisouer  and  died  in  Libby 
Prison,  leaving  two  children,  Mattie,  who  died  in  1882,  and  our  subject.  The  latter  was 
reared  upon  the  farm  in  Sullivan  County,  attending  the  country  schools  until  he  was  eight- 
een years  old,  and  two  years  later  he  entered  the  normal  school  at  Valparaiso.  After  remain- 
ing there  for  some  time  he  entered  a country  store  at  Shelburn  and  continued  in  it  until 
November  18,  1884,  when  he  was  appointed  a deputy  sheriff  of  Sullivan  County  and  served 
four  years.  He  was  then  elected  sheriff  of  the  same  county  and  tilled  that  position  with  the 
greatest  credit,  as  he  had  previously  discharged  the  duties  of  deputy  and  for  an  equal 
period  of  time.  March  22,  18*J3,  he  was  appointed  by  President  Cleveland  United  States 
marshal  for  the  district  of  Indiana,  being  one  of  the  youngest  men  ever  named  for  this  office. 
Young  as  he  is  he  wields  a most  powerful  influence  in  politics,  being  personally  remarkably 
popular  and  possessing  excejitional  ability  as  an  organizer  and  leader  of  men.  He  can  plan 
a campaign  with  a shrewdness  that  surprises  the  oldest  of  campaigners  and  executes  with 
brilliant  success.  Failure  is  a word  that  has  never  appeared  in  the  book  of  his  life  and  suc- 
cess has  tended  but  to  brighten  his  wits  and  to  stimulate  his  brain  to  greater  energy.  Dur- 
ing his  term  of  office  he  will  make  Indianapolis  his  place  of  residence,  much  to  the  regret  of 
his  thousands  of  friends  and  admirers  in  old  Sullivan,  who  while  proud  of  the  distinguished 
recognition  of  his  services  and  ability,  deeply  regret  to  lose  the  pleasure  of  his  presence  and 
the  strength  of  his  Jiarty  counsels  even  for  a season.  Mr.  Hawkins  is  a man  of  strong  social 
feeling,  taking  keen  enjoyment  in  the  society  of  his  friends,  and  is  connected  with  the  order 
of  Odd  Fellows  and  of  the  K.  of  P.,  in  both  of  which  organizations  he  is  regarded  with  the 
highest  esteem.  He  was  married  May  b,  1880,  to  Miss  Etta  E.  Collier,  by  whom  he  has  one 
child  living,  Burchard  G.  Brief  as  has  been  Mr.  Hawkins’  stay  in  Indianajiolis  he  has 
already  made  hosts  of  friends  and  has  demonstrated  to  them  and  to  the  peojde  of  the  State 
generally  that  the  selection  made  by  President  Cleveland  for  the  office  of  marshal  for  the 
State  of  Indiana  was  a most  wise  one  and  that  he  will  discharge  its  duties  with  distinguished 
abilit}'  and  with  conscientious  regard  to  the  interests  of  the  Government.  He  was  in 
1802  unanimously  selected  chairman  of  the  Democratic  central  committee  of  Sullivan 
County,  Ind.,  and  yet  retains  that  position.  The  remarkable  executive  talent  of  Mr.  Haw- 
kins and  his  masterly  grasp  of  important  measures,  with  his  unbroken  success  and  his  wide 
popularity,  clearly  show  that  he  is  but  fairly  started  ujvon  his  career,  and  that  much  better 
and  greater  things  await  him. 

Miss  Maky  Eileen  Ahern.  As  mediums  for  the  diffusion  of  knowledge  among  the 
tnasse.s,  public  collections  of  books  take  rank  second  oidy  to  the  common- school  system.  The 
State  library  at  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  has  been  steadily  prosperous,  the  number  of  volumes 
being  increased  year  by  year,  and  the  careful  selection  and  comjileteness  of  the  collection 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

L’I^MVER'‘!TV  op  iLLlNO!' 


121 


AXD  MAR  TON  COUNTY,  TNDTANA 

gives  it  a value  second  to  very  few.  The  State  librarian,  Miss  Mary  Eileen  Ahern,  is  a lady 
thoroughly  equipped  by  intimate  knowledge  of  books  for  the  care  of  the  library.  To  the 
requisites  of  ability  she  adds  those  of  temperament,  and  all  patrons  of  the  library  will  agree 
in  acknowledging  her  painstaking  and  uniform  consideration  and  courtesy  in  rendering  assist- 
ance to  those  pursuing  any  particular  branch  of  inquiry.  This  lady  remoxed  with  her 
parents  to  Spencer,  Ind..  in  1870  and  there  she  attended  the  public  schools,  graduating  from 
the  High  Scliool  in  May,  187S.  In  October,  1878,  when  but  seventeen  years  of  age,  she 
began  teaching  school  at  Bloomfield,  Ind.,  and  was  thus  engaged  for  two  years,  meeting  with 
unusual  success  in  that  cajxacity.  Beturning  to  Spencer  she  taught  in  the  high  schools  of 
that  city  for  four  years,  and  in  the  fall  of  1884  she  removed  to  Peru,  Ind.,  where  she  made  her 
home  until  the  spring  of  1880.  On  the  1st  of  April  of  that  year  she  became  assistant  libra- 
rian and  on  January  28,  1803,  she  was  elected  by  the  Legislature  as  State  librarian  which 
j)Osition  she  nows  tills  in  a very  able  manner.  Pos.sessed  of  rare  culture  and  attainments 
Miss  Ahern  discharges  her  duties  with  highly  commendable  zeal  and  ability.  Of  the  three 
children  l)orn  to  her  paients  Miss  Ahern  is  second  in  order  of  birth.  Her  parents  were 
natives  of  Ireland,  a country  that  our  people  have  heard  or  read  more  or  less  of,  land  that 
seems  to  be  the  breeding  place  for  the  production  of  the  brain,  the  energy  and  muscle  that 
move  the  rest  of  the  world.  Her  mother  was  an  O’Neill  of  County  Clare,  a very  noted  family 
of  tliat  county,  and  she  was  a lady  possessed  of  great  force  of  character  and  remarkable 
financial  ability.  She  died  when  Miss  Ahern  was  but  twelve  years  of  age.  The  father, 
William  Ahern,  was  a native  of  County  Cork  and  like  many  of  his  native  countrymen,  his 
day  dream  was  for  liberty  and  the  right  to  cope  with  his  fellow  men.  As  a conserpience  he 
emigrated  to  the  I’nited  States  in  1852  and  two  years  later  came  to  Indianapolis  where  he 
was  married.  He  is  at  present  a resident  of  Spencer,  Ind.,  and  is  a man  [xossessed  of  many 
excellent  (jualities  of  mind  and  heart.  The  children  born  to  t his  estimable  couple  are  named 
as  follows:  Johanna,  a resident  of  Spencer  and  wife  of  W.  S.  Johnson  who  is  county  clerk 
of  Owen  County,  Ind.,  ^lary  E.,  and  James.  Our  sidqect  was  a delegate  to  the  National 
Ubrary  Association  held  at  San  Francisco,  Cal.,  in  18‘Jl  and  is  now  secretary  of  the 
State  library  section  of  the  National  Library  Association.  She  is  the  founder  of  the  Library 
Association  of  Indiana  of  which  she  has  been  secretary  since  its  organization,  and  was  secre 
tary  of  high  school  section  of  the  State  Teachers’  Association  for  two  years. 

S.\MUEn  Pfen’dler.  'Fliis  worthy  agriculturist  was  born  in  Canton  (xlarus,  among  the 
Alps  of  Switzerland,  May  (),  1888,  to  the  union  of  Nicholas  and  Anna  (Streef)  Pfendler. 
His  great-grandfather  Friedland  Pfender,  was  governor  of  Canton  Gflarus,  in  Switzerland. 
The  father  of  our  subject  came  to  America  with  his  family  in  1847,  leaving  Havre  de  Grace, 
France,  March  1,  1847,  and  landing  in  New  Orleans  on  April  28  and  came  u])  the  Missis- 
sippi  and  Ohio  Rivers  to  ^ladison.  Th(>  family  then  took  the  stage  to  Indianapolis,  where 
they  arrived  on  May  L The  father  had  a brother  wluj  had  come  to  America  in  1882  and 
who  was  at  that  time  living  in  Marion  County,  Wari'en  Township,  Ind.,  engaged  in  farming. 
Nicholas  Pfendlei'  bought  IdO  acres  in  MoralTownship,ShelbyCounty.  just  across  the  line  from 
Marion  County,  anil  |)aid  for  the  same  $1,200.  About  thirty  live  acres  of  this  tract  was 
partially  cleared  and  the  first  year  he  put  in  ten  or  twelve  acres  of  corn,  the  same  amount  of 
wheat  and  about  four  acres  in  potatoes.  'I’liis  was  ])ul  in  with  one  horse.  He  carried  his 
produce  to  Indianajtolis  and  received  for  potatoes  a shilling  a bushel,  8 cents  a dozen  for 
eggs,  in  trade,  and  about  8 cents  a pound  for  butter.  Samuel  Pfendler,  the  oi'iginal  of  this 
notice,  remained  on  the  farm  with  his  father  until  1855  and  then  started  for  h’aribaull  County, 
Minn.,  with  Warren  Judd,  who  had  a wagon  and  two  yoke  of  cattle.  Our  subject  fxurchased 
a yoke  of  cattle  and  di'ove  the  team  for  his  board.  He  left  home  Se|>tember  f),  1855,  and 
shortly  afterward  went  to  Winneshiek  County,  Iowa,  and  located  at  Frankville,  where,  dur 
irjg  the  winter,  he  drove  a team  for  a storekeeper,  continuing  this  until  IMay,  185(5.  He  then 
went  to  SteiJe  County,  .Minn. .where  he  pre-empted  Kid  acr*‘s  of  land  and  made  his  home  on 
the  .same  until  .August,  ISofi,  breaking  ten  acres  in  the  meantime.  On  August  4,  185(5,  he 
returned  (o  Iowa  and  l)egan  working  for  P.  K.  Beaid,  continuing  with  him  for  two  months. 
.\l)out  that  time  he  traded  his  claim  of  1(50  acres  for  two  yoke  of  oxen,  making  him  then  the 
owner  of  thre^  yoke,  and  trading  (he  oxen  for  horses  he  engaged  in  teaming  from  Iowa  to 
Minnesota,  the  route  covering  from  forty  to  150  miles.  Aftiu'  about  six  months  he  bi'gan  to 


122 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


drive  stage  from  McGregor’s  Landing,  in  Clayton  County,  Iowa,  to  Decorab,  Iowa,  a dis- 
tance of  forty-five  miles, making  a trip  every  day.  He  di’ove  stage  two  years,  receiving  from 
$20  to  $30  a month.  In  1858  he  married  Miss  Alma  Burton,  daughter  of  George  W.  Bur- 
ton, of  Winneshiek  County,  Iowa,  and  for  about  a year  and  a half  afterward  kept  a store  in 
Frankville.  In  .lanuary,  1800,  he  and  his  bride  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  brought  with 
them  about  .$200.  and  made  their  home  with  Mr.  Bfendler’s  father  until  the  death  of  the  lat- 
ter. two  years  later.  Our  subject  and  his  brother,  David,  were  the  only  two  of  the  children 
who  remained  at  home,  and  when  the  father  died  his  will  provided  that  David  and  Samuel 
should  divide  the  land  he  owned,  100  acres  in  Shelby  and  100  acres  in  Marion  County,  and 
pay  to  the  other  children  $5,200.  The  interest  of  $2,000  was  to  be  paid  to  the  mother  and 
slie  was  to  have  a home  with  them  during  her  life.  Samuel  and  his  brother  accepted  the 
provisions  of  the  will  and  faithfully  carried  them  out.  The  mother  passed  away  in  1804 
and  her  last  days  were  rendered  hapjiy  and  comfortable  by  the  devotion  of  her  two  sons. 
For  two  years  the  brothers  worked  their  farms  together,  but  in  1804  Samuel  bought  of  his 
brother  thirty  of  the  100  acres  in  Marion  County,  paying  for  the  same  $1,000.  On  the  tract 
(>ur  subject  had  received  from  his  fathei’  he  resided  from  1800  until  the  ])resent.  His  first 
residence  was  a log  structure,  18x22  feet,  and  in  this  theykejit  house  for  about  eleven  years, 
often  cooking  for  forty  or  lifty  men  who  came  to  log-rollings.  Those  were  happy  days  for 
all  were  contented  with  their  lot.  Aboiit  1871  Mr.  Pfendler  erected  a two-story  frame  house, 
thirty  feet  scpiare,  and  in  this  he  resides  at  the  present  time.  In  1804  he  purchased  forty 
acres  of  land;  in  1873  seventy- five  acres;  in  1870  eighty  acres,  and  in  1885  eighty  acres,  in 
Shelby  County,  and  in  1801  he  bought  fifteen  and  one-half  acres,  thus  making  355  acres  in 
Marion  and  ninety-five  acres  in  Shelby  County.  IMr.  Pfendler  and  family  cleared  over  half 
of  the  355  acres  in  IMarion  County.  To  his  marriage  were  born  the  following  children ; Anna, 
born  in  1850  and  died  February  14.  1880.  She  had  attended  the  college  at  Franklin,  Ind., 
five  years  and  would  have  graduated  in  1880;  Emma,  born  in  1801,  died  at  the  age  of  twelve 
months  from  burns  received  by  falling  in  a fireplace;  Samuel,  born  in  1803.  February  12, 
resides  near  his  father  (he  married  Miss  Louisa  Eistler,  daughter  of  David  Eistler,  of  Win- 
neshiek County.  Iowa,  and  has  three  children;  Della,  Boy  and  Anna),  and  Levi,  born 
November  20,  1807.  resides  in  Pleasant  View,  Shelby  County,  Ind.,  where  he  is  engaged  in 
merchandising.  He  married  Miss  Annie  E.  Gould,  daughter  of  James  Gould,  and  they  have 
two  children,  Byron  and  Celia,  the  latter  dying  in  1803.  aged  two  and  one-half  years. 

Tiiojias  Sandusky  Eaton.  This  successful  agriculturist  and  descendant  of  sturdy  British 
ancestors,  was  born  in  Owen  County,  Ky.,  August  20,  1828,  to  the  union  of  William  and 
Sarah  (Phipps)  Eaton,  the  former  a native  of  the  Blue  Grass  State  and  the  latter  of  Virginia. 
The  parents  were  married  in  Owen  (-ounty,  Ky.,  but  left  there  and  came  to  Indiana  in  1832. 
Fifteen  children  were  born  to  this  worthy  couple,  one  of  whom,  a daughter,  died  in  infancy. 
The  remainder  were  named  as  follows;  James  A.,  of  Harrison  County,  IMo.  ; Polly  Ann, 
died  at  the  age  of  twenty  years;  William,  who  resides  at  Irvington;  Thomas  S.,  our  subject; 
Elizabeth,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Louis  Nossaman;  Lydia,  wife  of  IMadison  Davis, 
resides  in  Franklin  Township,  this  county;  Leland,  of  Boone  County,  Ind.  ; Sarah,  wife 
of  Hoyt  Kansdell ; Charles,  of  Boone  County,  was  in  the  Federal  service  during  the 
war:  Mary  E..  wife  of  Bufus  Leonard;  Henry,  was  also  in  the  Federal  service  about 
four  years;  5Vesle_v  served  in  the  XTnion  army  about  four  years;  Mary  E.  (No  2), 
deceased,  was  the  wife  of  George  Harris,  and  Bobert,  of  Boone  County,  Ind.  The 
mother  of  these  children  died  in  1873  at  the  age  of  seventy-two,  and  the  father  followed  her 
to  the  grave  in  1881,  when  eighty-two  years  of  age.  The  paternal  grandfather,  William 
Eaton,  was  a native  of  IMaryland  and  died  in  Kentucky.  The  parents  of  our  subject  came 
to  Indiana  in  the  winter  of  1832  and  remained  until  the  spring  in  Indiana)iolis.  a city  then 
of  about  1,000  inhabitants.  The  father  was  sick  during  the  winter,  but  in  the  spring  he 
moved  out  to  New  Bethel,  in  Franklin  Township,  where  he  entered  eighty  acies  of  land  one 
mile  northeast  of  the  little  village.  He  paid  $1.25  per  acre  for  this  tract  and  it  was  right  in 
the  green  timber.  First  he  rented  a little  piece  of  ground  near  by  which  had  a house  on  it, 
and  about  six  acres  cleared.  On  this  he  made  his  home  for  two  years,  by  which  time  he 
had  erected  a log  house  on  his  eighty  acres  and  had  commenced  the  arduous  task  of  clearing 
the  ground.  For  four  or  five  years  this  was  the  task  of  all  in  the  family,  aside  from  raising 


123 


AND  ^fAEION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

small  crops.  The  smaller  children  were  armed  with  wooden  paddles  which  they  slapped 
together  to  scare  the  squirrels  which  came  in  almost  countless  numbers  to  the  corn  patch, 
threatening  to  eat  up  the  little  crop.  Soon  brighter  days  began  to  appear,  but  still  the 
hardships  and  privations  would  have  been  unendurable  at  the  present  day.  In  four  or 
five  years  they  could  market  some  of  their  produce  and  soon  began  to  accumulate  some 
means.  Wolves  were  very  thick  and  a few  dry  sticks  were  kept  ready  to  liglit  and  throw 
out  the  cabin  door  into  the  pack  whose  howls  rendered  sleej)  impo.ssible.  Amid  these 
rude  surroundings  our  subject  remained  until  his  twenty-tirst  birthday,  receiving  but 
little  schooling,  and  working  early  and  late  to  subdue  the  forest  and  render  it  inhabit- 
able. Whenever  his  father  could  spare  him  away  from  home  for  a few  days  our  sub- 
ject would  hire  out  to  some  of  the  neighbors  and  received  for  his  services  from  12i  to 
25  cents  ])er  day.  Half  of  this  he  gave  his  father  and  the  remainder  to  his  mother  to 
keep  for  him.  telling  her  that  he  was  going  to  save  up  money  enough  to  buy  a farm. 
When  a little  over  tw'enty-one  years  of  age  young  Eaton  bought  forty  acres  of  land  in 
Franklin  Township,  paying  for  the  same  $218,  !?10()  down  and  working  two  summers  in 
Turner's  brickyard  to  make  u])  the  balance.  The  first  year  he  received  $13  a month  and 
by  that  time  he  had  learned  how  to  mold  brick.  The  following  year  he  received  11.25 
a day  and  worked  in  tlie  brickyard  about  five  months  each  summer.  The  second  sum- 
mer's work  paid  him  out  on  the  farm  and  he  moved  on  his  forty  acres,  fifteen  of  which 
had  been  cleared  and  a little  cabin  erected.  For  five  years  he  continued  on  this  farm. 
In  November,  1811),  he  was  married  to  IMiss  Almira  Springer,  a daughter  of  Jacob 
Springer,  a native  of  the  Buckeye  State,  and  IMr.  Eaton  ami  his  bride  moved  on  the 
forty  acres  together.  During  the  five  years  he  remained  on  the  same,  our  subject  dead- 
ened and  partially  cleared  fifteen  acres  more,  but  in  1854  sold  the  forty  acres  to  Cliarles 
Piel  for  $700.  'I'hen.  leaving  his  wife  at  home,  he  and  four  or  five  otheis  went  West 
prospecting.  *Mr.  Eaton  went  through  Illinois  and  Iowa,  and  after  a trip  of  about  eight 
weeks,  returned  to  Marion  County,  where  he  bought  eighty  acres  in  Section  27.  About 
thirty  acres  were  cleared  and  a hewn  double  log  house  was  on  the  tract.  He  rented 
twenty  acres,  put  in  a few  acres  himself  and  l)egan  clearing  a j)lace  for  a brickyard. 
After  harvest  he  coiumeiiced  making  brick  and  100.000  were  turned  out  that  fall,  all  being 
sold  l)y  Christmas  time,  for  fi'om  $4  to  $5  per  thousand.  This  enabled  him  to  meet  the  first 
payment  on  his  land.  After  this  he  commenced  fanning,  and  engaging  in  any  other 
honorable  emj)loyment  he  could  find.  In  three  years  time  he  had  his  farm  ])aid  for  tind 
settled  down  to  tilling  tin*  soil.  This  was  in  1857,  and  he  continued  farming  until  1800, 
when  lie  again  engaged  in  lirick  making,  turning  out  50,000  bricks,  for  which  he  received 
S5  per  thousand.  In  1801  ho  erected  a story  and  a half  house  of  six  rooms,  and  in  1885) 
he  erected  another  handsome  house  of  seven  rooms,  where  he  now  resides.  Between 
1801  and  1883  he  added  281  acres  to  the  eighty  acres  ho  first  purchased,  and  has  one 
of  tlie  be  t farms  in  his  section.  By  his  first  wife  he  bectune  the  father  of  eleven  chil- 
dren, three  of  whom  died  in  infancy,  and  one,  Amanda,  in  1872,  when  about  twenty  years  of 
age.  The  names  of  the  seven  living  children  are  as  follows:  Artmesia,  who  married  James 
(Jieer,  of  Marion  County,  Ind.;  Franklin  F.,  of  IMarion  County,  Ind.,  married  IMiss  Louisa 
Cunningham:  William  J.,  also  in  Marion  County,  married  Miss  Julia  Kmither;  Eudoljiho 
of  Indianapolis,  marri<*d  Miss  Ih'iscilla  Finner;  Tyler  and  V'iolet,  twins.  The  former  mar- 
ried .Miss  Addie  A.  Huntington  and  resides  in  Marion  County,  and  the  latter  marrii'd  Abra 
ham  .'Murphy,  of  .Marion  County,  and  liUella,  wife  of  Charles  Doren,  of  Indianapolis.  Our 
subject  is  the  grandfather  of  twenty-two  children  resulting  from  the  above  mentioned  mar 
riages.  His  wife  died  in  December.  1880,  and  in  1 882  he  married  IMiss  Mahala,  daughtc'r  of 
Henry  and  .Mary  (Jam|)er,  of  ."Marion  County.  I'ive  children  have  Ix'en  born  to  this  uidon: 
Carrie  Ethel,  born  September  28,  1883;  Chalmer  C.,  born  -Jidy  25),  1885;  INfabel  (b,  born 
February  21,  1888;  Ben  Harrison,  born  Soptend)er  21,  185)0,  and  IMeada  M.,born  .May  (), 
185)2.  .Mr.  l•laton  has  never  aspired  to  |)olitical  i)ositions  and  has  mwei’  held  office,  except 
that  of  supervisor.  His  first  vote  was  cast  for  a De?nocrat,  but  since  that  time  he  has  been 
a stalwart  li‘*|)ul)lican.  He  has  bmui  a membei'  of  the  Baptist  Church  ever  since  his  first 
mHi’riage.  In  IS8t)  our  siilqect  divided  among  his  seven  children,  l)\f  his  first  wife,  281  acres, 
thus  giving  them  all  good  homes. 


124 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Col.  I.  N.  Walker.  One  of  the  best  known  men  in  the  State  and  one  of  the  most  pop- 
ular connected  vvitlitheO.  A.  R.  is  Col.  I.  N.  Walker,  past  department  commander  and  at 
this  time  the  senior  vice  commander-in-cliief  of  the  order;  and  State  Tax  Commissioner,  who 
is  now  directing  his  best  energies  to  the  securing  of  an  ecjuitable  enforcement  of  the  tax 
laws  of  the  State.  Col.  Walker  is  a most  worthy  son  of  Indiana,  who,  after  receiving  an 
education  in  his  native  State  and  growing  to  maidiood,  responded  to  his  country’s  call,  and 
entered  the  army  as  junior  captain  in  the  Seventy-tliird  Regiment  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry. 
For  gallant  services  rendered  at  tiie  battle  of  Stone  River  he  was  made  major;  was  promoted 
to  the  rank  of  lieutenant  colonel  in  March,  1803,  and  on  the  death  of  Col.  Hathaway,  in  May 
1803,  was  made  commander  of  the  regiment.  For  more  than  a year  he  endured  all  the 
rigors  of  Ijibby  Frison,  escaped  with  Geneial  Streight  through  the  historic  tunnel,  in  Feb- 
ruary, 1804,  returned  to  his  regiment  in  May,  1804,  and  rendered  most  important  service  in 
t.lu!  army  of  the  Cumberland,  protecting  the  line  of  supplies  between  Decatur  and  Stevenson 
along  the  Tennessee  River,  during  the  advance  on  Atlanta.  After  the  war  he  resided  for  a 
time  at  Nashville  and  then  returned  to  Indianapolis,  where  he  has  since  resided.  He  is  be- 
yond dou))l  tlie  best  known  Grand  Army  man  in  the  State,  having  served  for  four  years  as 
assistant  adjutant  general  and  then  as  department  commander,  and  taking  the  most  lively 
interest  in  its  affairs,  having  the  social  (piality  strongly  develojwd  and  having  an  abiding 
regard  for  those  who  served  their  country  during  its  time  of  peril.  The  privations  endured 
by  Col.  Walker  in  Libby  Prison  sapped  his  health;  after  enduring  its  hardships  for  nine 
months,  he  esca{)ed.  as  stated,  but  only  to  be  recaptured  and  returned,  and  the  three  months 
which  followed  until  his  exchange  in  IMay  (the  tunnel  escape  was  in  February)  were  very 
severe  U{)on  him.  'I'he  seeds  of  diseaseso  freely  atid  deeply  sown  in  Libby  broke  out  again  and 
again  at  Nashville  after  the  war,  and  finally  caused  him,  after  some  years  of  ])atient  and  un- 
complaining suffering  to  come  to  Indianajmlis.  For  nearly  ten  years  after  his  return  here  he 
was  first  deputy  in  the  office  of  the  county  auditor  of  Marion  County,  where  he  won  the 
esteem  of  every  one  by  his  efficient  discharge  of  duties  and  his  uniformly  courteous  and 
obliging  s])irit.  He  receiveil  the  nomination  of  the  Republicans  of  Indiana  for  the  office  of 
State  Auditor  in  1892,  but  went  down  with  the  rest  of  the  ticket  in  November  last.  Col. 
Walker  while  assistant  adjutant-general  rendered  prodigious  service  to  the  order,  more  than 
ten  thousand  members  being  added  to  it  while  he  held  office,  largely  through  his  tireless 
efforts.  The  meagre  salary  he  received  he  divided  with  a disabled  soldier,  and  much  more 
of  the  remainder  went  to  the  help  of  moneyless  soldiers  of  the  war.  Large-hearted,  honest, 
earnest,  loyal,  sincere,  true  in  his  friendships,  his  friends  are  legion  everywhere,  and  if 
wishes  were  dollars  the  Colonel  would  rival  the  Rothschilds  in  wealth.  At  Stone  River  he 
was  a hero  in  battle,  bravely  encouraging  his  comrades  throughout  a frightful  carnage,  in 
which  the  brave  boys  were  in  a literal  slaughter  jieu;  in  all  hours  of  peril  he  was  the  same 
brave,  true  soldier;  and  since  the  war  the  same  invincible  courage  has  stamped  his  life,  espe- 
cially in  his  devoted  service  on  behalf  of  the  soldiers,  making  him  indifferent  to  the  gibes  and 
sneers  of  those  who  did  not  fight  and  who  hate  those  who  insist  the  Government  shall  be 
grateful  and  generous  toward  those  who  saved  the  Union.  Whatever  the  future  of  Col. 
Walker,  he  can  rest- secure  in  the  reflection  that  he  has  the  abiding  affection  of  his  comrades 
of  the  army  of  the  late  war.  But  a life  like  that  of  Col.  Walker,  so  full  of  generous  and  un- 
selfish impulses  and  deeds,  and  replete  with  courageous  actions,  has  much  more  before  it  to 
be  done  and  he  is  sure  to  be  always  in  the  forefront  with  those  who  dai’e  the  right  for  the 
right’s  sake. 

J<mN  L.  McMasteh.  The  bar  of  Indianapolis  has  won  an  enviable  name  all  over  the 
country  for  the  erudition,  success  and  courtesy  of  its  members,  many  of  whom  have  achieved 
a national  reputation  for  their  ability  and  a correct  apprehension  of  what  pertains  to  the  profes- 
sion. Among  those  who  stand  deservedly  high  as  members  of  this  bar  with  his  brother  law- 
yers and  with  the  courts,  is  John  L.  McMaster,  whose  office  is  in  the  Boston  Block  in  that 
city.  He  has  always  been  a close  student  in  his  profession  and  has  won  the  confidence  and 
esteem  of  the  community  and  the  ])rofes8ion  as  a careful  and  efficient  lawyer.  He  was  born 
in  Meigs  County,  Ohio,  February  9,  1843,  being  the  son  of  William  and  Susan  (Brown)  Mc- 
Master. His  father  was  a native  of  Scotland;  his  mother  of  Virginia.  His  father  came  to 
the  United  States  when  about  twenty  years  of  age,  settling  first  in  New  York  State,  where 


Bn.i. 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

'JNIVER'^ITY  OF  ILLiNOI' 


125 


AND  MAIUON  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

he  learned  the  trade  of  miller,  and  afterward  in  Meigs  County,  Ohio,  where  he  owned  and 
operated  a mill  for  more  than  forty  years  and  until  within  a few  years  of  the  time  of  his 
death,  which  occurred  at  that  place  in  1887.  His  mother  died  in  1859.  The  subject  of  our 
sketch  was  the  second  of  seven  children,  three  of  whom  are  still  living.  He  was  reared  in 
Meigs  County,  spending  the  days  of  his  boyhood  in  the  countiy  schools  and  at  work  in  his 
father’s  mill  until  the  outbreak  of  the  war,  when,  in  1891,  at  the  age  of  eighteen  he  entered 
the  Union  army  as  a member  of  Company  A,  Second  Virginia  Cavalry  in  which  Company 
and  in  Company  E of  the  same  regiment  he  served  a little  more  than  three  years.  A younger 
and  only  brother,  Thomas,  who  later  became  a member  of  the  same  regiment,  was  killed  at 
the  battle  of  Five  Forks.  After  being  mustered  out,  our  subject  entered  the  Ohio  University 
at  Athens,  Ohio,  from  which  he  graduated  in  1869.  Before  leaving  the  University  he  com 
menced  the  study  of  law  which  he  continued  under  private  instructors  until  the  fall  of  1809, 
when  he  entered  the  Cincinnati  Law  School,  graduating  therefrom  in  1870.  In  the  fall  of 
the  year  last  named  he  settled  in  Indianapolis,  an  entire  stranger,  in  the  [)ractice  of  his  pro 
fessiou.  He  began  the  practice  in  partnership  with  A.  Boice,  the  firm  being  McMaster  A 
Boice,  and  so  continuing  until  1891,  since  which  time  Mr.  McMaster  has  been  alone.  In 
1882  he  was  nominated  by  acclamation  for  the  office  of  Superior  Court  Judge  by  the  Repub- 
lican party,  but  failed  of  election.  In  the  following  year  he  was  nominated  for  mayor,  with 
out  seeking  on  his  part,  and  after  a close  contest  was  elected.  His  administration  of  that 
office  was  characterized  by  integrity  and  a conscientious  devotion  to  the  best  interests  of 
the  city  and  served  to  still  more  firmly  establish  him  in  the  confidence  and  esteem  of  the 
community.  In  1890,  in  anticipation  of  legislative  measures  of  vital  interest  to  the  city  of 
Indianapolis  which  were  to  be  brought  forward  in  the  general  assembly,  his  i)arty  nominated 
him  as  as  one  of  its  candidates  for  the  State  Legislature,  but  he  was  defeated  along  with  his 
party.  Mr.  McMaster  is  connected  with  a number  of  fraternal  organizations,  in  all  of  which 
he  is  an  honored  and  useful  member.  Among  the  number  is  George  H.  Thomas  Post,  No. 
17,  Department  of  Indiana,  G.  A.  R.,  of  which  he  is  a past  commander.  He  is  also  a {)ast 
member  of  the  council  of  administration  of  the  department  and  has  long  been  a member  of 
the  monument  committee  of  the  department  and  is  its  present  chairman.  He  is  also  a thirly- 
second  degree  Mason  and  is  active  in  the  various  branches  of  Masonry  leading  up  to  this  ex- 
alted degree,  being  an  officer  in  several  of  the  Scottish  Rite  bodies  and  having  been  twice 
the  Master  of  Mystic  Tie  Lodge,  one  of  the  blue  lodges  of  the  city  which  has  established 
more  than  a local  reputation  for  its  efficient  work.  Mr.  McMaster  is  identified  with  a num 
ber  of  interests  of  the  city,  among  which  are  the  Indianapolis  Building  and  Loan,  and  the 
Franklin  Building  Associations,  in  both  of  which  he  is  a director  and  the  attorney.  He  is 
also  the  attorney  L)r  the  Mutual  Home  and  Savings  Association  and  a director  in  the  Ohio 
Machine  Gompany  of  Middleport,  Ohio.  Mr.  McMaster’s  domestic  life  is  a happy  one,  his 
wife  being  Alpha  (Steenrod)  McMaster,  whom  he  married  at  Lane, aster,  Ohio,  in  1872,  and 
by  whom  he  has  three  children. 

Austin  B.  Pi{.\tiikk.  Real  estate,  in  the  form  of  city  or  suburban  lots,  is  a bank  of 
interest.  The  demand  for  inside  and  suburban  lots  and  acres,  together  with  the  steady 
increase  in  the  value  of  such  holdings,  afford  the  best  possible  evidence  of  Indianapolis’ 
steady  growth  in  wealth  and  prosperity.  Experience  tells  us  that  to  the  economical  artisan, 
salaried  clerk  and  business  man,  these  subur))an  offerings  are  of  inestimable  value  in  ])er 
mitting  men  to  actpiire,  at  reasonable  cost  and  on  easy  terms,  a pleasant  home  in  a healthy 
location,  which  becomes  more  valuable  as  the  owner  grows  in  3'ears.  Gne  of  the  most  popu 
lar  real  estate  men  of  the  city  of  I ndianajmlis  is  Austin  B.  Prather,  who  is  also  an  extensive 
fire  insurance  agent  and  is  doing  a business  highly  satisfactory  to  himself  and  his  large  num 
ber  of  patrons.  Ho  is  an  ideal  business  man  and  has  a remarkable  capacity  for  work.  lie 
is  a native  of  Oldham  Goiinty,  Ky. , his  birth  having  occurred  January  29,  1848,  of  which 
State  his  father,  John  Prather,  was  also  a native,  where  he  followed  the  occupation  of  farm 
ing  with  fairly  satisfactory  results.  He  was  a man  of  great  public  sj)irit  and  was  an  ensign 
in  the  military  affairs  of  'rij)|)ecanoe  times  and  in  various  other  ways  showed  his  interest 
in  the  welfare  of  his  native  land,  being  at  all  times  public  spirited  and  |>rogressive.  He 
was  married  t(j  Miss  Elizabeth  Jones,  a native  of  North  Carolina,  a daughter  of  Benjamin 
Jones,  who  belonged  to  a well  known  family  of  the  Old  North  State.  In  1820  Mr.  Prather 


120 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


came  with  Lis  family  to  Indiana  and  became  one  of  the  pioneer  families  of  Clark  County. 
The  father  died  at  Columbus,  lud. , in  1870,  the  mother  having  been  called  from  life  in 
1805.  The  paternal  grandfather,  Basil  Prather,  was  of  Scotch  descent  and  was  born  and 
reared  in  the  land  of  ‘“thistles  and  oatmeal.”  He  came  to  America  in  his  early  manhood, 
first  settled  in  Kentucky  but  afterward  became  a pioneer  Methodi.st  preacher  of  Indiana, 
l)eing  one  of  the  first  of  that  denomination  to  hold  services  within  its  borders.  Austin  B. 
Prather  was  about  ten  years  of  age  when  his  parents  settled  in  Bartholomew  County,  Ind. , 
and  there  he  received  the  usual  common  school  advantages  and  early  learned  the  details  of 
agricultural  life  on  his  father’s  farm.  Later  he  spent  two  years  at  White  River  Academy 
at  Brownstown,  Ind.,  where  he  completed  a practical  education.  In  October,  1809  he  catne 
to  Indianapolis  and  became  a clerk  in  the  old  pioneer  grocery  house  of  Horn  & Anderson, 
in  which  capacity  he  served  about  four  years,  or,  until  that  firm  retired  from  business.  He 
continued  to  follow  clerical  pursuits  until  September,  1881,  when  he  entered  the  employ  of 
\V.  E.  Mich  & Co.,  the  oldest  real  estate  linn  of  the  city,  and  remained  connected  with  them 
for  six  years.  In  1887  he  became  a member  of  the  firm  of  Prather  & Hankel,but  at  the  end  of 
three  years  retired  from  the  tirhi  and  soon  after  formed  a partnership  with  Col.  Walker, 
in  the  real  estate,  loans  and  tire  insurance  business,  which  connection  continued  until  April 
11,  1893,  when  he  purchased  Col.  Walker’s  interest  and  later  formed  a partnership  with 
(leorge  W.  Powell,  the  present  name  of  the  firm  being  Powell  & Prather.  Mr.  Prather  was 
married  in  October,  1872,  to  Miss  Mary  L.  Horn,  a native  of  Indianapolis,  and  a daughter 
of  Henry  L.  and  Minerva  A.  (Palmer)  Horn.  He  is  a Scottish  Kite  Mason  of  the  thirty-sec- 
ond degree  and  is  a charter  member  of  Mystic  Tie  Lodge,  No.  398.  He  is  a member  of  the 
board  of  governors,  of  the  board  of  trade  and  has  served  on  important  committees  of  the 
former  organizfition.  He  has  always  been  a Republican  in  his  })olitical  views. 

L.  H.  Dunning,  M.  D.  Among  the  many  able  and  well-known  physicians  of  Indianapolis 
who  are  a credit  to  the  city  is  the  subject  of  this  notice,  who  is  a descendant  of  good  and  worthy 
English  stock.  He  is  a native  of  Michigan,  having  been  born  at  Edwardsburg,  in  that 
State,  April  12,  1850,  the  English  head  and  founder  of  the  family  having  settled  in  New 
York  State.  Dr.  Isaac  D.  Dunning,  the  grandfather  of  our  subject,  was  a leading  practitioner 
of  Aurora,  Erie  County,  N.  Y. , for  about  thirty  years,  and  then,  in  1836  emigrated  to  Michi- 
gan. The  father  of  our  subject,  Oscar  M.  Dunning,  was  a substantial  farmer,  and  his  wife, 
Mai-y  (May)  Dunning,  was  also  a native  of  New  York,  being  a member  of  the  old  May  and 
Stanton  families,  who  were  very  ju'omiiient  in  the  public  affairs  of  the  Empire  State.  Dr. 
L.  H.  Dunning  was  educated  at  the  Edwardsburg  High  School,  studied  medicine  for  two 
years  in  the  medical  dejiartment  of  the  University  of  Buffalo,  where  special  mention  was 
made  of  the  thoroughness  of  his  work,  he  displaying  a remarkable  aptitude  in  all  his  studies, 
and  thus  eai’ly  affording  earnest  of  the  signal  ability  of  the  coming  man  and  physician.  His 
examination  demonstrated  tliat  he  had  grasped  the  subjects  gone  through  with  subtle  force 
and  energy.  Later,  he  spent  one  year  at  Rush  Medical  College,  Chicago,  from  which  he 
graduated  in  January,  1872.  After  graduating  Dr.  Dunning  went  to  Troy,  Berrien  County, 
Michigan,  where  he  engaged  in  the  practice,  and  was  for  some  time  district  superintendent 
of  Public  instruction.  He  was  ajipointed  correspondent  of  the  Michigan  State  Board  of 
Health  and  while  performing  the  duties  of  that  office  acquired  his  tirst  experience  as  a 
writer  on  medical  subjects,  in  which  he  has  since  become  distinguished.  In  the  year  1878, 
feeling  himself  competent  for  a wider  field.  Dr.  Dunning  moved  to  South  Bend,  Ind.,  where 
he  was  soon  called  into  a large  and  lucrative  practice.  His  contributions  to  medical  litera- 
ture, which  had  attracted  much  attention  while  he  was  reading  at  Troy,  were  continued  at 
South  Bend  and  soon  gave  him  a national  reputation.  A number  of  these,  which  appeared 
in  leading  medical  journals,  esjiecially  such  as  treated  upon  surgical  diseases  of  the  kidneys,  and 
also  upon  subjects  relating  to  diseases  of  women,  are  of  especial  value,  and  stamped  the  Doctor 
not  only  an  original  and  courageous  thinker  and  investigator,  but  also  a writer  of  a high  order 
of  ability,  his  language  being  elegant  in  diction  and  smooth  in  its  tiow — more  like  that 
of  a professional  author  and  editor  than  of  one  who  makes  the  science  of  medicine  his  great 
life  work.  Busy  as  was  his  life  at  South  Bend,  his  writings  and  his  practice  making  exacting 
demands  upon  his  time,  he  still  investigated,  studied  and  availed  himself  of  every  op])ortunity 
for  adding  to  his  knowledge  and  skill.  He  took  several  special  courses  in  New  York  and  in 


/ 


127 


AND  MARION  COUN'IV,  INDIANA. 

1889  made  an  extensive  trip  abroad,  during  which  time  he  pursued  his  studies  in  the  hospi- 
tals of  Vienna,  London  and  Paris.  In  the  same  year,  at  the  request  of  the  members  of  the 
faculty  of  the  Indiana  Medical  College,  Dr.  Dunning  moved  to  Indianapolis  in  order  to  accept 
the  position  of  adjunct  professor  of  diseases  of  women  in  that  institution  and  also  to  practice 
his  j)rofession  as  with  reference  to  the  diseases  of  women  and  of  abdominal  surgery.  Oli  the 
death  of  Dr.  T.  B Harvey,  who  had  held  the  chair  of  diseases  of  women  in  the  college  for 
twenty  years.  Dr.  Dunning  was  elected  his  successor,  a position  he  still  tills,  with  great 
credit  to  himself  and  to  the  fame  of  the  institution.  He  has  taken  very  high  rank  in  the 
State  as  a lecturer  and  teacher,  and  also  as  a safe  and  successful  operator,  a gi’eat  many'  cases 
having  attracted  wide  attention  because  of  the  difficult  character  of  the  operations  and  their 
successful  issue.  The  Doctor  is  also  consulting  gynecologist  to  the  city  hospital  and  the 
city  dispensary.  The  Doctor  has  strong  faith  in  the  benetits  arising  from  the  association  of 
medical  men  in  organizations  for  mutual  improvement,  by  the  interchange  of  views  and  by 
other  means  diffusing  knowledge,  lieing  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  the 
Indianapolis  Surgical  Society,  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society,  the  American  Medical 
A.ssociation  and  of  the  American  Association  of  Obstetricians  and  Gynecologists.  He  has 
been  honored  with  invitations  to  read  paj)ers  before  most  of  these  organizations  and  has  for 
the  most  part  complied  with  these  requests,  his  contributions  in  all  cases  being  received  with 
great  favor  by  the  distinguished  gentlemen  comjmsing  the  several  bodies.  At  the  ninth  ses- 
sion of  the  International  Medical  Congress,  held  at  Washington,  1887,  he  read  a paper  befoie 
that  body,  which  was  most  favorably  received,  a higher  compliment  than  this  it  being  scarcely 
possible  to  pay,  the  International  Congress  being  comj)Osed  of  the  ablest  and  most  })rofound 
and  progressive  physicians  of  the  countries  re[)resented.  During  the  administration  of 
President  Arthur  he  was  a member  of  the  Board  of  Pension  Examiners  at  South  Bend.  In 
1892  Dr.  Dunning  established  a private  hospital  for  the  treatment  of  diseases  of  women  and 
abdominal  surgery  and  his  efforts  in  this  direction  have  met  with  marked  success.  Outside  of  his 
regular  professional  work  the  Doctor  has  contributed  considerable  time  and  valuable  services  to 
the  cause  of  humanity  and  to  the  good  of  the  community,  having  for  maiiy  years  been  closely 
identitied  with  and  greatly  interested  in  the  work  of  the  Young  Men’s  Christian  Association. 
He  was  chairman  of  the  executive  committee  of  the  State  Association  for  three  years,  and  at 
j)re8ent  is  serving  a second  term  as  j)resident  of  the  Indiana  Association.  He  takes  a very 
active  and  useful  j)art  in  literary  matters  and  socially  is  a member  of  the  Commercial  Clul) 
and  of  the  order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  lndiana])olis  Literary  Club.  Dr.  Dunning  was  married 
December  9,  1875,  to  Miss  Harriet  Beauchamp,  of  Kdwardsburg,  and  to  them  have  bt'en  born 
three  children.  The  Doctor  and  his  wife  are  honored  and  cr>nsistent,  as  well  as  most  useful 
members  of  the  Central  Avenue  Methodist  E[)iscopal  Church.  Thus  Dr.  Dunning,  who  is 
yet  young  has  along  career  before  him,  and  is  destined  to  attain  a .still  higher  place  in  the 
ranks  of  his  [jrofession  and  to  extend  the  sphere  of  his  intluence  for  good. 

Edward  E.  Sciirokr.  The  subject  of  our  sketch,  Edward  E.  Schroer,  is  a model 
type  of  the  uiq)retentious  citizen,  content  to  persue  the  even  tenor  of  his  way,  wit hoiit  osten- 
tation, tilling  his  position  in  life  acceptable  to  the  world.  His  parents,  Herman  H.  and 
Elizabeth  C.  Schroer  (nee  Schop[)enhor.st),  came  to  America  in  1 840,  from  the  Province  of  West 
I)halia,  Germany,  wlnue  they  were  born  -July  9,  1815,  and  November  11,  1819,  respectively. 
They  were  married  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  September  10,  1841,  where  Herman  H.  Scdiroei-  was 
engaged  in  luercantihfbusiness.  They  removed  to  Indianajmlis,  Ind.,  in  1848,  whore  on 
Octijber  41,  18o:{,  the  subj(?ct  of  our  sketcii,  Edward  E.  Schroer,  was  born,  he  being 

the  sixth  of  nine  children.  .\fter  receiving  a very  ordinary  education,  such  as  was  aflorde<l 
by  the  country  district  schools,  he  was  thrown  upon  his  own  re.sources  at  tlu'  earlv 
age  of  fourteen  years.  He  learned  the  trade  of  piano  finisher,  at  which  he  worked  steadily 
during  the  day.  At  night  In*  applied  himself  assiduously  to  study  for  the  purpose  of  ex- 
tending his  meagre  eilucation.  Having  a natural  aptitude  for  books  and  accouids,  he  de 
termined  to  make  himself  an  expert  bookkeej)er  and  actcouidaid,  and  has  succeeded  as  thor 
oughly  as  he  could  have  wished.  At  an  early  age  he  was  attracted  toward  secret  societies 
ami  fraternal  organizations,,  and  on  December  17,  1874,  he  became  a charter  memla>r  of 
Jndianapolis  Lodge,  No.  ob,  K.  of  P.  He  served  several  years  as  assistant  grand  keeper  of 
records  and  seal  in  the  grand  lodge,  K.  of  1*.  of  Indiana.  Ho  then  became  identitied  with 


128 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


various  other  organizations,  among  them  the  Royal  Arcaiimn,  which  he  joined  October  29, 
1879,  becoming  a member  of  Indianapolis  Council,  No.  328.  His  thorough  knowledge  of 
fraternal  orders,  and  his  wide  awake  appreciation  of  their  demands,  soon  led  to  his  election 
to  official  positions  in  his  council,  and  on  March  1,  1882,  he  was  chosen  as  its  representa- 
ive  to  the  grand  council  of  Indiana,  where  he  was  a prominent  member  of  the  committee 
on  appeals  and  grievances.  At  the  session  of  the  grand  council  held  March  7,  1883,  he 
was  unanimously  elected  grand  secretary,  which  position  he  has  effectively  tilled  without 
opposition  ever  since.  He  has  seen  the  order  grow  in  power  and  numbers  under  his  ad- 
ministration, and  not  a little  to  his  own  earnest  efforts  does  it  owe  its  success.  Mr.  Schorer 
is  also  a prominent  member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity,  O.  of  E.,  K.  of  H.  and  I.  O R.  M. 
He  enjoys  a wide  acquaintance,  aside  from  his  secret  society  connections,  and  has  tilled 
many  positions  of  trust  and  importance.  He  was  one  of  the  organizers,  and  is  now  an 
active  member  of  the  Commercial  Club,  which  has^  done  so  much  to  improve  the  city  of 
Indianajmlis.  In  his  political  opinion  Mr.  Schroer  is  a Republican,  and  is  actively 
identified  with  the  interests  of  that  party,  being  a member  of  the  Marion  Club,  and  taking 
j)art  in  the  political  councils.  He  is  interested  in  various  charities  in  a quiet  way,  and  while 
not  strictly  a church  man,  he  is  uniformly  correct  in  morals  and  deportment.  Edward  E. 
Schroer  was  hapjuly  married  A])ril  17,  1878,  to  Miss  Bettie  M.  Marley,  who  now,  together 
with  two  children,  Clifford  Edward,  aged  fourteen,  and  Irene  Agnes,  aged  seven,  graces  his 
home.  Mr.  Schroer  has  for  a year  past  devoted  himself  almost  wholly  to  the  interests  of 
the  R.  A.,  in  the  conscientious  discharge  of  his  duties  as  grand  secretary.  He  is  still  a 
young  man,  and  if  his  future  achievements  are  to  be  judged  by  his  past,  he  has  many  years 
of  usefulness  yet  before  him. 

Thomas  Taogakt.  There  is  not  a more  popular  citizen  and  official  in  Marion  County  than 
Thomas  Taggart  who  has  been  twice  elected  county  auditor  and  whose  conduct  of  the  affairs 
of  that  office  has  been  such  as  to  commend  him  to  the  good  opinion  of  the  general  public 
irrespective  of  party  affiliation.  Mr.  Taggart  is  an  Irishman  by  parentage  and  nativity,  hav- 
ing been  born  in  County  Monahan,  Ireland,  in  1856;  a son  of  Thomas  and  Martha  (Kings- 
berg)  Taggart,  both  of  whom  were  descended  from  worthy  families  long  prominent  there. 
The  family  removed  to  the  United  States  when  young  Thomas  was  a child  and  located  at 
Xenia,  Ohio,  where  the  elder  Taggart  found  employment  with  a railway  company  and  where 
he  resides  at  this  time,  in  the  enjoyment  of  a moderate  competency  gained  by  his  years  of 
honest  and  prudent  industry.  Young  Thomas  Taggart  was  educated  in  the  public  schools 
of  Xenia  and  began  his  active  business  career  while  yet  a boy  in  the  hotel  and  ralway  restau- 
rant of  E.  Cory,  who  was  succeeded  by  N.  & O.  Ohmer  of  that  city.  In  a way,  his  employ- 
ment gave  direction  to  his  after  career.  Coming  to  Indianapolis  in  1877,  he  engaged  in  the 
same  business  at  the  Union  Station,  and  through  his  subsecjuent  political  career  he  has 
retained  the  proprietorship  of  the  Union  Station  hotel  and  restaurant  which  is  popular  with 
the  entire  traveling  fraternity.  In  1886  Mr.  Taggart,  who  had  for  some  time  been  a leader 
among  the  young  and  progressive  element  of  the  Democracy  was  nominated  by  his  party  for 
county  auditor  and  was  elected  by  a majority  of  1,700  votes,  a most  flattering  test  of  his 
po{)ularity.  He  was  made  chairman  of  the  Marion  County  Democratic  committee  during  the 
presidential  canuiaign  of  1888.  In  Indianapolis,  the  home  of  the  Republican  nominee  for 
the  presidency,  the  Republican  managers  confidently  counted  on  a majority  for  Mr.  Harrison 
in  Alarion  County  of  not  less  than  1,500  and  the  Democratic  leaders  scarcely  hoped  for  any- 
thing better  than  a reduction  of  the  Republican  majority.  The  brilliant  management  of  Mr. 
Taggart,  as  chairman  of  the  Democratic  County  committee,  was  a surprise  to  both  Repub- 
licans and  Democrats  and,  for  the  first  time  in  her  history,  Marion  County  gave  a Democratic 
majority  in  a presidential  year.  As  county  auditor  Mr.  Taggart  gave  such  complete 
satisfaction  that  his  renomination  and  re-election  were  assured  long  before  the  time  for 
nomination  came,  and  his  majority  at  his  second  election,  in  1890,  advanced  to  3,580  votes, 
more  than  double  that  by  which  he  was  first  elected.  Mr.  Taggart  probably  achieved  his 
greatest  distinction  when  he  was  chosen  in  January,  1892.  to  act  as  chairman  of  the  Democratic 
Htate  committee.  Never  in  the  history  of  the  Hoosier  State  has  a party  been  so  thoroughly 
organized  as  under  his  generalship  during  the  campaign  that  followed  in  the  Fall  of  that 
year.  In  the  face  of  the  fact  that  the  home  of  the  presidential  candidate  of  the  opposing 


library 

OF  THE 
-'^W£R^?lry:OF 


AXU  MAIUOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA  121) 

party  was  in  Indiana,  and  that  the  whole  force  of  Federal  office  holders  in  the  State  was 
arrayed  against  him,  he  succeeded  in  winning  a decided  victory  for  his  party.  Mr.  Taggart 
was  married  in  1877  to  Miss  Eva  D.  Bryant,  daughter  of  0.  B.  Bryant,  of  Bock  Island,  111. 
He  is  a member  of  the  Hendricks,  Cleveland  and  Gray  clubs;  Knights  Templar,  Scottish 
Rite  and  Mystic  Shrine  of  Masonry,  and  is  identified  with  other  important  organizations  and 
interests.  Being  a young  man,  full  of  vigor,  and  popular,  it  is  generally  conceded  by  his 
friends  that  a bright  future  is  before  him. 

J.\MES  Walter  Hervey,  M.  D.  There  is  nothing  in  the  world  more  beautiful  than  the 
spectacle  of  a life  that  has  reached  its  autumn  with  a harvest  of  good  and  unselfish  deeds 
on  behalf  of  humanity.  It  is  like  the  forest  in  October  days,  when  the  leaves  have  borrowed 
the  richest  colors  of  the  light  and  glow  in  the  mellowed  sheen  of  the  Indian  summer,  reflect- 
ing in  their  closing  days  all  the  radiance  of  their  brief  existence.  The  man  who  has  lived 
for  others  and  has  brought  into  potential  exercise  the  best  energies  of  his  mind  that  he 
might  make  the  world  the  brighter  and  better  from  his  being  a i)art  of  it  cannot  fail  to  enjoy 
a serenity  of  soul  that  reveals  itself  in  his  walk  and  conversation.  When  such  a life  is 
preserved  in  its  strength  and  energy  so  that  even  in  age  its  work  continues  unabated,  it 
challenges  the  added  admiration  of  tho.se  whose  good  fortune  it  is  to  be  brought  into  con- 
tact with  it.  Such  a life  has  been  and  is  that  of  Dr.  James  Walter  Hervey,  of  Indianapolis, 
a man,  who,  after  preparing  himself  fully  for  the  noble  profession  of  medicine,  entered  upon 
his  career  with  a noble  purpose  of  helping  his  fellows  journeying  along  the  road,  and  this 
consecration  of  himself  has  been  life  long  and  demonstrated  in  the  most  valuable  service  to 
individuals,  the  city,  the  State  and  the  Government.  Such  a life  merits  a record  of  its 
deeds,  that  the  debt  due  it  may  be  acknowledged  and  that  it  may  serve  as  stimulus  to  others 
to  endeavor  to  emulate  it.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  was  born  of  Scotch  Irish  parentage, 
near  Brookville,  Ind.,  April  5,  1819,  and  had  the  misfortune  to  lose  his  father  when  he  was 
but  live  years  old,  his  mother  being  left  a widow  with  live  children,  in  a new  and  wild 
country,  where  there  were  no  schools  nor  educational  facilities  of  any  kind.  The  devoted 
woman  was  so  solicitous  that  her  offspring  should  not  gi’ow  up  in  ignorance  that  she  moved 
to  Hamilton,  Ohio,  where  she  had  the  pleasure  of  seeing  her  loved  ones  enjoy  the  privileges 
.so  necessary  to  their  after  success  in  life.  ■ Our  subject  passed  through  the  common  schools 
of  that  place  and  then  sj)ent  two  years  at  a select  school  at  Cincinnati,  kept  by  Prof. 
Kemper.  This  completed  his  primary  education  and  before  his  twentieth  year  he  was  a 
student  of  medicine  in  the  office  of  Dr.  John  C.  Fall,  of  Preble  County,  Ohio,  with  whom 
he  remained  hmr  years.  The  mind  of  the  young  student  was  a very  receptive  one,  and  at 
the  same  time,  was  most  investigating  and  inexorable  in  its  demands  for  more  knowledge. 
Hence,  while  the  library  of  his  preceptor  was  a very  good  one,  it  was  too  limited  for  i)r. 
Hervey,  who  was  resolved  to  acquire  everything  j>ossible  to  be  known  that  would  better 
(jualify  him  for  the  noble  i)rofession.  So  he  sought  and  readily  obtaiiied  access  to  the 
valuable  libraries  of  Dr.  Christian  Sayler  and  Prof.  Baker,  of  Cinciniuiti,  and  the  very 
superior  one  of  Dr.  Crookshank,  of  Fairfield,  these  worthy  and  eminent  gentlemen  being 
greatly  impressed  with  the  studious  and  ambitious  young  man  and  weie  glad  of  an  oppor 
tuuity  to  contribute  to  his  sources  of  gaining  knowledge.  But  the  investigating  spirit  of 
tlie  medical  student  was  not  satisfied  with  these  many  opportunities  and  privileges,  but 
invested  every  cent  of  his  8])are  money  in  the  best  books  that  were  ])rocurable.  Like  so 
many  worthy  and  ambitious  youths  of  America,  the  young  man  lacked  the  means  to  defray 
his  expenses  thnmgh  medical  college,  so  that  after  this  faithful  preparation  he  went  to 
Chicago,  in  the  expectation  of  finding  employment  with  some  of  the  physicians  there  until 
he  could  complete  his  course  and  gain  his  diploma.  This  was  before  the  days  of  railroads 
in  that  section  of  countiw,  and  with  a brave  heart  and  ^ot)  in  his  jiocket,  whicli  a friend  had 
loaned  him,  he  mounted  a pony,  the  gift  of  a friend,  and  turned  the  head  of  the  animal 
toward  the  goal  of  his  desires.  This  money  was  all  he  had  to  purchase  Ji  comphffe  outfit, 
and  it  was  .so  nearly  gone  that  when  he  reached  Indiana|Kjlis,  In;  found  it  necessary  to  stop 
for  the  pur[)ose  of  recouping  his  depleted  purse.  Friends  rose  up  to  help  him  with  counsel 
and  more  material  aid,  and  heaccept(‘d  an  offer  of  fret'  board,  horse  feed  and  a log  cabin  in 
Hancock  County,  where  the  little  village  of  Mount  (^mifoi’t  now  stands.  Entering  upon 
the  jjractice,  which  he  desigfied  should  bt*  but  for  a season  or  two  at  nnjst,  things  so 


13(» 


MEMOIRS  OF  IN  DIANA  ROUS 


tnruecl  out  that  he  remained  there  seven  years.  Thus  the  life  work  of  this  worthy  man 
and  eminent  physician  and  publicist  began  in  a rural  district  among  a plain  and  8im])le  but 
honest  and  good  people.  But  it  was  the  best  possible  school  for  him.  Here  as  in  the 
crowded  city  the  varied  forms  of  disease  ])reseuted  themselves,  and  to  an  ardent  student  like 
him  it  may  l)e  sure  that  he  spent  every  liour  profitably,  and  with  conscientious  care  he  studied 
each  separate  case,  knowing  that  he  must  rely  upon  his  own  resources.  Here  he  acquired 
self  reliance  and  confidence,  so  essential  in  the  physician.  Dr.  Hervey  has  had  a moat  varied 
experience  in  his  memoral)le  career.  He  has  had  patients  in  the  rude  log  cabin,  in  village, 
city  and  hospital;  in  the  homes  of  the  wealthy,  in  cellars  and  garrets,  where  poverty  and 
crime  dwell.  He  has  fought  and  compiered  disease  in  the  camp  and  on  the  march,  and  has 
defeated  death  on  the  battle-field  and  in  the  hospital  by  his  superior  knowledge  of  surgery. 
His  advantages  have  been  infinite.  He  has  seen  disease  treated  and  sttrgical  operations 
performed  at  the  most  famed  centers  of  the  old  world,  and  has  availed  himself  of  every  jms- 
sible  means  of  gaining  knowledge  in  his  profession.  His  life  in  Hancock  was  most  successful, 
and  every  day  of  it  was  a means  of  jtreparation  for  the  larger  and  more  influential  fields  in 
which  he  was  destined  afterward  to  glean.  Many  strange  and  notable  events  have  chanced 
to  the  Doctor,  some  of  them  highly  romantic,  others  that  were  near  to  having  a tragical 
termination.  On  one  occasion  he  had  a night  ride  with  a maniac,  a happening  that  caused 
much  excitement  and  interest  on  account  of  if  being  published  in  the  newsjiapers  at  the  time. 
Wherever  he  has  been,  whatever  the  duties  he  has  had  to  ])ei  form,  he  has  always  discharged 
them  faithfully,  and  has  never  failed  to  win  the  confidence  and  the  esteem  of  those  to 
whom  his  services  were  rendered.  Dr.  Hervey  began  the  practice  of  medicine  at  a time 
when  the  leading  members  of  the  profession  were  learning  that  phlebotomy  and  other  means 
of  reducing  the  vital  forces  to  control  st  henic  condition  of  the  system  were  inimical  to  success 
at  the  bedside.  The  studious  young  Doctor  become  thoroughly  persuaded  that  the  practice 
was  dangerous,  and  shouhl  be  obsolete,  and  hence,  when  a severe  form  of  malarial  fever, 
designated  as  “Congestive  Fever”  broke  out  in  his  neighl)orhood,  and  the  old  practitioners 
treated  it  after  the  then  orthodox  methods  laid  down  by  Bell  and  Stokes,  McIntosh  and 
others,  Dr.  Hervey  borrowed  money  and  bought  quinine  at  15.00  an  ounce  and  administered 
it  in  full  doses.  The  result  was  that  he  scarcely  lost  a case,  while  the  older  physicians  lost 
many  of  theirs  in  the  cold  stage.  The  Doctor,  as  may  readily  be  supposed,  encountered 
much  o[)position  in  his  couise,  for  it  is  always  the  fortune  of  independent  and  courageous 
thinkers  and  doers  to  be  persecuted.  He  was  sued  for  malpractice  because  he  used  nitrate 
of  silver  and  tincture  of  iodine  in  small  pox,  to  prevent  ])itting;  but  he  was  vindicated  com- 
pletely in  his  course  and  was  afterward  highly  com])limented  for  this  course  of  treatment. 
The  case  was  reported  to  the  Indiana  il/cdfco?  Journal  and  other  professional  periodicals  and 
commented  on  very  freely.  This  case  demonstrated  fully  to  the  profession  that  ignorance 
is  the  very  worst  enemy  that  it  has  to  encounter.  In  1850,  after  seven  years  of  most  success- 
ful practice,  Dr.  Hervey  started  for  Philadelphia,  with  the  object  of  attending  medical  lect- 
ures there,  but  on  reaching  Indianapolis  was  persuaded  by  his  old  friend.  Dr.  John  S. 
Bobba,  to  attend  the  medical  department  of  Asbury  University.  After  graduating  it  was  bis 
purpose  to  go  to  Chicago,  an  intention  that  had  clung  to  him  in  the  seven  years  of  his  resi- 
dence and  practice  in  Hancock,  and  his  old  patrons,  grateful  for  the  services  he  had  rendered 
them  and  in  admiration  of  his  high  character  as  a neighbor  and  citizen,  made  up  for  him  a 
purse  of  $800,  to  be  used  by  him  whether  he  rendered  service  for  it  or  not.  This  testimo- 
nial so  affected  him  that  he  decided  to  protract  his  stay  among  the  apjireciative  people,  and, 
as  a result,  he  remained  in  that  region  nine  years  longer.  Returning  from  the  University, 
he  transferred  his  office  to  the  little  village  of  Oakland,  in  the  northeast  corner  of  Marion 
County,  near  the  junction  of  Hancock,  Marion  and  Hamilton  Counties,  and  he  entered 
at  once  upon  the  })ractice  in  the  three  counties.  During  his  residence  at  Oakland  he 
was  a most  ardent  temperance  worker,  and  wrote  a temperance  story,  entitled  “The 
Scroll  and  the  Locket,  or  the  Maniac  of  the  Mound.”  Busy  as  was  his  professional 
life,  for  his  practice  was  constantly  extending,  he  found  time,  as  all  good  citizens  should,  to 
bestow  upon  political  affairs,  and  his  friends,  in  a])preciation  of  his  services  and  prompted 
by  a desire  to  have  him  where  he  could  be  of  the  greatest  possible  good  to  his  constituency, 
nominated  and  elected  him  to  the  Legislature  in  1854  from  Marion  County,  it  being  then 


m 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

entitled  to  but  two  representatives.  Once  introduced  into  public  life,  he  took  a very  active 
part  in  politics  until  the  outbreak  of  the  Civil  war.  He  is  a very  fluent  and  persuasive 
speaker  and  rendered  most  efficient  service  to  the  Republican  party  in  the  exciting  cam- 
paigns of  1858  and  1800,  by  the  speeches  he  made  at  various  points  in  Marion  County. 
When  Lincoln  called  for  troops  the  patriotic  heart  of  the  Doctor  was  stirred  within  him 
and  he  promptly  offered  his  services  to  the  Governor  of  Indiana,  who  accepted  them  by 
appointing  him  first  assistant  surgeon  of  the  Fiftieth  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry.  He 
remained  loyally  with  the  regiment,  participating  in  its  battles  and  marches,  until  February, 
1863,  when  he  was  disabled  at  the  battle  of  Parker’s  Cross  Roads,  which  necessitated  his  return 
home.  But  a nature  like  his  could  not  brook  idleness,  when  his  friends  and  good  men  every- 
where were  at  work  for  the  great  cause,  and  his  disability  preventing  him  from  active  duty 
in  the  field,  he  was  appointed  surgeon  in  charge  of  Burnside  Barracks,  and  acting  assistant 
surgeon  in  the  United  States  army,  which  position  he  retained  until  the  close  of  the  war. 
Nowhere  did  the  wounded  and  the  sick  receive  more  sympathetic  and  skilled  treatment  than 
at  Burnside  Barracks.  The  war  ending.  Dr.  Hervey  settleil  in  Indianapolis,  where  he  has 
remained  ever  since,  engaged  in  the  practice  of  his  profession,  which  speedily  became  very 
lucrative,  and  from  the  outset  he  was  regarded  as  one  of  the  leading  and  progressive  physi- 
cians of  the  city.  No  one  has  manifested  greater  interest  in  the  sanitary  and  other  conditions 
of  the  city,  and  no  one  has  labored  harder  to  forward  the  material  interests  of  the  place  than 
he.  His  labors  have  been  especially  arduous  and  successful  in  the  matter  of  promoting  the 
sanitary  and  hygienic  condition  of  Indianapolis  and  of  the  State.  The  Doctor  is  a member 
of  the  Commercial  Club,  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  and  of  the  Indiana  State 
Medical  Society,  having  actively  participated  in  the  organization  of  the  latter,  and  has  con- 
tributed a number  of  most  valuable  papers  to  its  literature,  among  which  are  the  following: 
(1873)  “Utility  of  the  Forces  in  Diagnosing  and  Treating  Disease;’’  (1875)  “ Hovv  to  Pro- 
cure Medical  Legislation;”  (1876)  “The  Necessity  of  a State  Board  of  Health  and  How  to 
Obtain  it;’’  (1878)  “ Public  Hygiene,  its  importance  in  Maintaining  Health;”  (1880)  “ Mental 
Hygiene,  the  Influence  of  the  Body  upon  the  Mind,  How  to  Elevate  Manhood.”  The  Doctor 
is  a member  of  that  body  of  distinguished  physicians  composing  the  American  Medical 
Association.  He  lal)ored  indefatigably  to  have  a State  board  of  health  established,  and 
to  him  more  than  to  any  other  person  is  due  the  fact  that  there  is  such  a body  in  existence. 
He  spent  a great  deal  of  time  and  ardent  labor  in  creating  public  sentiment  in  favor  of  such 
an  organization,  by  pointing  out  the  great  good  it  would  accomplish,  and  wrote  a number 
of  most  able  i)apers  for  the  secular  press  upon  the  subject.  The  State  Medical  Society 
appointed  him  a meml)er  of  the  State  health  commission,  which  was  created  for  the  pur- 
pose of  discharging  the  duties  of  a State  board  of  health,  until  such  time  as  the  Legislature 
sliould  provide  for  such  a body,  and  a part  of  its  duties  consisted  in  lal)oring  to  effect  the 
much  de.sired  end.  Dr.  Hervey  remained  on  this  board,  laboring  tirelessly  until  its  object 
was  accom|)lished,  in  1878,  and  it  expired  by  limitation.  While  upon  this  board  he  wrote 
a number  of  State  pa[)ers,  which  were  published  in  the  report  of  the  Bureau  of  Statistics 
and  Geology.  Dr.  Hervey  is  a member  of  the  American  Public  Health  Association  and  also 
of  the  International  Congress,  and  has  two  medals,  one  from  the  W^ashington  meeting  in 
1887  and  the  other  from  the  last  meeting,  held  at  Berlin,  Germany.  While  in  Europe  the 
Doctor  visited  the  princi|)al  hospitals,  medical  centers,  etc.,  and  it  may  l)e  safely  assumed 
that  his  Ijright,  vigorous,  recei)tive  and  thoroughly  disciplined  mind  took  in  everything  of  value 
that  he  was  brought  into  contact  with.  Dr.  Heiwey  has  in  process  of  construction  a s])hyg- 
mometer,  by  which  he  obtains  the  motion  power  of  the  pulse,  and  he  is  conlident  that  this 
instrument  wilt  be  of  the  greatest  value  to  the  profession  in  determining,  in  diagnosing  and 
treating  heart  troubles  of  alt  kinds.  Tlui  Doctor  has  a very  facile  pen  and  has  written  a 
history  of  the  imnlical  [)rofesHion  of  Hancock  County,  pu))lished  in  the  history  of  that,  couidy 
by  King  A Buiford.  He  organized  the  tiist  old  settlers’  reunion,  of  iMarion,  Madison,  Han 
cock  and  Hamilton  Counties,  and  was  pi'esident  of  the  association  for  twfuity  years.  He 
has  l)eeti  a valued  contributing  meml)er  of  tlie  Masonic  order  for  nearly  fifty  ycuirs,  and  is  a 
greatly  cherished  member  of  tliat  ancient  l)ody.  Dr.  Hervey  is  likewise  a member  of 
Getjrge  H,  d’homas  Post,  G.  A.  B.,  at  Indianapolis.  He  took  a very  activii  jiart  in  j)i'oniol- 
ing  public  scliool  hygiene  and  he  was  ap])oinled  by  tlie  .Marion  (lounty  Medical  Stjciely 


132 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


cbairmaa  of  a committee  to  investigate'  into  the  health  condition  of  the  city  schools.  Carry- 
ing out  the  design  of  the  committee,  he  visited  all  the  schools,' rejiorted  their  condition  and 
recommended  many  improvements,  which  he  has  had  the  {)leasure  of  seeing  made.  The 
same  authority  named  him  raemleer  of  a committee  to  investigate  into  the  character  of  the 
water  supjdy  of  the  city  and  he  s[)ent  some  time  analysing  the  supply  in  different  portions 
of  the  city,  with  the  result  that  some  was  found  polluted  and  unfit  for  consumption.  The 
pen  of  the  Doctor  has  been  used  freely  in  considering  the  great  public  questions  that  have 
concerned  the  country,  and  he  is  most  favorably  known  as  a contributor  to  the  newspapers 
upon  the  great  vital  (piestions  of  State  that  have  come  up  for  consideration  during  the  past 
forty  years,  there  being  scarcely  one  that  he  has  failed  to  write  upon  in  his  felicitous  and 
convincing  style.  Two  biographies  of  Dr.  Hervey  have  already  been  published,  one  in  the 
History  of  Hancock  County,  by  King  & Buiford,  of  Greenfield,  Ind.,  and  the  other  in  the 
Boys  in  Blue,, by  Samuel  Hardin,  of  Anderson,  Madison  County,  Ind.  There  are  also  two 
biographical  sketches  of  him  in  press,  one  in  the  History  of  the  Indiana  Legislature,  by  the 
Hon.  William  H.  English,  of  Indianapolis,  and  the  other  in  a history  of  Eminent  Physi- 
cians, by  K.  French  Stone,  M.  D.,  of  Indianapolis.  Thus  the  life  of  this  eminent  physician 
and  loyal  citizen  has  been  spent,  his  pen  and  his  voice  devoted  to  the  diffusion  of  knowl- 
edge and  the  best  efforts  of  his  skill  being  employed  in  alleviating  the  distress  of  humanity. 
The  intluence  of  such  a life  will  long  survive  its  stay  on  earth  and  those  yet  unborn  will  be 
blessed  by  the  works,  labor  and  thejratience  of  James  Walter  Hervey,  who  has  never  lost  an 
opportunity  for  doing  good.  Such  a man  is  an  honor  to  the  city  in  which  he  lives  and  to 
the  age  in  which  his  works  have  been  done. 

Prof.  C.  E.  Emmerich  has  devoted  all  the  years  of  his  early  manhood  to  a good  purpose. 
Public  education  in  Indiana  has  no  more  earnest  advocate  and  co-operator  than  he.  No  one 
more  thoroughly  understands  and  appreciates  its  needs  and  interests,  and  perhaps  no  one  is 
better  qualified,  through  long  experience  and  loving  labor  in  its  behalf,  to  bring  it  to  that 
high  state  of  perfection  which  its  present  rapid  advancement  assuies.  Personally  he  is  a 
polished  and  cultured  gentleman,  and  his  agreeable  manners  and  genial  qualities  have  won 
for  him  hosts  of  friends  among  the  prominent  people  in  this  part  of  the  State.  To  his  pupils 
he  stands  a shining  example  of  what  a foreigner  may  acconqilish  by  energy,  industry  and 
brains.  This  gentleman  was  born  in  Coblenz,  Prussia,  on  the  banks  of  the  River  Rhine, 
August  25,  18-t5,  and  is  a son  of  Phillip  and  Barbara  (Arenz)  Emmerich,  both  of  whom 
died  in  Germany.  The  father  was  in  Government  service  in  that  country  and  was  a man 
possessed  of  more  than  oi'dinary  ability.  He  was  the  father  of  a large  family  of  children 
and  our  subject  was  the  eldest  child  by  his  second  marriage.  The  latter  was  reared  amid 
the  beautiful  scenes  of  the  River  Rhine  and  received  a thorough  education,  graduating  from 
the  Gymnasium  Classical  School.  At  the  age  of  eighteen  he  entered  the  Prussian  army 
with  the  intention  of  serving  but  circumstances  made  him  change  his  mind  after  one  year’s 
service.  In  1805  he  sailed  for  America  and  in  due  course  of  time  reached  the  city  of  New 
York.  He  had  been  (juite  ill  during  the  voyage  and  after  reaching  the  land  of  the  free” 
he  thought  it  would  imjirove  his  health  very  materially  to  go  west.  He  reached  Kansas  and 
for  some  time  attended  a private  English  school  for  the  purpose  of  perfecting  himself  in  the 
English  language.  In  1808  he  began  teaching  the  country  schools  in  the  central  part  of 
Kansas  and  this  continued  until  1871  when  he  was  appointed  to  a position  in  the  high  school 
at  Madison,  Ind.  There  he  remained  until  1873  when  he  came  to  Indianapolis  where  he  has 
since  been  a teacher  in  the  high  schools  of  this  city.  In  1892  he  was  elected  to  his  present 
position  as  principal  of  High  School  No.  2.  He  is  considered  one  of  the  best  educators  in  the 
city  and  enjoys  to  the  fullest  extent  the  respect  of  his  fellow  men  as  well  as  of  his  pupils. 
For  many  years  he  was  president  of  the  “Maennerchor  ” society  of  which  he  is  now  an  hon- 
orary member,  and  he  is  also  a member  of  the  Indianapolis  Literary  Club.  Politically  he 
affiliates  with  the  Democratic  party.  In  the  year  1878  he  married  Miss  Gertrude  Kerwer  of 
Wiesbaden,  Germany,  and  they  have  four  interesting  children;  Max,  Else,  Emily  and 
Gertrude. 

John  Maynard  Butler  is  by  many  regarded  as  Indiana’s  leading  lawyer.  He  is 
one  of  the  notable  great  lawyers  who  have  all  through  their  lives  devoted  themselves 
exclusively  to  the  law,  eschewing  politics  as  in  any  sense  an  occupation  or  profes- 


133 


AND  MARIDN  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

sion  aud  decliaing  coustaatly  all  offers  of  political  preferment.  Mr.  Butler  was  born  in 
Evansville.  Ind.,  September  17,  1834,  a son  of  Calvin  and  Malvina  (French)  Butler,  both 
natives  of  Vermont.  His  father  was  a shoemaker  in  early  life,  but  later  obtained  a classical 
education  at  Middlebury  College  and  took  a thorough  course  at  Andover,  Mass.  Coming 
west  to  preach,  he  settled  at  Evansville.  Ind.  Later  he  removed  to  northern  Illinois  and 
there  died  in  1854.  The  family  w'as  large  and  at  times  means  were  limited  and  John  had 
early  to  learn  the  lesson  of  self  dependence  at  least  j)artially.  At  the  age  of  twelve  he 
became  a clerk  in  a store  and  later  was  otherwise  employed.  The  strength  of  his  character  and 
his  longing  for  excellence  manifested  themselves  in  those  years,  aud  by  the  exercise  of  self- 
denial  he  succeeded  in  entering  Wabash  College,  at  Crawfordsville,  in  1851,  and  through  his 
own  efforts,  with  partial  help,  was  enabled  to  graduate  from  that  institution  in  1856.  Upon 
the  day  of  his  graduation  he  was  elected  president  of  the  Female  Seminary  at  CraAvfordsville, 
which  position  he  held  three  years,  later  becoming  })rincipal  of  the  High  School.  Meantime 
he  studied  law.  After  a tour  in  the  Northwest  in  quest  of  a suitable  location  for  the  practice 
of  his  profession,  he  returned  to  Crawfordsville  in  November,  1861,  and  at  once  entered  upon 
a large  and  lucrative  practice,  residing  there  until  1871,  when  he  removed  to  Indianapolis 
and  succeeded  Judge  A.  L.  Roache  as  partner  with  the  late  Senator  Joseph  E.  McDonald. 
The  two  jiien  had  many  experiences  in  common.  Each  was  the  architect  of  his  own  fortune. 
The  same  county  seat  and  college  town  was  the  scene  of  their  first  triumphs  and  each  after- 
ward left  that  town  for  the  State  Capital  where  they  won  success  and  reputation  even  beyond 
their  most  sanguine  hopes.  Differing  from  his  distinguished  partner,  politically,  he  has 
always  been  an  ardent  aud  consistent  member  of  the  Republican  party  and  has  taken  no 
inconsiderable  part  in  advancing  its  interests.  Aspiring  to  no  office  and,  as  has  been  stated, 
declining  nominations,  he  has  yet  been  an  active  worker  in  political  campaigns,  but  has, 
through  all,  retained,  in  a remarkable  degree,  the  respect  of  those  whom  he  has  opposed.  His 
political  speeches  have  been  extensively  published,  and  he  is  a i)opular  orator  as  well  as  a 
learned  and  successful  lawyer.  As  a jurist  he  stands  in  the  first  rank  in  a bar  which  embraces 
in  its  list  many  of  the  ablest  lawyers  in  the  country.  During  recent  years  he  has  spent  much 
time  at  the  National  Capital  in  response  to  the  demands  of  his  extensive  i)ractice  in  the 
Supreme  Court  of  the  United  States  and  in  other  tribunals  there.  Mr.  Butler  was  married 
in  -Vpril,  1857,  to  Miss  Susan  "NV.  Jennison,  of  Crawfordsville,  who  has  borne  him  a son  and 
a daughter.  He  is  a member  of  the  Second  Presbyterian  Church  of  Indianapolis  and  is  one 
of  its  ruling  elders. 

(tiles  a.  Bhadley.  In  Indianapolis  and  vicinity  operations  in  real  estate  during  the 
past  few  years  have  been  particularly  active,  and  among  those  prominently  identified  with 
transactions  in  this  direction  is  (liles  S.  Bradley  who  is  an  active  member  of  the  firm  of 
Bradley  A Denny,  whose  offices  are  well  and  conveniently  located  in  the  business  districts 
of  the  city.  The.se  gentlemen  are  exiierienced  and  practical  in  all  that  pertains  to 
the  sale  and  handling  of  realty,  and  are  ever  ready  to  offer  the  best  inducements  to  all  seek- 
ing homes  or  looking  for  good-paying,  first  class  investments  in  houses  and  lands.  The 
operations  of  the  firm  are  conducted  on  a large  scale  and  a brisk  business  is  being  carried  on. 
Mr.  Bradley  owes  his  nativity  to  Oswego  County,  N.  Y. . June  10,  1840,  and  came  of  New 
England  jiarentage  for  his  father,  Eli  Bradley,  was  born  in  Litchfield  County,  Conn.  When 
a young  man  he  removed  to  New  York  where  he  followed  the  occujiation  of  farming  and 
served  for  a short  time  in  the  War  of  1812.  He  was  mai'ried  to  Miss  Sally  Lamb,  also  a native 
of  (Jonnecticut,  and  to  their  union  six  children  were  born.  Eli  Bradley  died  in  December, 
1 862,  his  widow  surviving  him  until  1871.  (riles  A.  Bradley  was  reared  on  a farm  in  his 
native  State  and  his  <*arly  education  was  obtained  in  the  common  schools.  At  the  opening 
of  the  Civil  War  he  walke<l  twelve  miles  with  some  companions  to  enlist  in  Company  A,  One 
Hundretl  and  Forty-seventh  New  York  Infantry,  but  in  December,  1863,  was  transferred  to 
the  Twenty  fourth  New  A'ork  Cavalry.  He  served  until  the  close  of  the  war,  being  dis- 
charged in  June,  1865.  He  was  in  the  most  notable  battles  of  Virginia,  and  some  of  the  most 
important  of  the  engagements  in  which  he  took  i)art  during  his  term  of  service  were  (tettys- 
biirg,  Wilderness,  Simttsylvauia,  Cold  Harbor,  Petersburg  and  tlm  Welding  Railroad  raid. 
His  health  was  much  im|)aired  by  hardships  he  met  with  during  the  war  and  h(“  now  draws 
a pension  of  $8  per  month.  Shortly  after  tlu!  war  terminat(“d  he  wind  to'l’nledo,  Ohio, 


134 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


from  wliicb  place  he  came,  in  1869,  to  Indianapolis  and  about  a year  later  began  dealing  in 
real  estate,  at  whicli  he  has  since  been  remarkably  successful.  In  following  this  line  of  busi- 
ness he  has  been  associated  with  Mr.  Denny  for  the  past  seven  years,  andowns  nearly  all  the 
real  estate  which  they  sell.  In  1869  Mr.  Bradley  united  his  fortunes  with  those  of  Miss 
Celestia  Bailey,  a native  of  Fulton  County,  Ohio.  He  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  the  Gr. 
A.  K.  (in  which  he  has  held  various  official  positions),  and  politically  is  a Republican  and  at 
all  times  faithful  to  the  interests  of  that  party. 

Nath.\n  D.  Woouakd,  M.  D.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  is  descended  from  a member 
of  the  body  of  Friends,  or  Quakers,  as  they  are  commonly  called,  his  father  having  been 
born  in  that  society  in  North  Carolina,  where  the  name  of  Friend,  or  Quaker,  is  synonymous 
with  honesty  and  uprightness.  That  father,  Silas  H.  Woodard,  was  in  every  way  worthy  to 
be  enrolled  in  the  membership  of  that  ])ioua  band  of  Christian  people.  Nathan  D.  Wood- 
ard, M.  D.,  of  Indiana])olis,  was  born  in  Parke  County,  Ind.,  September  30,  1849,  his  father 
having  emigrated  to  this  State  when  a young  man,  and  was  one  of  the  pioneers  of  Parke 
County,  settling  in  the  vvild  forest  and  with  his  own  hands  wielding  the  ax  that  felled  the 
giant  trees  and  guiding  the  plow  afterward  that  made  fruitful  fields  of  the  ground.  He  was 
a very  successful  farmer  and  accumulated  a competency.  The  father  married  Emily  Allen, 
a native  of  Parke  County  and  daughter  of  Solomon  Allen,  a native  of  Virginia  and  one  of 
the  pioneers  of  that  county,  he  also  being  of  Quaker  stock,  and  dying  at  the  age  of  ninety- 
tive.  Silas  H.  Woodard  and  wife  were  the  parents  of  eleven  children,  nine  boys  and  two 
girls,  the  two  latter  l)eing  dead,  while  all  the  boys  are  living.  Silas  Woodard  died  in  1861,  but 
his  wife  is  living.  Our  subject  was  the  seventh  in  the  order  of  birth,  and,  like  the  other 
children,  was  reared  upon  the  farm,  receiving  his  education  first  in  the  public  schools  and 
afterward  in  Bloomingdale  Academy.  At  the  age  of  twenty  he  began  teaching  school  and 
followed  this  sivccessfully  for  five  years.  In  the  year  1877  he  began  the  study  of  medicine, 
a work  he  had  long  been  revolving  in  mind  and  upon  which  he  had  decided  with  the  whole 
strength  of  his  being.  His  preceptor  was  Dr.  Daniel  Carey,  of  Carmel,  Ind.,  who  had  at 
that  time  been  engaged  in  active  practice  for  forty  one  years  and  had  been  most  successful 
in  his  treatment  of  disease.  In  the  following  year  Dr.  Woodard  entered  the  Physio-Medical 
College  of  Indiana,  took  two  full  courses  and  graduated  in  1879.  He  then  located  at  Coloma, 
Ind.,  and  practiced  two  years,  after  which  he  moved  to  Richmond,  Ind.,  and  a year  later 
was  a[)[iointed  demonstrator  of  anatomy  in  the  Physio-Medical  College  of  Indiana  and 
removed  to  Indianapolis,  where  he  has  since  resided.  Two  years  subsequent  to  coming  here 
lie  was  appointed  to  the  chaii'  of  general  and  descriptive  anatomy  in  the  college,  which  he 
held  until  the  fall  of  1892,  when  he  was  elected  to  the  chair  of  materia  medica  and  thera- 
peutics, which  he  still  holds.  Dr.  Woodard  is  also  president  of  the  faculty  of  the  college. 
He  is  a member  of  the  Physio-Medical  (National)  Association  of  Physicians  and  Sui'geons, 
of  the  Indiana  State  Physio-Medical  Association  and  the  Indianapolis  Physio-Medical  So 
ciety,  and  has  been  president  of  the  State  Association.  The  Doctor  is  a member  of  the 
K.  of  P.  He  was  married  in  1877  to  Ellen  Carey,  who  died  a year  later.  His 
second  marriage  occurred  March  20,  1879,  to  Mary  C.  Newsom,  a native  of  Bartholomew 
C )uuty,  and  the  daughter  of  Luke  and  Elizabeth  Newsom.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Woodard  are  the 
parents  of  two  children;  Mary  E.  and  Grace  M.  They  are  members  of  the  Society  of 
Friends,  being  consistent  followers  of  the  organization  founded  by  George  Fox,  and  whose 
principles  were  so  ably  defended  by  the  illustrious  William  Penn.  In  politics  the  Doctor  is 
a tirm  believer  in  the  teachings  of  the  Republican  })arty,  giving  to  its  candidates  a hearty 
support. 

WiLLiA.M  Arnold  Anderson.  Among  the  valuable  men  who  came  to  this  coiuitry  from 
England,  bringing  with  them  the  sturdy  characteristics  of  the  British  yeomanry,  none  are 
more  esteemed  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  than  the  gentleman  whose  name  we  have  now  given, 
and  who  is  one  of  the  substantial  and  worthy  farmers  of  his  section.  His  birth  occurred  at 
Norwich,  December  16,  1820,  and  he  there  grew  to  manhood  and  received  his  education.  His 
father  was  a baker  and  confectioner  and  our  subject  remained  under  the  parental  roof  until  1847, 
when  he  came  to  this  country.  He  had  learned  his  father’s  trade  and  was  married  in  his 
native  country  on  October  6,  1845,  to  Miss  Sarah  P.  Barber,  daughter  of  Robert  Barber,  of 
liondoi),  where  she  was  born.  In  April,  1847.  our  subject  and  his  wife  took  passage  from 


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AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Loudon  in  a hark  for  America  and  landed  in  Boston  after  a seven  weeks’  voyage.  His  des- 
tination was  Milton,  Ind. , where  an  acquaintance,  Edward  Nndd,  of  Norwich,  had  preceded 
him  by  nine  years.  After  remaining  there  a few  weeks  Mr.  Anderson  moved  to  Hamilton 
county,  Ind.,  in  September,  1847,  and  went  to  work  on  160  acres  of  laud  belonging  to  Ben- 
jamin Whisler,  who  had  come  over  with  him.  Here  he  worked  for  some  time  and  then,  in 
the  summer  of  1849,  he  took  a contract  to  clear  six  miles  of  the  right  of  way  for  the  old 
Peru  Kailroad,  which  had  been  laid  with  flat  bar  from  Indiaua})olis  to  Noblesville,  and  was 
being  extended  from  Noblesville  to  Peru.  IMr.  Anderson  employed  a number  of  men  and 
went  to  work  to  clear  the  right  of  wav',  which  he  completed  and  afterward  took  a contract  to 
grade  some,  which  he  partially  finished  and  for  which  he  never  received  any  pay,  the  com- 
pany breaking  up.  He  lost  con8ideral)le  time  and  money.  After  this  our  subject  engaged 
as  foreman  for  Prawl  & Bradley,  contractors  for  the  Memphis  & Charleston  Railroad,  which 
took  him  to  Tuscumbia,  Ala.,  where  he  made  his  headcpiarters  from  June,  1852,  till  Febru- 
ary, 1853.  Then  the  contractors  broke  up  and  our  subject  lost  a portion  of  his  wages. 
Following  this  Mr.  Anderson  returned  to  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  where  he  remained  a short  time 
and  then  went  to  Noblesville,  where  he  remained  until  October,  1854.  Returning  to  Ma- 
rion County,  Ind.,  he  accepted  a position  as  foreman  of  an  eight  mile  section  on  the  Law- 
renceville  & Upper  Mississippi  Railroad,  now  the  Big  Four,  making  his  home  in  Acton.  This 
he  did  for  four  year.s  and  then  became  fuel  and  claim  agent  for  the  company,  continuing  as 
such  until  1872,  when  he  left  this  and  engaged  in  agricultural  pursuits  on  a tract  of  215 
acres  he  had  purchased  in  Franklin  Township.  In  1878  he  added  forty  acres  to  that  tract, 
and  since  1872  he  has  farmed  exclusively.  Of  the  255  acres  that  he  owns  220  acres  are 
cleared  and  well  cultivated.  His  best  yield  of  wheat  to  the  acre  was  twenty-four  bushels, 
Imt  he  averages  fifty  bushels  of  corn  to  the  acre  every  year.  He  also  I'aises  oats.  Mr.  An- 
derson remained  on  that  farm  until  1882  and  then  spent  that  year  and  1888  in  Nor 
wich,  England,  his  old  home,  visiting  the  scenes  of  his  childhood  and  youth.  His  father 
was  then  alive,  aged  ninety-two,  but  has  since  died,  aged  ninety-four.  In  politics  Mr. 
Anderson  is  a Democrat  as  a general  rule,  though  he  voted  for  Grant  and  Lincoln.  He 
is  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episcoj)al  Church  and  is  one  of  the  first  men  of  his  section. 
To  his  marriage  were  born  six  children,  two  of  whom  died  young.  The  others  were  named 
as  follows;  George  A.,  born  September  7,  1846,  lives  in  Galveston,  Tex.  He  married,  first. 
Miss  Adelia  Drummond,  by  whom  he  had  one  child,  Maud,  who  married  Charles  L.  Clark 
and  became  the  mother  of  one  child,  Mary  Lucile.  George  A.  Anderson’s  second  mar- 
riage was  to  Miss  Carrie,  sister  of  Ids  first  wife,  and  they  have  two  children,  George  and 
Carrie.  Tlie  next  child  born  to  our  subject  was  Katherine.  John  James  was  born  Decem- 
ber 7,  1855,  and  resides  in  Indianapolis.  He  married  Miss  Myra  Peck,  of  Ohio,  and  they 
have  two  sons,  Walter  and  Harold.  Emma  married  Uriah  Peck  and  they  have  four  chil- 
dren; William  A.,  Grace  E..  Frank  and  Rachel.  Our  subject’s  children  now  deceased 
weie;  IMary  Ellen,  who  died  when  three  yeai's  of  age;  the  other,  Frances  W.,  died  at  the 
age  of  nine  months.  William  A.  Anderson,  father  of  our  subject,  was  a native  of  Dun- 
fermtine,  Scotland,  in  1792,  and  went  to  England  when  about  twenty-one  years  of  age, 
locating  at  Norwich.  Theie  he  was  enq)loyed  as  a pattern  drawer  for  shawls,  which  were 
made  tliere  then.  A few  ycuirs  later,  business  becoming  dull  in  his  line,  he  learned  the 
l)aker  and  confectioner's  trade,  which  he  carried  on  uidil  1855,  when  he  retired  from  busi 

ness.  He  married  Miss  Mary  Owen,  a native  of  Wales. 

E.  A.  P.  H.wxks.  The  .Etna  Life  Insurance  Company,  of  Hartford,  Conn.,  began 
business  in  Indiana  in  1 850  and  does  an  extensive  and  raj)idly-growing  business  throughout 
the  State.  Tlie  company  stands  in  th<>  front  rardv  of  the  old  line  companies  doing  business 
in  Indiana.  The  business  of  this  company,  jiarticularly  in  the  southern  half  of  the  State, 
lias  been  principally  developed  during  the  last  live  years,  since  Mr.  E.  A.  P.  Haynes  has  lu'en 

placed  at  its  head  as  superintendent  of  agencies.  Mr.  Haynes  is  a luird  worker  and  has, 

through  his  good  judgment  and  perseverance,  accomplishecl  a great  deal  for  his  company  in 
Indiana.  He  was  born  in  Hoone  County,  Ind.,  .May  18,  1866,  to  Eldridge  and  Maria  (El 
dridge)  HavnRs,both  of  whom  were  born  in  the  Empire  State.  His  parents  came  to  Indiana 
in  1858,  settling  first  in  Dearborn  County  and  subsequently  in  Boom*  County.  His  father 
was  a contractor.  Ib*  died  .August  24,  1882.  His  widow  still  survives  him  and  makes  her 


m 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


home  ill  Indianapolis  with  her  son,  the  snliject  of  this  sketch.  At  the  age  of  six  years  E.  A. 
P.  Haynes,  with  liis  parents, moved  to  Clinton  Comity, and  at  the  age  of  eleven  years  entered 
tlie  puhlic  schools,  which  he  attended  for  about  three  years,  from  eleven  to  fourteen.  At  tlie 
age  of  fourteen  he  began  teaching  school  in  Clinton  County,  Ind.,  and  continued  in  this  pro- 
fession for  nearly  eight  years.  During  this  time,  by  good  use  of  his  liesure  hours  he  acquired 
a thorough  and  practical  education.  In  18S2  he  entered  the  life  insurance  business,  to 
whicli  he  has  since  devoted  his  time  and  energies.  He  is  a member  in  good  standing  of  the 
F.  <fe  A.  M.  and  I.  O.  O.  F.  fraternities.  He  is  a member  of  the  Indiana  State  executive 
committee  of  the  A^ouiig  Men’s  Christian  Association  and  also  one  of  the  directors  of  the 
Indianapolis  Association.  He  was  married  on  November  25,  1886,  to  Cora  I.  Schwinn,  of 
iMadison  County,  Ind.,  a daughter  of  Jacob  and  Emily  F.  (Ellis)  Schwinn,  the  former  of 
whom  was  born  in  Germany  and  the  latter  in  North  Carolina.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Haynes  have 
one  child.  Hazel  E.,  who  was  born  November  2,  1887.  They  are  both  members  of  the  Sec- 
ond PresViyterian  Church. 

Hor.\ce  E.  Wood.  A livery  stable  is  a most  essential  institution,  both  for  pleasure  and 
convenience.  To  be  able  to  command  at  any  moment  a horse  and  rig  for  a drive  in  the 
country  or  for  business  or  other  purposes,  is  a privilege  the  value  of  which  cannot  be  too 
highly  estimated.  Foremost  among  the  liveries  of  Indianapolis,  is  the  well  known  resort  of 
Horace  F.  Wood.  This  stable,  from  the  large  busine.ss  it  does,  not  only  exemplifies  the 
importance  of  the  city,  but  reflects  credit  upon  its  management.  Mr.  Wood  engaged  in  the 
business  in  1881  on  the  Circle,  the  business  having  been  originally  established  on  the  same 
ground  in  1831  by  John  Wood,  the  grandfather  of  the  present  proprietor.  He  was  one  of 
the  early  settlers  of  the  place,  having  come  to  this  section  from  Maysville,  Ky.,  in  1834.  He 
was  the  first  person  in  the  region  to  take  horses  and  mules  south  to  New  Orleans  overland 
for  sale,  before  there  were  boat  or  railroad  connections  with  that  city.  He  was  extensively 
engaged  in  this  business  and  usually  had  from  300  to  500  head  of  animals  on  hand.  Later 
he  shipped  by  l)oat  and  as  the  country  settled  ui>  and  improved,  by  rail.  He  was  a shrewd 
ami  successful  man  of  birsiness  but  his  kind  heart  and  loyalty  to  his  friends  often  overcame 
his  discretion  and  he  at  one  time  lost  over  $100,000  through  endorsing  another’s  note.  How- 
ever, he  retrieved  his  losses  in  a great  measure  and  left  a large  estate  to  his  heirs.  His  son, 
John  M.  Wood,  the  father  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  often  made  trips  south  with  his 
father  when  a boy,  and  may  be  said  to  have  been  reared  to  the  livery  business  and  to  handling 
stock.  He  was  born  in  Maysville,  Ky.,  May  28,  1815,  to  which  region  his  parents,  John 
and  Mary  (West)  Wood  came  at  an  early  day.  John  Wood  was  a native  of  New  York  and 
his  wife  of  Ohio,  and  their  union  was  consummated  in  Kentucky  in  1811,  soon  after  which 
they  came  to  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  where  the  father  at  once  engaged  in  the  livery  business. 
The  male  members  of  the  Wood  family  have  always  been  great  lovers  of  the  horse  and  two 
brothers  of  John  Wood  dealt  extensively  in  those  animals.  John  M.  Wood  was  nineteen 
years  old  at  the  time  of  his  parents’  removal  to  Indiana  and  had  conducted  his  father’s  liv- 
ery business  for  five  years  prior  to  the  latter’s  death,  after  which  he  succeeded  him  in  the 
business,  in  1840.  Later,  in  1840,  the  firm  became  Wood  & Foudray,  and  this  partnership 
continued  harmoniously  until  the  death  of  Mr.  Foudray  in  1878.  During  this  time  their  rep- 
utation as  first-class  liverymen  became  wiilespread  and  while  the  war  was  in  progress  they 
were  very  active  in  the  purchase  of  horses  and  succeeded  in  supplying  the  Government  over 
1 1 ,000  head.  Mr.  Wood  continued  in  the  business  until  1881,  when  he  was  succeeded  by 
his  son,  Horace  F.,  who  is  the  present  jjroprietor.  At  the  present  time  this  establishment 
is  one  of  the  largest  and  most  successful,  as  well  as  the  oldest  in  the  city,  if  not  in  the  State. 
Like  his  father  before  him  he  was  reared  in  the  business  and  thoroiighly  understands  every- 
thing connected  with  it  and  has  shown  himself  to  be  a “chip  of  the  old  block”  in  that  he 
has  ever  been  thorough  going  and  enterprising.  He  keeps  constantly  on  hand  forty-seven 
head  of  horses  for  livery  purposes,  a large  number  of  vehicles  of  all  kinds,  and  which  are 
always  in  good  repair  and  ready  for  use  and  he  does  an  extensive  and  paying  boarding  busi- 
ness, having  about  eighty  head  under  his  care.  He  has  a sale  department  also  and  buys  and 
sells  about  twenty-five  hea  1 per  month,  having  competent  men  in  charge  of  the  latter.  The 
business  averages  about  $6,01)0  or  $7,000  per  month,  from  which  it  can  I)e  seen  that  it  is  a 
very  paying  one.  During  1S8S.  when  Willoughby  Walling  was  Ttniled  States  Consul  to 


187 


AXD  MARION  COOXTY,  INDIANA. 

Glasgow,  Scotland,  a partnership  was  formed  for  the  importation  of  Shetland  ponies  and 
al)oiit  800  were  brought  over  and  sold  at  the  Wood  stables.  Prior  to  1840,  John  M.  AVood, 
the  father  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Guards  for  a 
number  of  years.  Originally  a Whig  he  has  supported  the  Republicans  since  the  organiza- 
tion of  that  party,  and  although  often  solicited  by  his  numerous  friends  to  run  for  office  he 
has  invarial)ly  declined,  much  preferring  to  devote  his  entire  attention  to  his  business. 
August  20,  1840,  he  was  married  to  Margaret  A.  Gresham,  who  was  born  near  Frankfort, 
Ky.,  a daughter  of  Jose[)h  Gresham.  Air.  and  Mrs.  Wood  are  the  parents  of  eight  children, 
six  of  whom  are  living:  Sarah  B.,  Fannie,  Charles  H.,  Horace  F. , Frank  G.  and  Harry  N. 
Those  deceased  are  Alarv  and  John.  Mr.  Wood  deserves  great  credit  for  the  success  which 
has  attended  his  efforts  for  he  started  in  business  without  help  from  anyone  and  has  accumu- 
lated a great  deal  of  valuable  property.  In  1804,  in  connection  with  a ])artner,  he  purchased 
400  acres  of  land  in  Washington  and  Franklin  townships,  on  which  they,  for  many  years, 
raised  blooded  horses.  .At  the  present  time  he  still  owns  a large  portion  of  this  farm  and 
carries  on  the  same  business  with  his  usual  success.  Horace  F.  Wood  first  saw  the  light  of 
day  in  Indianapolis,  August  80,  1857,  and  in  the  public  schools  of  that  city  he  was  educated 
and  graduated  from  the  high  school.  November  8,  1882,  he  was  married  to  Aliss  Rose 
Graham,  a native  of  Spencer,  Ind. , and  daughter  of  Benjamin  M.  and  Alargaret  A.  (Beach) 
Graham,  natives  of  Ohio.  Air.  and  Airs.  AVood  have  one  child,  John  G.,  who  was  born 
August  fi.  1888.  Air.  AVood  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.  and  the  F.  & A.  AI.,  in  which  he 
has  attained  to  the  Scottish  Rite  degree,  and  he  also  belongs  to  the  Oriental  League,  the 
Columbia  Club  and  the  Country  Social  Club.  He  is  a wide-awake  and  enterprising  young 
man  and  politically  supports  the  men  and  measures  of  the  Republican  party. 

Uk.  Conk.adin  (Jacob)  Homburg  was  born  at  AVachenheim  in  the  Palatinate  of  Bavaria, 
November  10,  1 dJ8,  as  the  elder  son  of  an  apothecary  in  that  little  town.  He  received  the 
pre))aratory  education  for  entering  the  university  and  in  18 lU  he  went  to  Alarburg  to  study 
medicine.  .As  was  customary  in  those  days  among  students  of  means  and  ability,  his  study 
also  comprehended  different  ])hiloso])hical.  even  theological  branches.  He  was  a young  man 
of  liberal  views  and  as  a matter  of  course  became  a member  of  the  “Tugendbund”  which  was 
a ))atriotic  union  of  students  and  young  ))rofessors  who,  inspired  by  the  victories  over  Na- 
poleon, maintained  the  claim  of  the  people  to  participate  at  the  Legislature  and  at  ])ublic 
affairs.  Such  an  endeavor  ap])eared  unjustified  and  dangerous  tothe  autocratic  rulers  of  that 
time  although  nothing  more  was  asked  but  what  was  promised  at  the  time  of  need  and  dis 
ti’esH.  He  was  a studeid  at  AVurzburg  when  he  became  a fugitive  on  account  of  his  political 
convictions  and  fled  to  Switzerland.  In  1820  he  emigrated  to  Holland  and  thence  to  America. 
In  the  latter  country  he  met  with  his  old  friend  ami  classmate,  AVesselhoeft,  who  was  editing 
the  Wellbote.  Dr.  Homburg  began  editing  the  paper  in  tlie  eastern  part  of  Pen-nsylvania 
but  he  never  had  much  to  say  about  this  period  of  his  career.  As  he  had  always  been  an 
outspoken  character  and  not  practical  in  financial  alfairs,  it  is  safe  to  conclude  that  as  an 
editor  he  was  a failure.  He  had  studied  surgery  under  Textor  and  j)athology  and  thera- 
peutics under  Schoenlein  with  faii'ly  good  results,  and  he  lunv  began  the  study  of  medicine 
again  under  the  influence  of  Dr.  Hi'rring  of  Philadelphia.  In  the  middle  of  the  thirties  he 
settled  in  Shelbyville,  Ind.,  to  practice  homo-opathy.  However  he  was  never  a time  disciple 
of  homo'opathy  but  his  excellent  medical  education  and  his  good  common  sense  ke]>t  him 
from  the  |)ecnliarities  and  extravagances  of  the  original  teaching.  He  was  rather  a follower 
of  Hempel  with  some  'nclination  to  Hademacher.  In  later  years  he  studital  Niemeyer,  at 
least  the  ju'acfical  parts  ami  adopted  the  jirinciples  of  the  scliool  of  Vienna  although  it.  can- 
not be  said  with  any  certainty  that  lie  ever  had  based  his  diagnosis  on  pathological  anatomy. 
.Although  he  did  not  localize  sickness  with  much  (aufecf m‘.ss,  he  had  a sound  judgment  of 
the  character  of  the  disease  and  had  that  great  gift  of  influencing  the  minds  of  liis  [latients. 
Dr.  Hornimrg  practiced  meilicine  in  Shelbyville  for  seven  years  and  all  his  fellow  citizens 
had  to  share  with  him  or  to  oppose  him,  but  In*  was  i-ecognized  by  all  to  be  sincere,  honest 
and  dutiful.  Wood  chopping  was  his  pastime  and  peach-eating  his  reci'cation.  He  never 
drank  a drop  of  whisky.  While  a resident  of  Shelbyville  a (piack  by  the  name  of  .Jacob 
Townsend  made  his  appearance  and  people  made  the  joke  “who  is  the  true  .Jacob?”  Dr. 
Jlomburg’s  given  name  was  Jacob  also.  He  applied  to  the  Jjegislature  to  have  his  name  changed 


13S 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


to  Coiirailin  and  was  successful.  -In  1843  Jud<fe  Morrison,  of  Indianapolis,  came  to  Shelbyville 
to  liold  a trial  on  a |)oison  case.  A jdiysician,  with  whom  Dr.  Homburg  had  had  some 
trouble,  was  gravely  involved  and  Dr.  Homburg  had  to  testify  as  an  ex])ert.  He  made  such 
a clear  and  scientific  exposition  of  the  different  actions  of  opium,  belladonna  and  other  nar- 
cotics and  made  such  a det'p  imi)ression  on  both  the  judgt;  and  the  jury  that  his  enemy  was 
ac(piitted  at  once.  The  judge  then  ai)])roached  Dr.  Homburg  and  shaking  hands  with  him 
said:  ‘‘Doctor,  come  to  us  in  Indianapolis,  we  need  such  a man.”  This  he  did  in  1844  and 
became  the  jjhysician  and  friend  of  the  Morrison  family  for  lifetime.  His  practice  was 
limited  at  first  to  families  of  the  English  tongue,  but  on  account  of  his  many  peculiarities 
mostly  due  to  his  (Terman  sentiment,  his  clientele  changed  slowly  to  German  nearly  exclu- 
s'velv.  He  nevt'r  as'-ociated  with  his  English  colleagues  but  treated  them  always  as  gentle- 
tuen.  At  the  time  the  Ile])ublicau  j>arty  was  formed  he  took  a great  interest  in  politics  and 
came  in  nearest  contact  with  all  German  families  residing  here.  He  gained  a great  intluenco 
before  and  during  the  war.  Dr.  Homburg  was  a (piick  thiidter  and  a good  judge  of  men  and 
political  alfairs  but  in  his  actions  he  usually  fell  short.  His  sentiments  were  also  pi'onounced 
but  he  was  never  able  during  his  life  to  counterbalance  reason  and  sentiments  harmoniously. 
He  was  an  enthusiast  and  thus  he  presided  in  1852  at  the  German  meeting  in  Wheeling,  W. 
Va  , where  the  motion  was  adopted  that  America  should  annex  Europe.  Then  he  started  a 
lodge  with  a view  of  |>romulgating  friendship,  German  literature  and  German  social  life. 
Originally  there  was  no  trace  of  seltishness  in  him,  but  his  kindness  was  often  misplaced  or 
misunderstood  or  abused.  All  that  caused  his  occasional  harshness,  his  inexplicable  aversion 
and  his  irregularity  in  later  life.  During  the  last  ten  years  of  his  life  he  was  interested  only 
in  political  gossip  and  German  literature.  He  had  a deep  religious  sentiment,  although  he 
never  was  a church  member.  He  was  never  married.  Friends  cared  for  him  during  a long 
illness  of  bronchial  and  heart  troubles  and  drojisy.  In  the  fall  of  1870  his  friends  celebrated 
his  fiftieth  anniversary  of  American  life  and  donated  him  $1,000  in  cash.  From  this  time 
on  he  was  mostly  conli lied  to  his  home  but  received  many  distinguished  travelers,  for  instance, 
.Iordan,  Bodenstedt  and  others.  It  can  be  said  that  for  two  decades  Dr.  Homburg  was  the 
social  and  sjuritual  center  of  the  German  pojmlation  in  Indianapolis.  He  diedFebruary  11, 
1881,  and  was  cremated  at  Washington,  Penn. 

Guino  Bell,  M.  D.  The  noble  profession  of  medicine  affords  to  the  student  in  that 
science  a never  ending  source  of  investigation  and  experiment.  New  remedies  are  constantly 
being  discovered,  steady  progress  is  being  made  in  surgery  and  new  diseases  are  presenting 
themselves  under  varying  forms  of  civilization.  Whatever  may  be  said  of  the  discoveries  in 
other  fields  of  knowledge,  and  certainly  they  are  astonishing,  it  can  be  truthfully  said  of  this 
science  that,  not  one  can  eipial  it  in  the  great  st  rides  it  is  making  toward  a compi'ehensive  grasp 
of  the  whole  subject  of  man,  in  relation  to  health  and  disease  and  the  ])revention  and  cure  of 
ills  that  flesh  is  heir  to.  In  the  noble  army  of  workers  in  this  great  field  may  be  found  the 
name  of  Dr.  Guido  Bell  who  is  classed  among  the  prominent  jihysicians  of  Indianapolis.  He 
was  born  near  Strasburg,  Germany,  Septemlier  4,  183b,  and  is  a son  of  Leonard  and  Anna 
( Lengenberger)  Bell,  also  natives  of  the  old  country.  The  father  has  devoted  his  life  to  the 
profession  of  veterinary  surgery  and  is  still  a resident  of  Germany.  For  many  years  he  was 
in  the  service  of  the  Government  in  his  professional  capacity,  but  a few  years  ago  he  retired 
from  the  active  duties  of  lifeou  account  of  old  age.  The  youth  of  our  subject  was  passed  in  his 
native  country  and  he  attended  a regular  course  in  the  schools  of  his  native  town.  In  the 
fall  of  I85b  he  entered  the  ITniversity  Freiburg  and  in  1801  passed  the  first  examination  on 
general  scientific  topics.  After  this  he  became  assistant  of  Prof.  Spiegelburg’s  clinic  in  the 
university,  in  which  ca])acity  he  served  over  a year,  during  a terrible  siege  of  fever.  He  was 
taken  sick  with  the  same  which  interrupted  his  medical  studies  and  for  a longtime  his  health 
was  poor.  Subsec|uently  he  went  to  Tubingen  to  hear  Niemeyer  and  Bruns.  In  A])ril,  1865, 
he  graduated  at  Freiburg  and  on  returning  home  he  met  Mr.  Wocher  who  requested  him  to 
correspond  with  Dr.  Klein  of  Indianapolis,  the  latter  having  about  decided  to  return  to  Ger- 
many. The  outcome  of  this  correspondence  was  that  in  December.  1865,  Dr.  Bell  crossed 
the  ocean  to  America,  came  direct  to  Indianapolis,  and  took  up  the  practice  left  by  Dr.  Klein. 
This  practice  the  Doctor  has  continued  ever  since  and  he  is  classed  among  the  leading  and 
successful  practitioners  of  the  healing  art  in  the  city.  He  is  a member  of  the  State  Medical 


]39 


AND  NARION  COUN'l'Y,  rNDTANA. 

Association,  Marion  County  Medical  Society  and  the  Mississipjii  Valley  Medical  Association. 
He  is  associate  editor  of  Memorabilien,  a German  medical  journal  published  at  Heilhronn, 
Germany.  For  a long  time  after  coming  to  America  Dr.  Bell  operated  largely  in  surgery 
and  was  the  originator  of  several  difficult  and  commendable  methods  of  operation.  He  was 
physician  to  one  of  the  German  orphan  asylums  of  Indianapolis  for  seventeen  years  and  has 
been  physician  to  the  Lutheran  Orphan  Asylum  since  its  establishment.  He  is  also  consult- 
ing physician  to  the  city  dispensary.  In  the  year  1860  the  Doctor  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Catherine  Miller  who  died  a few  months  later.  His  second  marriage  occurred  on 
March  11,  1S69,  and  six  children  w'ere  born  to  this  union.  One  son,  Leonard,  is  a prom- 
ising young  physician  in  the  city  hospital.  Mrs.  Bell  died  in  May,  1890. 

Ch.\rles  E.  Keyxolds.  No  investment  is  surer  of  more  enhancing  value  than  one 
judiciously  made  in  real  estate,  and  there  are  few  men  in  business  circles  who  show  so  much 
fitness  for  their  avocation  in  that  they  are  wide  awake,  experienced,  reliable  and  energetic 
as  Charles  E.  Reynolds,  whose  projects  have  been  wholly  within  the  sharply  defined  lines 
of  honest  motive,  as  a real  estate  agent.  He  came  to  Indianapolis  in  1853  with  his  parents 
and  was  educated  in  the  public  schools,  after  which  he  served  an  apprenticeship  at  the  railroad 
business.  In  1887  he  began  dealing  in  real  estate,  which  he  has  since  carried  on  success 
fully,  as  a leader  in  this  branch  of  human  endeavor.  He  has  owned  real  estate  in  the 
various  additions  of  the  city,  among  which  are  Haughville.  West  Indianapolis,  North 
Tuxedo  and  others.  He  has  always  been  conservative  in  his  method  of  conducting  his 
affairs,  has  never  favored  “booms.”  but  notwithstanding  this  is  decidedly  enterprising.  He 
believes  that  in  the  long  run  the  city’s  fortunes  are  best  comserved  by  steady  and  honest 
growth,  and  that  his  views  are  respected  is  shown  in  the  satisfactory  patronage  which  he  has 
drawn  to  him,  and  there  are  few,  indeed,  who  so  well  merit  success.  His  character  has 
been  molded  after  the  patterns  of  honest  intelligence  and  moral  rectitude.  He  owes  his 
nativity  to  thecity  of  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  where  he  was  born  April  10,  1848,  a son  of  Samuel 
and  Hannah  (Grisell)  Reynolds,  natives  of  Columbiana  County,  Ohio,  and  early  residents 
of  the  city  of  Indiana{)olis.  IMr.  Reynolds  was  married  in  1870  to  Miss  Mary  E.  Godey,  a 
native  of  Ohio, and  to  their  union  the  following  children  have  been  given:  IJlela  and  Zella 
(twins-),  and  ^larv  A.  Politically  Mr.  Reynolds  has  been  a supporter  of  Republicanism, 
but  is  by  no  means  a partisan  in  local  affairs,  preferring  to  support  the  men  whom  he 
thinks  will  use  their  influence  for  the  best  interests  of  the  city. 

C.vEEB  Belles,  son  of  “iMajor”  John  Belles,  one  of  the  original  settlers  of  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  was  l)orn  in  Scott  County,  Ky.,  July  29,  181  1,  on  a farm  occupied  by  his 
father,  near  Georgetown.  Until  ten  years  of  age  our  subject  lived  and  received  his  school- 
ing in  Scott  County,  but  at  that  age  he  accompanied  his  father  and  family  to  Indiana.  They 
came  direct  to  Marion  County  and  located  on  Pleasant  Run,  where  Major  Belles  rented 
eighty  acres  of  James  Bradley.  On  this  was  a good  clearing  and  a log  cabin  and  here  they 
resided  about  a year,  raising  a crop  of  corn.  In  the  fall  of  the  same  year  they  Jiioved  on  to 
a tract  of  eighty  acres  in  Franklin  Townshij),  lying  along  the  Michigan  road,  and  settled  in 
the  green  timber.  A log  cabin  was  erected,  and  although  they  had  nothing  to  help  them- 
selves with  except  their  own  hands  and  stui<1y  independence,  they  entered  upon  the  ardu 
ous  task  of  clearing  the  farm.  Major  Belles  paid  $1.25  an  acre  for  this  tract,  and  about  four 
years  later  entered  eighty  acres  morcf  adjoining,  at  the  same  price.  On  this  he  passed  the 
remaimhu-  of  his  days.  He  was  married  in  Scott  County,  Ky.,  to  Miss  Artemesia  Tarleton, 
daughtei-  of  Caleb  Tarleton,  and  fen  children  were  the  fiaiits  of  this  union,  one  of  whom,  an 
infant,  died  in  Kentucky.  Nine  grew  to  mature  years  and  their  names  are  as  follows: 
John  J.,  (deceased),  was  first  married  to  Aliss  Margaret  Ross,  who  bore  him  five  children. 
His  next  union  was  with  i\fiss  Rachel  Bodernan  and  they  b(‘came  the  ])arents  of  four  chil 
dren.  Il<*nry  T.,  resides  n(*ar  Paris,  Mo.  He  married  Miss  Mary  Belles,  daughter  of  Henry 
Belles,  but  she  is  now  deceased.  Caleb  (our  subject),  was  man-ied  in  1830  to  IMiss  Mary 
O'Neil,  ilaughter  of  Lewis  O’ Neil,  and  (hey  have  had  five  children,  four  of  whom  are  now 
living,  as  follows:  John  J.,  licwis,  William  and  Mary  C.  Harrison  Belles,  deceased,  was 
married  in  Missouri  to  Miss  Nancy  Payne.  He  left  sevfu'al  children.  Ricluird,  deceased, 
married  Miss  Elizal)eth  Glazier  and  they  had  a fa)nlly  of  children.  Mary  Ann  Belles,  (!<> 
ceased,  married  John  Tyner  and  became  the  mother  of  one  child,  who  died  in  infancy;  Dr. 


110 


MEMOIRS  OE  INDIANAPOLIS 


Joshua  Belles,  resides  in  Spencer,  lud.  His  first  marriage  resulted  in  the  birth  of  one 
daughter.  For  his  second  wife  the  Doctor  chose  the  widow  of  Thomas  Tull,  of  Marion 
county.  She  died  and  left  several  children.  Nancy  married  John  Rudisil,  and  they  have 
children,  and  Katherine,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Dr.  John  Johnson,  and  they  lived  in 
Iowa.  “Major”  John  Belle.s,  father  of  these  children,  was  a Whig  in  politics  and 
afiiliated  with  that  party  up  to  the  time  of  his  death.  Mrs.  Belles,  mother  of  the  children, 
died  in  August  following  their  arrival  in  Indiana,  and  in  the  fall  of  that  year  the  Major 
moved  on  the  Michigan  road  and  opened  a tavern,  which  accpiired  a great  reputation.  Caleb 
Belles,  our  subject,  was  cook,  and  acted  as  such  for  over  two  years,  when  the  Major  married 
again,  his  second  wife  being  Dorcas  Snell  nee  Sanders.  One  daughter,  Artemesia,  was 
born  to  this  union.  She  married  Thomas  Aslibrook,  who  is  now  deceaseil.  Caleb  Belles  lived 
on  bis  father’s  farm  until  bSdt),  when  he  married  Miss  Mary  O’Neil,  as  before  stated,  and 
shortly  after  moved  to  Franklin  Township,  where  he  settled  on  eighty  acres  of  land  he  had 
purchased  from  his  brothei'  James,  paying  $1.50  jjer  acre.  He  at  once  commenced  to  clear 
up  a little  place  for  a cabin,  and  on  that  tract  he  resided  until  about  1877,  when  he  came  to 
Acton  to  live.  He  is  now  retired  from  the  active  duties  of  life,  and  he  and  his  most  estima- 
ble companion  are  passing  the  remainder  of  their  days  in  the  enjoyment  of  the  fruits  of 
their  labor.  No  better  citizens  find  their  home  in  the  county  than  Mr.  Belles  and  his  worthy 
wife.  Both  are  exemplary  members  of  the  Missionary  Baptist  Church  and  for  years  he  was 
deacon  in  the  same.  He  has  been  a member  since  seventeen  years  of  age.  Our  subject’s 
eldest  child,  John  J.,  resides  in  Indianapolis.  He  married  Miss  Martha  A.  Kemper,  daugh- 
ter of  H.  M.  Kemper,  and  they  have  three  children,  Julia,  Otie  A.  and  Harry.  Lewis  Belles, 
resides  in  Douglas  County,  111.  He  married  Miss  Mary  B.  Foncannon  and  they  have 
four  children,  Charles,  Mary,  Arthur  and  Scott.  William,  deceased,  married  Miss  Lizzie 
Manpin  and  they  had  one  daughter,  Willie  Mary,  and  Mary  C. , of  Lexington,  Ky. , is  the 
wife  of  B.  T.  Buford.  They  have  no  children.  Our  subject  became  the  owner  of  consider- 
al)le  land  but  sohl  all  but  forty  acres  when  he  came  to  Acton,  and  gave  the  proceeds  of  the 
sale  of  forty  acres  to  his  children.  Lewis  O’Neil,  father  of  Mr.s.  Belles,  was  born  in  Galla- 
tin County,  Ky. , and  he  was  married  in  that  State  to  Miss  Catherine  Orr,  daughter  of  Will- 
iam Orr,  a native  of  Virginia,  Culpeper  County  and  a soldier  in  the  Revolutionary  War.  Mr. 
O’Neil  came  to  Indiana  in  iS'ib  and  settled  in  Marion  County,  where  he  made  his  home 
until  his  death  in  1841.  He  was  the  father  of  ten  children,  nine  of  whom  grew  to  manhood 
and  womanhood,  but  only  Mrs.  Belles  is  now  living. 

Thomas  E.  Spafford.  The  life  of  Mr.  Spafford  has  been  marked  by  deep  conviction  of  duty, 
which  has  led  him  to  conscientiously  regard  all  trusts  reposed  in  him.  Possessed  of  pi'aise- 
worthy  ambition  to  succc'ed,  he  has  apj)lied  himself  with  great  diligence  to  business,  seizing 
all  oj)portunities  for  informing  himself  thoroughly  as  to  minor  details.  This  explains  his  ready 
grasp  of  the  whole  field  of  operations  and  the  signal  success  that  has  attended  his  business 
career.  Such  a man  becomes  a sure  and  safe  trustee  for  others,  who  can  bo  assured  that  he 
will  act  for  them  as  for  himself.  Mr.  Spafford  has  charge  of  the  interests  of  the  gas  com- 
pany at  Haughville,  a position  he  has  ably  held  for  over  four  years,  and  that  he  is  the  right 
man  in  the  right  place  cannot  be  denied.  He  was  born  near  Picton,  Prince  Edward  County, 
Canada,  July  13,  1854,  a son  of  Guy  S.  Spafford,  who  was  a native  of  the  same  locality. 
Ira  Spafford,  the  f)aternal  grandfather,  was  born  in  the  State  of  Massachusetts,  and  when  a 
young  man  went  to  Prince  Edward  County,  Canada,  and  settled  on  the  farm  upon  which 
Guy  S.  Spafford  now  resides,  and  has  resided  for  over  seventy  years,  during  which  time  he  has 
tilled  the  soil  with  great  success.  Thomas  E.  Sj)afford  attended  the  schools  of  his  native 
county,  but  at  the  age  of  sixteen  he  was  apprenticed  to  learn  the  trade  of  a machinist  at 
Belleville,  where  he  remained  four  years  with  W.  H.  Walbridge,  in  the  Victoria  foundry. 
For  some  time  after  this  he  labored  in  the  iron  works  at  Oshawa,  Godridge  and  the  Lake 
on  the  Mountain.  In  1878  he  came  to  the  States  and  located  first  at  Cincinnati,  Ohio. 
The  same  year  he  came  to  Indianajmlis  and  for  some  time  thereafter  was  in  the  employ  of 
t he  Eagle  Machine  Works,  after  which  he  entered  the  service  of  the  firm  of  Haugh  & Co  , 
which  is  now  known  as  Brown,  Ketcham  & Co.  While  with  them  he  acted  in  the  capac- 
ity of  foreman  until  1881,  at  which  time  he  established  the  first  store  in  Haughville,  in 
wliich  the  first  postoffice  (jf  the  place  was  located  and  of  which  he  became  postmaster  dur- 


141 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

ing  President  Gartield’s  administration.  His  establishment  comprised  a stock  of  general 
merchandise,  and  he  carried  on  a very  successful  business  until  July,  1892,  when  he  gave 
it  up  to  take  charge  of  the  interests  of  the  gas  company  at  Haughville,  which  were  so 
extensive  as  to  demand  all  his  time  and  attention.  Mr.  Spafford  is  a man  who  never  suffers 
his  business  to  push  him,  but,  on  the  contrary,  is  constantly  on  the  lookout  for  means  of 
extending  the  business.  He  has  served  as  a member  of  the  school  board,  of  which  he  was 
secretary  one  term;  is  a friend  to  every  enterprise  which  tends  to  extend  the  influence  of 
Haughville,  and  by  building  up  her  business  and  mercantile  interests  he  has  proven  him- 
self an  excellent  and  useful  citizen. 

Thomas  K.  Mount.  Special  adaptability  to  any  particular  calling  in  life  is  the  one 
necessary  adjunct  to  permanent  success.  No  matter  the  vim  and  determination  which  char- 
acterizes a man’s  start  in  luisiness,  unless  he  is  to  the  manor  born,  he  will  find  to  his  sor- 
row that  his  line  has  been  falsely  cast,  and  the  quicker  he  draws  aside  and  takes  up  another 
calling  the  better  it  will  be  for  him.  The  career  of  Thomas  E.  Mount  has  been  one  of  suc- 
cess and  he  is  to-day  in  the  enjoyment  of  a competency  which  is  the  result  of  noble  energies 
rightly  applied.  He  was  born  in  Shelby  County,  Ky.  ,on  October  5,  sixty  five  years  ago. 
his  parents  being  Atwell  and  Lucinda  (Fullenwider)  Mount,  who  were  born  in  Virginia  and 
Pennsylvania,  respectively,  the  birth  of  the  former  occurring  on  what  many  years  later  be 
came  the  old  Bull  Run  liattlefield.  Both  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Mount  were  taken  to  Kentucky  dur 
ing  the  pioneer  days  of  that  State,  at  which  time  he  was  a lad  of  eight  years,  and  there  they 
grew  to  maturity,  married  and  resided  until  one  year  after  the  birth  of  the  subject  of  this 
sketch,  their  arrival  in  Indiana  dating  from  November  18,  1821).  The  remainder  of  their 
days  were  spent  in  Montgomery  County,  the  father’s  death  occurring  in  1879  at  the  age  of 
seventy-four  years,  and  the  mother’s  on  Noveml)er  1,  1898,  when  sixty-eight  years  of  age. 
After  coming  to  this  State  they  settled  on  a woodland  farm  in  a little  log  ca1)in,  but  this 
afterward  gave  place  to  a more  pretentious  dwelling  when  their  means  justified  them  in 
making  this  improvement.  The  old  homestead  is  now  owned  by  Hon.  James  A.  Mount,  a 
Itrother  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  The  |)arents  were  members  of  the  Presbyterian 
Church  for  many  years,  in  which  the  father  was  ruling  elder.  They  became  the  parents  of  a 
good  old  fashioned  family  of  twelve  children,  all  of  whom  are  living  with  the  exception  of 
two.  Thomas  R.  Mount  was  the  eldest  of  these  children  and  received  his  first  instruction 
in  the  old-time  log  .school-house  of  his  day.  He  remained  with  and  assisted  his  father  until 
he  was  twenty  two  years  of  age,  then  commenced  farming  for  himself  and  cleared  up  a farm 
of  his  own.  He  continued  to  residu  on  this  j)lace  utitil  aboirt  1878,  then  moved  to  Boone 
County,  Ind. , and  four  years  later  to  Madison  County.  In  November,  1881,  he  came  to 
Marion  County  and  took  up  his  residence  in  west  Indianapolis  and  began  devoting  his  atten 
tion  to  carpentering,  which  occupation  he  has  since  cordinued.  During  this  time  he  has 
erected  many  of  the  most  substantial  business  houses  and  residences  in  west  Indianapolis. 
Six  years  since  his  services  were  employed  by  Nordyke  & Marmon,  with  which  firm  he  has 
since  had  charge  of  the  elevator  department.  In  1852  Mr.  Mount  led  to  the  altar  Miss 
Eliza  J.  Ward,  who  died  on  Alarch  27,  1891,  having  become  the  mother  of  three  sons  and 
two  daughters.  On  March  22,  1898,  he  took  for  his  second  wife  Mrs.  Sarah  1).  Wood,  a 
native  of  Ohio.  Mr.  IMount  was  a meinbei’  of  the  Presbyterian  Church  for  thirty  years, 
but  twenty  years  ago  joined  the  IMethodist  Church,  with  which  he  has  since  been  connected. 
He  has  been  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  for  fifb'en  years,  and  since  1859  has  been  a lie- 
publican  in  politics. 

Ma-jor  a.  Ij.  Varney,  of  the  ordnance  department  of  the  United  States  army,  command- 
ing the  (Jovernment  arsenal  at  Indianapolis,  is  a native  of  l\I;iine  and  a descendant  of  one  of 
the  pioneer  families  of  that  State.  He  was  born  in  1889,  in  Windham,  Cumlxuland  County, 
.Maine,  was  fitted  for  college  at  Westbrook  Seminary  and  was  graduated  in  1892  from  Bow 
(loin  Colleg*!,  Brunswick,  with  the  degrees  of  .\.  B.  and  A.  M.  He  enterc'd  the  service  of 
the  United  States  as  a lieutenant  in  the  Thirteenth  .Maine  Regiment,  Volunteer  Infantry, 
which  was  a part  of  the  Nineteenth  Army  Corps,  serving  in  the  early  part,  of  tin'  war  in  the 
Department  of  the  (lulf.  He  participated  in  the  Texas  cam|(aign  in  1898,  in  the  R(‘d  River 
cam|)aign  in  the  summer  of  18(51,  and  in  Sheridan’s  Shenandoah  campaign  in  the  fall  of  1894. 
.After  the  cessation  of  hostilities,  he  was  transferred  to  the  ordnance  departmeid,  (IbiibMl 


142 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


States  army)  and  liis  first  duty  afterward  was  to  receive  the  arms  of  the  Iowa  volunteers  at 
Clinton,  Iowa,  as  they  were  reliuc^iiished  to  the  Government  at  the  close  of  the  war.  In  No- 
vember, 18(55,  he  was  transferred  to  Watervliet  arsenal  at  West  Troy,  N.  Y.,  and  thence,  after 
a brief  time,  to  the  arsenal  at  Watertown,  Mass.  In  1870  he  was  ordered  to  the  ordnance 
depot  at  Chayenne,  Wyoming  Territory,  and  was  stationed  there  until  1872,  when  he  was 
transferred  to  the  arsenal  at  Leavenworth,  Kas.  In  1874  he  was  transferred  to  Rock 
Island  Arsenal  and  was  stationed  there  till,  in  the  fall  of  the  same  year,  he  was  returned  to 
Fort  Ijeavenworth,  as  chief  of  the  ordnance  ollicer  department  of  the  Missouri,  and  was 
attached  to  Gen.  Pope's  staff.  In  1878  he  was  ordered  to  Watervliet  arsenal  at  West  Troy, 
N.  Y.,  where  he  had  been  stationed  a short  time  in  18(55.  In  1884  he  was  ordered  back  to 
the  Rock  Island  arsenal  and  thence,  in  1889, again  to  the  arsenal  at  Watertown,  Mass.,  where 
he  remained  until  February,  1892,  when  he  was  placed  in  the  command  of  the  arsenal  at 
Indianapolis.  Major  Yarney  joined  the  ordnance  department  as  second  lieutenant,  Febru- 
ary 15.  18(55,  was  promoted  to  first  lieutenant  June  24,  1874,  to  captain  Gctober  29,  1874, 
and  to  major  November  81,  1891.  He  is  a member  of  the  L.  L.  May  9,  1800,  he  married 
Miss  Hannah  Josephine  Gibson,  a native  of  Massachusetts,  who  has  borne  him  two  sons: 
Gordon  E.  and  Theodore. 

John  B.  McGuffin.  The  success  of  men  in  business  depends  u])on  character  as  well  as 
upon  knowledge,  it  l)eing  a self-evident  proposition  that  honesty  is  the  best  policy.  Busi- 
ness demands  confidence  and  where  that  is  lacking  business  ends.  The  city  of  Indianapolis 
has  as  tine  a body  of  men  engaged  in  mercantile  and  industrial  pursuits  as  can  be  found  in 
the  country  and  very  piominent  in  the  number,  and  one  who  has  the  respect  and  esteem  of 
the  whole  community,  is  the  subject  of  our  sketch,  alderman  at  large  and  superintendent  of 
the  Indianapolis  Chair  Manufacturing  Co.  He  was  born  in  Monterey,  Highland  County, 
Va. , December  22,  185(5,  being  the  son  of  James  N.  and  Sarah  F.  (Stuart)  McGutlin,  both 
natives  of  Virginia  and  of  Scotch  Irish  descent.  The  family  settled  in  Virginia  at  an  early 
day  and  both  grandfathers  of  onr  subject  took  part  in  the  early  wars  in  this  country;  the 
paternal  grandfather  being  in  the  War  of  1812  and  the  maternal,  in  that  war,  and  also  in  the 
Indian  wars.  The  father  of  onr  subject  was  a stonemason  by  trade  and  settled  at  Goshen, 
Ind.,  in  1858,  where  he  carried  on  that  work,  being  a contractor  on  a large  scale  in  stone. 
He  died  in  September,  1891,  aged  eighty  years;  his  wife  surviving  him  and  now  living  at 
Indianapolis.  She  is  the  mother  of  six  children,  all  living,  namely:  Nancy,  Margaret, 
Cornelia  G.,  Mary  E , Charles  N.,  and  John  B. , the  youngest.  The  latter  was  reaied  at 
Goshen,  Ind.,  where  he  was  educated  in  the  common  and  high  schools,  graduating  from  the 
latter  in  1878.  Afterward  he  went  to  work  in  a chairmaking  factory  at  Goshen,  but 
did  not  finish  the  learning  of  the  trade  in  that  place,  coming  to  Indianapolis  before  he  could 
do  so.  This  was  in  187(5  and  he  entered  at  once  the  factory  of  Gen.  A.  D.  Streight,  re- 
maining three  years,  after  which  he  superintended  the  farm  of  Gen.  Streight,  in  Newton 
County,  for  a period  of  two  years.  Returning  to  Indianapolis,  he  enteied  the  factory  of  the 
Indianapolis  Chair  Manufacturing  Co.,  where  he  has  been  employed  ever  since.  He  began 
as  a workman,  a maker  of  chairs,  and  has  worked  his  way  up  on  his  own  merits,  withoiit 
iutluence  of  any  kind.  He  is  general  superintendent  of  this  immense  plant  which  employs 
more  than  400  hands  and  is  one  of  the  most  efficient  men  in  his  line  in  the  country.  Mr. 
McGuffin  was  elected  a councilman-at  large  in  1891  and  his  teim  expires  in  1894.  He  was 
married  in  1880  to  Miss  Amanda  J.  Fueal,  of  Muncie,  Ind.,  his  choice  being  a most  happy 
one.  Mr.  McGuffin  is  a Democrat  of  the  most  pronounced  type  and  is  regarded  as  one  of 
the  most  etticient  workers  in  that  party  in  the  city.  Gnr  subject  started  out  in  life  without 
a dollar  and  has  worked  his  way  nj)  in  the  world  by  himself.  His  life  affords  a strong 
proof  of  what  may  be  done  by  an  honest  purpose  to  make  the  best  of  one’s  op})ortunities. 

Brazillai  M.  Blount.  In  the  life  of  Brazillai  M.  Blonnt  we  find  that  which  should 
inspire  the  youths  of  this  and  coming  generations  to  lives  of  xrsefulness  and  greatness,  and 
it  is  with  pleasure  that  we  note  a few  of  the  most  important  events  of  his  career.  Were  his 
good  deeds  faithfully  recorded,  they  of  themselves  would  furnish  material  for  a volume.  He 
was  born  in  Highland  County,  Ohio,  June  17,  1828,  and  was  early  trained  to  the  arduous 
duties  of  the  farm,  remaitiing  on  the  same  until  1841,  when  he  came  with  his  parents  to 
Indiana,  settling  in  Hamilton  (now  Tipton  County),  then  a wilderness  of  dense  forest  trees. 


143 


AND  MAIUON  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

He  attended  the  district  schools  of  Highland  Comity,  (4hio,  and  three  terins  in  Indiana,  to  the 
last  of  which  he  walked  eighty  miles  with  a knapsack  upon  his  back,  paying  for  his  board  by 
working  at  intervals  between  school  hours.  He  assisted  in  furnishing  the  fuel  used  for 
warming  the  log  cabin  in  which  the  school  was  taught,  by  chopping  wood  at  the  noon  hour 
and  carrying  it  to  the  house  upon  his  shoulder.  This  school  was  taught  in  Huntington 
County,  about  hfteen  miles  west  of  Fort  Wayne,  Ind.  At  that  period  in  Indiana’s  history 
there  were  no  public  schools  in  this  part  of  the  State.  Subse(|uently  he  began  teaching 
school,  continuing  this  for  ten  years,  or  until  twenty-five  years  of  age,  principally  in  the 
winter.  In  the  fall  of  1853  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  bought  a lot  on  the  corner  of 
Christian  Avenue  and  Broadway,  erected  a house,  and  with  his  two  brothers  remained  there 
and  attended  school  for  eighteen  mouths.  In  the  winter  of  1855  he  went  to  Bloomington, 
Ind.,  and  attended  the  State  University  until  April,  1859,  when  he  returned  to  Indianapolis. 
There  he  entered  the  Northwestern  Christian  University  (now  Butler),  and  graduated  from 
that  institution  the  same  year  with  the  degree  of  A.  B.  Three  years  later  he  received  the 
degree  of  A.  M.  from  that  universily.  After  graduating  he  went  on  a farm  and  preached 
for  the  Christian  Church  in  Tipton  and  the  adjacent  counties  of  Indiana,  for  five  years.  He 
had  commenced  preaching  in  1853  and  was  regularly  authorized  in  1854  by  Central  Christ- 
ian Church  of  Indianapolis.  In  1864  Mr.  Blount  went  to  Spencer,  Ind.,  where  he  acted  as 
pastor  of  the  church  one  year,  and  then  returned  to  Tipton,  where  he  preached  and  taught 
school.  He  acted  as  county  school  examiner  for  Tipton  County  from  1861  to  1864.  In  the 
fall  of  1867  he  went  to  Kokomo,  Ind.,  where  in  connection  with  his  ministerial  duties  he 
taught  school  a part  of  the  time  during  the  year.  In  the  fall  of  1868  he  returned  to  Tip- 
ton,  Ind.,  and  made  his  home  there  until  1879,  acting  most  of  the  time  as  county  superin- 
tendent and  preaching  as  an  itinerant  minister.  During  1873  and  1873,  Mr.  Blount  tilled  the 
pulpit  of  the  Christian  Church  at  Sullivan,  Ind.  In  1879  he  removed  to  Irvington,  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  and  resides  there  at  the  present  time.  The  same  year  he  was  elected  jiresi- 
dent  of  the  board  of  directors  of  Butler  Univeisity,  having  been  a member  of  the  board 
since  1886,  and  served  in  that  capacity  for  twelve  years.  In  1892  Mr.  Blount  was  elected 
by  the  board  as  financial  agent  of  the  Butler  University.  Our  subject  still  continues  to 
preach  and  is  a hale,  well  preserved  man.  who  tills  his  responsible  position  with  credit  to 
liimself  and  the  university.  While  attending  Bloomington  University  our  subject  ]>reached 
for  the  Christian  Church  there  two  years.  Mr.  Blount’ first  marriage  occurred  February 
25,  1850,  to  Mi.ss  Mary  Jane  Patterson,  a schoolmate  of  his  in  Ohio,  in  which  State  she  was 
born.  She  died  in  June,  1852.  leaving  one  son,  Kobert  S.,  who  grew  u}),  graduated  at  But 
ler  University  in  1876,  entered  the  Christian  rninistery,  and  died  in  October,  1883.  The 
second  marriage  of  our  subject  occurred  in  September,  1857,  with  Miss  Hannah  Cooper, 
a resident  of  Hamilton  C(ninty,  Ind.,  and  six  children  have  been  born  to  this  union:  Alary 
J.,  widow  of  Oeorge  W.  Bowin;  Friend  C. ; Hachel  M.,  wife  of  Hev.  Erastus  Conner;  Dora 
O.,  a teacher  in  the  public  schools  at  Irvington,  Ind.  ; Marven  Eugene  and  Homer  S.  Silas 
Blount,  the  father  of  our  subject,  was  born  in  Ross  County,  Ohio,  in  October,  1800.  He  mar- 
ried Miss  Barbara  .Miller,  a native  of  Pennsylvania,  in  September,  1827,  and  of  the  ten 
children  born  to  this  union,  our  subject  is  the  eldest,  and  only  six  now  survive,  viz.  : B.  M., 
of  Irvington;  Jane,  wife  of  U.  W.  Wright,  of  Ti])ton,  Ind.;  Mary,  wife  of  A.  P.  Wright, 
of  Irvington,  Ind. ; Jacob  B.,  a preacher  in  the  Cliristian  Churcli  in  Rush  County,  Ind.  ; 
Barbara  P.,  wife  of  Frank  Cassel,  of  Rossville,  Ind.,  and  Alice  T.,  wife  of  -John  Kennedy, 
of  .\nderson,  Ind.  'I’he  father  of  these  children,  who  was  a physician  of  considerable 
j)rominence,  died  in  September,  1890,  when  ninety  years  of  age.  His  widow  still  survives 
and  is  eighty  four  years  of  age. 

WiM.iAM  Mookk.  Among  tln^  reliable  and  substantiid  fainiers  of  Marion  Couidy,  Ind., 
may  be  mentioned  William  Moore,  who  has  done  much  to  forward  the  agricultural  int«'rests 
of  this  section,  for  he  was  reared  to  the  calling  of  a farmer,  and  this  occupation  has  received 
his  attention  to  a greater  or  less  exteid  up  to  the  |)resent  time.  lit*  is  a public-spirited 
citizen,  in  harmony  with  advanced  ideas,  intelligent  progress,  and  active  in  Ids  su])i)ort  of 
all  worthy  enterprises,  lb*  is  a natives  of  this  Stat(%  born  in  .Marion  County,  August  5,  1837, 
and  the  second  of  twelve  children  born  to  John  and  Sarah  (Bowser)  Moor»»,  natives  resjx'ct 
ivelv  of  Ireland  and  Pennsylvania,  and  the  last  nam(;d  of  Cerman  de.scent.  ’J'he  father 


U4 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


emigrated  to  tliis  country  with  his  parents  wlien  tifteen  years  of  age,  and  first  settled  with 
them  in  the  Buckeye  State.  Later  they  moved  to  Marion  County,  Ind.  (1H81),  and  John 
assisted  his  father  in  clearing  and  improving  a farm.  All  his  life  the  father  of  our  subject 
tilled  the  soil  and  accumulated  a fair  share  of  this  world’s  goods.  He  assisted  in  grading 
the  “Old  National  Road,’’  and  was  one  of  the  jiioneers  of  his  locality.  In  politics  he  was 
an  old  line  Whig  until  the  formation  of  the  Republican  party,  when  he  cast  his  vote  with 
that.  The  children  born  to  his  marriage  were  named  as  follows;  Thomas  H. ; William,  our 
subject;  Hannah;  Retchison;  Isabel,  now  Mrs.  Jonathan  Yoke;  John  O. ; Catherine,  wife 
of  Melburn  Moore;  Mary  E.  H.  ; Jose])h  A.,  and  three  who  are  deceased.  The  parents  of 
these  children  celebrated  their  golden  wedding  SepteTuber  19,  1883,  but  the  father  is  now 
deceased,  his  death  occurring  in  1889.  William  Moore,  the  original  of  this  notice,  received 
his  education  in  the  common  schools  of  Centre  Township,  Marion  County,  attending  during 
the  winter  months  and  working  on  the  farm  during  the  summer  season.  He  remained  under 
the  parental  roof  until  1869,  when  he  married  Miss  Lucy  A.  Kitley,  daughter  of  Richard  and 
Martha  (Davis)  Kitley,  and  on  March  '29  of  the  same  year  he  moved  on  a tract  of  180  acres 
he  had  purchased  about  eighteen  months  previously  of  the  Wilson  heirs,  paying  for  the  same 
ifSO  per  acre.  Of  this  tract  80  acres  were  cleared  when  he  bought  it,  and  he  has  since 
cleared  20  acres.  Mrs.  Moore  inherited  80  acres  from  her  father’s  estate.  They  are  very 
comfortably  fixed,  and  are  well  liked  in  the  community.  Their  marriage  resulted  in  the 
birth  of  three  children,  as  follows:  Sarah  E.,  died  in  1871,  when  about  one  month  old; 
Isabella  Aurelia,  and  William  R.  Mr.  Moore  holds  membership  in  the  Baptist  Church  and 
is  trustee  and  deacon  of  the  same.  He  is  not  very  active  in  politics,  but  votes  the  Repub 
lican  ticket. 

Ephkaim  Collins  (deceased).  The  life  narrative  of  the  head  of  a family  is  interesting 
not  only  to  his  posterity  but  also  to  the  citizens  of  the  section  in  which  he  has  resided,  and 
this  truth  is  doubly  true  when  such  a man  has  estaldished  for  liimself  and  his  children  a 
reputation  for  integrity,  character  and  ability,  and  has  been  of  value  in  the  development  of 
that  portion  of  the  country  which  was  his  home.  Such  a narrative  do  we  have  in  this  sketch 
of  Ephraim  Collins,  who  was  born  in  Marion  County,  Ind..  July  24,  1840.  When  about 
thirty  years  of  age  this  young  man  was  united  in  marriage  with  the  lady  of  his  choice.  Miss 
Katherine  Tutewiler,  daughter  of  Nathaniel  Tntewiler  who  was  a native  of  Ohio  and  an  early 
resident  of  Indiana.  By  this  marriage  Mr.  Collins  became  the  father  of  two  children,  botlr 
daughters;  Minnie  Alice  and  Myla  E.  The  latter  died  November  0,  1886,  aged  six  years 
and  three  months.  Before  our  subject’s  marriage  his  father,  Isaac  Collins,  gave  him  44 
acres  in  Franklin  townshi)),  this  county,  and  later  Ephraim  bought  64  acres  of  George 
Richardson  which  he  owned  at  the  time  of  his  death,  August  26.  1886.  His  widow  subse- 
(piently  married  Adam  Swarts,  a prominent  farmer  of  this  section.  Nathaniel  Tutewiler, 
father  of  Mrs.  Swarts,  was  a native  Ohioan,  born  March  2,  1813,  and  made  his  home  in  that 
State  until  1840,  when  he  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.  He  there  purchased  140  acres  and 
later  he  added  to  this  twenty  acres.  He  was  married  in  his  native  state  in  1 838  to  Miss  Susan  A. 
Murray,  daughter  of  Josejih  Murray  and  six  children  were  the  fruits  of  this  union.  One 
child,  Susan  V.,  died  when  about  twenty-two  years  of  age.  She  was  single.  The  names  of 
the  other  children  areas  follows;  Lydia  E. , widow  of  James  Hensley,  has  these  children: 
OlaB.,  Harry  E.  (deceased),  Ora  M. , Even  S, , Ann  I.,  James  E.,  and  Howard  N.  Jacob  W. 
Tutewiler  was  first  married  to  Miss  Gabriella  Tharp  who  bore  him  two  children,  Harry  L., 
now  living,  and  Addison  (deceased).  His  second  marriage  was  with  Miss  Katherine  Harri- 
son and  one  son,  Albert  N. , was  born  to  this  union.  Mr.  Tutewiler  is  now  living  with 
his  third  wife  who  was  formerly  Miss  Rachel  Miller.  James  G.  Tutewiler  married  Malinda 
Pliillips  and  live  children  were  given  them,  all  now  deceased.  He  married  for  his  second  wife 
Aliss  Belle  Carl  and  they  have  three  children:  Bertha  E.,  Edith  B.,  and  Leander.  Ida  M. 
Tutewiler,  is  unmarried.  William  Tutewiler  enlisted  in  the  Seventy-Ninth  Indiana  In- 
fantry and  served  three  years  in  the  Civil  War.  The  father  of  these  children,  Nathaniel 
Tutewiler,  died  July  15,  1892,  but  his  widow  is  still  living.  His  father,  Jacob  Tutewiler, 
was  of  German  descent. 

Samuel  Evingston  Earp,  M.  S.,  M.  D.  Among  professional  men,  and  especially  those 
of  the  medical  profession,  there  is  so  much  competition  in  every  large  city  that  the  man  who 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


145 


rises  to  a position  of  special  prominence  and  distinction  tliroiigb  his  own  efforts,  may  justly 
be  accredited  with  the  possession  of  more  than  average  ability.  Such  a man  is  Dr.  Samuel 
Evingston  Earp,  who  is  one  of  the  foremost,  as  well  as  one  of  the  most  jropular  physi- 
cians of  Indianapolis,  who  has  in  a comparatively  few  years  such  a place  as  many  strive  for 
a lifetime  to  obtain.  Dr.  Earp  has  been  unusually  sirccessful  as  a physician  and  as  a public 
officer,  and  has  also  gained  an  enviable  reputation  as  a scientific  writer  and  as  an  expert  chem- 
ist. He  has  brought  such  tireless  energy  and  such  shining  ability  to  his  life  work  that  it  is 
not  too  much  to  expect  from  him  greater  achievements  in  the  future.  Dr.  Earp  was  born  in 
Lebanon,  St.  Clair  County,  111.,  December  19,  1858,  a son  of  Joseph  and  Margaret  Earp.  His 
education  was  begun  when  he  was  five  years  old  in  a private  school  in  his  native  town. 
Later  he  attended  the  high  school  at  Alton,  a7ul  upon  leaving  it  entered  Shurtleif  College 
at  Upper  Alton  and  was  a student  there  for  two  years,  leaving  to  enter  McKeudree’s  College, 
Lebanon,  from  which  institution  he  was  graduated  in  1879  when  he  was  made  the  recipient 
of  the  degree  of  Master  of  Science.  While  still  at  college  this  diligent  student  read  medi- 
cine at  odd  spells  and  during  vacations  and  attended  a series  of  lectures  upon  medical  and 
surgical  topics  but  not  in  the  general  medical  coirrse.  In  July.  1879,  very  soon  after  his 
graduation,  he  entered  the  office  of  Dr.  G.  C.  Smythe  at  Greencastle,  Ind.,  as  a regular- 
medical  student,  and  attended  the  session  of  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  at 
Indianapolis  in  1881  and  1882,  and  was  graduated  therefrom  in  March  of  the  last  mentioned 
year.  Dr.  Earp  was  valedictorian  of  his  class,  the  highest  honor  that  could  have  been 
bestowed  upon  him,  and  received  the  Water’s  gold  medal  as  the  prize  for  passing  the  best 
competitive  examination  on  diseases  of  the  chest,  and  a complete  and  valuable  case  of  gyne- 
cological instruments,  as  a prize  for  passing  the  best  examination  in  the  department  of 
obstetrics  and  diseases  of  women  and  children.  During  his  college  days  the  Doctor  did  some 
creditable  special  newspaper  correspondence  and  he  has  since  made  good  use  of  his  litera- 
ry abilities  in  his  fluent  and  finished  professional  and  other  writings.  After  receiving  his 
degree  from  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  8urgeons,  he  began  the  practice  of  medicine 
in  Indianapolis  with  such  success  that  the  sick  and  suffering  have  learned  to  repose  un- 
bounded confidence  in  his  knowledge  of  the  ills  that  the  human  body  is  heir  to  and  his  skill 
in  dissipating  them.  He  is  an  active  member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society  and  of 
the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society.  In  1882  he  was  elected  demonstrator  of  chemistry  in 
Ids  alma  mater,  later  professor  of  chemistry,  toxicology  and  clinical  medicine  and  still 
later  professor  of  materia  medica,  therapeutics  and  medical  chemistry,  which  latter  position 
he  holds  at  this  time.  For  three  years  he  filled  the  position  of  editor  of  the  department  of 
materia  medica  and  therapeutics  in  the  Indiana  Medical  Jonnial,  in  which  as  well  as  in  other 
publications,  his  writings  have  attracted  much  attention,  and  they  have  been  more  widely 
(pioted  than  have  those  of  many  of  his  brother  practitioners  of  greater  age  and  experience; 
and  in  the  department  of  medical  literature  Dr.  Earp  has  done  his  full  share  in  sustaining 
the  high  standard  attained  in  this  line  by  Indiana.  He  is  at  this  time  and  for  some  time 
])ast  has  been,  consulting  physician  to  the  city  hospital  and  the  city  dispensary  and  clinical 
lecturer  in  St.  Vincent’s  Hospital.  Notwithstanding  the  great  ])ressnre  uj)on  his  time  and 
energies,  the  Doctor  has  found  leisure  in  which  to  pursue  valuable  researches  in  medicine, 
and  he  has  been  given  due  ci-edit  for  his  original  work  and  discoveries  in  that  direction,  by 
authors  of  medical  works  and  editors  of  medical  journals.  Dr.  Earp  was  elected  police  sur 
geon  of  Indianapolis  by  the  metroj)olitan  board,  February  18,  189],  andserved  in  that  capac- 
ity until  the  new  city  charter  went  into  effect  when  he  was  elected  police  and  fire  surgeon 
by  the  commissioners  of  [uiblic  safety,  a position  which  he  still  holds  with  great  credit,  to 
himself  and  general  satisfaction  to  the  public.  ffe  was  chemist  of  the  Indianapolis  board 
of  health  in  1885  and  18815  and  a member  of  the  same  body  and  its  secretaiy  and  executive 
officer  during  1877  and  1878  and  was  elected  by  the  unanimous  vote  of  both  Demociats  and 
ltej)ublicans  in  the  commf)n  council  and  board  of  aldermen  as  a member  and  secretary  of  the 
board  of  health  of  the  city  (jf  Indianapolis  in  January,  18S9,  and  served  for  two  years.  lie 
is  secretary  and  dean  of  the  (Jentral  Gollege  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  and  is  also  on(»  of 
the  trustees  and  secretary  of  the  board  of  trustees  of  tiuit  institution.  He  is  also  past  clnin 
cellor  ami  medical  director  of  (Capital  Gity  liodge  No.  fl7,  K.  of  F. , and  has  been  r(7])resent 
ative  to  the  grand  lodge  in  that  order.  He  was  married  .May  4,  1892,  to  .Margaret  E. 

10 


140 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


MaGloughliii,  a native  of  Champaign  County,  111.,  and  of  Scotch  descent.  As  a man  of  high 
attainments,  as  an  advocate  and  promoter  of  needed  public  reform  and  as  a scholar  whose 
scientific  knowledge  extends  far  Ijeyond  the  limits  of  the  medical  profession.  Dr.  Earp  occu- 
pies a liigh  ])osition  in  the  respect  and  admiration  of  the  people. 

Henry  \V.  Bullock,  who  is  engaged  in  the  real  estate,  loan  and  insurance  business, 
occupies  a high  place  among  the  younger  business  men  of  Indianapolis,  who  by  ability  arid 
energy  have  achieved  success  and  occupy  an  honored  position  in  the  esteem  of  their  fellow 
citizens.  He  was  born  in  Clay  County,  Ind.,  September  10,  1860,  on  a farm,  and  obtained 
liis  elementary  education  in  the  common  schools  of  his  immediate  vicinity.  His  father. 
Elder  Absalom  J.  Bullock,  is  a well-known  minister  of  the  Christian  Church,  advocating  the 
re.storation  of  primitive  Christianity  unfettered  by  creed  or  dogma.  Elder  Bullock  was  born  in 
Ilandolph  County,  N.  C. , May  10,  1868,  and  was  brought  to  Indiana  in  1840  on  pack- 
horses.  His  mother,  Mary  (Davenport)  Bullock,  died  in  Clay  County  at  the  advanced  age 
of  eighty  two  years,  respected  by  all  who  knew  her.  The  mother  of  the  immediate  subject 
of  this  sketch,  Mary  (Helton)  Bullock,  is  the  daughter  of  Arthur  and  Margaret  Helton, 
natives  of  Kentucky,  who  at  an  early  day  came  to  Indiana,  because  a slave  State  was  not  in 
accordance  with  his  ideas  of  justice.  He  and  his  wife  lived  honored  lives  and  died  mourned 
by  all,  aged  eighty-tive  and  ninety  years  respectively.  Ever  since  the  colonial  patriots’ 
struggle  for  freedom  in  the  days  of  the  Bevolution,  the  name  of  Bullock  has  been  an  honored 
one  in  the  South,  and  numbers  governors,  congressmen,  jurists  and  judges  among  its  mem- 
bers. Henry  W.  Bullock  began  life  for  himself  as  a “ Hoosier  Schoolmaster  ” at  the  age 
of  eighteen,  and  during  the  two  terms  that  he  followed  this  occupation  he  was  j)ractically 
successful  in  training  the  young  minds  under  his  care.  He  attended  the  Northern  Indiana 
Normal  School  at  Valparakso,  Ind.,  for  a number  of  terms,  and  studied  law  two  years,  being 
admitted  to  the  bar  October  21,  1887.  Mr.  Bullock  is  a hard  student  and  is  said  by  those 
who  know  him  to  be  the  best  informed  man  in  the  State  on  the  various  phases  of  the  tem- 
perance question.  He  is  broad  and  liberal  in  his  views,  takes  a deep  interest  in  all  economic 
and  social  (piestions,  and  an  active  part  in  Civil  Service  and  Municipal  Reform.  He  is  a 
forcible  and  polished  writer  and  is  well  known  as  a speaker,  having  delivered  temperance 
and  political,  religious  and  educational  addresses  in  various  parts  of  Indiana,  Ohio,  Illinois 
and  Missouri,  under  lecture  bureaus  and  the  State  and  national  committees  of  the  Pro- 
hibitionists. Mr.  Bullock  is  an  active  member  of  the  Christian  Church,  commonly  known  as 
Disciples  of  Christ,  and  has  devoted  much  time  to  home  missions,  giving  his  aid  and  en 
couragement  to  those  who  need  help.  He  works  in  the  ranks  as  a private,  delivers  lectures, 
makes  temperance  and  Sunday-school  talks,  and  preaches  sermons  as  occasions  demand.  His 
(|ualitications  make  him  successful  as  a farmer,  teacher,  speaker,  writer,  lawyer  and  busi- 
ness man.  His  high  sense  of  justice  and  moral  convictions  make  him  the  friend  of  every 
honest  reform  for  the  betterment  of  mankind.  He  came  to  the  city  in  1896,  and  his  vim  and 
ability  at  once  placed  him  in  the  front  of  business  enterprises.  He  is  now  located  at  77 
East  Market  Street  on  the  second  floor,  and  is  doing  a large  real  estate,  loan  and  insurance 
business.  He  handles  the  best  residence  and  business  properly  in  the  city  and  loans  money 
on  city  and  farm  property.  It  is  but  just  to  say  that  his  integrity  has  won  him  the  conti- 
dence  of  the  business  community,  and  being  in  the  very  prime  of  life  has  before  him  very 
flattering  prospects. 

Henry  Coe,  president  of  the  Board  of  Underwriters  and  one  of  the  most  prominent  in- 
surance and  real  estate  men  in  the  State  of  Indiana,  was  born  in  Jefferson  County,  Wis., 
April  16,  1848,  a son  of  Orris  K.  and  Paulina  (Bushnell)  Coe.  His  father  was  a native  of 
New  York,  and  settled  in  Jefferson  County,  Wis.,  in  1836,  and  was  one  of  the  pioneers  of 
that  county.  He  early  entered  Government  land  and  for  about  ten  years  after  locating  there 
carried  on  farming  with  considerable  success.  At  the  expiration  of  that  time  he  opened  a 
store  at  Beaver  Dam  and  sold  goods  there  for  another  decade,  when  he  removed  to  Water- 
town,  Wis. , and  entered  the  employ  of  the  company  which  projected  and  constructed  the 
Chicago,  Milwaukee  & St.  Paul  Railroad,  as  a general  representative,  and  traveled  along  the 
proposed  line  purchasing  right-of-way  for  the  road.  This  was  a business  requiring  much 
ability  and  no  little  degree  of  tact.  Later  he  was  engaged  in  the  lumber  trade  at  Water- 
town.  His  wife,  the  mother  of  the  immediate  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  of  New  York 


AND  MAIUOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  I H 

birth,  bnt  was  of  the  old  Connecticut  Bushnell  stock,  which  has  become  historic  through 
successive  generations.  Henry  Coe  was  reared  in  his  native  State  and  educated  at  pul)lic 
and  private  schools.  Later  he  entered  a military  academy  at  Fulton,  111.  During  the  last 
year  of  the  war  he  served  in  the  quartermaster’s  department  at  Camp  Stoneman,  near 
Washington,  D.  C.  Keturning  to  Watertown  he  was  for  a time  associated  with  his  father  in 
the  lumber  trade.  In  1870  he  entered  the  law  department  of  the  Wisconsin  State  University 
at  Madison,  Wis.,  and  was  duly  graduated  in  law.  Locating  at  Whitewater,  Wis.,  he 
entered  upon  the  practice  of  his  profession.  In  1873  Mr.  Coe  came  to  Indianapolis  and  was 
tendered  and  elected  to  the  office  of  secretary  of  the  Indianapolis  Fire  Insurance  Associa- 
tion, a position  which  he  tilled  with  much  credit  for  four  years.  At  the  expiration  of  that 
time  he  became  interested  as  a partner  in  the  local  fire  insurance  and  real  estate  business  of 
M.  R.  Barnard  & Co.  In  1879  he  established  his  present  real  estate  and  fire  insurance 
office,  and  has  built  up  a patronage  that  makes  him  conspicuous  above  most  other  real 
estate  and  insurance  men  in  the  citj'.  He  is  a member  of  the  Columbia  and  Commercial 
clubs,  and  was  formerly  prominently  connected  with  the  Board  of  Trade.  He  is  also  iden- 
tified with  the  K.  of  P.  and  the  R.  A.  In  politics  he  is  a Republican.  He  was  married 
September  20,  1809,  to  Miss  Ora  C.  Orton,  a native  of  Milwaukee  and  daughter  of  Hon. 
Harlow  S.  Orton,  for  fifteen  years  associate  justice  of  the  Supreme  Court  of  Wisconsin. 

Phil.axder  H.  Fitzger.\ld  was  born  in  Oreensburg,  Decatur  County,  Ind.,  in  the  month 
of  February,  the  14th  day,  1847.  He  removed  with  his  parents  to  Dearborn  Comity  when 
young.  His  paternal  ancestors  came  from  Ireland  and  on  his  mother’s  side  he  came  of  good 
Connecticut  stock.  His  father  is  Joseph  Fitzgerald,  of  Acton,  Marion  County.  His  mother 
was  Laura  (Northrope)  Fitzgerald,  who  died  at  Acton  February  15,  1891,  aged  seventy- 
seven  years.  His  common-school  education  was  supplemented  by  a commercial  course  at 
Manchester  College.  Mr.  Fitzgerald  was  married  at  the  age  of  twenty-five  to  the  daughter 
of  Bernard  Mullin,  Esrp,  of  Greensburg.  In  1864  he  came  to  Marion  County  and  located 
on  a farm  in  Franklin  Township,  and  also  .studied  law  for  two  terms.  This,  however,  was 
given  up  for  a clerkship  in  the  United  States  Claim  Agency  in  1868.  The  clerkshij)  was  re- 
signed in  1872  by  Mr.  Fitzgerald,  who  decided  wisely  to  branch  out  for  himself.  He  was 
admitted  to  practice  before  all  the  departments,  in  November,  1872,  after  which  he  be- 
gan his  extensive  practice  in  [)rosecuting  all  classes  of  claims  growing  out  of  the  late 
war.  By  careful  study  and  continued  practice  he  soon  gained  a national  reputation  as  an 
expert  claims  attorney.  He  has  often  been  called  in  consultation  by  counsel  in  New  York, 
Philadelphia,  Washington,  and  in  California,  and  has  handled  and  collected  many  cases. 
Mr.  Fitzgerald’s  business  has  so  increased  that  at  times  the  services  of  thirty-five  clerks  are 
necessary  in  answering  his  correspondence.  In  1887  he  conceived  the  idea  of  conducting  a 
soldier’s  paper  in  connection  with  his  business,  and  accordingly  bought  the  Veteraii\s  lievirir, 
a small  i)aj)er  with  less  than  300  circulation.  The  name  was  at  once  changed  to  the  Aiiieri- 
can  Tribune.  As  the  results  of  Mr.  Fitzgerald’s  good  judgment  and  energy,  the  circulation 
at  the  end  of  a twelve-month  reached  5,000.  Since  then  it  has  grown  rapidly  and  steadily 
and  now  it  aggregates  28,(t00  a week  and  is  still  growing.  Mr.  Fitzgerald  has  invested  his 
means,  from  time  to  time,  in  Indianapolis  I’eal  estate.  His  last  [)urchase  was  the  handsome 
building  at  the  corner  of  Market  and  Circle  Streets,  known  as  the  Journal  Block,  for  $85,000. 
Tlie  l>uilding  has  l)een  lately  overhauled  and  modernized  in  every  i’es])ect  at  a cost,  of  $40,0(10 
and  it  is  one  of  the  largest  and  finest  in  the  city,  l>eing  contrally  located  and  in  every  way 
desirable.  He  has  also  built  some  thirty  five  first-class  |)ieces  of  pro])erly  and  recently  gave 
•S 4, 0O((  to  the  new  church  of  North  .Mei'idian.  Mr.  Fitzger;ild  was  one  of  the  founders  of 
the  Indiana  Mutual  Building  and  Loan  Association,  one  of  tlu^  largest  in  the  city,  is  one  of 
its  dir(*ctors,  and  was  elected  treasurer  of  same  in  July,  1893.  He  is  a member  of  the 
K.  of  P.,  with  which  order  he  has  been  identifii'd  siiuai  1872.  He  is  a memlxu'  of  the 
Columbia  Club,  the  Commercial  Club  and  the  Board  of  I’raile.  Iti  politics  he  is  a R(^|)ul) 
lican. 

James  Greene.  In  every  conununity  some  men  are  known  for  their  upright  lives, 
strong  common  sense  and  moral  worth  rather  than  for  their  wealth  or  politicad  standing. 
Their  rnu'glilmrs  respect  them,  the  young  generations  heed  their  example',  and  when  tliey 
go  to  the  grave  posterity  listens  with  reverence  to  the  .story  of  their  (piiet  and  useful  lives. 


148 


MEMOIRS  OF  IND!ANAF0L1S 


Aiuoii^  such  men  is  -James  Greeue,  a man  of  modest  and  unassuming  demeanor,  well  edu- 
cated, a friend  to  the  poor,  charitable  to  the  faults  of  his  neighbors  and  ready  to  unite  with 
them  in  every  good  word  and  work,  and  active  in  the  support  of  laudable  public  enterprises. 
He  is  the  State  agent  at  Indianapolis  for  the  Berkshire  Life  Insurance  Company  of  Pitts- 
field, Mass.,  a position  he  has  tilled  for  about  twenty  live  years.  He  is  among  the  oldest 
and  be.st  known  citizens  of  Indianapolis,  having  become  a resident  in  1853,  and  has  seen 
the  city’s  population  increase  from  18,(K)0  to  140,000  souls.  Mr.  Greeue  was  born  at  Scitu- 
ate,  li.  I.,  December  6,  1810,  a sou  of  Howland  and  Susanna  (Harris)  Greene,  who  were 
also  natives  of  that  State,  where  they  resided  until  their  res[)ective  deaths.  Howland 
Greene  was  a physician  of  considerable  renown  and  was  an  active  member  and  earnest  worker 
of  the  Society  of  Friends,  in  the  interests  of  which  he  traveled  extensively  throughout  the 
then  United  States,  his  journeys  being  made  on  horseback  and  extending  as  far  south  as 
North  Carolina,  throughout  which  section  he  became  well  known  to  the  Quakers.  James 
Greene  remained  a resident  of  Hhode  Island  until  he  was  sixteen  years  of  age;  the  major 
part  of  his  education  being  accpiired  at  Providence  under  Quaker  supervision.  In  1826  he 
went  to  Baltimore,  Md. , where  he  spent  two  years  in  a wholesale  auction  and  commission 
house,  after  which  he  went  to  Albany,  N.  Y.,  and  entered  the  employ  of  a brother  as  clerk 
in  a wholesale  oil  and  leather  establishment.  During  the  time  that  he  remained  in  Albany 
he  made  preparations  to  take  a collegiate  course  and  in  1833  entered  Amherst  College  from 
which  he  was  graduated  in  1837.  He  then  entered  the  Theological  Seminary  at  Princeton, 
N.  J.,  and  after  [mrsuing  his  studies  there  for  three  years,  he  entered  the  ministry  in  Ten 
nessee,  where  he  remained  about  two  years.  In  1844  he  came  to  Indiana  and  located  at 
Madison,  which  at  that  time  was  the  metropolis  of  the  State,  and  there  he  established  a 
private  classical  school  which  he  conducted  with  gratifying  success  for  about  eight  years. 
The  public  school  system  then  came  into  vogue  and  he  closed  his  institution  at  Madison  and 
went  to  Evansville,  Ind.,  where  he  established  a classical  school  for  boys  which  he  conducted 
until  August,  1853,  at  which  time  he  became  secretary  and  treasurer  of  the  Evansville  & 
Indianapolis  (straight  line)  Hailroad  Company  and  removed  to  Indianapolis,  being  associated 
with  Willard  Carpenter,  of  Evansville,  Hon.  Oliver  H.  Smith,  and  Gen.  John  Love,  of 
Indianapolis,  together  with  other  persons  of  the  State.  This  undertaking  did  not  prove 
successful;  the  road  was  not  built  and  after  resigning  his  position  about  the  time  of  the  out 
break  of  the  Civil  War,  he  was  appointed,  in  April,  1861,  assistant  quartermaster-general 
of  the  State,  a position  he  tilled  creditably  for  about  four  years,  when  he  was  transferred  to 
the  department  of  commissary  of  subsistence.  In  1867  Mr.  Greene  engaged  in  the  general 
insurance  business,  which  he  has  since  continued  to  follow.  To  Mr.  Greene’s  marriage 
with  Miss  Mary  B. , daughter  of  William  V.  and  Sidney  (Bhipps)  McCullough  (natives 
respectively  of  Kentucky  and  Tennessee)  seven  children  have  been  born,  only  one  of  whom 
is  now  living:  D ivies  M.,  l)orn  at  Madison,  Ind.  Of  the  others  Norvell  Scott  and  Thomas 
C.  lived  to  the  years  of  manhood,  the  others  dying  in  infancy.  Mr.  Greene  is  a Republican 
in  politics,  is  a member  of  the  Odd  Fellow’s  fraternity  and  has  been  prominently  connected 
with  the  First  Presbyterian  Church  of  Indianapolis  since  becoming  a resident  of  the  city. 

John  W.  Foutz.  The  necessary  and  important  calling  of  the  undertaker  and  funeral 
director  has  of  late  years  made  such  rapid  progress  in  its  methods  that  it  is  to-day  more  of 
a profession  than  a trade.  In  few  others  is  there  such  a demand  on  the  part  of  its  practi- 
tioners of  the  most  tlelicate  tact  and  discretion,  while  to  follow  it  with  a certainty  of  success 
an  individual  or  firm  must  combine  high  business  qualifications  with  exceptional  scientific 
attainments.  Among  the  leading  representative  establishments  of  this  kind  in  Indianapolis 
must  be  mentioned  that  of  Foutz  & Fitzhugh,  the  senior  member  of  which  is  John  W. 
Foutz.  He  was  born  at  Newcastle,  Henry  County,  Ind.,  February  21,  1848,  a son  of  Louis 
and  Elizabeth  (Conway)  Foutz,  the  former  of  whom  was  born  in  Pennsylvania  and  the  latter 
in  Kentucky.  Louis  Foutz  was  a man  of  intelligence,  and  throughout  the  active  years  of 
his  life  Hucce.ssfully  followed  the  calling  of  a farmer  and  is  now  living  in  retirement  at  New- 
castle. At  this  place  John  W.  Foutz  was  reared  and  educated,  graduating  from  an  academy 
at  that  place  after  having  acquired  an  excellent  education  in  the  public  schools.  Shortly 
after  finishing  his  education  he  began  learning  telegraphy,  and  for  seventeen  years  was  man- 
ager of  the  Western  Union  at  Newcastle,  and  while  there  served  eight  years  as  secretary  of 


149 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

the  Building  and  Loan  Association  and  the  same  length  of  time  as  trustee  of  his  township. 
Following  this  he  engaged  in  the  undertaking  business,  continuing  it  there  successfully  for 
five  years,  then  came  to  Iudiana])olis  and  continued  the  same  business,  in  which  he  has  been 
more  than  ordinarily  successful.  His  establishment  is  continually  growing  in  popularity, 
for  the  seemly  and  sympathetic  manner  in  which  he  conducts  the  sad  rites  that  his  business 
calls  him  to  perform  has  become  known,  and  those  who  meet  with  the  loss  of  loved  ones  are 
anxious  to  engage  his  services.  In  1809  he  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Angeline  Mul- 
len, by  whom  he  has  one  child,  Gracie.  He  was  left  a widower  in  November,  1884,  and  in 
December,  1880,  he  wedded  Miss  Clara  B.  Collingsworth,  of  St.  Louis.  Mr.  Foutz  has 
shown  his  approval  of  secret  organizations  by  becoming  a member  of  the  A.  F.  & A.  M. , 
the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  the  K.  of  P.,  the  K.  of  H.  and  the  I.  O.  B.  M.,  in  each  of  which  he  has 
passed  through  all  the  chairs  of  the  subordinate  lodges.  He  is  a member  in  good  standing 
of  the  Meridian  Street  Methodist  Episcopal  Churcli  and  has  always  supported  the  men  and 
measures  of  the  Republican  party,  although  he  has  never  as])ired  to  political  honors.  He  is 
a man  of  whom  any  community  might  well  be  proud,  for  in  his  daily  walk  through  life  he 
has  endeavored  to  follow  the  teachings  of  the  Golden  Rule,  and  that  he  has  succeeded  is 
attested  in  the  fact  that  his  friends  are  legion. 

Joseph  F.  Fitzhugh.  The  well-known  gentleman  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  is  a mem- 
ber of  the  firm  of  Foutz  & Fitzhugh,  funeral  directors  at  187  Indiana  Avenue,  Indianapolis,  Ind. 
To  attain  success  in  this  most  delicate  line  of  work,  it  is  essential  that  a man  shall  possess 
special  attributes,  as  well  as  to  keep  a select  line  of  goods  constantly  on  hand,  and  these 
essential  (|ualifications,  chief  among  which  may  be  mentioned  a sympathetic  nature,  are 
possessed  by  Mr.  Fitzhugh  in  an  eminent  degree,  and  as  a natural  consequence  the  firm 
of  which  he  is  a member  is  in  demand.  March  20,  1809,  he  was  born  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio, 
his  parents  being  Frank  and  Mary  (Riddell)  Fitzhugh,  the  former  of  whom  was  a leading 
attorney  of  Cincinnati  for  many  years  and  died  when  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  quite 
small.  After  that  event  Joseph  F.  made  his  home  with  his  maternal  grandparents,  his 
grandfather.  Dr.  G.  W.  Riddell,  being  one  of  the  best  known  physicians  and  surgeons  of 
Indiana  for  years,  and  a ])rominent  member  of  the  old  Tippecanoe  Club.  During  the 
Civil  War  he  served  his  country  in  the  capacity  of  surgeon  and  was  also  prominent  in  the 
affairs  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  of  which  he  was  an  earnest  member.  He  was 
a successful  medical  practitioner  for  over  fifty  years,  and  at  the  time  of  his  death  had 
reached  the  patriarchal  age  of  ninety-two  years.  Under  his  wise  guidance  the  subject  of 
this  sketch  was  reared,  during  which  time  he  imbibed  a large  store  of  knowledge  ]iertain- 
ing  to  medicine,  anatomy  and  chemistry,  receiving  valuable  information  also  from  his  uncle, 
Dr.  J.  C.  Riddell,  a very  successful  physician  and  a prolific  and  valued  correspondent  to 
leading  Eastern  journals,  and  at  one  time  editor  and  i)roj)rietor  of  the  Knightstown  Cliron- 
icle.  WIkmi  a youth  he  served  in  the  Union  army  as  drummt'r  boy.  He  eventually  became 
an  eminent  physician  of  Kan-sas  City,  iMo.,  and  accjuired  an  enviable  reputation  through 
his  succe.ssful  treatment  of  the  morphine  and  opium  habit,  of  which  he  made  a specialty. 
He  died  in  Kansas  City  about  1883.  In  1885  Joseph  F.  Fitzhun'h  embarked  in  the  under- 
taking business  with  Adams  A Emrich,  successors  to  the  old  Ripley  A Hedges  firm,  and 
remained  in  their  employ  until  the  firm  retired  from  business,  when  he  entered  the  service 
of  George  Herrmann,  a leading  German  undertaker,  with  whom  he  remained  a short  time. 
He  then  accepted  a position  as  general  manager  of  the  undertaking  business  of  Charles 
Girton,  in  which  capacity  he  successfully  continued  until  July  1,  1893,  when  he  purchased 
his  present  business  in  connection  with  John  W.  Foutz,  and  has  conducted  it  witli  satisfac- 
tory results  up  to  the  present  time.  Mr.  Fitzhugh  holds  three  diplomas,  one  an  honorarv 
degiee  conferred  u|)on  hijii  by  the  Indiana  College  of  Embalming,  the  otlnus  beit)g  from 
Cincinnati  and  New  York  schools.  He  is  demonstrator  and  secretary  of  the  Indiana  (\jlh>ge 
of  Embalming,  having  been  for  two  years  a j)rofessor  in  that  institution.  P5tzhugh  A 
Foutz  do  an  extensive  business  and  conduct  on  an  average  about  350  funerals  annually. 
They  make  embalming  a special  f(>ature  of  their  work,  and  em|)loy  three  men  in  their  estal)- 
lishment  as  trimmers  and  eTnl)almers,  meeting  all  obligati(;ns  in  a prompt  and  business-likt' 
manner.  Mr.  Fitzhugh  is  a geneial  correspondent  of  the  ( 'o.n/.c/.  wdiich  is  published  at 
Hochester,  N.  Y.,  and  is  one  of  I he  leading  undei  taking  papers  of  the  conntrv.  H('  is  also 


150 


MEMOIRS  OF  IMDIANAROLIS 


!i  (!()rres{)oiuleut  of  the  Western  Undertaker,  piiblislied  at  Chicago,  and  has  contributed 
iiianv  acientitic  articles  on  practical  embalming  published  in  the  leading  journals  of  trade. 
i\[r.  Fitzhngh  is  ])robably  one  of  the  best  known  nudertakers  of  the  country  and  is  very 
widely  known.  He  is  a leading  member  of  the  secret  orders:  K.  of  F.,  K.  of  H.,  P.  O.  S. 
of  A.  and  the  Red  Men,  and  has  been  officially  connected  with  the  latter  iji  various  capaci- 
ties. Politically  he  is  a Prohil)itionist,  and  helms  for  some  time  been  a member  of  the  Meth- 
odist Episcopal  Church.  His  moral  character  is  above  reproach,  his  friends  are  legion,  and 
in  him  is  the  stuff  of  which  noble,  useful  and  influential  citizens  are  made. 

E.  J.  Buennan,  M.  D.  One  of  the  noblest  professions,  one  of  the  most  beneficial 
to  maiddnd,  the  profession  of  all  professions,  which,  while  it  is  prosecuted  for  gain  is  in  its 
very  nature  nearest  to  beneficent  charity,  is  that  of  medicine.  At  the  same  time  it  is  one  of  the 
most  exacting  u[)on  its  devotees.  Indianapolis  is  very  fortunate  in  the  number  and  character 
of  its  j)hy.sicians  and  surgeons  and  one  of  the  most  ])rominent  of  them  all  is  Dr.  E.  J.  Bren- 
nan who  was  born  in  the  famous  city  of  Kilkenny,  Ireland,  in  June,  1849,  a son  of  Michael 
and  Houora  (Walsh)  Brennan.  His  father  was  a cooper  by  trade  and  his  family  and  also 
tliat  of  his  wife  are  among  the  oldest  and  best  known  in  Ireland.  The  Doctor  was  brought 
to  Buffalo,  New  York  when  he  was  but  six  months  old  and  at  a proper  age  was  placed  in  the 
school  of  the  Christian  Brothers  where  he  pursued  his  studies  until  he  was  between  fifteen 
and  sixteen  years  of  age.  Thus,  early  in  life,  he  entered  upon  the  acquisition  of  a knowl- 
edge of  medicine  and  surgery  in  the  hospital  of  the  Sisters  of  Charity,  and  during  the 
ensuing  tive  years  attended  lectures  at  the  Buffalo  University  of  Medicine  and  was  graduated 
from  that  institution  in  1871  with  the  degree  of  M.  1).  He  almost  immediately  began  the 
practice  of  his  profession  at  Lockport,  N.  Y.,  and  remained  there  two  years,  meeting  with 
much  succe.ss,  and  during  that  time  he  was  the  health  officer  of  the  city.  He  then  took  up 
his  residence  in  Rochester,  N.  Y^. , and  pursued  a general  {practice  there  with  flattering  appro- 
bation until  1879.  In  October  of  that  year  he  removed  to  Indianapolis  where  he  at  once 
identitied  himself  with  the  medical  and  surgical  profession  and  with  local  interest  generally, 
and  where  he  has  since  built  up  a large  and  influential  practice.  He  became  a member  of 
the  faculty  of  the  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  in  1882,  by  election  to  the 
chair  of  diseases  of  children,  and  in  1884  he  was  promoted  to  the  chair  of  obstetrics  and 
clinical  midwifery,  which  he  still  tills.  Dr.  Brennan  is  a member  of  the  staff  of  the  City 
Hospital,  of  that  of  St.  Vincent’s  lutirmary,  and  of  that  of  the  City  Dispensary,  and  he  is  a 
physician  to  the  House  of  Good  Shepherd.  While  practicing  his  profession  in  the  State  of 
New  York,  Dr.  Brennan  was  a member  of  the  Niagara  and  Monroe  County  Medical  Societies 
and  at  this  time  is  a member  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society.  He  was  for  two 
years  a member  of  the  Indianapolis  Board  of  Health  and  for  four  years  Supreme  Medical 
Examiner  for  the  Catholic  Knights  of  America.  He  is  a frequent  and  valuable  contributor 
to  medical  literature  on  subjects  relating  to  the  special  branches  of  the  ))rofession.  The  most 
substantial  success  has  attended  his  efforts,  both  as  a practitioner  and  as  a professor  and 
lecturer,  and  his  list  of  patrons  is  made  up  largely  of  some  of  the  best  families  in  the  city. 
Of  a generous  disposition,  kind  and  unassuming  in  his  intercourse  with  his  fellow  men,  he  is 
])opular  with  the  public  and  has  made  many  warm  and  steadfast  friends  both  in  and  out  of 
the  line  of  his  daily  duty.  His  residence  and  office  are  at  240  N.  Tennessee  Street.  While 
living  in  Lockport,  N.  Y..  he  married  Miss  Susan  Graham,  daughter  of  John  Graham,  Esep, 
a prominent  merchant  of  Rochester,  N.  Y.  They  have  two  bright  and  promising  sons,  now 
students  at  Notre  Dame  University,  and  two  charming  dairghters. 

William  McGregor.  The  original  of  this  notice  is  a Hoosier  by  birth,  and  one  of 
Marion  County's  most  successful,  thorough  going  agriculturists.  He  was  born  in  Jefferson 
County,  thirteen  miles  east  of  Madison,  June  14,  1828,  on  a farm  belonging  to  his  father  at 
the  head-waters  of  Bushy  Fork.  There  he  made  his  home  until  about  seventeen  years  of 
age,  but  never  attended  school  until  after  he  was  fourteen.  He  then  went  to  a pay  school 
taught  by  Donald  Cameron,  but  not  very  steadily,  for  the  school-house  was  five  miles  distant 
from  his  father’s  house.  School  always  commenced  at  daylight,  and  lasted  until  dark. 
Cameron  was  considered  a good  teacher,  but  a very  strict  disciplinarian,  kee])ing  two  sizes 
of  switches,  the  small  ones  for  the  little  folks,  and  the  large  one  for  unruly  big  boys.  He 
had  from  tifteen  to  twenty  soholar.s,  and  the  jirincipal  branches  taught  were  the  three  R’s, 


AXI)  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


151 


viz.;  “Reading.  Ritiug  and  Ritbraetic.”  Our  subject  only  attended  two  terms  of  three 
months  each,  during  the  winter.  He  was  left  motherless  when  only  seven  years  of  age,  and 
the  father  kept  his  four  children  together,  although  the  youngest  was  but  three  months  old 
at  the  time  of  the  mother’s  death.  On  the  old  homestead  the  father  received  his  final  sum- 
mons in  February,  1846.  As  soon  as  the  property  was  sold  our  subject  and  his  two  brothers, 
Moses  and  Lewis,  went  to  Madison,  Ind. , where  Moses  and  our  subject  entered  the  em- 
ployment of  Charles  Richardson,  to  learn  the  blacksmith's  trade.  Lewis  at  the  same  time 
entered  Henry  Davidson’s  tin  shop  to  learn  the  tinner’s  trade.  For  five  years  our  subject 
remained  with  Richardson,  three  years  as  an  apprentice  and  two  years  as  a journeyman. 
From  May  to  September  of  the  second  year  of  his  apprenticeship,  our  subject  put  in  his 
time  making  spikes  to  spike  down  the  old  strap  bars  used  for  track  on  the  old  Madison  rail- 
road from  Greenwood  to  Indianapolis.  In  May,  1851,  he  concluded  to  leave  Madison, 
though  he  wasthen  making  $24  per  week  on  plow  work,  but  he  had  too  many  acquaintances,  so 
he  thought,  for  his  own  good,  as  they  prevented  him  from  saving  his  money^  He  went  to 
Greenwood,  Ind.,  rented  a shop  and  tools,  and  in  the  fall  he  bought  a set  of  tools  of  a 
blacksmith  in  Indianapolis.  He  paid  $45  for  the  tools,  getting  long  credit.  This  was  in 
the  fall  of  1851,  and  from  May^  20  until  July  7.  he  made  but  25  cents,  selling  a butcher 
knife  for  that  amount.  He  had  but  $1.75  when  he  got  to  Greenwood,  but  he  made  an  ar- 
rangenjent  with  Thomas  Howard,  from  whom  he  rented  the  shoj;)  and  tools,  that  he  should 
board  him  and  his  apprentice  and  take  his  pay  in  work.  This  was  all  that  made  it  possible 
for  Mr.  McGregor  to  stay  there.  On  July  7 he  got  his  first  work  from  Henry  Birely,  to  iron 
a wagon,  and  so  well  did  he  do  this  that  Mr.  Birely  interested  himself  in  his  behalf,  and 
before  he  had  finished  his  first  work  he  had  two  other  wagons  to  treat  in  like  manner.  For 
this  he  received  $25  for  each  wagon.  During  the  winter  of  1851  he  added  another  fire,  still 
another  in  1852,  and  a wagon  shop  shortly  afterward.  Here  he  remained  for  seven  years, 
clearing  $7,000  in  that  time,  and  then  sold  out  his  entire  plant,  receiving  $3,400  for  it.  Mr. 
l^IcGregor  then  went  west  to  southern  Missouri,  and  in  the  spring  of  1858  he  purchased 
250  acres  in  Polk  County,  Mo.  This  he  was  compelled  to  give  iqi  on  account  of  his  daugh- 
ter’s health,  and  in  September  of  that  year  he  moved  to  Acton,  Ind.,  where  he  bought  a 
house  and  lot.  and  built  a shop  in  which  he  had  five  fires.  He  made  plows,  buggies,  wag- 
ons, etc.,  working  five  blacksmiths,  seven  woodworkmen.  two  painters  and  a trimmei'.  He 
carried  on  the  shop  until  1866,  making  money  all  the  time,  and  then  bought  eighty  eight 
acres  of  Jo.ceph  Fitzgerald,  paying  $84  ])er  acre.  In  1860  he  bought  eighty  acres  of  Josejih 
Kennedy’s  heirs  for  $50  per  acre,  but  previous  to  that,  in  1866,  he  bought  forty  acres  of 
George  Whitaker,  paying  $2,100  in  cash.  At  the  present  time  he  is  the  owner  of  215  acres 
on  Sections  16  and  21.  Range  5 East.  Of  this  150  acres  are  cleared.  Mr.  McGregor  has 
raised  1,600  l)nshels  of  wheat  in  one  year,  and  averages  about  thirty-five  acres  of  corn  per 
season.  In  1803  he  also  raised  600  bushels  of  oats.  At  the  ])resent  time  (summer  1803) 
he  has  three  crops  of  wheat  on  hand,  over  3,000  bushels.  He  is  one  of  the  most  progressive, 
wide  awake  farmers  in  the  county,  and  is  highly  esteemed  by  all.  He  affiliates  with  the 
Democratic  party,  and  has  never  missed  voting  a Democratic  ticket  since  casting  his  first 
vote  for  James  Buchanan.  He  has  manifested  his  appreciation  of  secret  organizations  by 
joining  Pleasant  Lodge,  No.  134.  A.  F.  k A.  M.,  of  which  he  was  treasurer  for  about  fifteen 
years.  He  is  also  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  For  many  years  he  has  l)een  a member  of 
the  Missionary  Ba|)tist  Church,  of  which  he  is  one  of  the  trustees.  Mr.  McGregor  was  mar- 
ried  July  2,  1852,  to  Miss  Frances  AI.  Peggs,  daughter  of  Jose])h  A.  Peggs,  a native  of  Ken- 
tucky, but  who  now  resides  in  Indiana.  To  this  marriage  have  been  born  nine  children,  two 
of  whom,  Sarah  K.  and  AVilliam  L.,died  in  infancy.  The  others  reached  mature  years, 
and  are  named  as  follows:  Joseph  A.,  born  in  1852,  was  married  in  1875  to  Alias  Ida, 
daughter  of  James  Eads,  of  Alarion  f’ounty.  Ind.;  Joseph  A.  died  in  Alarcli,  1893,  leaving 
si.x  children:  Aland.  Edna.  Gertrude.  Adeline,  Samuel  and  Kennedy,  the  last  two  being 
twins;  Cvrena  A.  married  B.  F.  Beal  in  1878,  and  they  have  two  living  children  (Howard 
G.  and  Chestei-);  Charles  K.  resides  in  Alarion  County.  Ind..  married  Alias  Carrie  Anderson 
in  1883,  daughter  of  Hayden  .Anderson,  and  tiny  have  two  sons  (AVilliam  H.  and  Frederick 
E.):  Alarv  L.  married  Cornelius  Belton  in  1879,  and  thevhad  one  son  (Lewis  S.),  the  mother 
dying  in  1883;  Ala  rtlici  iiiHrricd  Oliver  of  T-oiulcii,  Iiid.,  in  1881  ; Nuoiiii  iiinrricd 


152 


MEMOIhS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


D.  H.  Snepp  iii  18S4,  and  Minnie,  wlio  is  at  home.  The  father  of  our  sirbject,  Alexander 
McGregor,  was  l)orn  in  Glasgow,  Scotland,  about  1786,  and  came  to  America  in  1815,  locat- 
ing in  Jeil'erson  County,  Ind.  He  was  a weaver  by  trade,  and  worked  at  this  for  the  sur- 
rounding country  until  his  death  February  11,  1846.  He  was  a Presbyterian  in  religion, 
and  a Democrat  in  politics.  He  was  married  in  1826  to  Miss  Martha  Rogers,  daughter  of 
Moses  Rogers,  a native  of  Ireland,  and  these  children  were  born  to  them;  William;  Mary, 
widow  of  Henry  Voorhees,  of  Polk  County,  Mo.,  has  eight  children  (William,  Moses,  Lewis, 
Martha,  Sallie,  Jane,  Indiana  and  Charles);  Moses  died  in  1883,  married  Miss  Louisa  Peggs, 
who  died  in  1865,  leaving  one  child.  Belle,  who  married  Judd  Fitz|)atrick,  and  Louis,  died 
in  1884,  entered  the  Confederate  service  in  Arkansas  at  the  outbreak  of  the  Rebellion,  served 
two  years,  and  was  then  captured.  The  mother  of  these  children  died  in  1833.  Our  sub- 
ject’s fatlier-in-law,  .Joseph  Peggs,  was  born  in  Trimble  County,  Ky.,  in  1806,  and  there  he 
was  reared.  He  was  married  in  Mason  County,  Ky.,in  1835,  to  Miss  Mary  A.  McCready, 
daughter  of  Alexander  McCready,  a soldier  of  the  War  of  1812,  and  at  once  emigrated  to 
Palmyra,  Mo.,  where  he  lived  about  three  years.  After  that  he  returned  to  Kentucky,  and 
in  1844  came  to  Johnson  County,  Ind.,  where  he  located  in  Pleasant  township.  There  he 
and  his  worthy  wife  reside  at  the  j)re8ent  time.  Seven  children  were  born  to  their  marriage, 
six  of  whom  grew  to  mature  years;  William  A.  married  Miss  Nancy  Wiley,  and  they  now 
reside  in  Marion  County;  Margaret  F.  married  our  subject;  .John  H.  served  in  the  Civil 
War,  married  Miss  Mary  Sheets,  and  resides  at  Columbus;  Mary  A.  married  Peter  Myers, 
and  resides  in  Marion  County;  Louisa  A.  married  Moses  McGregor,  and  died  in  1865,  and 
Charles  E.,  who  married  Miss  Clara  Hester,  who  bore  him  live  children,  and  died  in  1889. 
-Joseph  Peggs,  the  grandfather  of  Mrs.  McGregor,  was  born  in  Ireland,  emigrated  to  America 
at  an  early  date,  saw  the  “Royal  Ship  George”  sink,  and  located  in  Kentucky.  He  married 
there,  but  later  came  to  Indiana,  where  he  afterward  died. 

-J.vMES  S.  CarsE.  The  steady  ratio  of  development  observable  in  the  Indianapolis  real 
estate  market  and  the  universally  high  reputation  that  investments  therein  have  attained, 
reflect  the  greatest  credit  upon  the  leading  real  estate  agents  and  dealers.  Among  the  more 
prominent  and  enter|)rising  members  of  the  profession  in  this  city  is  James  S.  Cruse,  who 
combines  insurance,  with  his  real  estate  operations  and  in  that  department  represents  some 
of  the  stanchest  companies  before  the  jniblic.  Mr.  Cruse  was  liorn  at  New  Albany,  Ind., 
.July  16,  I8d8,  a son  of  John  P.  and  Anna  M.  (Dirdley)  Cruse.  His  father,  who  was  a native 
of  Philadelphia,  Penn.,  located  in  New  Albany  while  yet  a young  man  and  began  business 
there  as  a stone  and  brick  mason  and  contractor.  In  1862  he  removed  to  Indianapolis  and 
not  long  afterward  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  brick  which  he  continued  extensively  and 
with  success  for  twenty  years.  He  retired  with  a competency  and  died  in  January,  1893, 
much  regretted  by  a large  circle  of  ac(juaintances  and  especially  by  the  older  business  men 
whose  associate  he  had  been  for  so  many  years.  His  wife  died  .January,  1877.  Of  their 
four  children  two  died  in  infancy.  .James  S.  Cruse  was  about  four  years  old  when  his 
parents  came  to  Indianapolis,  and  this  city  has  been  his  almost  lifelong  home.  He  was 
educated  in  the  |>ublic  schools,  and  later  was  connected  with  his  father’s  brick  making  enter- 
prise as  office  clerk  and  foreman  for  about  two  years.  He  then  accepted  a position  as  clerk 
in  the  abstract  office  of  John  Batty,  and  after  Mr.  Batty’s  death  managed  the  enterprise 
until  it  was  sold  to  John  R.  Ruth.  It  was  in  this  connection  that  he  acquired  a knowledge 
of  the  fundamental  principles  of  the  real  estate  business  and  a bent  of  mine  which  later  led 
him  to  engage  in  it  permanently.  After  a course  at  a prominent  l)usiness  college,  he  next 
entered  the  employ  of  Dain  & McCullough.  After  the  dissolution  of  the  partnership  between 
Messrs.  Dain  and  McCullough,  Mr.  Cruse  remained  with  Mr.  Dain  in  the  real  estate  and 
rental  business  and  after  the  death  of  Mr.  Dain,  in  1883,  succeeded  to  the  business  which 
he  has  since  continued  so  successfully  that  he  now  ranks  with  the  prominent  business  men 
of  the  city.  He  has  l)een  a memljer  of  the  Commercial  Club  since  its  organization  and  is  a 
I)rominent  member  of  the  Marion  Club.  He  is  also  well  known  as  an  Odd  Fellow  and  a 
Mason  and  is  in  all  ways  popular  in  business  and  social  circles.  He  was  married  May  24, 
1882,  to  Miss  Anna  H.  Wands,  a native  of  Indianapolis  and  a daughter  of  Alexander  and 
Catherine  (McOuat)  Wands,  natives  of  Scotland.  The  business  methods  of  Mr.  Cruse  have 
always  been  conservative  yet  energetic,  He  has  not  taken  many  speculative  risks,  but  has 


r.  W.  BAIITIIOLOMEW, 


V 


153 


AND  MAIUOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

done  a straight,  legitimate  business  being  content  with  honest  trade  honestly  worked  up 
and  honestly  conducted.  He  combines  in  a remarkable  degree  all  of  the  diverse  qualities 
essential  to  success  in  his  distinctive  line,  and  is  recognized  by  his  associates  as  most  truly 
and  emphatically  the  “right  man  in  the  right  place.” 

J.  H.  George,  D.  D.  S.  The  dent  st  when  well  up  in  his  ]>rofession  is  a most  valuable 
man  in  the  community,  and  in  Indianapolis  there  is  none  who  ranks  higher  than  Dr.  J.  H. 
George.  Although  he  is  still  young  in  years  he  commands  a thorough  knowledge  of  his  pro- 
fession and  his  ability  and  insight  into  his  calling,  as  well  as  his  ability  to  express  himself 
intelligently  has  been  the  means  of  winning  for  him  the  ])osition  of  demonstrator  of  operative 
dentistry  in  the  Indiana  De  tal  College,  a position  which  was  tendered  him  a very  short  time 
after  his  graduation  from  that  institution  in  1891.  He  owes  his  nativity  to  Jefferson  County, 
Ind.,  where  he  first  saw  the  light  of  day  March  28,  18()0,  a son  of  W.  J.  and  Edith  M.  (Spann) 
George,  both  of  whom  were  born  in  the  Stat-'  of  Kentucky  but  afterward  located  near  Madi- 
son, Ind.,  in  the  public  schools  of  which  place  Dr.  J.  H.  George  received  his  literary  educa- 
tion. He  possessed  a l)right,  receptive  and  retentive  mind,  made  rapid  progress  in  his 
studies  and  upon  leaving  school  was  considered  a well-informed  young  man,  and  capable  of 
fighting  the  battle  of  life  for  himself.  In  1889  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  graduated  from 
the  Indiana  Dental  College  in  1891  with  much  credit  to  himself,  his  record  in  that  insti- 
tution being  greatly  to  Iris  credit.  He  is  tilling  his  preasent  ])0.sition  with  great  ability  and 
is  proving  that  he  is  the  right  man  in  the  right  place.  Politically  he  has  always  been  a 
Hepul)lican  and  for  some  time  he  has  been  a member  of  the  Marion  Club. 

John  F.  Craig.  One  of  the  most  efficient  and  trustworthy  servants  of  Uncle  Sam  is 
John  F.  Craig,  who  has  charge  of  the  postoffice  at  Haughville,  Ind.  In  addition  to  looking 
after  the  duties  of  this  position  he  is  the  proprietor  of  a hardware  establishment  which  is 
netting  him  a satisfactory  yearly  income.  The  city  of  Glasgow,  Scotland,  gave  him  birth 
January  28,  180(1,  his  father  being  James  F.  Craig,  who  was  also  born  in  thecity  of  Glasgow. 
He  learned  the  trade  of  a machinist  in  the  land  of  his  birth  and  became  so  expert  that  he 
was  placed  in  charge  of  a large  foundry  in  that  country.  The  free  soil  of  the  United  States, 
however,  possessed  great  attractions  for  him  and  after  reaching  this  country  in  1872  he  set- 
tled down  in  W'auregan,  Conn.,  which  ])lace  he  made  his  home  until  four  years  since  when 
he  came  to  Haughville,  which  jilace  has  since  been  his  home.  IT])on  tirst  reacrhing  this  city 
he  worked  in  the  Malleable  Iron  Works,  and  as  he  has  been  industrious  and  careful  in  his 
expenditures,  though  by  no  means  niggardly,  he  has  accumulated  considerable  property  of 
value  in  Haughville.  .Sir.  Craig  is  a Mason  and  Odd  Fellow  and  iie  and  his  wife  are  strict 
members  of  the  Presbyterian  Church  and  pride  themselves  on  their  Scotch  blood.  The 
mother  can  trace  her  ancestry  back  201)  years.  John  F.  Craig  was  the  third  of  eight  chil 
(Iren,  five  of  whom  are  now  living,  liorn  to  his  parents,  and  in  the  bonny  land  of  Scotland  he 
was  first  led  in  the  jiaths  of  learning.  A fter  the  removal  of  his  parents  aero.ss  the  wide  Atlantic 
to  this  country,  and  after  their  location  in  Connecticut,  he  attended  the  schools  of  that  State 
for  some  time,  but  upon  reaching  the  age  of  eleven  or  twelve  years  much  of  his  time  was  devoted 
t<)  learning  llie  machinist’s  ( rade  and  his  school  days  were  few  and  far  between.  After  becoming 
thoroughly  familiar  with  thiscallinghe  came  W’est,  in  1885,  and  entered  the  works  of  Ketcham 
Brown  and  afterward  the  Ewart  Chain  Works,  leaving  the  em{)loy  of  these  gentlemen  to  take 
charge  of  the  tool  works  of  the  Indianapolis,  Decatur  A,  Western  Bailroad,  where 
lie  remained  a valued  employe  for  two  years.  At  tlie  end  of  this  lime  he  opened 

a grocery  store  in  Haughville  but  gave  uj)  the  business  after  a sliort  time  to  engage 
in  tlie  hardware  business,  which  branch  of  human  endeavor  has  sin.te  received  his  attention, 
and  in  which  he  has  met  with  reasonabh'  tinancial  success.  He  has  served  in  the  cajiacitv 
of  town  trustee,  but  resigned  this  position  to  take  charge  of  the  post-office,  the  duties  of 
which  he  has  discharged  in  a successful  and  able  manin'r  and  to  the  entire  satisfaction  of  the 
residents  of  the  place.  He  is  a Uepublican  and  socially  is  a charter  memlier  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F. 
lodge  at  this  jilace,  which  he  served  in  the  ca|)aci(y  of  secretary  for  a number  of  years,  and 
he  also  belongs  to  the  Calledonia  ()uotin  Club.  Mr.  Craig  has  just  been  married  to  IMiss 
Jennie  Corbett,  of  fndianafiolis.  He  will  ri'side  at  1 13  King  Avenue. 

F.  J.  Smkrer.  'I’he  subject  of  oursketch  is  one  of  the  larg(*st  contractors  in  the  city  of 
Indianapolis,  and  a member  of  the  council  at  large.  He  has  made  his  way  along  tlirough 


154 


MK}fOTRS  OF  INDIANAPOLTS 


life  alone  and  unaided,  ami  liis  large  accumulations  represent  the  labor  of  his  own  bands, 
lie  starting  out  for  liiinself  with  a trade,  health  and  a clean  conscience.  Mr.  Sherer  was 
born  in  Dayton.  Ohio,  March  15,  1854;  being  the  son  of  George  W.  and  Christina  (Shilling) 
Sherer,  natives  of  Alsace,  Germany,  who  emigrated  to  this  country  about  the  year  1836, 
settling  in  Dayton,  where  the  father  engaged  in  the  linseed  oil  business,  which  he  followed 
until  his  death.  This  industrious  man  was  the  father  of  eleven  children,  eight  of  whom  are 
living,  namely:  Michael.  Mary,  George,  Anna,  John.  Joseph,  Edward  J.  and  William.  The 
fattier  of  this  family  died  at  Dayton  in  January,  1871),  his  wife  still  living  in  that  city  in 
the  possession  of  good  health  and  active  for  one  of  her  years.  Our  subject  was  reared  in 
his  native  county,  where  he  attended  the  common  schools,  and  later  was  apprenticed  to  the 
trade  of  a plasterer  at  Dayton,  serving  out  his  time  and  working  at  it  until  1873,  when  he 
came  to  Indianapolis,  resuming  his  labors  at  his  trade  here  and  continuing  at  that  work 
until  1879.  In  the  jirevious  year  he  had  tloue  some  contracting  on  his  own  account,  which 
he  made  profitable,  and  was  so  well  satisfied  with  this  business  that  he  now  gave  up  his 
whole  time  and  attention  to  it  and  has  followed  it  ever  since.  E.  J.  Sherer  is  a man  who 
never  does  anything  by  halves  and  he  has  pursued  the  contracting  work  with  great  energy, 
having  done  among  other  things  the  stone  work  for  the  State  House,  for  the  insane  asylum, 
Tomlinson  Hall,  Circle  Park  (which  is  now  torn  out),  the  Columbus  (Tnd.)  starch  works,  all 
the  city  breweries  of  Indianapolis,  a large  amount  of  work  at  Fratddin  (Ind.).  the  custom 
house  at  New  Albany,  and  has  carried  out  many  other  large  contracts.  The  firm  in  which 
he  is  a partner  bears  the  name  of  Laakman  & Sherer,  which  was  formed  in  1878,  and  is  the 
oldest  and  best  known  in  the  city,  its  business  being  that  of  artificial  stone.  Mr.  Sherei' 
was  etn))ty  handed  when  he  left  his  home  but  had  a brave  heart  and  he  has  never  once  faltered 
since.  His  manliness  has  always  asserted  itself  and  he  has  kept  hands  and  head  busy.  He 
owns  very  valuable  property  on  AVest  P’irst  Street  and  in  other  portions  of  the  city.  The 
Builders’  Exchange  basin  him  a most  active  and  useful  member  and  he  was  one  of  the  first  to 
identify  himself  with  that  organization.  Social  by  nature,  he  has  a large  circle  of  friends 
and  accjuaintances  in  whose  company  he  always  (‘njoys  himself,  and  he  is  a member  of  the 
K.  of  P.  and  of  the  Odd  Fellows.  Mr.  Sherer  takes  a most  active  interest  in  politics  and  in 
the  aflairs  of  the  city  and  was  elected  to  the  city  council  from  the  fourth  ward  in  1890, 
and  a councilman-atdarge  in  1892,  he  being  a very  popular  man  among  his  fellow  citizens, 
and  has  proven  himself  a very  energetic  and  mo.st  useful  memlier  of  the  council.  Mr. 
Sherer  was  married  in  1874  to  Miss  Ada  Sullings.  of  Greencastle,  Ind.,  who  has  borne  him 
two  children,  namely:  Harry  J.  and  Goldie  E.  Our  subject  was  too  young  to  take  any  part 
in  the  late  war.  but  three  brothers,  George,  Conrad  and  Michael,  were  brave  and  good 
soldiers  in  the  army,  and  Conrad  was  killed  in  a skirmish  at  Battle  llidge,  being  struck  by  a 
shell  He  was  a lieutenant  and  a young  man  of  much  promise.  His  remains  lie  in  the 
cemetery  at  Chattanooga,  Tenn.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  is  a man  who  has  so  deported 
himself  as  to  gain  the  confidence  and  the  respect  of  all  who  know  him.  Strictly  honorable 
and  possessed  of  excellent  business  sense,  he  is  a most  valuable  member  of  the  council  and 
his  future  gives  promise  of  still  greater  success  and  usefulness. 

Anton  Schmidt.  A close  observer,  in  studying  the  history  of  the  advancement  and 
development  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  will  find  golden  threads  running  through  the  web 
and  woof  of  events  of  the  ]iast  years.  These  are  indicative  of  the  lives  of  those  men  whose 
public  spirit  and  energy  have  made  her  first  among  the  cities,  and  give  her  a conspicuous 
place  among  the  commercial  marts  of  the  world.  A true  representative  of  such  men  is 
found  in  one  whose  career  in.s])ires  this  brief  notice,  Mr.  Anton  Schmidt,  now  councilman  for 
the  fourteenth  ward,  was  born  in  Germany,  September  12,  1840.  and  his  parents.  Charles 
and  Louise  (Brunk)  Schmidt,  both  of  whom  were  natives  of  that  country,  received  their  final 
summons  in  that  State.  Anton  grew  to  manhood  in  Geilnan,  Germany,  and  like  many  of  his 
countrymen  decided  to  make  his  future  home  in  the  United  States.  In  1866  he  took  passage 
for  this  country,  landed  in  New  York  City,  and  came  direct  to  Indianapolis  where  he  worked 
in  the  California  House.  Ambitious  and  ])ersevering  he  worked  at  anything  that  would 
bring  him  in  an  honest  living,  and  in  this  manner  gained  a solid  footing.  He  has  been 
a resident  of  Indianapolis  for  twenty-six  years  and  in  business  for  himself  for  twenty  years. 
Success  has  crowned  his  efforts  and  he  is  to-day  one  of  the  prominent  men  of  Indianapolis. 


155 


.4.V/>  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

He  was  elected  a mein  her  of  the  city  council  in  1891  and  it  is  safe  to  say  that  in  the  discharge 
of  the  duties  of  that  position  his  course  will  redound  to  the  credit  of  himself  and  the  present 
city  government.  He  is  a stockholder  in  the  Shelby  Street  Building  and  Loan  Association 
of  which  he  is  president,  and  social!}'  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  H.  His  first  marriage  was 
to  Miss  Minnie  Brocksmith,  and  his  second  to  Miss  Lizzie  Schaub.  Five  children  have 
blessed  these  unions — Louis,  Hattie,  Carrie,  Lydia  and  Louise.  A Democrat  in  his  political 
views,  Mr.  Schmidt  has  ever  espoused  the  principles  of  that  party. 

Dk.  William  Niles  Wishard  was  born  in  Greenwood,  Johnson  County,  Ind.,  October 
10,  1851,  a son  of  Dr.  MJlliam  H.  and  Harriet  N.  (Moreland)  Wishard,  and  was  educated  at 
the  Southport  High  School  and  at  Wabash  College.  After  leaving  school  he  turned  his  at 
tention  to  the  study  of  medicine  and  was  graduated  from  the  Indiana  Medical  College  in 
February,  1874.  He  at  once  entered  upon  the  practice  of  his  profession  at  Southport,  and 
after  gaining  some  valuable  e.xperience  in  that  Avay  became  a student  in  Miami  Medical  Col- 
lege. Cincinnati,  and  was  also  graduated  therefrom  in  Maich.  1870.  Immediately  there- 
after he  resumed  his  practice  at  Soulhport,  l)ut  in  November,  1870.  removed  to  Indianapolis, 
and  was  in  active  and  successful  practice  tliere  until  July  1,  1879.  when  he  assumed  the 
duties  of  superintendent  of  the  city  hospital,  to  which  he  had  recently  been  elected.  Dur- 
ing the  jieriod  of  his  practice  in  Indianapolis  he  served  as  deputy  coroner  of  Marion  County, 
and  in  that  capacity  made  most  of  the  post  mortem  examinations  with  which  the  coroner 
was  credited.  He  gave  great  satisfaction  as  superintendent  of  the  city  hospital  until  Janu- 
ary 1,  1887,  when  he  declined  a re  election  in  order  to  devote  himself  to  the  active  practice 
of  h is  profession.  It  was  during  Dr.  Wishard’s  superintendency  that  tlie  present  elegant 
and  commodious  hospital  building  was  erected,  and  it  was  chiehy  through  his  influence  and 
untiring  energy  that  this  great  woik  was  accomplished.  For  years  he  devoted  himself  to  it 
and  it  will  stand  as  a memorial  to  his  useful  labors.  Dr.  Wishard  was  ajipointed  assistant 
surgeon  general  of  the  State  of  Indiana  by  Gov.  Hovey,  and  was  appointed  surgeon  general 
by  Gov.  Chase,  and  served  with  much  credit  in  both  ])ositions.  He  was  one  of  the  organ 
izers  and  was  elected  the  first  president  of  the  Indianajiolis  Surgical  Society,  and  at  this 
time  he  is  first  vice  president  of  the  Mississippi  Valley  Medical  Society,  vice-president  of  the 
Marion  County  Medical  Society  and  a member  of  tlu^  American  Association  of  Genito-I^rinary 
Surgery.  He  has  been  honored  by  the  Medical  C’ollege  of  Indiana  by  appointment  as  as- 
sistant to  the  chairs  of  principles  and  practice  of  medicine,  lecturer  on  clinical  medicine 
and  professor  of  genito  urinary  and  venereal  diseases,  which  last mentioned  position  he 
now  holds.  On  leaving  the  city  host>ital  Dr.  Wishard  w’as  ajipointed  consulting  surgeon  in 
that  institii'ion  on  genito  urinary  and  venereal  diseases,  and  the  same  position  was  given  him 
in  the  city  disjiensary.  Soon  after  severing  his  connection  with  the  hospital  he  took  a course 
in  the  Lost  Graduate  Medical  College  and  Polyclinic,  New  York,  after  which  he  returned  to 
Indianapolis  and  resumed  geneial  jiractice,  which  he  soon  abandoned  to  devote  his  entire 
time  to  the  practice  of  what  had  become  his  s[)ecialty,  genito  urinary  surgery.  He  has  done 
some  original  w'ork  in  [irostatic  surgery,  having  performed  the  first  ojieiation  for  removal  of 
the  lateral  lob(*s  of  the  prostate  gland  through  a perineal  ojiening.  In  1890  Dr.  Wishard 
went  to  Furope  for  the  jmrpose  of  better  qualifying  himself  to  ]>ra(;tice  his  sp(>cialty.  and  he 
attended  llie  International  .Medical  Congress  held  in  Berlin,  afterward  visited  the  hospitals 
in  Berlin,  Paris  and  London,  saw  and  conversed  with  most  of  the  leading  specialists  in  his 
line  of  practice  in  those  cities,  and  returned  honui  in  the  autumn  of  that  year.  He  is  well 
read  outside  of  jirofessional  literature,  and  having  mingled  much  with  some  of  the  brightest 
men  of  the  day  he  is  a most  charming  and  entertaining  companion.  He  was  married  in 
May,  1880.  to  Alice,  daughter  of  Mr.  W illiam  Wesley  Woollen,  of  Indiana})()lis,  a most  lirill- 
lant  and  fascinating  lady,  who  died  on  Decemlier  9 following  their  marriage,  and  since  then 
he  lias  remained  a widower.  'I’he  Doctor  has  been  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  Church 
sincr?  1S7J,  and,  besides  ha\  ing  smwed  as  ruling  elder  in  the  body  with  which  lie  is  identified, 
he  has  been  influential  in  church  councils  and  liliorally  helpful  to  all  church  interests  and 
good  works.  Being  six  feet,  two  inches  in  lunglit,  compactly  built  and  without  surplus  flesh, 
tilt*  Doctor  is  of  comnrinding  ami  most  jileasiug  |)resence.  His  conijilexion  is  fair,  and  he 
has  blue  eyes  anil  brown  hair,  and,  all  in  all,  his  appearance  is  striking,  yet  attraiit ive,  and 
his  manner  is  sri  hearty  and  cordial  that  a strangci’  upon  entering  his  presence  is  put  at  once 
at  his  ease. 


MEMOIliS  OF  INDTANAFOLTS 


1 50 


Gustave  C.  Lange.  Love  of  Mowers  is  inborn  in  the  majority  of  people,  l)ut  it  is  to 
only  a comparatively  few  that  the  art  of  cultivating  them  in  their  utmost  perfection  is  given. 
Mr.  Gustave  C.  Lange  seems  to  possess  a natural  aptitude  for  this  branch  of  human  endeavor, 
and  in  the  position  of  florist  for  the  State  Insane  Asylum  at  Indianapolis  he  has  shown 
the  best  of  judgment,  great  skill  and  the  utmost  taste.  He  has  been  a florist  of  Indianapolis 
for  the  ])ast  twenty-five  years,  but  was  born  in  Prussia  in  1839,  his  father  being  George 
Lange.  Gustavo  G.  received  his  education  in  the  land  that  gave  him  birth  and  while  still 
residing  there  learned  the  art  of  gardening,  for  which  he  seemed  to  have  a natural  aptitude 
and  a decided  taste.  In  1898  he  left  Prussia  to  come  to  the  United  States,  and  after  spend- 
ing some  time  in  St.  Louis  went  to  Cincinnati,  but  permanently  located  in  Indianapolis 
shortly  after,  and  turned  his  attention  to  floriculture  exclusively  and  kept  a well  stocked  and 
appointed  establishment  on  East  Washington  Street,  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  which  he 
owned  a nice  tract  of  land  u])on  which  he  at  once  jnit  up  extensive  green-houses  which  he 
liberally  stocked  with  all  kinds  of  plants  from  the  choicest  exotics  to  the  simple  violet.  After 
a time  he  sold  out  and  removed  to  Peru,  Ind.,  and  later  bought  the  ])lace  owned  by  B.  A. 
Fold.  After  selling  this  ])roperty  he  went  to  Dallas,  Tex.,  where  he  was  in  business  three 
years,  then  returned  to  Indianapolis  and  oi)ened  a store  on  North  Illinois  Street,  but  as  the 
business  was  not  a paying  one  he  decided  to  give  it  uj),  and  when  asked  to  take  charge  of 
the  grounds  of  the  insane  asylum  he  accepted,  and  the  reputation  of  their  great  beauty  has 
gone  throughout  the  State.  He  has  proven  himself  in  every  way  competent  to  fill  this 
responsible  position  and  the  directors  of  this  institution  have  every  reason  to  be  satisfled 
with  his  services.  He  was  married  in  Cincinnati  in  1871  to  Miss  Johanna  Diunse,  a native 
of  Prussia,  and  to  them  a daughter  and  three  sons  were  given.  After  the  death  of  this 
wife  he  married  her  sistej',  Carrie,  by  whom  he  has  one  son  and  three  daughters.  He  and 
his  wife  are  members  of  the  Lutheran  Church  and  he  is  a member  of  the  Indianapolis 
Florists  Club,  and  socially  belongs  to  the  K.  of  H. 

Joseph  U.  Adams.  The  business  of  house  painting  has  become  an  art  and  one  of  the 
men  who  excels  in  this  line  of  human  endeavor  is  Joseph  R.  Adams,  whose  excellent  taste 
atid  good  judgment  have  brought  him  prominently  before  the  notice  of  the  most  extensive 
builders  and  contractors,  as  well  as  property  holders,  in  the  city  of  Indianapolis.  He  owes 
his  nativity  to  the  city  of  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  where  he  was  born  on  March  13,  185‘2.  a sou  of 
John  C.  and  Rhoda  (Miller)  Adams,  the  former  a native  of  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  and  the  latter 
of  the  State  of  Pennsylvania.  John  C.  Adams  is  now  a successful  painter  and  contractor  of 
Cambridge  City,  Ind.,  a calling  he  has  followed  ever  since  starting  out  in  life  for  himself  and 
although  in  his  sixty-second  year  is  yet  hale  and  hearty.  He  was  a soldier  in  an  Ohio  regi- 
ment during  the  great  Civil  War  and  was  loyal,  brave  and  useful  in  espousing  the  cause  of 
the  Union.  Joseph  R.  .^dams  is  the  eldest  of  his  parent’s  children  and  in  his  youth  was 
given  the  advantages  of  the  excellent  ])ublie  schools  of  Cincitmati,  which  he  did  not  fail  to 
improve,  and  at  the  early  age  of  sixteen  years  he  turned  his  attention  to  learning  the 
painter’s  trade  with  eveiy  branch  of  which  he  became  thoroughly  familiar  under  the  intelli- 
gent direction  of  his  father,  with  whom  he  remained  until  he  attained  his  majority.  He 
then  left  the  shelter  of  the  parental  roof  and  came  to  Indianapolis,  where  he  worked  as  a 
journeyman  for  (piite  a number  years,  after  which  he  was  engaged  as  foreman  by  'William 
Muecke,  which  position  he  retained  for  thirteen  years  at  No.  24  Virginia  Avenue.  At  the 
end  of  (his  time  he  entered  the  employ  of  Salisbury  & Stanley,  as  foreman,  but  only 
remained  with  them  a few  years,  when  he  commenced  the  battle  of  life  indejiendently  and 
since  that  time  has  done  a very  extensive  business,  in  fact  one  of  the  most  extensive  in  the 
city.  Some  of  the  most  notal)le  of  the  buildings  which  he  has  erected  are  the  Lombard 
building,  the  City  Hall,  the  Bates  House,  the  Union  Depot,  the  Grand  Hotel,  the  Spencer 
House  and  has  done  a great  deal  of  theater  work  and  erected  many  beautiful  dwelling 
houses  in  different  portions  of  Indiana])olis,  in  which  work  he  has  had  direction  over  from 
twenty-live  to  forty  men.  all  of  whom  he  chooses  carefully.  He  is  one  of  the  best  versed 
contractors  of  the  city,  having  given  his  attention  to  this  line  of  work  for  many  years,  and  the 
buildings  which  he  has  erected  have  been  conspicuously  commented  upon  and  noticed  by  all 
builders  and  contractors,  as  well  as  by  those  who  expect  to  build.  He  is  a man  of  unblem- 
ished character  and  is  loyal  to  his  promises  in  all  his  undertakings.  He  is  a member  of  the 


157 


AKJ)  MARIOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Master  Painter’s  Association,  the  Builders’  Exchange,  and  socially  belongs  to  the  A.  F.  & A. 
M.  and  the  K.  of  H.  March  15,  1S76,  he  was  mari'ied  to  Miss  Lucy  Rueb,  of  Chillicothe, 
Ohio,  and  to  their  union  a son  and  daughter  have  l)een  given. 

WiLLiAAi  Bradley  Clarke,  M.  D.  One  of  the  leading  hotuceopathic  physicians  of 
Indianapolis  is  Dr.  William  Bradley  Clarke,  who  was  born  at  Columbus,  Ohio,  November  8, 
1848,  and  is  consequently  forty-live  years  old  the  World’s  Fair  year.  Dr.  Clarke’s  father, 
who  was  a druggist  at  Columbus,  was  named  Sumner  Clarke,  and  was  of  the  old  Puritan 
stock,  born  at  Northampton,  Mass.,  where  his  father,  Enos  Clarke,  was  for  years  deacon  in 
the  famous  Jonathan  Edwards  orthodox  church.  Dr.  Clarke’s  mother,  whose  maiden  name 
was  Maria  Haddock,  died  suddenly  of  cholera  when  the  Doctor  was  less  than  a year  old  and, 
the  family  breaking  up,  he  was  sent  to  Massachusetts  to  be  reared  by  his  uncle  and  aunt,  his 
uncle  being  Kev.  T.  J.  Clarke,  a congregational  minister  at  Cummington,  Hampshire  Cotinty ; 
the  historic  little  town  was  also  the  poet,  William  Cullen  Bryant’s  home.  Here  he  attended 
the  common  schools  and  for  years  was  carefully  educated  by  his  uncle.  Rev.  Mr.  Clarke,  who 
was  a graduate  of  Williams  College  apd  a man  of  the  finest  literary  attainments,  and  who 
was  as  nearly  a father  to  the  boy  as  any  uncle  could  have  been.  Then  came  a removal  to 
Ashtield,  the  home  of  George  William  Curtis,  for  a few  more  years’  residence.  It  would  be 
interesting  to  trace  just  how  much  intluence  the  literary  labors  of  two  such  eminent  men  of 
letter,  his  neighbors,  so  to  speak,  had  upon  the  mind  of  young  Clarke,  es])ecially  in  inspiring 
in  him  the  insatiable  love  for  books  and  literarj'  matter  that  has  always  been  one  of  his  chief 
characteristics.  Another  removal  took  him  to  Bernardston,  Mass.,  where  he  was  placed  in 
the  then  noted  Powers  Institute,  where  he  was  to  be  fitted  for  Amherst  College.  His  father 
was  now  operating  a large  fiouring  mill  near  Chicago,  which  took  fire  and  was  destroyed;  its 
owner  was  taken  sick  some  time  afterward,  it  is  supposed  from  the  effects  of  ex))08ure  and 
over-exertion  at  the  fire,  his  illness  terminating  fatally.  The  mill  insurance  could  not  be  col 
lected  and  young  Clarke,  thrown  upon  his  own  resources,  reluctantly  gave  up  his  idea  of 
entering  college,  left  school  and  at  the  age  of  sixteen  of  his  own  volition  entered  a newspaper 
and  printing  office  with  the  determination  of  entering  the  trade  and  business;  making  rapid 
advancement  he  was,  by  the  time  he  had  reached  his  majority,  competent  to  hold  any  position 
in  which  he  might  be  placed.  Passionately  fond  of  travel,  he  served  in  many  journalistic 
ca})acities  in  most  of  the  large  cities  of  the  country,  principally  St.  Louis.  Cincinnati,  Chicago, 
New  York  and  Boston,  and  gradually  accpiired  the  nickname  of  “Walking  Encyclopedia.” 
Medical  works  early  attracted  his  attention  and  in  1876,  while  a j)roofreader  and  editor,  he 
began  in  earnest  to  read  medicine  with  a view  of  entering  a medical  college,  finally  doing  so, 
and  three  years  thereafter  graduating  with  honors  from  the  Chicago  Hommopathic  Medical 
College,  March  6,  1884,  winning  the  college  dis])ensary  position  and  in  the  subse(|uent  competi 
tive  examination,  the  eighteen  months  interneship  in  the  great  Cook  County  Hospital.  Chicago. 
Finally  settling  in  Indianapolis  associated  with  Dr.  O.  S.  Runnels,  heat  once  identified  him- 
self with  the  .State  Medical  Society  and  was  elected  secretary  thereof,  a position  to  which  he 
has  been  yearly  re-elected  five  or  six  times.  He  is  also  a member  of  the  National  Society  of 
Hoimeopathic  Physicians,  honorary  member  of  the  Missouri  and  Kentucky  societies,  mendier 
of  the  Indiana  Academy  of  .Science  and  (though  not  a theosophist)  secretary  of  the  Indian- 
apolis Theosophical  Society.  He  was  married  at  Indianapolis  February  4,  1860,  to  Mrs. 
Alice  It  Winings,  their  union  l)eing  blessed  with  a beautiful  boy,  Clarence  by  name.  Being 
of  a literary  turn  of  mind  by  nature  and  education,  before  receiving  his  medical  diploma,  it 
was  imi)ossible  for  him  to  aftei’ward  lay  down  his  pen;  indeed  he  has  kept  it  |)henomenally 
active  ever  since,  all  of  his  spaie  lime  being  spent  in  preparing  articles  for  medical  societies 
in  general  and  f(n'  newspapers.  'I’ln'se  articles  cover  a wide  range  of  aul)jects  and  are  always 
written  with  a vi(nv  to  entertain  and  instruct  and  for  this  leason  are  ))olh  eagerly  welcomed 
by  publisher  and  leader,  ttneof  the  former  thus  speaks  of  him  {Mi^iiicd/iolis  Medical  Arynt^, 
July,  1862);  ‘‘To  merely  enumerate  the  titles  of  the  topics  touched  upon  by  Dr.  Clarke  to 
the  medical  journals  atid  newspajxu's  would  recpiire  all  the  sj)ace  in  this  issue  of  the 
.Suffice  it  to  say  that  much  of  this  work  has  l)e(‘n  of  a missionai'}'  character  for  honueopathy. 
Dr.  Clarke  has  (hjiie  more  to  bring  honueopathy  to  the  favorabhi  attention  of  the 
laity  than  any  member  of  the  profession  in  America,  and  for  this  and  for  his  nntiring 
energy  in  all  lines  of  {rrofessioiial  work  he  rleserves  the  hearty  thaidis  of  Hit*  |)rofessiou.  ” And 


158 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


as  showing  the  esteem  in  which  Dr.  Clarke  is  held  at  home,  the  following  from  an  editorial 
in  the  Indianapolis  Sun  so  long  ago  as  November  6,  1889,  may  be  cited;  “Dr.  Clarke  seems 
to  be  on  the  road  to  recognition  as  one  of  the  most  advanced  medical  thinkers  in  the  West.” 
Dr.  Clarke  is  always  (jnick  to  see  what  is  needed  in  any  sudden  emergency,  especially  of  a 
public  nature.  For  instance  during  the  blighting  heat  of  the  summer  of  1890  when  a public 
7ueetiug  was  called  to  devise  measures  to  save  the  babies  from  its  effects,  his  remarks  regard- 
ing the  utility  of  tent  life  in  oj)en  spaces  and  the  statistics  adduced  made  such  an  impression 
that  when  the  Summer  Mission  for  Sick  Children  was  soon  after  put  in  operation,  his  sug- 
gestions were  carried  out  to  the  letter,  the  plan  being  still  followed  every  year.  While  Dr. 
Clarke  enjoys  a large  and  lucrative  practice,  he  still  finds  time  to  devote  to  keeping  abreast 
with  the  advancemeiit  made  in  his  profession,  as  is  evidenced  by  the  fact  that  in  the  winter 
of  1887  -88  he  visited  the  various  hospitals  of  New  York,  as  well  as  by  his  persistent,  thorough 
and  systematic  reading  upon  all  topics  in  any  way  allied  with  medicine  and  suigery. 

Eugene  Uuell.  As  the  years  advance  the  discovery  of  some  new  element  has  a ten- 
dency to  broaden  the  field  of  business  operations  and  promulgate  a general  influence  that  en- 
ables men  to  attain  a higher  grade  of  knowledge  than  their  predecessors.  The  different  ends 
to  which  gas  has  been  put  have  brought  into  activity  men  of  keen  business  discernment  and 
sound  judgment.  Eugene  Udell  represents  the  Indianapolis  Gas  Company  and  he  and 
W.  S.  Schofield  were  the  founders  of  the  plant  at  this  point,  and  since  that  time  Mr.  Udell 
has  been  its  most  successful  and  reliable  manager.  He  was  born  near  Albany,  N.  Y^,  April 
10,  fifty  three  years  ago,  a son  of  Gardiner  Udell,  who  w'as  also  a native  of  that  immediate 
section.  The  paternal  grandfather  was  a Welshman,  and  after  reaching  this  country  came 
direct  to  Albany  County  and  located  near  the  Hudson  River,  and  in  the  vicinity  of  the  town 
of  Bethlehem  Gardiner  Udell  was  reared.  He  died  in  Y'psilanti,  Mich.,  in  1873,  at  the  age 
of  sixty-eight  years.  He  was  a man  of  excellent  morals,  was  self  made  and  was  highly  edu- 
cated through  his  own  efforts.  He  was  an  omniverous  reader,  remembered  what  he  read, 
and  applied  his  knowledge  to  a good  use.  He  had  a host  of  friends  and  was  held  in  high 
esteem  for  his  strict  integrity  and  many  other  noble  attributes.  He  would  never  accept  any 
official  position,  although  often  urged  to  do  so.  He  was  a strong  Abolitionist  prior  to  and 
during  the  war  and  did  all  he  could  for  the  freedom  of  the  colored  race.  He  was  first  a 
Whig  and  later  a Republican  in  politics.  As  a farmer  he  was  successful  and  as  he  farmed 
on  scientific  principles  he  was  considered  an  authority  on  agricultural  questions.  He  was 
strictly  temperate  and  practiced  temperance  in  all  things.  His  wife  was  Manervia  Bennett, 
who  died  in  New  Jersey  in  18b2,  when  about  sixty  years  of  age.  In  the  common  schools  of 
Albany  County,  N.  Y.,  the  subject  of  this  sketch  received  his  education,  which  he  finished 
in  Greenville  Seminary.  At  the  age  of  eighteen  years  he  turned  his  attention  to  .school 
teaching  in  Bethlehem,  which  occupation  he  continued  two  terms,  at  the  end  of  which  time 
he  entered  the  United  States  armoiy  at  Springfield  and  became  lock  maker  for  the  Spring- 
field  Rifles.  Three  years  later,  or  in  18(53,  he  went  to  Watervliet  Arsenal,  where  he  was  en- 
gaged in  making  scientific  sights  for  rifled  cannon,  where  he  remained  until  the  war  closed. 
He  then  entered  the  service  of  the  New  Y’^ork  Central  Railroad,  stationed  at  West  Albany, 
but  not  long  afterward  he  and  his  wife  came  west  to  Ypsilanti,  Mich.,  and  bought  a farm 
of  Lionel  Udell,  a prominent  citizen  of  that  section,  and  took  care  of  the  latter  and  his  wife 
until  their  respective  deaths,  which  occurred  about  eight  years  later.  About  1874  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Udell  came  to  North  Indianapolis  and  this  place  has  since  been  their  home.  Soon  after  coming 
here  Mr.  Udell  became  associated  with  his  Iwother,  C.  G.  Udell,  who  was  the  founder  of  the 
Udell  Ladder  Works,  and  soon  after  this  Eugene  took  charge  of  the  ladder  department, 
over  which  he  had  control  for  one  year.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  opened  a grocery 
store,  which  he  conducted  some  fifteen  years,  and  during  this  time  he  was  instrumental  in 
establishing  the  first  postoflice  and  for  two  years  thereafter  carried  the  mail  without  chai-ging 
for  his  services.  After  retiring  from  the  grocery  business  he  succeeded  in  securing  natural 
gas  for  North  Indianapolis  and  has  been  manager  of  the  Indianapolis  Gas  Company  ever 
since.  The  establishment  of  this  plant  has  been  of  inestimable  benefit  to  North  Indian- 
apolis and  has  been  the  means  of  greatly  benefitting  and  improving  the  town.  Mr.  Udell 
is  a member  of  the  Royal  Arcanum.  He  has  never  been  an  aspirant  for  public  favor,  and 
upon  Cleveland’s  first  election  to  the  presidency  he  resigned  the  position  of  postmaster, 


159 


AND  MAUI  ON  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

which  he  had  so  long  and  ably  tilled.  He  has  ever  been  noted  for  his  deeds  of  charity  and 
benevolence  and  it  became  well  known  among  the  fraternity  known  as  “Tourists,”  that 
Ensrene  Udell  and  his  wife  never  refused  to  t^ive  them  aid  when  asked  to  do  so.  Mr.  Udell 
was  married  in  1860  to  Miss  Fannie  W.  Tomj)kins,  a relative  of  old  Gov.  Tompkins,  and 
a descendant  of  the  renowned  Ethan  Allen,  of  Revolutionary  fame.  She  is  a native  of 
Albany  County,  N.  Y.,  and  is  the  worthy  wife  of  a worthy  man. 

Allan  Henduicks.  In  tracing  the  genealogy  of  the  Hendricks  family,  we  tind  that  our 
subject  is  related  to  the  Hendricks  family'  of  note,  that  his  ancestors  came  originally  from 
Holland,  and  he  from  a jiarentage  marked  by  great  strength  of  character  and  a certain  hos- 
pitality, and  largeness  of  nature.  This  family  emigrated  to  America  at  a period  antedating 
the  Revolutionary  War,  settled  first  in  New  Jersey,  and  one  member  fought  bravely  for 
independence  in  this  war.  The  original  of  this  notice  was  born  in  Madison,  Ind.,  Septem- 
ber 24,  1804,  and  his  parents,  Abram  W.  and  Sarah  B.  (Butler)  Hendricks,  were  natives 
respectively  of  Westmoreland  County,  Penn.,  and  Madison,  Ind.  The  father  left  his  native 
State  at  an  early  date,  and  came  to  Madison,  Ind.,  where  he  studied  law  for  some  time. 
At  the  breaking  out  of  the  Civil  War  he  raised  a company  in  the  First  Indiana  Cavalry,  but 
was  subsecjuently  made  payma.ster,  with  the  rank  of  colonel,  which  position  he  held  until  the 
cessation  of  hostilities.  He  was  mustered  out  late  in  1865,  and  in  1866  he  came  to  Indian- 
apolis, where  he  engaged  in  the  |)ractice  of  law  with  Oscar  B.  Hord  and  Thomas  A.  Hen- 
dricks. This  partnershij)  continued  until  the  death  of  Gov.  Hendricks,  1885,  and  was  con- 
tinued by  the  survivors  until  the  death  of  Mr.  Hendricks,  in  1887.  This  most  worthy  and 
estimable  citizen  served  in  the  Legislature,  session  of  1858,  and  although  not  an  oftice  seeker, 
he  held  many  positions  of  trust  and  responsibility.  He  was  a brilliant  lawyer,  a fluent  and 
forcible  speaker,  and  one  of  the  foremost  men  of  his  section.  Of  the  six  children  born  to 
his  marriage  five  are  now  living,  and  Allan  Hendricks  was  second  in  order  of  birth.  The 
latter  passed  his  boyhood  and  youth  in  Indianai)oli8  and  there  received  a good  practical  edu- 
cation, graduating  from  one  of  the  city’s  best  institutions  of  learning  in  1882.  Subse({uently 
he  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  pre.ssed  brick,  which  business  he  carried  on  with  fail- 
success  for  several  years.  Afterward  he  began  the  study  of  law,  was  admitted  to  the  bar, 
and  has  since  been  in  active  practice.  Distinguished  as  a boy  for  maturity  of  mind  and 
expression  of  thought,  when  matured  he  was  no  less  noted  for  his  readiness  of  wit  and 
strong  intellectual  (jualities,  making  him  early  in  life  a peer  among  the  legal  lights.  He  is 
secretary  of  the  Century  Clul),  director  in  the  Indiana  School  of  Art,  director  of  the  IMarion 
Club,  director  of  the  Hoosier’s  Savings  and  Investment  Company,  and  is  a member  of  the 
Commercial  Club,  besides  holding  membership  in  other  clulis.  In  politics  he  is  a stanch 
Republican,  and  in  1892  he  filled  a responsible  position  in  the  management  of  the  camjiaign 
in  Marion  County.  He  was  cho.sen  secretary  of  the  citizens’  executive  board,  in  charge 
of  arrangements  for  the  twenty-seventh  national  encampment,  G.  A.  R.,  held  in  Indian- 
apolis in  September,  1898,  and  contributed  largely  to  tlie  extraordinary  success  of  the 
undertaking  by  the  faultless  discharge  of  the  exacting  duties  of  his  position.  Whatever  he 
undertakes  he  does  with  conscientious  and  painstaking  care,  and  his  work  in  various  respon 
silile  positions  has  demonstrated  that  he  jiossesses  exceptional  capabilities.  He  has  a gen- 
uine and  thorough  love  for  literature,  the  indulgence  of  which,  however,  has  been  resisted 
rather  than  encouraged.  He  has,  in  consequence,  written  little  for  jmblicaf ion.  His  iidi- 
niate  friends  only  liave  been  privileged  to  know  of  the  unpretentious  efforts  which  have 
given  evidence  of  his  gifts  as  a graceful  and  forcible  writer,  and  which  unmistakably  indi 
cate  unusual  (lualiticafions  for  the  higher  order  of  literary  pursuits. 

Tmeodoue  Fotteu,  a.  M.,  M.  11.  One  of  the  best  educated  and  most  successful  of 
the  younger  physiciansof  Indianapolis,  is  Theodore  Potter,  A.  M.,  .M.  I).,  of  86  E.  Ohio  Street. 
Dr.  Potter  was  born  at  Glendale,  Hamilton  Gounty,  Oliio,  in  1861,  a son  of  Rev.  L.  1). 
I'otter,  D.  D.,  who  is  a native  of  New  Jersey  and  a descendant  from  some  of  the  eailv  fam- 
ilies of  that  State.  His  grandfather  was  a colonel  in  the  Colonial  army  during  the  Revolu- 
tionary War  and  his  father  was  a major  in  the  United  States  army  in  the  W ar  of  1812.  Hev. 
Dr.  Potter  was  graduated  from  Princeton  College  in  1841,  and  has  lived  for  thirty-seven 
years  at  Glendale,  Ohio,  where  he  has  been  for  many  years  jiresident  of  the  Glendale  Fe 
male  College.  Dr.  Theodore  l^otter  was  educated  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  place, 


1()0  MEMOIRS  OF  IX DIAN  A POLLS 

and  at.  Dr.  Hamiuill’H  celel)rated  Hcbool  at  Lawreiiceville  near  Trenton,  and  at  Princeton  Uni- 
versity, and  he  was  graduated  at  Princeton,  one  of  the  honored  men  of  his  class  in  1882.  His 
standing  in  college  may  be  inferred  from  the  fact  that  he  was  one  of  the  editors  of  a literary 
])aper  at  Princeton,  which  institution  conferred  upon  him  in  1885  the  degree  of  A.  M.  In 
1882-83  he  was  an  instructor  at  Miami  University  Classical  School,  Oxford,  Ohio,  and  then 
began  the  study  of  medicine  at  the  Medical  College  of  Ohio,  at  Cincinnati.  After  four 
years  diligent  a})plication  he  was  graduated  in  1S87,  again  with  honors,  receiving  in  the 
class  of  1887  the  prizes  for  the  best  examination  in  obstetrics  and  in  the  practice  of  medi- 
cine. During  the  succeeding  year  he  was  house  physician  in  the  Good  Samaritan  Hospital 
at  Cincinnati  and  was  appointed  assistant  demonstrator  of  bacteriology  in  the  Medical  Col- 
lege of  Ohio.  He  was  for  a time  associated  with  Dr.  J.  T.  Whitaker,  as  assistant  in  prac- 
tice and  in  medico-literary  work.  In  1888  he  went  to  Germany,  .sj)ending  about  a year  in 
hos[)ital  and  laboratory  work,  returning  to  this  country  and  locating  in  Indianapolis  in  the 
spring  of  1881).  In  the  summer  of  that  year  he  was  appointed  demonstrator  of  bacteriology 
and  general  mici'oscopy  in  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana,  and  during  the  succeeding  year 
established  and  conducted  the  three  lines  of  work  which  have  since  grown  into  the  laboratory 
courses  in  Histology,  pathology  and  bacteriology  in  that  institution.  In  1891  he  was  elected 
professor  of  bacteriology,  the  chair  being  created  for  him,  and  in  1893  he  was  made 
professor  of  pathology  and  bacteriology.  The  same  year  he  was  appointed  on  the  staff  of 
the  City  Hospital,  having  j)reviously  been  chosen  one  of  the  consulting  staff  of  the  City 
Dispensary,  soon  afterward  becoming  consnlting  physician  for  chest  diseases  to  the  last- 
mentioned  charity.  With  the  reorganizatian  of  the  Indiana  Medical  Journal  in  the  spring 
of  1892,  Dr.  Potter  became  one  of  its  editors.  He  has  read  a number  of  papers  before  the 
County  and  State  Medical  Associations,  several  of  them  having  been  ])ublished.  For  several 
years  he  was  appointed  a committee  of  one  to  make  the  annual  report  upon  bacteriology  of 
the  State  Medical  Society.  Dr.  Potter  is  a member  of  the  Indianapolis  Literary  Club,  of 
the  Portfolio  Club  and  of  the  Indiana  Academy  of  Sciences. 

Thomas  P.  Mills.  Of  the  many  solid  citizens  engaged  in  the  handling  of  realty  in 
Indiainapolis,  there  is  not  one  who  stands  higher  in  public  e.steem  or  who  enjoy  a more  sub- 
stantial share  of  recognition,  than  Thomas  P.  Mills,  who  is  a member  of  the  well  known 
firm  of  Mills  & Small,  dealers  in  real  estate,  loans,  rents,  etc.  Mr.  Mills  has  been  established 
in  the  line  indicated  for  the  past  twenty-one  years,  and  by  clo.se  application  and  strict 
integrity  has  acquired  a prosperous  and  influential  business  connection,  numbering  in  his 
clientele  some  of  the  wealthiest  property  owners  and  shrewdest  investors  in  the  community. 
Mr.  Mills  who  was  born  in  Green  County,  Ohio,  December  15,  1835,  is  a man  of  energy  and 
sagacity,  as  well  as  entire  probity  of  character  and  is  thoroughly  conversant  with  every 
feature  and  detail  pertaining  to  the  purchase,  sale,  transfer,  and  management  of  real  estate. 
Appraisements  are  made  for  purchasers,  Mr.  Mills  being  accounted  one  of  the  very  best 
judges  of  the  jiresent  and  prospective  values  of  realty  in  and  around  Indianapolis.  The 
parents  of  Thomas  P.  Mills,  David  and  Melona  (Brock)  Mills,  were  born  in  South  Carolina 
and  Virginia  resjiectively,  the  former  being  a farmer  and  stock  dealer  by  occupation.  In 
1822  he  became  a resident  of  the  Buckeye  State  but  in  1838  removed  still  farther  westward 
to  Hendricks  County,  Ind.,  where  he  was  prosperously  engaged  in  business  for  several  years. 
In  1860  Indianapolis  became  his  home  and  here  he  conducted  a liverly  stable  until  1874 
when  he  retired.  His  death  occurred  in  1880,  his  wife’s  death  also  occurring  in  that  year. 
Thomas  P.  Mills  was  about  three  years  old  when  his  parents  came  to  Indiana  and  until 
fifteen  years  of  age  he  resided  on  his  father’s  farm  in  Hendricks  County,  at  which  time  he 
entered  his  father’s  store  as  a clerk,  after  having  acquired  a good  practical  education  in  the 
common  schools  and  at  Mooresville  College.  After  clerking  for  about  three  years  he  returned 
to  his  father’s  farm  where  he  engaged  in  agricultural  and  stock  pursuits  on  an  extensive  scale 
for  several  years,  but  in  1872  disposed  of  his  land,  stock  and  other  property  to  come  to 
Indianapolis  and  engage  in  the  real  estate  business  which  he  has  followed  continuously 
ever  since  with  most  satisfactory  results.  On  November  4,  1854,  Mr.  Mills  was  married  to 
Miss  Anna  Bowles,  a native  of  Wayne  County  Ind.,  a daughter  of  George  and  Elizabeth 
(Bailey)Bowles,  natives  of  North  Carolina,  the  former  having  been  the  owner  of  but  sold  the 
land  on  which  the  city  of  Richmond  now  stands.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Mills  had  two  children,  both 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  if)l 

of  whom  died  when  young.  Mr.  Mills  is  a member  of  the  A.  F.  • & A.  M. , the  A.  F. 
A.,  belongs  to  the  Republican  party  and  he  and  his  wife  have  long  been  members  ot  the 
Friends  Church,  of  which  Mrs.  Mills  has  been  a minister  for  a number  of  years. 

WiLLi.\M  Williams  was  born  in  Rockbridge  County,  Va.,  near  the  Natural  Bridge,  A})!-!! 
1,  182‘2,  and  two  years  later  his  parents,  William  and  Mary  (Sanders)  Williams,  moved  to 
Botetourt  County,  Va.,  where  the  father,  who  was  a cooper,  made  barrels  for  a flour  mill. 
The  parents  were  natives  of  Virginia  and  Pennsylvania  respectively,  and  the  father  was  a 
soldier  in  the  War  of  1812.  Twelve  children  were  born  to  their  union,  as  follows:  Pow- 
hatan; Mildred,  who  married  Samuel  Morricle;  Hector;  Adeline,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of 
William  Zimmerman;  Nancy,  deceased,  married  Mr.  Kittermau;  David;  Malinda,  deceased, 
was  the  wife  of  Preston  Jones;  William  (subject);  John,  killed  in  the  Confederate  service; 
Susan,  deceased,  who  was  the  wife  of  Early  Dickinson;  Demaris,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of 
Mr.  Kittermau,  and  Matthew  died  from  the  effects  of  a wound  received  in  the  Confederate 
service;  he  was  the  husband  of  a Miss  Saurs.  The  father  of  these  children  died  in  Virginia 
in  18-1-2  and  his  wife  followed  him  to  the  grave  in  1856.  Until  sixteen  years  of  age  our  sub- 
ject remained  in  Botetourt  County,  and  during  that  time  only  received  about  two  terms  of 
schooling.  He  worked  with  his  father  and  five  brothers  at  the  cooper  trade  until  January, 
1849,  when  he  started  for  California.  He  reached  St.  Louis  and  found  the  prospect  for  get- 
ting an  outfit  so  poor  that  he  and  100  others  abandoned  the  trip.  He  then  came  to  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  and  for  three  years  was  engaged  in  making  barrels.  In  1852  he  bought  eighty 
acres  in  Perry  township  and  tilled  the  soil  there  for  three  years  when  he  went  to  Iowa  and 
bought  100  acres  of  land  in  Benton  County.  One  year  later  he  returned  to  Marion  County, 
Ind.,  and  purchased  forty  acres  in  Perry  township.  On  this  he  erected  a house  and  made 
his  home  there  until  1868,  when  he  sold  it  and  the  following  year  bought  eighty  acres  of 
Andrew  Shirk,  in  Section  15,  Range  4 east,  and  paid  |27  per  acre,  all  green  timber.  In 
September,  18<)4,  Mr.  Williams  was  drafted  and  assigned  to  Company  H,  Seventeenth  Indi- 
ana Infantry,  and  served  nine  months.  He  participated  in  the  following  battles:  Red 
Mountain  Iron  Works,  near  Selma,  and  at  Selma.  From  there  they  went  to  Montgomery, 
Ala. ; thence  to  Columbia,  Macon,  Oa.,  and  Oglethorpe,  Ga. , where  they  remained  about  three 
weeks,  and  in  the  latter  part  of  June  Mr.  Williams  returned  home.  The  next  day,  June  21, 
he  commenced  cutting  the  wheat  he  had  put  in  in  the  fall  when  drafted.  In  1865  he  bought 
ten  acres  at  875  per  acre,  and  a year  or  so  later  he  |)urchased  the  balance  of  the  forty  acres 
for  865  per  acre.  In  1893  he  bought  forty  acres  at  866  per  acre  and  all  his  land  is  cleared 
except  about  twenty  acres.  In  1892  Mr.  Williams  raised  about  1,106  bushels  of  wheat.  He 
raises  from  twenty  to  twenty-five  acres  of  corn  per  year  that  averages  about  seventy-five 
bushels  to  the  acre.  In  1898,  on  seven  acres,  he  raised  466  bushels.  In  politics 
Mr.  Will  iams  has  ever  been  a decided  Democrat.  He  joined  the  Missionary  Baptist 
Church  in  Virginia  when  nineteen  years  of  age  and  has  held  membership  in  the 
same  ever  since.  His  wife  is  also  a member  of  that  church.  He  has  always  refused 
office,  both  in  army  and  civil  life  and  the  church,  except  to  serve  as  trustee  in  the 
latter.  He  was  never  sued  in  his  life,  and  never  sued  but  one  man  when  he  had  to  j)ay  the 
costs.  He  tlien  decided  that  he  had  done  with  law.  Mr.  Williams  was  married  December 
26,  1856,  to  Miss  Elizabeth  J.  Sanders,  daughter  of  John  and  Elizabeth  (Obenchain)  San- 
ders, and  twelve  children  were  given  them:  George  E.,  married  Miss  Martha  IMcClain,  and 
they  have  three  children,  Joel  E.,  Clarence  E.  and  Katy  V.;  Sarah,  died  when  about 
ten  years  of  age;  John  W7,  died  in  1888,  married  Miss  Ruth  Girton,  daughter  of  Ad. 
Girton,  and  left  one  daughter,  Carrie  J. ; Flora  P.,  died  June  22,  1861,  when  an  infant; 
Mary  E.,  died  August  7,  1865,  when  an  infant;  Charles  A.,  born  June  18,  1865,  and  died 
.-Vugust  18,  1877;  Nora  F.,  born  October  9,  1868;  Laura  A.,  born  July  17,  1866;  Owen,  born 
March  19,  1871,  married  Miss  Sadie  Toon,  daughter  of  Lewis  and  Dicey  (Collins)  Toon  (they 
have  one  son,  Charles);  Ida  B.,  born  Se|)tember  11,  1878,  married  Oscar  Morgan,  May  12. 
1892;  Katie,  born  January  14,  187f),  died  August  18,  1877,  and  Artie  May,  born  August  12, 
1877.  John  Sanders,  father  of  Mrs.  Williams,  was  born  in  Rockbridge  County,  Va. , and  he 
was  there  married  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Obenchain.  He  was  a blacksmith  by  tradi'  and  came  to 
Indiana  in  1848,  settling  in  Marion  Coiud.y.  Later  he  moved  to  Penton  County,  Iowa,  and 
there  dieil  about  I8t)l.  His  wife  died  in  1886.  Five  children  were  born  to  them,  as  follows: 

II 


102 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


George,  who  married  Miss  Elizabeth  Wheatcraft,  resides  iu  Indiana;  Elizabetli  J. , subject’s 
wife;  John  W.,  who  married  Miss  Sarah  Kerns  and  now  makes  his  home  in  Iowa;  Maiy  V., 
married  Ilobert  Kirkpatrick,  and  is  now  a widow  residing  in  Texas,  and  Edward  J.,  who 
married  Miss  Emma  Watson  and  resides  in  Iowa. 

Joseph  Penn,  one  of  the  well  known  and  prominent  agriculturists  of  Marion  County, 
Ind.,  and  a lineal  descendant  of  the  famous  William  Penn,  owes  his  nativity  to  Bourbon 
County,  Ky.,  his  l)irth  occurring  near  Paris,  right  in  the  lieart  of  the  Blue-Grass  region, 
January  21,  1824.  The  incidents  of  his  early  life  were  not  materially  different  from  those 
of  other  boys  living  on  farms  in  the  country.  He  was  taught  to  work  at  anything  necessary 
for  him  to  do,  and  in  this  manner  gained  habits  of  industry  and  perseverance  which  have 
remained  with  l\im  through  life.  In  common  with  other  boys  he  attended  school  winters  in 
the  stereotyped  log  school  house,  and  in  summer  assisted  in  clearitig  away  the  forest,  fencing 
the  tields  and  raising  crops  afte?’  the  land  was  improved.  He  would  rise  long  before  day- 
light, and  after  finishing  his  feeding  and  chores,  would  walk  three  miles  to  the  school  house, 
where  he  remained  all  day.  He  learned  to  read  and  write  and  to  tigure  a little.  In  1847 
he  married  Miss  Elizabeth  Webb,  daughter  of  John  Webb,  a native  of  Virginia,  and  the  same 
fall  he  and  his  bride  started  for  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  where  her  father  had  settled  in  1840. 
They  made  the  journey  on  horseback,  and  arriving  in  Marion  County  about  four  days  after 
starting,  slopped  with  her  brother,  Austin  Webb,  who  lived  on  eighty  acres  of  land  in  Perry 
Townshi[).  There  Mr,  and  Mrs.  Penn  remained  during  the  winter  and  in  the  spring 
returned  on  horseback  to  Kentucky,  where  our  subject  began  working  on  his  father’s  farm. 
There  he  remained  until  1851,  when  he  started  with  his  wife  for  Montgomery  County,  Ind., 
where  he  had  two  married  sisters  living.  He  located  in  Brown  Township,  that  County, 
about  nine  miles  south  of  Crawfordsville,  where  he  purchased  120  acres  of  land,  paying 
11,875  for  the  tract.  Of  this  land  half  of  it  was  ready  for  the  i)low.  A frame  house  of  two 
rooms  had  been  erected,  also  a log  stable,  a well  dug  and  an  orchard  set  out.  Mr.  Penn 
resided  on  this  tract  about  eight  years,  making  many  improvements,  and  then,  in  1859,  he 
sold  the  place  to  David  Gayley  for  |85  per  acre.  Mr.  Penn  subsequently  bought  208  acres 
on  Indian  Creek,  Brown  Township,  paying  $33  per  acre,  and  of  this  tract  there  were  about 
seventy-tive  acres  cleared,  a three-room  frame  house  erected,  also  a log  stable,  and  a tine 
orchard  set  out.  On  this  farm  Mr.  Penn  resided  for  about  twenty  tive  years,  or  until  he  came  to 
Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  in  that  time  made  many  improvements.  His  son,  Lafayette  Penn, 
now  occupies  this  farm.  During  the  Civil  War  Mr.  Penn  purchased  forty  acres  of  land 
formerly  owned  by  Moses  Orme,  located  in  Perry  Township,  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  in 
1884  he  had  a good  barn  and  a tine  two-story  brick  house  of  eight  rooms  erected  on  this 
tract.  The  following  year  he  moved  to  this  lovely  place  and  here  he  now  resides,  practically 
retired  from  the  active  duties  of  life.  Later  he  purchased  forty  acres  adjoining,  and  still 
later  twenty  acres,  on  which  he  set  out  a tine  orchard.  He  has  100  acres  cleared  and  is 
one  of  the  prosperous  farmers  of  the  locality.  In  politics  he  is  a Democrat.  Although  not 
a member  of  any  church  he  attends  the  Christian  Church,  in  which  his  wife  holds  member- 
ship. He  has  never  belonged  to  any  secret  organization.  Mr.  Penn’s  union  was  blessed  by 
the  birth  of  seven  children,  as  follows:  John  T.,  who  resides  in  Montgomery  County,  Ind., 
on  a tract  of  214  acres  owned  by  his  father,  married  first  Miss  Piney  Watson,  by  whom  he 
had  one  daughter,  Margaret,  who  married  a man  named  Bailey.  John  T.  took  for  bis 
second  wife  Miss  Eva  Moore,  who  bore  him  four  children  as  follows:  Walter,  Grace,  Bessie 
and  Sallie;  David  is  at  home,  unmarried;  Sarah,  died  in  Montgomery  County  in  1884,  aged 
twenty- tive  years;  Mary  died  in  infanc}’^;  Lafayette  resides  on  the  old  farm  in  Montgomery 
County;  he  married  Miss  Lena  Bay  and  they  have  three  children,  as  follows:  Florence,  Ford 
and  Ruth;  Charles  resides  near  John  Penn,  and  is  also  married,  his  wife’s  maiden  name  be- 
ing Frances  Howard ; they  have  had  three  children,  Harry,  William  and  Roy;  and  Mattie 
makes  her  home  with  her  parents.  David  Penn,  the  father  of  our  subject,  willed  the  latter 
225  acres  in  Bourbon  County,  Ky.,  and  Joseph  subsequently  bought  125  acres  more  in  that 
county.  David  Penn  was  a native  of  Bourbon  County,  born  in  1797,  and  he  was  there 
reared  and  lived  nearly  all  his  life.  He  was  married  before  twenty-one  years  of  age  to  Miss 
Mary  Lyon,  daughter  of  John  Lyon,  and  received  forty  acres  of  land  from  his  father.  Later 
he  became  the  owner  of  several  good  farms  in  Bourbon  County.  He  was  a Democrat  in  his 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  1()3 

political  views.  He  was  uot  a member  of  any  church.  Seven  children  were  born  to  this  mar- 
riage: Jacob,  who  resides  in  Scott  County,  Ky. , married  Miss  Sallie  Rogers;  Charlotte,  who 
married  Oliver  McLeod,  makes  her  home  in  Montgomery  County;  Joseph  (our  subject); 
David  married  Miss  Kate  Russell  and  died  in  1873;  Mary  E.,  married  Dr.  Joseph  Russell, 
who  died  in  1893,  and  now  resides  in  Montgomery  County,  Ind.;  William,  who  died  unmar- 
ried, and  Betty  died  unmarried.  After  the  death  of  the  mother  of  these  children  the  father 
married  Mrs.  Pauline  Jones,  nee  Griffith,  of  Harrison  County,  Ky.,  where  she  owned  a farm 
on  which  Mr.  Penn  and  she  lived  until  her  death.  Afterward  the  father  came  to  Indiana 
and  died  at  the  home  of  our  subject  in  the  fall  of  1889.  Joseph  Penn,  grandfather  of  our 
subject,  was  a native  of  Maryland,  but  emigrated  to  Kentucky  when  that  State  was  almost 
one  vast  canebrake.  He  was  married  twice,  first  in  Maryland  and  the  second  time  in  Ken- 
tucky. Six  children  were  born  to  the  first  and  eight  to  the  second  union.  The  father  of 
our  subject  was  one  of  the  children  born  to  the  second  union,  his  mother’s  maiden  name  be- 
ing Charlotte  Acre,  who  was  of  Dutch  extraction.  The  children  born  to  the  first  union 
were  named  as  follows;  Eli,  Daniel,  Thomas,  Samuel,  George  anti  Ann.  The  eldest  child 
served  in  the  War  of  1812.  The  children  of  the  second  marriage  were  named  as  follows: 
Elizabeth,  Jane,  Delilah,  John,  David,  Sallie,  Susan  and  Joseph.  All  these  children  are 
dead,  our  subject’s  father  being  the  last  to  die. 

Louis  M.  Rowe,  M.  D.  The  profession  of  the  physician  and  surgeon  is  one  that  has 
drawn  to  it,  at  all  periods  of  its  history,  the  brightest  and  most  honorable  of  men;  for  none 
but  an  intelligent,  well-informed  man  could  be  a physician  at  all,  and  no  physician  uot  a 
man  of  honor  could  long  retain  a profitable  practice.  Indianapolis  has  always  been  fortu- 
nate in  its  physicians,  and  it  is  especially  so,  during  recent  years,  in  its  younger  generation  of 
practitioners,  who  have  contributed  much  to  the  enhancement  of  the  city’s  reputation  as  a 
center  of  medical  knowledge.  Conspicuous  among  these  is  Dr.  Louis  M.  Rowe  who  was 
l)oru  in  Columbus,  Ohio,  August  20,  1858,  a son  of  W.  E.  and  Emma  S.  (Large)  Rowe,  the 
former  a native  of  Massachusetts,  the  latter  a native  of  Ohio.  W.  E.  Rowe  has  been  a rail- 
road man  for  many  years,  formerly  lived  in  Indianapolis,  and  is  at  this  time  a resident  of 
Fountain  County,  Ind.  Dr.  Rowe  came  to  Indianapolis  with  his  parents  when  a mere  child, 
and  was  educated  in  the  public  schools  of  the  city  and  at  the  Illinois  Industrial  University. 
In  the  fall  of  1878  he  began  the  study  of  medicine  under  the  preceptorshij)  of  the  late  Dr. 
T.  B.  Harvey.  In  1879  he  entered  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana  and  was  graduated  there- 
from with  the  degree  of  M.  D.  in  1882.  Dr.  Harvey  had  trained  him  and  supervised  his 
education  with  the  sole  idea  of  making  him  his  assistant  in  his  large  practice,  and  he  was 
that  successful  and  skillful  practitioner’s  sole  recognized  assistant  until  Dr.  Harvey’s  death. 
Since  that  event,  Dr.  Rowe  has  been  engaged,  with  ever  increasing  success  in  a constantly 
broadening  field,  in  a general  practice,  including  among  his  regular  patrons  some  of  the 
leading  families  of  the  city  and  its  suburbs.  From  1884  to  1889,  he  was  assistant  to  Dr. 
Harvey,  who  held  the  chair  of  Gynecology  in  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana,  and  with  such 
splendid  opportunities  and  under  such  distinguished  precejitorshij),  started  in  a department 
of  investigation  in  which,  in  his  subsetpient  practice,  he  has  developed  into  a most  distin- 
guished practitioner,  having,  from  first  to  last,  performed  about  every  operation  known  to 
gynecology.  At  different  times,  as  the  demands  of  his  large  practice  have  permitted,  he 
has  visited  the  leading  hos[>itals  of  the  country,  at  New  York  and  elsewhere,  and  has  there 
further  studied  this  important  specialty  and  perfected  himself  generally  in  his  profession. 
Dr.  Rowe  is  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical 
Society,  of  the  Mississippi  Valley  .Medical  Association,  and  of  the  American  Medical  Asso 
ciation,  and  has  often  attended  the  conventions  of  the  State  and  National  organizations  as  a 
delegate  from  the  couidy  as.sociation.  He  has  jirepared  and  read  liefore  these  various  socie- 
ties papers  on  medical  and  surgical  subjects  which  have  attracted  wide  attention  and  have 
been  published  in  some  of  the  leading  medical  and  surgical  journals  of  the  country.  In 
1892,  Dr.  Howe  married  May  E.  Wollen,  daughter  of  Thomas  and  Keziah  Wolleu,  her  father 
a native  of  Marion  County,  her  mother  a native  of  Kentucky,  her  ancestors  having  been 
among  the  early  settlers  of  this  part  of  the  country.  In  politics  Dr.  Rowe  is  a Democrat, 
and  though  not  a politician  in  the  ordinary  sense  and  having  no  object  of  personal  gain  to 


1(34 


MEMOIRS  OE  IXDIANAROLIS 


serve,  is  intelligently  and  most  earnestly  interested  in  the  public  welfare  as  concerns  the 
city,  the  county,  the  State  and  the  country  at  large. 

Augustus  Lynch  Mason,  one  of  the  younger  citizens  of  Indianapolis,  was  born  February 
10,  1850,  in  Bloomington,  Monroe  County,  Ind.  His  grandfather,  Thomas  H.  Lynch,  was 
a Methodist  ])reacher,  well  known  in  Indianapolis  for  the  last  half  century.  At  the  time  of 
his  birth  his  father,  W illiam  F.  Mason,  was  a Methodist  minister,  and  the  birthplace  of  the 
young  man  was  the  Methodist  ])arsonage  at  Bloomington.  His  boyhood  was  passed  in  Cin- 
cinnati where  he  attended  the  public  schools.  In  1872  his  parents  removed  to  Indianapolis 
where  he  entered  what  was  then  knowti  as  the  Northwestern  Christian  University,  now  known 
as  Butler  University,  attending  there  for  two  years.  In  187(3  he  entered  Indiana  Asbnry 
Utnversity,  now  known  as  DePauw,  at  Greencastle,  Ind.,  where  he  graduated  in  1879.  On 
leaving  college  he  entered  the  law  office  of  McDonald  &,  Butler  in  this  city  for  the  purpose 
of  studying  law.  At  the  time  the  firm  had  tlie  largest  practice  in  the  State,  and  Mr.  Mason 
was  the  youngest  of  a series  of  six  clerks  and  students.  By  good  fortune,  in  the  course  of 
two  years,  he  became  chief  clerk  for  the  firm  and  began  to  take  ])art  in  important  litigation. 
In  1882  Judge  Robert  N.  Lamb,  of  the  Indianapolis  bar,  took  Mr.  Mason  into  partnership 
with  him,  a business  relation  which  continued  for  a year.  During  this  year  Mr.  George  C. 
Butler,  a l)rilliatd.  young  lawyer,  well  known  at  the  time  to  Indianapolis  lawyers,  junior 
member  of  the  old  firm  of  McDonald  & Butler,  died,  and  Mr.  Mason  was  invited  to  become 
his  successor  in  the  firm.  The  arragnement  was  consummated  May  1,  1883,  and  the  firm  con- 
tinued to  be  known  as  McDonald,  Butler  & Mason  until  the  latter  part  of  1887.  At  the  time 
of  entering  the  McDonald  firm  Mr.  Mason  gave  considerable  attention  to  writing,  being 
spurred  thereto  by  the  necessity  for  money.  He  wrote  a large  part  of  the  “ Life  of  Gar- 
field” within  thirty  days  after  the  statesman’s  death;  the  book  was  published  under  the 
name  of  John  Clark  Ridpath,  by  whom  Mr.  Mason  was  employed  to  assist  in  the  prepara- 
tion of  the  book.  So  successful  were  the  chapters  in  the  ‘‘Life  of  Garfield”  prepared  by 
Mr.  Mason,  that  at  the  close  of  this  work  he  was  invited  to  prepare  a popular  history  of  the 
famous  Indian  warriors  and  frontiersmen  of  North  America,  which  offer  was  acce})ted.  In 
eight  months  he  produced  a work  of  a thonsand  pages  known  as  “The  Pioneer  History  of 
America”  and  published  in  Cincinnati.  The  book  met  with  a very  large  sale  at  the  hands 
of  subscription  book  agents.  In  the  preparation  of  the  work  Mr.  Mason  read  and  annotated 
some  50(1  volumes  from  which  he  drew  his  information.  His  only  regret  concerning  the 
book  developed  a year  oi'  two  since  when  a prominent  politician  of  this  State  met  him  in  a 
train  and  declared  tliat  the  book  had  caused  his  youngest  son  to  run  away  for  the  purpose  of 
fighting  Indians  and  it  cost  him  .fbOO  to  recover  the  youth.  In  the  latter  part  of  1887  Mr. 
Mason  had  the  misfortune  to  feel  the  effects  of  overwork  and  found  that  his  health  was 
seriously  impaired.  By  the  advice  of  physicians  he  was  compelled  to  retire  from  business 
and  spent  a year  in  travel,  visiting  practically  every  part  of  the  United  States.  In  January, 
1889,  he  returned  to  Indianapolis  much  improved  in  health,  and  reopened  his  law  office. 
While  engaged  in  general  practice  he  was  chosen  by  the  commercial  club  and  board  of 
trade  for  the  purpose  of  investigating  the  condition  of  the  laws  governing  the  city  of  Indian- 
apolis at  that  time.  After  careful  study  of  the  subject  he  made  a report  pointing  out  the 
unsatisfactory  conditions  of  the  laws  governing  the  city  as  the  source  rf  many  of  the  evils 
then  existing  in  the  government  of  the  city,  and  recommended  that  an  entirely  new  charter  be 
prejiared  for  the  city  and  presented  to  the  new  Legislature  covering  the  whole  field  of  the 
government  of  the  city.  After  a mouth  or  two  of  hesitation  this  report  was  adopted  and  in 
connection  with  a committee  of  eight  other  members,  well  known  business  men,  the  work  of 
reconstructing  the  charter  was  commenced.  It  occupied  nearly  a year,  and  was  based  on  the 
latest  approved  notions  of  municipal  government  as  tested  by  other  cities,  as  well  as  introduc- 
ing many  ideas  heretofore  untried  in  this  country.  It  was  remarked  to  Mr.  Mason  when  the 
the  bill  passed  the  Legislature  that  it  would  have  been  better  for  his  reputation  had  it  failed, 
for  the  reason  that  much  of  it  would  undoubtedly  be  held  unconstitutional.  A large  number 
of  suits  have  gone  to  the  Supreme  Court  involving  the  validity  of  various  provisions  of  the 
charter,  but  up  to  this  time  not  one  line  of  the  charter  has  been  held  invalid.  It  is  under 
this  law  that  the  entire  executive  and  administrative  authority  of  the  city  is  lodged  in  the 
mayor.  Under  its  provisions  also  the  inumovement  of  streets  and  the  construction  of  sewers. 


.4.V/)  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


165 


levees  and  viaducts,  the  sprinkling  and  sweeping  of  improved  streets  are  paid  for  by  abutting 
property  holders  whose  property  is  benefited.  The  city  is  also  authorized  to  build  and  own 
its  own  water,  gas  and  electric  light  works,  as  well  as  its  street  railways.  None  of  these  last 
named  powers  have  yet  been  exercised.  Mr.  Mason  regards  the  preparation  of  the  “ Reform 
Charter”  as  by  far  the  most  imi)ortant  work  of  his  life.  Pending  the  preparation  of  the 
charter  he  was  elected  dean  of  the  law  school  of  DePauw  University  at  Greencastle,  Ind. 
The  work  brought  him  in  contact  with  jmung  men  and  proved  to  be  of  the  greatest  interest 
to  him.  Although  carrying  on  the  burden  of  his  law  office,  he  found  time  to  prepare  and 
deliver  many  lectures  before  the  law  school  during  a period  of  three  years,  taking  a particu- 
lar interest  in  corporation  and  patent  law,  in  which  he  had  done  his  best  work.  His  connec- 
tion with  corporation  matters  led  him  to  various  employments  looking  to  the  construction  of 
new  street  railroad  lines  in  Indianapolis  as  well  as  to  the  purchase  of  the  old  ones.  In  the 
spring  of  1893  Mr.  Mason  accepted,  for  the  time  being,  the  presidency  of  all  the  street  rail- 
road lines  of  the  city,  in  which  position  he  still  continues,  although  spending  part  of  every 
day  in  his  law  office.  His  tastes  are  literary  and  he  believes  in  the  gospel  of  hard  work.  In 
polilics  he  is  a pronounced  Republican,  and  in  religion  a member  of  the  Methodist  church, 
although  inclining  strongly  to  the  most  liberal  religious  o])inion8.  On  January  25,  1893, 
Mr.  Mason  married  Miss  Annie  D.  Porter,  the  only  darrghter  of  Hon.  Albert  G.  Porter,  ex- 
governor of  Indiana,  and  ex-United  States  minister  at  Rome,  Italy. 

Abner  L.  Newl.\nd.  We  do  not  measure  a man’s  life  by  years  but  by  intensity.  If 
we  measure  the  life  of  Mr.  Newland  by  the  work  he  has  accomplished  then  he  is  the  most 
venerable  of  men,  although  he  is  now  but  sixty-three  years  of  age,  his  birth  having  occun-ed 
in  Union  County,  Ind.,  September  30,  1830,  near  Dunlapville.  As  an  influential  citizen  of 
the  flourishing  city  of  Indianapolis  and  one  who  has  done  much  for  its  growth  and  advance- 
ment, it  gives  us  pleasure  to  present  the  main  facts  of  his  life  to  our  readers.  Both  his 
paternal  and  maternal  ancestors  were  early  settlers  of  Indiana,  some  of  them  settling  in 
Franklin  County  as  early  as  1804.  In  1847  our  subject  moved  with  his  parents  to  Indian- 
apolis and  worked  on  a farm  the  first  year,  a part  of  the  city  now  standing  on  that  farm. 
Later  he  taught  school  in  Morgan  County,  near  the  town  of  Waverly,  Cyrus  Wetzel,  a 
descendent  of  the  celebrated  Indian  fighter,  being  school  trustee.  After  teaching  two 
terms  he  returned  to  Indianapolis  and  began  clerking  for  William  John  Wallace,  continuing 
with  him  for  several  months.  He  left  there  to  accept  a position  as  clerk  in  the  post-office 
under  W.  W.  Wick  and  was  a memixu'  of  the  City  Grays,  a military  company  that  afterward 
furnished  so  many  officers  for  the  war.  He  was  also  a member  of  the  City  Grays’  Band 
and  was  with  them  during  the  gold  fever  excitement  in  New  Mexico,  when  they  made  the 
trip  to  that  country.  Gold  was  not  so  |)lenty  as  represented,  andlMr.  Newland  and  his  com- 
panions decided  to  take  a look  at  the  western  country.  He  went  south  through  New  Mexico 
to  Arizona,  Old  iVIexico,  ’and  through  Texas  to  the  Gulf  of  IMexico  and  thence  back  to 
Indianapalis  by  way  of  the  IVIississijJpi  and  Ohio  Rivera,  covering  a distance  of  about  8,90(1 
miles  in  about  two  years.  After  reaching  Indianai)olis  he  entered  the  store  of  A.  Wallace 
and  remained  with  him  until  the  lueaking  out  of  the  Civil  War.  He  entered  Camp  Morton 
the  flay  after  the  firing  on  Fort  Sumter,  and  was  organized  with  Company  A,  Thirteenth 
Indiana,  and  was  made  first  .sergeant.  Latf*r  he  was  promoted  to  sergeant-major  at  Beverly, 
Va..  ami  at  the  end  of  six  months  was  promoted  to  lieutenant  and  cayfiain,  both  commis- 
sions coming  l)y  the  same  mail.  After  two  years’  service  he  was  obliged  to  resign  on  account 
of  disability  and  he  then  returned  to  Indianapolis,  where  he  has  since  made  his  home.  He 
served  as  deymty  sheriff  under  Allxu'l  Russner  and  tilled  the  same  yiosition  in  a credital)le 
and  efficient  manner  under  Sheriff  Isaac  King.  Ijater  he  was  i)ailiff  in  the  (fircuit 
Court  under  Judge  Jacob  Julian,  Alex.  (!.  Ayres,  Thomas  L.  Sullivan  and  Edgar  A. 
Brown.  In  188-)  he  was  elected  to  the  council  from  the  twenty  first  ward  over  Pres- 
ton C.  Trussler  by  a majority  of  twenty-six.  He  is  one  of  the  city’s  most  estcfuned 
and  worthy  citizens  and  in  every  walk  of  lift*  has  actpiilted  himself  with  crt'dit.  In 
flomestic  [»leasure  Mr.  Newland  has  found  agreeable  diversion  from  the  many  dutit's  that 
have  accumulated  around  him  as  an  official  servant.  lie  has  an  (‘fiicient  and  ch(>erful  help- 
mate in  his  wife,  who  was  formerly  Miss  Sarah  E.  Bidgood,  and  whom  ht*  married 


100  MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 

April  3,  1879,  at  Cumberland,  Marion  County,  Ind.  They  liave  two  children,  grown, 
a son  and  daughter. 

O.  Gr.  Pfaff,  M.  D.  Among  all  the  able  physicians  of  Indianapolis  there  is  probably 
not  a more  popular  general  practitioner  or  a more  learned  or  skillful  gynecologist  (in  which 
department  of  practice  he  has  performed  with  gratifying  success  about  every  known  opera 
tioii)  than  Dr.  O.  G.  Pfaff.  Dr.  Pfaff  belongs  to  an  ancient  German  family,  who  bore  arms 
as  early  as  the  fourteenth  century.  His  father.  Dr.  Jacob  L.  Pfaff,  was  the  son  of  parents 
who  came  from  the  “ Fatherland”  and  located  in  North  Carolina  just  previous  to  the  Revo- 
lutionary War,  in  which  his  father  (Dr.  PfafP’s  grandfather)  served  gallantly  in  defense  of 
American  independence.  In  the  State  mentioned  Dr.  Jacob  L.  Pfaff  was  born.  He  gradu- 
ated in  medicine  in  North  Carolina  medical  inslitutions  and  was  for  some  time  thereafter 
associated  in  practice  with  an  eminent  German  physician.  On  account  of  his  pronounced 
anti-slavery  views  he  left  North  Carolina  and  took  up  his  residence  in  Indiana  about  1840, 
and,  locating  at  We.sttield,  lived  there  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1859.  As  a physi- 
cian he  was  (piite  successful,  but  he  made  himself  unpopular  with  some  of  his  neighbors  by 
his  unequivocal  denunciation  of  slavery  in  private  and  in  public,  for  he  made  many  speeches 
in  favor  of  abolition,  which  were  characterized  by  all  the  bitterness  engendei'ed  in  the  hearts 
of  haters  of  human  bondage  at  that  time,  when  the  misnamed  ‘‘divine  institution”  was  a 
black  blot  on  our  American  e.sciitcheon.  He  was  reviled,  insulted  and  at  times  mobbed. 
When  invective  was  found  to  have  no  effect  upon  him  missiles,  sometimes  eggs,  were  brought 
into  requisition,  but  he  did  not  fear  death  and  they  did  not  deter  him  from  going  right  ahead 
in  the  plain  path  of  his  duty.  He  gave  to  the  anti  slavery  cause  much  time  and  a good  deal 
of  money;  he  sacridced  to  it  a part  of  the  success  that  might  have  been  his  had  he  refrained 
from  taking  the  bold  stand  he  took.  He  was  for  years  manager  of  a portion  of  that  historic 
yet  uusurveyed  ‘‘  underground  railroad,”  and  as  such  was  instrumental  in  sending  a good 
many  of  his  black-skinned  fellow  men  to  a freedom  beyond  our  borders  that  they  could  not 
find  within  them.  For  years  he  fought  a brave  and  determined  fight,  in  which  he  found  no 
mercy  and  never  demanded  a ti’uce,  and  he  died  just  before  emancipation  was  an  accom- 
plished fact;  but  his  movement  is  absolute  freedom  to  all  men  under  the  stars  and  stripes, 
which  will  never  again  be  curtaileJ  or  circumscribed.  In  1858  (April  28),  only  a year,  more 
or  less,  before  the  death  of  this  grand  man  of  the  people,  occurred  the  birth  of  his  sou.  Dr. 
O.  G.  Pfaff.  When  the  latter  was  six  years  old,  doubly  orphaned,  his  mother  having  died 
too,  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  was  given  a home  with  his  elder  brothers,  who  afforded  him 
every  advantage  within  their  mean.s,  not  the  least  of  which  was  opportunity  to  attend  the 
public  schools.  At  the  age  of  twenty  he  entered  the  office  of  the  late  Dr.  T.  B.  Harvey,  and 
under  the  direction  of  that  able  preceptor  began  the  study  of  medicine.  In  1878  he  became 
a student  in  the  medical  college  of  Indiana,  and  was  graduated  from  that  institution  in  1882. 
During  the  six  months  succeeding  his  graduation  he  practiced  his  profession  with  Dr.  Har- 
vey, and  was  then,  by  the  county  commissioners  of  Marion  County,  appointed  i-esident  phy- 
sician at  the  Marion  County  Asylum,  a position  which  he  retained  a year  and  a half.  For  a 
short  time  after  severing  his  connection  with  that  institution  he  practiced  his  jirofession  in 
Wisconsin,  but  he  soon  located  permanently  in  Indianapolis  and  has  grown  into  a large  gen- 
eral practice  and  a reputation  as  a gynecologist  that  has  given  him  high  standing  in  his  pro- 
fession. He  has  been  connected  with  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana  in  various  capacities 
and  has  been  of  almost  invaluable  aid  to  that  institution.  At  this  time  he  is  its  lecturer  on 
diseases  of  women.  He  is  also  consulting  gynecologist  to  the  city  dispensary  and  to  St. 
Vincent’s  Hospital.  In  1890  Dr.  Pfaff  took  a post-graduate  course  at  the  New  York  post- 
graduate school  and  another  in  1891  in  the  New  Y'^ork  Polyclinic.  In  1892  he  took  a special 
course  in  gynecology,  under  Dr.  August  Martin,  at  Berlin,  Germany,  and  attended  clinics  at 
the  University  at  Berlin.  He  is  a member  of  the  Indianapolis  Surgical  Society,  of  the 
Marion  County  Medical  Society,  of  the  Indianapolis  State  Medical  Society,  of  the  Mississippi 
Valley  Medical  Association  and  of  the  American  Medical  Association.  Politically,  Dr.  Pfaff 
is  a most  enthusiastic  Republican.  He  is  a K.  of  H.,  and  is  medical  examiner  for 
that  order  in  his  district.  He  was  married  November  24,  1885,  to  Mary  Alvy,  daughter  of 
James  H.  Alvy  and  a native  of  Indianapolis. 


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AAD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Samuel  Small.  Within  years  of  recent  date  the  remarkable  growth  of  the  real  estate 
business  has  given  it  a prominence  and  placed  it  in  a position  attained  by  very  few  other 
elements  in  this  country.  This  increase  and  promotion  can  be  nothing  less  than  a reflex  of 
the  progress  and  prosperity  of  every  general  interest  in  the  community  and  constitutes  a 
strong  reason  for  gratification  among  all  appreciative  and  observant  business  men.  In  In- 
dianapolis this  phase  of  affairs  is  noticeable  and  argues  brightly  for  the  future.  In  this 
connection  the  name  of  Samuel  Small  is  conspicuous  and  enterprising  and  occupies  a recog- 
nized position  among  both  real  estate  agents  and  the  owners  of  property.  He  was  born  at 
Greensboro,  in  Henry  County,  Ind. , July  24,  1843,  his  parents  being  Joseph  and  Jane 
(Phelps)  Small,  the  former  of  whom  was  born  in  Wayne  County,  Ind.,  and  the  latter  in  Gil- 
bert County,  N.  C.  Joseph  Small  became  a thrifty  farmer  of  Henry  County,  where  he  made 
his  home  until  1850,  at  which  time  he  removed  to  Hendricks  County,  Ind.,  where  he  con- 
tinued the  same  occupation  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  February,  1887,  his  wife’s 
death  having  occurred  two  years  earlier.  Samuel  Small  was  about  eight  years  old  at  the 
time  of  his  parents’  settlement  in  Hendricks  County,  and  there  he  was  brought  up  to  the 
healtliy,  active  and  useful  life  of  the  farmer,  the  rudiments  of  his  literary  education  being 
obtained  in  the  common  schools  and  at  Mooresville  High  School.  After  leaving  school  he 
purchased  a saw  mill  at  Plainfield;  which  he  operated  successfully  for  about  three  years, 
then  sold  the  same  and  erected  a grist-mill  at  a cost  of  about  $9,000,  but  a short  time  after 
its  completion  he  exchanged  it  for  a farm  of  120  acres  in  Hamilton  County  and  for  eleven  years 
was  occupied  in  tilling  this  land  with  satisfactory  financial  results.  Always  of  a generous 
disposition  and  warmly  attached  to  his  friends,  he  became  security  for  a number  of  them  to 
considerable  amounts  and  upon  their  inability  to  pay  was  com])elled  to  liquidate  the 
amounts,  thus  losing  heavily.  He  then  gave  up  his  farm  and  removed  to  Plainfield,  in  1881, 
where  he  engaged  in  the  real  estate  and  insurance  business,  but  on  January  1,  1889,  he 
became  a member  of  the  present  firm  of  Mills  & Small  and  moved  to  the  city  March  14,  1890. 
These  gentlemen  have  had  sufficient  expei'ience  in  the  handling  of  real  estate  to  make  them- 
selves and  their  advice  valuable  in  the  extreme  to  operators  who  intrust  their  interests  in  their 
hands.  November  7,  1800,  Mr.  Small  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Mary  E.  Coggeshall,  a 
native  of  Wayne  County,  Ind.,  and  to  tliem  a family  of  five  children  have  been  given:  Leora 
B.,  ^lillicent  J. , Bethana  Estella,  Joseph  O.  and  Robert  P.  The  wife  and  mother  was  called 
from  life  in  Fel)ruary,  1890,  and  on  June  29.  1892,  Mr.  Small  was  united  in  mariiage  to  Miss 
Anna  M.  Keehn,  a native  of  Reading,  Berks  County,  Penn.  Mr.  Small  has  always  been  a 
Repul)lican  in  politics,  is  a member  of  the  Friends’  Church,  and  socially  is  a member  of  the 
A.  O.  U.  W.,  in  whicli  he  has  held  various  positions  of  honor. 

John  B.  Cockrum.  Among  the  ])rominent  men  of  Indianapolis,  Ind. , slands  the  name 
of  J fijti  B.  Cockrum,  who  is  at  present  assistant  general  attorney  of  the  Lake  Erie  & 
\\  estern  Kailroad  at  that  place.  He  is  a j)roduct  of  Indiana,  born  in  Gibson  County,  Sep- 
tember 12,  18')7,  and  his  parents.  Col.  W.  M.  and  Lucretia  (Harper)  Cockrum,  were  natives 
of  that  county  also.  The  paternal  grandfather.  Col.  James  W.  Cockrum,  came  from 
North  Carolina  at  an  early  day,  and  settled  in  Gibson  County,  Ind.,  where  he  was  one  of 
the  pioneers.  He  laid  out  Oakland  City  and  followed  the  occupation  of  a fanner,  but  in 
connection  was  also  engaged  in  merchandising.  He  was  Colonel  of  the  State  Militia  during 
the  Mexican  war,  and  was  a prominent  man.  At  an  early  date  he  was  a member  of  the 
Legislature  and  associated  with  the  Hon.  \\  illiam  H.  English,  now  of  this  city.  The  closing 
scenes  of  his  life  were  passed  in  (rib.son  County.  Our  subject’s  maternal  grandfather,  John 
Harper,  was  an  early  settler  of  Gibscjn  County,  Ind.,  ami  of  an  old  and  highly  respected 
family.  'J'he  father  of  our  subject.  Col.  William  M.  Cockrum,  is  still  a resident  of  Ofkland 
City,  Ind.,  and  one  of  its  most  esteemed  and  popular  citizens.  He  has  been  identitied  with 
all  public  interests,  and  is  in  every  way  a most  worthy  citizen.  Although  active  in  political 
matt«irs  he  has  never  aspiiod  to  nor  filled  any  j)oliticai  office,  prefening  instead  to  give  his 
entire  attention  to  his  extensive  farm.  During  the  (fivil  war  he  was  lieutenant  colomd  of 
the  Forty-second  Indiana  Hegiment,  and  was  severely  wounded  at  the  battle  of  Chicka- 
maiiga.  I’cu’  some  time  he  laid  on  the  battle  field  and  was  then  captured  and  taken  to 
Libby  Prison  where  he  laniiained  seven  months.  He  was  an  inmate  of  the  prison  at  the 
time  Col.  Streight  ami  others  made  their  esca))e  through  the  famous  tunnel.  Me  was 


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paroled  at  Colnnil)ns,  Ohio,  took  charge  of  his  regiment  as  lieutenant-colonel,  and  remained 
with  the  same  until  the  close  of  the  war.  By  his  union  with  Miss  Harper  he  became  the 
, father  of  nine  children,  as  follows:  John  B.,  Ella,  Clara,  Willie,  Morton,  Zoe,  May,  James 
W.  and  Marion  O , all  of  whom  are  living  except  Willie  who  died  in  infancy.  John  B. 
Cockrum,  the  eldest  of  these  children,  grew  to  mature  years  in  his  native  town,  secured  a 
fair  educatiot)  in  the  same,  and  then  taught  .school  for  three  years.  Later  he  graduated  in 
the  Cincinnati  Law  School.  This  was  in  the  spring  of  1879,  when  twenty-one  years  of  age, 
and  he  subsequently  formed  a partnershij)  with  C.  W.  Armstrong,  of  Boonville,  Warrick 
County,  Ind.  This  continued  until  1888,  when  they  together  formed  a partnership  with 
Judge  JohnB.  Handy,  under  thetirm  name  of  Handy,  Armstrong  & Cockrum,  the  same  con- 
tinuing until  1889.  They  had  the  most  extensive  law  practice  of  any  firm  in  that  county. 
Mr.  Cockrum  is  a man  of  very  superior  natural  endowments,  strengthened  and  enriched  by  the 
highest  culture.  His  mind  is  clear,  concise,  analytical  and  well  poised.  Of  quick  per- 
ception, he  reaches  at  a bound  what  might  cause  others  hours  of  study  and  research.  He 
impresses  yon  at  once  as  a man  of  great  strength,  de^Jh  and  grasp  of  mind.  In  1888  he 
was  selected  as  the  Harrison  delegate  to  the  Chicago  convention,  in  as  hard  a fought  dis- 
trict convention  as  was  ever  held  in  the  State.  He  was  active  in  this  campaign  and  on 
March  12,  1889,  he  was  appointed  assistant  United  States  district  attorney  for  the  district 
of  Indiana,  by  President  Harrison.  This  [)Osition  he  held  until  Ajiril  20,  1893.  On  March 
l,of  that  year  he  was  appointed  assistant  general  attorney  for  the  Lake  Erie  & \Vestern 
Railroad,  Mr.  W.  E.  Hackedorn  being  general  attorney.  This  position  he  holds  at  the 
present  time  and  has  recently  taken  u])  his  residence  in  Indianapolis,  where  he  purchased 
|)roperty  on  College  Avenue.  His  fine  liome  is  presided  over  by  his  worthy  companion, 
formerly  Miss  Fannie  C.  Bittrolff,  of  Evansville,  Ind.,  whom  he  married  on  January  22, 
1880,  Two  interesting  children  are  the  fruits  of  this  union,  Freeda  and  Oatley,  aged 
twelve  and  ten  respectively.  Mr,  Cockrum  takes  a deep  interest  in  political  affairs  and 
wields  his  influence  for  his  party.  He  is  identified  with  nearly  all  the  secret  societies  and 
several  prominent  clubs  of  the  city.  He  is  an  Odd  Fellow,  has  held  the  office  of  grand 
patriarch  of  the  grand  encampment  of  Indiana,  is  a Mason,  and  a K.  of  P. , being  chairman 
of  the  grievances  and  a])peals  committee  of  the  grand  lodge,  and  is  a member  of  the  Com- 
mercial and  Columbia  Clubs. 

W.  E.  Hackedorn.  Among  the  citizens  of  Indianapolis  who  have  carried  their  way 
from  a modest  l)eginning  to  the  rank  of  its  prominent  men,  not  one  occupies  a more  envi- 
able position  than  W.  E.  Hackedorn.  Possessed  of  excellent  ability,  grafted  upon  a 
stock  of  stiirdy  honesty,  he  also  possesses  a goodly  degree  of  those  personal  attributes  that 
s])ring  from  a kindly  heart,  an  honest  purjmse,  a broad  liberality  and  a fraternal  sympathy. 
He  was  born  in  Richland  County,  Ohio,  January  29,  1855,  to  George  G.  and  Lucinda  S. 
fShur)  Hackedorn,  the  former  of  whom  was  a physicifyi  by  ])rofession,  but  spent  the  greater 
part  of  his  life  as  a banker  at  Lima,  Ohio.  He  paid  the  last  debt  of  nature  September  1, 
1874.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  brought  up  in  Lima  and  was  educated  in  the  public 
schools  and  in  the  Ohio  Wesleyan  University  at  Delaware,  from  which  he  graduated  in  1875. 
Soon  after  this  event  he  began  the  study  of  law  and  began  his  practice  at  Lima.  He 
moved  to  Indianapolis  in  the  fall  of  1887,  and  soon  after  became  connected  with  the  Lake 
Erie  & Western  Railroad  Company,  as  attorney,  which  connection  has  continued  up  to  the 
present  time  to  the  satisfaction  of  all  concerned.  From  1878  to  1882  he  was  attorney  for 
the  Sandusky  Division,  and  in  1888  was  made  general  attorney  for  this  road,  and  as  such 
still  continues.  Since  1890  he  has  also  been  general  attorney  for  the  Fort  Wayne,  Cincin- 
nati & Louisville  Railroad  Company,  and  throughout  his  entire  professional  careei'  he  has 
been  closely  identifletl  with  railway  interests,  his  advice  and  labors  in  their  behalf  being 
highly  valued  notwithstanding  his  youth.  He  is  also  secretary  of  the  Indianapolis  Sc 
Northeastern  Railroad  Cojnpany.  Personally  he  is  universally  popular,  and  in  all  relations 
his  life  is  without  blemish  or  stain.  In  1885  he  was  married  to  Miss  Dell  Hull,  of  Bucyrus, 
Ohio. 

Lafayette  F.  Cage,  M.  D.  Diseases  of  the  nose,  throat  and  ear,  inclirding  catarrhal, 
bronchial  and  allied  ailments,  have  dui'ing  recent  years  received  the  special  attention  of 
many  [Jiysicians  of  skill  and  eminence.  One  of  the  most  conspicuous  of  the  medical  prac- 


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AXD  ^fAR10X  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


1B9 


titioners  of  Iudianaj)olis  devoting  himself  to  these  branches  of  practice,  is  Dr.  Lafayette  F. 
Page,  who  was  born  at  Columbia,  Ky.,  May  21,  1863,  and  is  a son  of  Robert  and  Mary  (Irving) 
Page,  natives  of  Charlottesville.  Va.  Robert  Page  was  a business  man  of  prominence.  Dr. 
Page  was  educated  privately  and  at  the  public  schools  of  Columbia,  Ky.,  and  later  pursued  a 
classical  course  at  Columbia  College,  there  obtaining  the  degree  of  A.  B.  For  two  years  he 
was  teacher  of  higher  mathematics  in  Kentucky  and  for  one  year  afterward  in  Texas.  In 
1885  he  removed  to  Louisville  and  began  the  study  of  medicine  at  the  Louisville  Univer- 
sity (medical  department).  After  taking  the  first  course  of  lectures,  he  came  to  Indianapo- 
lis and  entered  the  Indiana  Medical  College,  from  which  he  was  graduated  in  1887,  receiv 
ing  the  Mears  gold  medal  as  a mark  of  special  honor.  At  the  same  time  he  entered  a com- 
petitive examination  for  the  position  of  interne  at  the  city  dispensary  and  secured  the 
a])pointment  for  one  year.  He  then  entered  upqji  a general  practice  to  which  he  devoted  him- 
self with  increasing  success  for  two  years.  Later  he  took  two  post  graduate  courses  at 
New  York  with  the  end  in  view  of  perfecting  himself  in  a knowledge  of  pathology  and  treat- 
ment of  the  specialties  to  which  he  has  given  his  almost  exclusive  attention  since  1890. 
Though  still  a young  man,  he  has  gained  a re]mtation  in  this  line  which  has  made  him  well 
and  widely  known  for  his  skill  and  success.  He  is  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical 
Society,  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society  and  the  American  Medical  Association,  and  since 
coming  to  Indianapolis,  has  been  physician  to  the  county  asylum,  and  he  is  at  this  time  con- 
sulting physician  in  diseases  of  the  throat,  nose  and  ear,  to  the  city  dispensary.  He  is  a 
member  of  the  K.  of  P.  and  in  politics  is  a Democrat. 

•Ions  C.  Gtreexe.  One  of  the  well  known  and  successful  lawyers  of  Indianajiolis  is  the 
gentleman  who.se  name  appears  above.  He  is  no  less  popular  socially  than  at  the  bar  and  is 
distinguished  as  being  descended  from  a family  of  more  than  ordinary  prominence  during 
the  revolutionary  days.  He  was  born  in  Kush  County,  Ind.,  February  17,  1831,  a son  of 
Lot  and  Anna  (Cooper)  Greene,  natives  resjiectively  of  Virginia  and  Kentucky.  His  i)a- 
ternal  grandfather,  who  was  for  many  years  a resident  of  Guilford  County,  N.  C.,  was  Thomas 
Gr«*ene,  whose  father,  a Rhode  Islander,  was  first  cousin  to  Gen.  Nathaniel  Greene. 
Gen.  Greene  and  Thomas  Greene  were  members  of  the  Society  of  Friends,  and  Gen.  Greene 
had  many  Quakers  among  his  followers  through  the  revolutionary  struggle  who  suspended 
their  relations  with  their  peaceful  brotherhood  during  the  period  when  their  country  had 
such  dire  need  of  their  services.  When  the  independence  of  the  colonies  was  assured,  several 
of  these  made  a rerpiest  for  themselves  and  for  their  comrades  for  reinstatement.  A com- 
mittee was  appointed  on  behalf  of  the  society  to  consider  their  application  and  after  due  de- 
liberation informed  them  that  they  woiild  Ije  reitistated  if  they  would  acknowledge  before  the 
congregation  that  they  liad  done  wrong  in  taking  up  arms  in  mortal  strife.  Gen.  Greene 
was  ap[)ointed  spokesman  for  the  patriot  “Frieiuls.”  They  were  of  one  mind.  They  had 
lisked  theii' lives  in  the  cause  of  liberty  and  they  were  not  only  not  sorry  for  it  but  were 
proud  of  it.  d'he  General  stated  to  the  committee  that  in  reply  to  its  demand  that  they 
should  acknowledge  the  act  as  wrong  he  had  but  one  answer  to  make  and  tliat  it  was  a de- 
cided one,  “they  would  be  damned  if  tluiy  would  do  it.”  From  that  time  on  Thomas  Greene 
repudiated  the  Society  of  Friends.  He  left  his  peo])le  and  went  to  Virginia,  thence  to  Som 
erset  County.  Ky. . and  thence  to  I'Yanklin  County.  Ind. , where  lie  di(*d  on  his  farm  two 
miles  below  Brooklyn.  Mr.  Gieene’s  grandfather.  Cooper,  also  served  the  cause  of  the  pa- 
triots for  twf)  years  during  the  war  for  independence.  He  was  a farmer  and  a Paptist 
[ireacher and  clos(;d  his  days  in  Hush  County,  Ind.  Lot  Greene,  father  of  the  immediate 
subject  of  this  sketch,  was  a farmer  in  Hush  County  all  his  active  life.  He  was  a man  of 
fine  attainments  for  tliose  days  and  at  different  times tauglit  school  with  such  success  that  he 
is  regarded  as  having  l)e<*n  an  alile  educator.  For  twenty  yeai’s  he  was  justice  of  tlie  peace 
under  t Ik*  old  const  if  ut  ion.  He  married  Anna  Cooper  and  she  bore  liim  eight  children, 
named  as  follows:  John  C.  (whose  name  heads  this  article).  Samuel,  laiiiisa  (of  California), 
Dr.  James,  Dr.  W.  F.  (deceasi'il),  .'Vmatida  (deceased),  H.  M.  (president  of  the  First  Na 
tioiial  ]>ank  of  Hasadena  County,  Cal.),  and  .Mrs.  Anna  G.  Porter,  of  California,  .lohn  C. 
Greene  was  reared  on  his  fath(*r’s  faian  in  Hush  County,  Ind. , attending  the  district  schools 
and  working  on  tlie  place  until  he  was  twenty  two  years  of  age.  Me  then  ent(*red  Del’auw 
(then  .\sbury)  University,  and  was  a student  in  that  institution  until  com|)(>lh“d,  nearly  four 


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MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


years  later,  io  relinquish  his  studies  on  account  of  failing  health.  Not  long  afterward  he 
entered  the  law  office  of  Davis  & Wright,  at  Shelby ville,  Ind.,  and  read  with  them  until  he 
WHS  admitted  to  the  bar  in  March,  1850,  and  began  the  practice  of  his  profession  in  associa- 
tion with  his  former  preceptors  as  a member  of  the  tirm  of  Davis,  Wright  & Greene,  a rela- 
tion which  continued  most  pleasantly  and  profitably  for  all  concerned  for  ten  years.  In  Oc- 
tober. 1800,  became  to  Indianapolis.  He  was  for  aboratone  year  thereafter  in  the  service  of 
the  United  States  Government,  and  afterward  was  for  nine  years  a wholesale  merchant,  first 
in  tobacco,  cigars  and  teas,  and  later  in  drugs.  But  Mr.  Greene  gave  up  his  mercantile 
career  to  I'eturn  to  the  i)ractice  of  his  [)rofession,  which  has  since  engaged  his  time  and  at- 
tention. As  a lawyer  he  is  noted  for  the  skill  with  which  he  prepares  his  cases,  the  ability 
with  which  he  ])i  es('nts  them  and  the  force  and  logic  with  which  he  argues  them.  It  is  his 
invariable  custom  to  advise  against  litigation  as  long  as  litigation  can  be  avoided  without 
detriment  to  liis  client’s  interests,  but  when  he  once  takes  a case  in  hand  he  leaves  no  stone 
unturned  in  the  road  to  victory.  He  numbers  among  his  clients  many  of  the  leading  citizens 
firms  and  corporations  of  Indianapolis  and  its  vicinity,  and  is  specially  retained  by  the  Mu- 
tual Ijife  Endowment  Association.  Politically  Mr.  Greene  is  a Republican,  and  while  he 
can  (juite  plainly  state  his  reasons  for  so  being,  he  is  not  in  the  ordinary  sense  a politician, 
and  he  has  never  sought  uor  accepted  office,  preferring  to  devote  himself  entirely  to  his  busi- 
ness interests  and  having  really  no  ambition  in  the  direction  of  a public  life.  In  a worldly 
way  he  has  been  quite  successful.  He  was  married  in  Se|)tember,  1854,  to  Miss  Catherine 
Houston,  a cousin  of  Samuel  Houston,  of  Texas,  and  who  has  borne  him  two  children.  Robert 
L.  and  Lucien,  both  of  whom  live  in  Chicago.  His  present  wife,  whom  he  married  in 
IMarch,  1885.  was  Azie  McLean,  of  New  Orleans.  As  a citizen  Mr.  Greene  has  always  been 
most  public  spirited  and  helpful.  He  is  proud  of  Indianai)olis  and  of  the  grand  State  of 
Indiana  and  zealous  for  their  progress  and  jirosperity. 

Dr.  Robert  Geddes  Graydox,  now  retired  from  the  active  duties  of  his  profession,  is 
probal)ly  one  of  the  best  known  physicians  of  Marion  County,  Ind.  He  has  been  unusually 
successful  in  the  ])ractice  of  his  profession,  and  that  he  deserves  the  good  fortune  that 
attended  his  efforts  is  indisputable,  for  he  is  not  only  honest  and  reliable  and  intelligent, 
but  he  has  ever  been  sympathetic  yet  cheerhil  in  the  sick  room,  and  possessed  the  happy 
faculty  of  winning  the  confidence  and  liking  of  his  patients,  which  had  much  to  do  with 
their  restoration  to  health.  In  fact,  throughout  the  county  he  is  considered  an  authority  in 
medical  lore,  and  is  highly  regarded  by  the  medical  fraternity.  The  Doctor  first  saw  the 
light  of  day  in  Lancaster  County,  Penn..  August  17,  1819,  his  parents  being  Alexander  and 
Sarah  (Geddes)  Graydon.  The  father  was  l)orn  in  Harrisburg,  Penn.,  his  birth  occurring  in 
1791.  and  the  principal  ))art  of  his  life  was  .spent  in  merchandising  in  his  native  town.  In 
1848  he  went  to  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  where  he  was  engaged  in  merchandising  until  1858,  and  ten 
years  later  his  death  occurred.  He  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812,  and  was  in  the  cam- 
paign when  the  British  burned  the  capitol  and  bombarded  Baltimore.  He  was  married 
first,  in  1818,  to  Miss  Sarah  Geddes,  a native  of  Pennsylvania,  and  to  this  union  was  born 
one  son,  our  subject.  Tlie  mother’s  death  occurred  at  that  time.  On  September  10,  1822, 
Mr.  Graydon  was  married  to  Miss  Jane  C.  McKinney,  daughter  of  Mordecai  McKinney, 
and  fourteen  children  were  l)oru  to  this  union,  nine  of  whom  reached  mature  years.  Of 
these  three  died  unmarried.  Those  who  married  were  named  as  follows:  Mary  E.,  who 
became  the  wife  of  Joseph  K.  Sharp,  of  Indianapolis;  William  M. , who  married  Miss  Mary 
Merrill,  resides  in  Indianapolis;  Alexander,  who  resides  in  St.  Louis,  married  Mary  Erances 
Foster;  Emma  is  the  widow  of  James  C.  Alexander,  and  resides  in  Indianapolis;  Andrew, 
married  Miss  Lavinia  Doxon,  and  now  makes  his  home  in  Indianapolis;  and  James  W.,  who 
resides  in  London,  England,  first  married  Miss  Mary  McCullougli  and  after  her  death  was 
married  to  Miss  Mary  Bodine.  William  Graydon,  the  grandfather  of  the  above  mentioned  chil- 
dren, was  born  in  Bristol,  Penn.,  on  the  Delaware  River,  in  1759.  He  was  a lawyer  by 
profession,  and  in  his  early  manhood  moved  to  Harrisburg.  Penn.,  where  he  was  soon  after 
a])pointed  justice  of  the  peace  by  George  Mifflin,  Pennsylvania’s  first  governor,  and  held 
that  position  for  fifty  years.  His  death  occurred  in  October,  1840.  He  assisted  in  suppress- 
ing the  whisky  insurrection  in  Pennsylvania,  and  was  under  Gen.  Washington.  The 
grandfather  was  first  married  to  Miss  Eleanor  Scull,  who  bore  him  six  children.  After 


Ayn  MARIOX  COUNTY,  INDTAXA. 


171 


her  death  he  was  married  to  Miss  Eleanor  Murray,  and  four  children  were  born  to  them, 
two  of  whom  are  now  living;  William,  who  now  resides  in  Philadelphia,  and  Henry  M. , 
who  lives  in  Harrisburg.  Alexander  Graydon,  the  great-grandfather  of  our  subject,  was 
born  in  County  Longford,  Ireland,  in  1709,  and  was  educated  for  the  Episcopal  ministry  in 
Dublin.  He  came  to  America  in  1730,  settled  in  Philadelphia,  and  at  once  commenced  the 
study  of  law.  A number  of  years  later  he  was  appointed  judge  of  the  Bucks  County  Court, 
of  which  Bristol  was  the  county  seat,  and  he  moved  to  that  town  and  made  his  home  there 
until  his  death  in  1700.  He  was  married  in  Philadelphia  to  a IMiss  Marks,  and  several  chil- 
dren were  l)orn  to  them,  of  whom  two  sons,  Alexander  and  Andrew,  were  soldiers  in  the 
Kevolution,  Alexander  serving  as  captain  and  Andrew  as  cornet  player.  The  former  was 
captured  and  confined  in  New  A^ork  city  for  some  time  by  the  British.  He  was  afterward 
prothonotary  or  clerk  of  Dauphin  County  Court,  and  held  that  position  for  many  years.  He 
was  a member  of  the  constitutional  convention  of  1793,  and  was  one  of  the  electors  who 
voted  for  George  Washington.  He  died  in  Harrisburg  in  1817.  Although  married  twice, 
he  left  no  children.  The  Doctor’s  earliest  maternal  ancestor  of  w’hom  he  has  any  trace  was 
Paul  Geddes,  who  was  a native  of  the  Emerald  Isle,  born  in  1660.  Ho  married  the  M’idow 
McElroy,  and  died  in  1720  or  1730.  His  son,  James  Geddes,  was  born  in  1704  and  died  in 
1764.  The  latter  married  Miss  Margaret  Muir  and  came  to  America  in  177)2,  settling  in  the 
Keystone  State.  He  and  wife  had  three  sons,  Paul,  William  and  Samuel,  all  born  in  Ire- 
land. William  Geddes’  birth  occurred  in  1735,  and  he  married  Mias  Sarah  McAllen  in  1762. 
They  had  seven  children,  one  of  whom.  Robert  Geddes,  whose  birth  occurred  in  1771,  was 
the  maternal  grandfather  of  our  subject.  He  married  IMiss  Jane  Sawyer,  in  March,  1797, 
and  the  mother  of  our  subject  was  one  of  his  children.  Dr.  Robert  G.  Graydon  never 
knew  the  tender  care  of  a mother,  and  when  ten  days  old  was  taken  to  Harrisburg,  Penn., 
by  his  father,  and  there  grew  to  sturdy  manhood.  He  attended  the  schools  of  that  city,  and 
he  also  attended  a private  academy,  thus  receiving  a fair  education  for  his  day.  In  1838, 
when  nineteen  years  of  age,  he  went  to  Hanover,  N.  H. , and  there  entered  Dartmouth 
(k)llege,  from  which  institution  he  graduated  in  1842.  Returning  to  Harrisburg,  Penn.,  he 
commenced  the  study  of  medicine  with  Dr.  William  W.  Rutherford,  and  later  attended  the 
University  of  Pennsylvania,  graduating  from  the  medical  department  of  that  institution  in 
1845.  Again  he  returned  to  Harrisburg,  but  only  to  remain  there  a short  time,  for  in  1846 
he  came  to  Indiana  and  located  at  Indianapolis.  He  practiced  there  a short  time  and  in 
1849  started  for  (California,  overland,  making  the  start  from  Independence,  Mo.,  together 
with  a com|)any  of  about  fifty  or  sixty  individuals.  The  j)arty  split  up  along  the  road  and 
only  about  a dozen  stuck  together.  They  landed  at  Sutter’s  Mill  after  a trip  of  five 
monfhs,  during  which  time  they  had  no  trouble  with  Indians  and  no  bad  luck  to  amount  to 
anything.  Dr.  Graydon  remained  in  (California  from  August,  1849,  until  Se])tember,  1850, 
digging  for  gold  most  of  the  time,  and  he  then  returned  home  by  way  of  the  isthmus.  He 
stopped  at  many  places  on  the  way,  and  after  an  ocean  voyage  of  fifty-five  days  reached 
New  York  (City.  From  there  he  went  to  Phila(lelj)hia,  thence  to  Harrisburg,  where  he 
visited  friends,  and  then  came  to  the  Hoosier  State  with  about  $2,000  he  had  made  in  the 
Gold  State.  In  1852  he  located  in  Greenwood,  Johnson  (County,  and  practic(*d  his  |)rofes- 
sion  there  until  1858,  with  the  exception  of  six  months  spent  in  Texas,  and  then  came  to 
Southport,  -Marion  (County,  where  he  has  since  remained  and  where  he  practiced  his  profes 
sioti  until  1887,  when  he  retired.  He  was  a member  of  the  Marion  County  CMedical  Society, 
also  the  State  Medical  Society,  and  was  a charter  immiber  of  both.  In  his  religious  views  he  is  a 
Presbyterian  and  a member  of  the  session.  In  the  year  1 886  he  was  elected  justice  of  the  |)eace 
for  four  years,  but  his  successor  failing  fo(|ualify.  Dr.  (traydon  continues  to  serve.  In  politics 
he  is  a Republican;  originally  a M hig.  He  was  not  able  to  vote  for  William  H.  Hanison,  being 
in  college,  and  as  a conse(|uence  his  first  presidential  vote  was  for  Henry  (Clay.  He  voted 
for  John  (C.  Fremont,  then  for  Douglas,  then  MacClellan,  but  since  then,  for  the  most  part  he 
has  voted  the  Republican  ticket.  In  the  year  1851  the  Doctor  was  married  to  INfiss  Sarah 
(C.  Todd,  a nativ<;  of  Kentucky,  as  wiis  also  her  father,  Levi  L.  Todd.  One  child  was  born 
to  this  union,  but  it  died  in  infancy.  Mrs.  Graydon  died  in  1857,  and  the  Doctor’s  second 
wife  was  Miss  Eliza  15.  'I’odd,  daughtei'  of  'I'liomas  4.  'I'odd.  One  child,  a daughtei',  was 
born  to  this  union,  but  died  in  infancy.  'I’he  second  wife  died  in  August,  1867,  and  his 


172 


OF  INDTANAPOLIS 


third  wife’s  maiden  name  was  Flora  A.  Finch,  daughter  of  Moses  Finch,  a native  of  New 
York.  No  children  have  been  l)orn  to  this  union. 

L.  P.  Harlan.  The  Harlan  family  is  one  of  the  honored  old  American  families  mem- 
bers of  which  have  been  prominent  in  about  every  important  period  of  our  civilization.  Early 
representatives  of  it  were  able  lawyers  and  eloquent  divines.  The  name  has  made  itself 
honored  in  war  and  in  peace,  in  the  celebrations  of  the  church  and  in  the  counsels  of  the 
nation.  One  of  its  best  known  representatives  at  this  time  is  Levi  P.  Harlan,  of  Indian- 
apolis. This  popular  lawyer  was  born  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  March  3,  1853,  a son  of 
Austin  B.  and  Elizabeth  L.  (Conwell)  Harlan.  His  father  was  a native  of  Connersville, 
Ind.,  and  his  mother  of  Xenia,  Ohio.  The  latter  was  brought  to  Marion  County  when  but 
an  infant,  by  her  parents,  who  settled  on  a farm  which  became  known  widely  as  her  family 
home.  Nathan  Harlan,  Levi  P.  Harlan’s  paternal  graudfathei’,  removed,  when  only  about 
sixteen  year.s  of  age  to  Connersville,  Ind. , from  his  native  state.  Kentucky.  In  1825  he 
came  to  Marion  County  and  was  a well  known  farmer  here  until  his  death,  which  occurred 
in  1847.  He  entered  a tract  of  land  in  1827  about  nine  miles  east  of  the  city,  which  is  now 
the  home  of  the  father  of  the  immediate  subject  of  this  sketch.  His  father,  Joshua  Harlan, 
was  one  of  the  most  prominent  early  settlers  of  the  State  and  was  a pioneer  judge  at 
Connersville.  He  came  from  Kentucky  to  Connersville,  and  with  him  came  his  son,  Nathan, 
then  about  sixteen  years  old.  Before  the  latter  came  to  Marion  County,  in  1825,  he  had 
married,  and  he  brought  with  him  Austin  B.  Harlan  (L.  P.  Harlan’s  father),  then  three 
months  old  and  certainly  entitled  to  be  written  down  as  one  of  the  youngest  pioneers  here- 
about. Here  he  was  reared  and  still  lives,  having  made  his  home  on  the  same  place  for 
sixty-six  years.  He  liegan  as  a boy  to  aid  in  the  task  of  clearing  and  cultivating  the  land. 
He  was  a ])upil  in  the  old  red  log  school-houses  of  his  time  and  availed  himself  to  the 
utmost  of  such  educational  advantages  as  were  afforded  him,  and  later  supplemented  them 
with  systematic  reading  until  he  is  regarded  as  one  of  the  best  informed  men  anywhere  in 
the  country.  Considering  his  years  he  is  exceptionally  hale  and  hearty.  He  is  prominent 
in  all  the  affairs  of  his  neighborhood,  and  is  known  the  country  over  as  a stanch  and  uncom- 
[)romising  Democrat.  He  has  been  twice  married  and  has  a largo  family  of  children.  The 
subject  of  this  sketch  and  bis  brother,  Allison  W.  Harlan,  a well  known  dentist  of  Chicago, 
are  the  only  ones  by  the  first  marriage  now  living.  The  following  by  the  second  marriage 
are  living,  Isaac.  Jacob,  George,  Hairy,  Clara,  Adeline  and  Bessie.  Dir.  Harlan’s  boyhood 
day.s  were  passed  on  the  farm  and  in  the  district  school.  He  was  early  practically  familiar 
with  the  rough  work  of  jiroducing  from  the  soil  the  food  of  the  people.  The  foundation 
of  his  education  was  primary  in  its  character.  He  took  up  the  labor  of  study  in  earnest  at 
Butler  Hniversity,  and  in  June,  1873,  went  to  Chicago  and  began  to  read  law  in  the  office  of 
Wilson,  Martin  & iVIontgomery  and  remained  there  about  two  years.  Upon  his  return  to 
Indianajiolis  he  was  elected  supei'intendent  of  the  schools  of  Marion  County  and  held  that 
impoi;tiuit  jiosition  for  ten  years,  until  1885.  For  something  more  than  two  year.s  there- 
after he  was  cashier  in  the  city  and  county  treasurer’s  office.  This  position  he  was  obliged 
to  relinquish  on  account  of  extreme  and  protracted  illness,  and  when  he  was  sufficiently 
recovered  to  do  so,  he  devoted  himself  to  restful  and  recnjierative  travel,  which  was  con- 
tinued about  a year.  On  his  return  he  became  a member  of  the  law  firm  of  IMcCullough  & 
Harlan,  his  partner  being  Senator  McCullough,  which  existed  for  three  years,  and  since  its 
termination  he  has  been  engaged  alotie  in  the  practice  of  his  profession.  He  has  attained  a 
|)rominence  at  the  bar  which  is  but  the  just  reward  of  his  merits  and  his  success.  He  has 
never  had  any  {lolitical  ambition  to  gratify,  and  such  official  jireferment  as  has  been  accorded 
to  him  has  come  to  him  as  the  one  conspicuous  man  who  could  most  worthily  assume  it  and 
perform  its  duties.  In  all  the  relations  of  life  he  has  borne  himself  with  credit,  and  to  the 
honor  and  gratitication  of  his  fellow  citizens.  He  is  a member  of  the  Methodist  Ejiiscopal 
Church  and  is  most  liberal  and  helpful  to  all  its  interests.  He  was  married  in  1877  to  ^liss 
Sarah  L.  INIcVey,  a talenteil  and  most  estimable  lady,  and  has  five  children:  Horace.  Ethel, 
Clara,  Dayton  and  Loren.  His  suburban  home  is  one  of  the  most  comfortable  and  eh'gant 
about  Indianapolis  and  breathes  welcome  and  good  cheer  in  its  every  appointment.  Here 
i\rr  and  Mrs.  Harlan  disjiense  a generous  hospitality  which  has  made  the  jilace  known  to 
the  most  solid  and  substantial  [leople,  and,  with  their  children,  live  (piietly  and  contentedly 
away  from  the  noise  and  bustle  of  the  city. 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


173 


Cornelius  \V.  Sullivan.  Special  adaptability  to  any  [)articular  calling  in  life  is  the 
one  necessary  adjunct  to  permanent  success.  No  matter  the  vim  and  determination  whicli 
characterizes  a man’s  start  in  business,  unless  he  is  to  the  manner  born,  he  will  find  to  his 
sorrow  that  his  line  has  been  falsely  cast,  and  the  quicker  he  draws  aside  and  takes  iij)  an 
other  calling,  the  better  will  it  be  for  him.  That  Cornelius  W.  Sullivan  is  especially  fitted 
for  the  calling  which  now  occupies  his  attention,  that  of  plaster  contracting,  cannot  be 
doubted,  for  he  has  a large  amount  of  work  constantly  on  hand,  some  of  which  is  of  consider- 
able importance  and  demands  the  utmost  care  and  attention.  Although  he  is  ([uite  young 
he  commands  his  full  share  of  work,  and  with  reason  may  be  accounted  one  of  the  most  suc- 
cessful and  extensive  contractors  in  his  line  in  the  city.  He  was  born  on  Delaware  Street, 
Indianapolis,  January  1,  1801),  a son  of  Timothy  and  Anna  (O’Donnell)  Sullivan,  the  former 
of  whom  was  born  in  the  State  of  Kentucky,  and  the  latter  on  the  Isle  of  Erin.  She  was 
brought  in  childhood  to  this  country,  here  grew  to  womanhood,  and  upon  reaching  a suitable 
age  was  united  in  marriage  with  Timothy  Sullivan.  This  gentleman  learned  the  trade  of  a 
plasterer  in  Louisville,  Ky.,  and  in  1850  came  to  Indiaiuqiolis  and  followed  his  trade  with 
success  for  cjuite  a number  of  years.  He  is  now  deceased,  but  his  widow  still  survives  him 
and  makes  her  home  with  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  In  the  public  schools  of  the  city  of 
Iudiana{)olis  Cornelius  \V.  received  his  education,  and  later  was  an  attendant  of  St.  I’atrick’s 
Catholic  Church.  Upon  starting  out  in  life  for  himself  at  the  early  age  of  eleven  years  he 
began  laboring  in  a stave  factory  and  afterward  in  a pork  house,  but  when  he  attained  the 
age  of  fourteen  years  he  began  learning  the  trade  of  i)lasteriug  with  Matthew  Hartman,  one 
of  the  old-time  contractors  of  the  city,  with  whom  he  remained  until  the  death  of  Mr.  Hartman. 
In  1885  he  went  to  Cincinnati  and  the  following  year  to  Chicago,  but  shortly  after  returned 
to  Indianapolis  and  again  worked  for  Mr.  Hartman  until  the  time  of  his  employer’s  death, 
which  occurred  *August  b,  1893,  then  commenced  contracting  plastering,  having  purchased 
Mr.  Hartman’s  business,  and  has  since  been  contracting  for  himself  and  has  filled  some  very 
important  and  extensive  contracts  successfully.  He  has  taken  an  active  interest  in  politics 
for  years,  and  in  1891  was  assistant  doorkeeper  of  the  State  Senate,  and  is  now  a member  of 
the  executive  committee  of  the  Democratic  party,  of  which  he  has  long  been  one  of  the  most 
enthusiastic  sup])orters.  He  is  a member  of  the  Builders’  Exchange,  and  has  very  lately 
been  elected  secretary  of  that  organization.  He  has  always  taken  an  active  interest  in  labor 
organizations;  was  a member  of  the  Operative  Plasterers  Association,  of  which  he  was  presi- 
dent until  his  resignation,  when  he  engaged  in  business  with  others.  He  is  a member  of  the 
Operative  Plasterer’s  International  organization,  of  which  he  has  been  j)resident  nineteen 
months  (United  States  and  Canada),  and  has  been  secretary  of  the  local  organization  and  a 
member  of  the  board  of  trustees.  He  is  a man  of  much  intelligence,  public  spirited  to  a 
degree,  and  a useful  and  influential  citizen. 

Hon.  Williaxi  H.  Craft.  The  real  estate  agent  has  a function  important  alike  to  those  for 
whom  he  sells,  and  to  whom  he  sells,  and  if  he  be  a man  of  integrity,  fills  an  obligation  to  both 
classes  with  whom  he  deals.  The  business  of  more  than  one  man  has  been  unsettled  through  the 
fault  of  unscrupulous  real  estate  agents  and  a man  in  this  line  who  is  really  upright  and  honest 
and  has  at  heart  the  best  interests  of  all  concerned  is  pretty  a))t  in  time  to  receive  a large  patron  - 
age.  One  of  the  most  reliable  of  the  real  estate  agents  of  Indianapolis  is  William  H.  Craft, 
whose  place  of  business  is  located  at  10,  Virginia  Avenue.  He  is  a member  of  the  firm 
of  VV.  H.  Craft  & Co.,  real  estate,  insurance,  loan  and  rental  agents,  his  two  sons,  Harlan  and 
Ernest,  being  associated  in  business  with  him.  The  character  of  the  gentlemen  composing 
this  firm  is  alone  sufficient  to  commend  it  to  the  public  favor  and  they  are  unhesitatingly 
acknowledged  to  be  gentlemen  of  superior  business  (pialifications.  The  head  of  the  firm, 
William  H.  Craft,  was  born  in  Belmont  County,  Ohio,  September  0,  1833  and  in  the  common 
schools  of  that  section  he  received  the  advantages  of  a thoroughly  practical  English  education. 
At  the  age  of  thirteen  he  was  apprenticed  to  learn  the  printing  business  and  served  three 
years  as  a compositor,  at  the  end  of  which  time  he  entered  Netf  Academy,  a well  conducted 
institution  of  learning,  and  there  continued  to  pursue  his  studies  for  one  year.  He  next 
served  a three  year’s  ajiprenticeship  at  the  watch-maker  and  Jeweler’s  business  and  first  came 
to  Indianapolis  in  November,  1854.  In  1800  he  commenced  business  for  himself  in  the  Odd 
Fellows’  Hall,  but  when  the  great  Civil  War  came  up  he  cast  aside  jiersonal  considerations  and 


J74 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


enlisted  in  the  service  of  bis  country.  At  the  close  of  hostilities  he  resumed  the  jewelry 
business  which  had  been  interrupted  by  the  war,  and  established  himself  at  24,  East 
Washington  Street.  In  April,  1886.  Mr.  Craft  then  sold  out  and  quit  the  jewelry  business 
and  turned  his  attention  to  other  avenues  of  labor.  He  has  been  twice  married  and  has  had 
born  to  him  eight  children,  six  of  whom  are  living.  In  1865  he  was  elected  to  the  office  of 
City  Treasurer  and  to  the  City  Council  in  1870,  to  which  office  he  succeeded  himself  in  1872 
and  1874.  He  has  served  as  a member  of  the  State  Legislature,  being  a representative  from 
Marion  County  to  the  House  of  liepresentatives,  during  which  session  the  Bill  for  the  erec- 
tion of  the  New  State  House  was  passed,  in  1877.  Mr.  Craft  has  a wide  acquaintance  and 
has  long  been  familiarly  known  as  Harry  Craft,  many  of  the  old  settlers  knowing  him  on!}’ 
by  this  cognomen. 

George  W.  Miller  is  successfully  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  carriages,  wagons,  etc., 
and  has  Iteen  established  in  this  line  of  work  since  1870  and  has  continued  the  same  ever  since. 
At  the  present  time  the  principle  manufactures  which  he  turns  out  are  delivery  wagons,  and 
he  is  also  extensively  engaged  in  a general  repair  work.  He  owes  his  nativity  to  Wayne 
County,  Ind.,  where  he  was  born  June  14,  1827,  to  Isaac  and  Mary  (Witter)  Miller,  natives 
of  the  Keystone  State.  The  father  was  reared  in  Virginia,  however,  but  in  1826  removed  to 
Wayne  County,  Ind.,  where  he  purchased  a farm  and  resided  on  and  tilled  the  same  until 
liis  death,  which  occurred  in  1862,  his  widow  surviving  him  two  years.  George  W.  Miller 
spent  tiis  boyhood  and  early  manhood  on  the  old  home  farm  in  Indiana  and  like  the 
majority  of  the  farmers’  boys  of  his  day  his  education  was  limited  to  the  common  schools, 
but  he  improved  his  opportunities  and  made  fair  progress  in  his  studies.  At  the  age  of 
twenty-one  he  began  learning  the  carriage-maker’s  trade  at  Cambridge  City,  where  he  also 
later  engaged  in  business  for  himself.  Upon  leaving  that  place  he  went  to  Dublin,  Ind., 
where  he  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  carriages,  and  during  Piei'ce’s  administration  acted 
in  the  capacity  of  postmaster  of  that  place.  When  the  war  opened  he  enlisted  in  Company 
C,  Eighty  fourth  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry  (August  8,  1862),  and  served  until  the  close, 
receiving  his  discharge  at  Indianapolis,  June  28,  1865,  and  being  mustered  out  as  corimral 
of  his  company.  He  is  a member  of  the  G.  A.  R.,  and  since  1851  has  been  a member  of  the 
I.  O.  O.  E. , Meridian  Lodge,  No.  480,  in  which  order  he  has  passed  all  the  chairs.  He  was 
-^married  in  1854  to  Miss  Sarah  E.  Barrett,  a native  of  Henry  County,  Ind.,  and  a daughter 
of  Acpiilla  and  Elizabeth  (Mellett)  Barrett.  To  the  union  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Miller  two 
children  have  been  given,  William  B.  and  Mary  L.,  both  of  whom  are  deceased.  Mary 
became  the  wife  of  Edward  Dickinson.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Miller  have  long  been  in  communion 
with  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  and  are  among  its  most  active  workers.  Mr.  Miller 
is  one  of  its  trustees  and  is  a man  whose  character  as  a business  man  is  above  reproach.  He 
is  kind  and  considerate  in  his  family,,  a faithful  friend,  an  accommodating  neighbor  and  an 
ujiright,  law  abiding  citizen,  an  honor  to  his  family  and  to  the  State  which  gave  him  birth 
in  which  all  his  life  has  been  spent. 

Dr.  Charles  Almer  Barnes.  The  State  of  Vermont  is  always  suggestive  of  the  honest, 
hard  and  rugged  characters  in  human  life.  It  jiresents  to  the  mind  pictures  of  the  bold 
Green  Mountain  boys  and  brave  Ethan  Allen  before  the  gates  of  Ticonderoga.  It  was  peo- 
ple like  those  who  won  their  independence  from  the  British  king  and  erected  the  basis  of 
this  great  American  nation.  It  is  their  descendants  who  have  come  out  in  the  West  and 
formed  the  nucleus  of  a great  territory  and  a great  people.  Charles  Aimer  Barnes,  of 
Southport,  Ind.,  came  of  this  stock.  He  was  born  in  Ferrisburg,  Addison  County,  Vt., 
October  11,  1836,  to  the  union  of  Jesse  G.  and  Mary  (Barron)  Barnes,  the  former  a native 
of  Vermont  and  the  latter  of  Canada.  Mrs.  Barnes’  father,  Maj.  Barron,  was  an  officer  in 
the  English  army  during  the  War  of  1812.  The  father  of  our  subject  was  justice  of  the 
})eace  in  White  County,  Ind.,  many  years,  and  was  a man  highly  esteemed  by  all  favored 
with  his  acquaintance.  His  death  occurred  in  1863  and  the  mother  died  in  1884.  He  had 
been  married  twice,  first  to  a Miss  Alvord  who  bore  him  three  children,  Alfonso,  William  and 
Richard  H. , all  deceased.  To  the  second  union  nine  children  were  born,  Cyrus  B.,  de- 
ceased; Jesse  G.,  James  E.,  D.  F. , Charles  A.,  subject;  Sarah  J.,  wife  of  George  W. 
Glover;  Richard  H. ; George  W.  and  Mary  E.,  who  married  William  Saylor.  Our  sub- 
ject was  only  four  years  of  age  when  his  parents  left  Vermont  and  made  their  way  to 


175 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

St.  Lawreuce  Coxtnty,  N.  Y.  There  young  Barnes  remained  for  live  years,  attending  school 
for  a short  time,  and  then  moved  with  his  parents  to  Huron  County,  Ohio,  where  they 
resided  for  two  years.  From  there  they  moved  to  Indiana,  locating  near  Monticello.  White 
County,  and  there  our  subject  remained  until  1857,  attending  school  and  receiving  most 
of  his  educational  training.  In  the  spring  of  that  year,  while  young  Barnes  was  read- 
ing medicine  in  the  office  of  Dr.  H.  P.  Anderson,  the  struggle  began  in  Kansas  and  he 
left  his  studies  and  went  to  that  Territory.  This  was  after  the  repeal  of  the  Missouri 
compromise  bill.  Later  Mr.  Barnes  entered  the  army  at  Fort  Leavenwortli,  Kan.,  as 
civilian  employe,  and  served  as  courier.  He  was  also  in  the  quartermaster  department, 
was  with  the  ammunition  train  at  the  battle  of  Bull  Hun,  and  with  the  ambulance  on 
the  field  at  the  battle  of  Antietam.  On  account  of  ill  health,  after  eighteen  months  of 
service,  he  was  discharged  and  returned  to  Monticello,  Ind.,  where  he  finished  his  med- 
ical studies.  He  had  four  brothers  in  the  service,  as  follows:  James,  who  served  in  the 
western  army  for  three  years;  Richard  H.  was  in  the  western  army  for  three  years; 
George  W.  enlisted  in  1864  and  served  until  cessation  of  hostilities,  and  D.  F. , who  was 
a iMethodist  minister,  served  in  the  sanitary  commission.  Our  sul)ject  graduated  from  Rush 
Medical  College,  Chicago,  in  1870,  and  then  began  practicing  at  Goodland,  Newton  County, 
Ind.  Previous  to  this,  however,  and  previous  to  graduating,  he  had  practiced  his  profession 
for  six  years  at  Motion,  Ind.  In  1877  he  went  to  Brightwood,  Ind.,  and  there  remained  until 
1887  when  he  came  to  Southjiort,  Ind.,  and  here  he  has  since  practiced  his  piofession.  He  is 
a member  of  the  Marion  County  and  the  Slate  Medical  Societies  and  for  some  time  was  a mem- 
ber of  the  Newton  County  and  White  County  Medical  Societies.  He  was  a delegate  to  the 
American  Jledical  Association  from  White  County,  Ind.,  that  met  at  Cincinnati.  The  Doc- 
tor was  a Republican,  but  of  late  years  has  been  voting  the  Prohibition  ticket.  Socially  he 
is  a member  of  the  Masonic  Fraternity,  Southport  Lodge,  No.  270,  in  which  he  has  held  the 
office  of  Worthy  Master,  and  he  was  master  of  the  lodge  in  Newton  County,  Ind.  In  his 
i-eligious  views  he  is  a Presbyterian,  but  is  of  Quaker  de.scent.  In  the  year  1865  he  was 
married  to  IMiss  Henrietta  Tharp,  daughter  of  Anuariah  Tharj),  of  Jasper  County.  Ind.,  and 
four  children  were  born  to  them,  of  whom  only  two  are  now  living.  Dr.  Arthur  L.  married 
^liss  Mary  E.  Glenn,  daughter  of  A.  J.  Glenn,  and  Charles  Albert  Barnes.  The  Doctor  has 
Ijeen  more  than  ordinarily  successful  in  the  practice  of  his  profession,  and  is  an  excellent 
and  reliable  all-around  physician,  of  which  fact  the  public  is  thoroughly  aware. 

Caul  L.  Barnes,  M.  D.  Although  a young  man  Dr.  Carl  L.  Barnes  bids  fair  to  become 
a model  physician.  His  cheerful  confidence  in  tbe  sick  chamber  is  often  as  potent  as  his 
medicines,  and  he  has  been  and  still  is  a student  in  his  profession,  ever  grasping  aftei'  new 
truths  in  science.  He  keeps  hiiuself  thoroughly  posted  in  his  ])rofe8sion,  his  diagnoses  being 
almost  instantaneous  and  very  rarely  incorrect.  He  is  a young  man  of  great  steadfastness  of 
purpose,  and  seldom  fails  to  accomplish  what  he  undertakes,  while  his  tenderness  and  com 
passion,  kindness  and  consideration  in  the  sick  room,  cannot  fail  to  be  recognized  and  apju’e 
dated.  He  was  born  in  Connellsville,  Penn.,  IMay  18,  1870,  a son  of  Zepheniah  E.  and 
Elizabeth  (Dawsonj  Barnes,  who  wer«;  also  l)orn  in  the  Keystone  State.  The  Barnes  family 
was  well-known  in  Pennsylvania,  and  in  that  State  the  father  became  widely  known  as  an 
extensive  stockdealer.  One  of  his  uncles  was  Ibiited  States  senator  from  that  State,  ])os- 
sessed  a line  intellect  and  as  a congressman  made  a namt'  foi'  himself.  The  |)aternal 
grandfather  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  the  well  known  orator  of  Philadelpliia-  A.  S. 
Barnes.  'J’he  maternal  ancestors  of  the  sul)ject  were  of  German  Quaker  origin,  and  the 
history  of  this  family  may  be  traced  back  many  years.  In  the  town  of  Oonnellsvilh'  Dr. 
Carl  L.  Barnes  was  reared,  and  his  (ulucation  was  ac(juired  in  the  |)ublic  schools  and  an 
academy  of  Connellsville,  and  aftei-  graduating  from  tlie  latter  he  turned  his  attention  to  the 
study  of  medicine  and  shortly'  after  came  to  Indianapolis  and  entered  the  Mtvlieal  College 
of  Indiana  where  he  pursued  his  researches  successfully  and  thoroughly  until  March  20,  1802, 
when  he  graduated.  Dr.  Barnes  has  made  a special  st  iidy  of  surgery  anti  for  t lie  purpost*  of 
perfecting  himself  in  this  branch  of  his  profession  ht*  has  visittal  the  principal  hospitals  of  the 
city'  of  New  V'ork  at  dillerent  tirmts.  His  practice  is  confined  almost  exclusively  to  surgery 
and  office  |)ractice,  and  he  has  already'  Iiuilt  up  a patronage  of  which  the  oldest  medical 
jiractitioners  of  the  country'  need  not  be  ashamed.  He  has  given  much  time  and  study'  to 


170 


MEMOIRHi  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


the  process  of  embalming,  and  was  the  originator  and  one  of  the  incorporators  of  the 
Embalming  College  of  Indiana,  of  which  institution  he  is  president  and  one  of  the  demon- 
strators. This  college  was  incorporated  February  24,  1893,  being  the  second  one  of  the 
kind  to  be  incor{)orated  in  the  United  States.  The  Doctor  tilled  the  chair  of  anatomy  and 
minor  surgery  in  the  Eclectic  College  of  Fhysicians  and  Surgeons  the  past  two  years  and 
has  been  given  an  honorary  degree  from  that  institution.  Dr.  Barnes  is  a mo.st  generous- 
hearted  man,  full  of  the  milk  of  human  kindness,  a close  student,  a hard  worker,  and  with- 
out doubt  one  of  the  most  promising  young  physicians  of  the  State.  He  is  a correspondent 
of  The  Casket  and  Wester)!  Undertaker,  two  leading  journals  pertaining  to  the  undertaking 
business,  the  former  })eriodical  having  a circulation  extending  all  over  the  globe.  He  has 
written  articles  on  embalming,  which  have  been  widely  published  and  circulated  and  have 
given  him  a wide  reputation  for  an  extensive  knowledge  of  such  subjects.  He  has  always 
l)een  a Republican  in  politics  and  socially  belongs  to  the  Masonic  order  and  the  Marion  club. 

J.  C.  McNutt.  This  well  known  young  lawyer  and  popular  public  speaker,  who 
occupies  tlie  responsible  and  honorable  position  of  State  Law  Librarian  of  Indiana,  was 
l)orn  in  -lohnson  County,  May  25,  1803,  a son  of  James  and  Cynthia  J.  (Hunt)  McNutt, 
also  natives  of  that  county.  His  paternal  grandfather,  John  McNutt,  was  a pioneer  in 
Johnson  County,  and  one  of  his  sons,  an  uncle  of  J.  C.  McNutt,  is  Judge  Cyrus  F. 
McNutt  of  Terre  Haute.  His  great-grandfather,  Hensley,  was  the  tirst  settler  in  what  is 
now  Hensley  Township,  Johnson  County,  which  was  named  in  his  honor.  The  old  McNutts 
and  Hensleys  did  jiatriot  service  in  defence  of  liberty  of  the  colonies  during  the  Revolu- 
tionary War  and  were  men  of  the  sturdiest  character  and  the  most  solid  worth.  James 
McNutt  was  a prominent  farmer.  His  life  was  busy  and  successful,  thoroughly  devoted  to 
his  family,  and  he  died  in  August,  1867,  leaving  four  children  of  whom  the  immediate  sub- 
ject of  this  sketch,  then  a little  more  than  four  years  old,  was  next  to  the  eldest. 
He  lived  the  life  of  a farmer  boy  of  all  work,  attending  school  during  the  winter  months, 
until  he  was  seventeen  years  old,  when  he  engaged  in  teaching  school  and  studying  law. 
Four  years  later  he  was  admitted  to  the  l)ar  and  within  twelve  months  thereafter,  in  1885, 
he  began  the  practice  of  his  profession  at  Franklin,  Ind.,  where  he  continued  it  with  in- 
creasing success  until  March  1,  1893,  when  he  was  appointed  by  the  Supreme  Court  State 
law  librarian.  In  1888  Mr.  McNutt  was  elected  prosecuting  attorney  from  the  sixteenth 
district,  consisting  of  Johnson  and  Shelby  Counties.  He  was  re-elected  in  1890,  and  his 
second  term  expired  in  November,  1892.  In  this  position  he  most  clearly  and  ably  demon- 
strated his  suj)erior  qualifications  for  criminal  and  other  important  practice.  His  cases  were 
always  prepared  with  the  utmost  care,  his  presentation  of  them  was  masterly  and  his 
forensic  efforts  were  of  such  a character  as  to  mark  him  as  one  of  the  conspicuous  natural 
orators  in  the  State.  He  is  extremely  popular  at  the  bar,  but  no  more  so  than  so- 
cially. He  has  been,  since  he  was  twenty  one,  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  He  is 
identified  with  other  prominent  organizations  and  as  a citizen  is  liberal  and  public 
spirited,  having  a real  desire  to  see  the  advancement  of  the  whole  peojile  along  the  lines  of 
morality,  enlightenment  and  civil  and  religious  liberty.  He  was  married  in  July,  1886,  to  Miss 
Ruth  Neely,  and  has  a son,  Paul,  born  in  1891.  Mrs.  McNutt  is  a member  of  the  Method- 
ist Episcopal  Church,  of  whose  leading  interest  Mr.  McNutt  is  a generous  and  helpful 
supporter. 

Frederick  Ballweg.  The  career  of  the  gentleman  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  is  but 
another  evidence  of  what  can  be  accomplished  by  those  of  foreign  birth  who  seek  a home  and 
fortune  on  the  free  soil  of  America.  He  possesses  the  push,  energy  and  enterprise  for  which 
his  countrymen  are  noted,  and  as  a natural  consequence  he  has  been  successful  in  the  accu- 
mulation of  means,  and  has  won  a reputation  for  honesty  and  fair  dealing  that  is  in  every 
respect  justly  merited.  He  was  born  in  Huntheim,  a little  village  of  about  120  inhab- 
itants, in  Baden,  Germany,  March  20,  1825,  to  the  marriage  of  Sebastian  and  Marianna 
(Schussler)  Ballweg,  both  natives  of  the  old  country.  The  father  was  a cabinet  maker  and 
was  the  owner  of  twenty  acres  of  land.  He  passed  his  entire  life  in  Germany,  dying  there 
in  1866,  when  seventy-tive  years  of  age.  Five  children  were  born  to  his  marriage,  as  follows: 
Generosa,  Cornelia  (married  Joseph  Ballweg,  and  is  now  deceased),  Frederick  (our  subject), 
Joseph  (deceased)  and  Ambrose  (who  died  September  9,  1881,  in  Indianapolis).  During 


177 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

the  Rebellion  the  latter  was  in  command  of  the  arsenal  at  Indianapolis  with  the  rank  of 
captain.  He  married  Miss  Amelia  Engelinan.  They  left  four  living  children,  Cornelia, 
Alfret,  Charles  and  Emma.  Cornelia  and  Alfret  are  married.  The  mother  of  our  subject 
died  in  1866.  Frederick  Ballweg  attended  school  from  the  age  of  six  to  fourteen,  and  then 
spent  hve  years  in  learning  the  cabinet  maker’s  trade.  He  then  left  home  and  went  to  Paris 
and  Toulon,  also  other  places  in  France,  and  worked  at  his  trade  until  twenty-four  years  of 
age,  when,  on  April  1,  1850,  he  sailed  from  Havre  de  Grace,  France,  to  America.  On  June 
7 of  that  year  he  landed  in  New  A^ork  city  and  at  once  went  to  Rahway,  N.  J.,  where  he 
began  working  at  his  trade  the  next  day  after  his  arrival.  For  two  years  he  was  thus  engaged 
and  during  that  time  learned  to  speak  English  and  saved  some  money.  The  first  year  he 
received  87  per  month  and  his  board,  but  the  second  year  he  made  from  810  to  81 ‘2  per  week. 
In  the  spring  of  1852  he  went  to  New  A’ork  city  and  worked  at  his  trade  there  for  a year.  He 
then  came  direct  to  Indianapolis,  arriving  September  17,  1853,  and  he  at  once  went  to  work 
for  John  Ott;  one  of  the  first  cabinet  makers  in  the  city.  Mr.  Ballweg  worked  for  him  for 
about  live  years  and  then  embarked  in  the  lumber  business  in  that  city.  This  he  caj  ried  on 
successfully  for  about  fifteen  years,  and  then  in  1878  he  bought  eighty  acres  of  laud  in  Perry 
Township,  Marion  County,  for  875  per  acre.  He  at  once  erected  a handsome  two-story 
frame  house  and  in  this  he  resides  at  the  present  time.  Of  the  eighty  acres  fourteen  acres  are 
in  timber.  He  is  wide-awake  and  progressive  and  one  of  the  best  agriculturists  of  the 
county.  A Republican  in  politics  Mr.  Ballweg  cast  his  first  presidential  vote  for  John  C. 
Fremont  and  has  never  since  failed  to  vote  for  the  Republican  candidate.  He  was  born  and 
baptized  a Catholic,  which  religion  his  [>eople  professed,  but  Mr.  Ballweg  himself  is  not  a 
member  of  any  church  but  is  in  favor  of  anything  that  tends  to  morality  and  good  govern- 
ment. I'ormerly  our  subject  was  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  He  was  married  January  1, 
1854,  in  Indianapolis,  to  Miss  Elise  Stanger,  daughter  of  Gustav  Stanger,  and  the  ceremony 
was  performed  by  Sipiire  Sullivan.  Twelve  children  have  been  the  result  of  this  union; 
William,  born  September  29,  1855,  died  April  2,  1856;  Frederick  \V.,  born  Feliruary  4, 
1857;  Annie  M.,  born  January  22,  1859;  Louis  G.,  born  March  15,  1861,  and  died  May  29, 
1869;  Franklin  A.,  born  May  15,  1863,  and  died  June  4,  1864;  Lena  E.,  born  June  11, 
1865,  died  September  22,  1892;  Clara  M.,  born  December  22,  1867;  Lilly,  born  Feliruary 
22,  1879,  died  the  same  day;  Louis  E.,  born  Ajiril  7,  1871;  Bertha  A.,  born  April  22,  1873; 
Roliert  M. , born  September  20,  1875;  and  Otto,  born  December  15,  1878,  died  January  9,  1879. 

Veuv  Rev.  Anthony  Scheiueler,  V.  G.  The  able  and  distinguised  pastor  of  St.  Mary’s 
Church,  at  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  Very  Rev.  Anthony  Scheideler,  V.  G.,  was  born  in  Borgholz, 
Westphalia,  Germany,  May  23,  1836,  a son  of  Anthony  and  Anna  Mary  (Crote)  Scheideler, 
both  of  whom  spent  their  lives  in  the  old  country.  The  father  was  a man  of  intelligence 
and  his  artistic  tastes  and  inclinations  led  him-  to  follow  the  calling  of  an  architect.  He 
served  in  the  army,  was  later  appointed  a public  oflicial — receiver  of  t axes;  and  of  a family  of 
seven  children,  born  to  himself  and  wife,  four  are  now  living;  William,  of  Hoboken,  N.  A’.; 
Mary  Frizenhousen,  a resident  of  Auenhousen,  Westphalia;  Wilhelmina,  who  resides  with 
her  brother.  Very  Rev.  Anthony  Scheideler,  for  whom  she  keeps  house,  the  latter  lieing 
the  subject  of  this  sketch.  When  not  occupied  with  his  studies,  Anthony  Scheideler  fol 
lowed  various  occujiations  under  the  direction  of  his  intelligent  father,  who  wisely  taught 
his  son  that  to  labor  was  honorable,  anil  also  instilled  into  his  youthful  mind  lessons  of  hon 
esty,  thrift  and  frugality.  At  the  age  of  fourteen  he  began  to  study  for  the  priesthood  in 
a fine  educational  institution  of  his  native  land,  at  Baderborn,  Westphalia,  where  he  .suc- 
cessfully continued  his  Ijatin  studies  for  three  years.  In  1854  he  sailed  to  America,  landing 
at  New  York  city  on  May  20,  and  utdil  1858  continued  his  studies  at  St.  Vincent,  Penn., 
after  which  he  came  direct  to  Vincennes,  Ind.,  and  was  here  ordained  a luiest  of  the 
Catholic  Cliurch  on  October  21,  I860,  just  nine  days  before  the  election  of  Abraliani  Lin- 
coln to  the  presidency,  by  Right  Rev.  Bishop  Morris  De  St.  Palais,  and  soon  after  was 
ajipointed  pastor  of  St.  Joseph’s  Church,  Dearborn  County,  Ind.,  on  November  28,  1860. 
where  he  continued  to  reside  until  July  28,  1874,  when  he  came  to  lndiana|)olis  and  has 
since  been  [lastor  of  St.  Mary’s  (diurch.  He  has  been  ^'i(•ar  (leneral  of  the  Diocese  of  Vin 
cennes,  Ind.,  since  September  6,  1878,  tf)  which  he  was  appointed  by  Right  Rev.  Bishop 
Francis  Silas  Chatard,  I).  I),  h’ather  Scheideler  has  shown  great  enei'gv  in  discharging 

IJ 


178 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


his  pastoral  duties,  and  since  his  residence  in  Indianapolis  he  has  made  a great  many  im 
provements  and  has  caused  to  be  erected  a chapel  and  vault  in  the  cemetery.  His  church 
has  been  beautifully  decorated,  he  has  built  a fine  school-house  and  a handsome  hall  for  the 
meeting  of  societies,  and  by  unwearied  and  earnest  efforts  he  has  increased  the  member- 
ship of  his  church  to  about  2,000.  At  the  time  of  his  location  in  Indianapolis,  in  1874, 
he  was  the  only  German-speaking  pastor  in  the  city  and  as  a consequence  his  church  was 
largely  patronized  by  those  of  his  nativity.  His  genial  disposition  makes  him  a general 
favorite  and  he  is  one  of  the  most  charitable  and  kind-hearted  of  men,  sincere  in  his 
friendships  and  devotedly  attached  to  the  church  with  which  he  is  connected.  He  never 
forgets  a kindness  and  never  stoojis  to  resent  an  injury.  He  is  rich  in  the  love  of  his  people 
and  of  him  it  may  be  said;  “ Well  done,  thou  good  and  faithful  servant.” 

John  B.vrger  Dobyns  is  a native  Virginian,  born  near  Christiansburg,  Montgomery 
County,  January  8,  1819,  and  he  there  remained  until  fifteen  years  of  age,  receiving  his  educa- 
tion in  the  early  schools  of  those  days.  He  attended  the  school  at  Taylor’s  Springs,  almost 
on  the  summit  of  the  Alleghany  mountains.  This  house  was  in  the  country,  built  of  logs 
with  rails  for  seats  and  greased  paper  for  window  lights,  puncheon  floor,  clapboard  door  with 
wooden  latch,  and  other  rude  furniture  of  pioneer  days.  This  was  a subscrijition  school  and 
only  lasted  about  three  months.  When  fifteen  years  of  age  oirr  subject  left  his  nalive  State 
with  his  parents,  Dangertield  and  Eva  (Barger)  Dobyns,  and  came  by  wagon  to  Indiana, 
landing  at  Flat  Bock,  in  Shelby  County,  one  month  after  starting.  This  was  on  November 
9,  1884.  The  next  summer  the  father  sent  our  subject  to  Indianapolis  to  enter  some  land, 
provided  he  could  find  any  that  was  not  taken.  He  started  on  foot  for  that  city  with  a $50 
bill  in  his  jacket  and  on  arriving  entered  forty  acres  at  $1.25  in  White  Biver  Township,  John- 
son County.  He  also  discovered  lOd  acres  more  of  desirable  land  not  yet  entered.  Return- 
ing home  he  told  his  father  who  at  otice  started  for  Indianapolis  on  foot,  although  seventy- 
four  years  of  age.  He  walked  within  thirteen  miles  of  Indianapolis  and  there  met  with  a 
neighbor  who  carried  him  to  the  city.  He  theie  entered  160  acres  more  land  in  Johnson 
County  and  returned  home  on  foot,  wading  Blue  River  and  Sugar'  Creek.  Arriving  home  he 
was  attacked  next  day  with  fever  and  chills,  then  so  prevalent,  and  so  violent  was  the  attack 
that  he  died  on  the  third  day.  He  was  born  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley,  Va.,  in  1760,  and 
died  in  1884,  the  same  year  that  he  came  to  Indiana.  He  was  a school  teacher  by  profession 
and  among  his  pupils  was  Ballard  Preston,  afterward  a general  in  the  Confederate  service, 
and  John  Floyd,  who  was  in  command  of  the  Confederate  forces  at  Fort  Donelson.  Mr. 
Dobyns  married  Miss  Eve  Barger,  daughter  of  Philip  Barger,  and  children  were  given  them 
nine  of  whom  reached  mature  years,  as  follows:  William  A.,  deceased;  Samuel,  deceased; 
Mahala,  deceased;  Thomas;  Margaret,  deceased;  Henry  M.,  deceased;  Katherine,  widow  of 
Marvin  Adams,  resides  in  Spencer  County,  Ind. ; John  B.,  our  stdqect;  Kennerley,  deceased, 
and  Christian,  deceased.  The  mother  of  these  children  died  at  the  advanced  age  of  ninety- 
three  years.  Both  parents  were  worthy  members  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  nearly 
all  their  lives  and  were  highly  respected  in  the  community  in  which  they  lived.  Thomas 
Dobyns,  grandfather  of  the  above  mentioned  children,  was  a native  of  the  Old  Dominion  and 
there  passed  his  entire  life.  This  family  was  an  old  and  prominent  Virginia  family.  During 
his  father’s  last  illness  our  subject  was  also  taken  sick  and  was  in  bed  far  about  ten  days. 
When  not  fully  recovered  he  started  for  Hamilton  County.  Ohio,  on  horseback,  to  see  his 
elder  brother,  Thomas,  and  get  his  advice  and  assistance  in  closing  up  the  affairs  of  the 
father.  He  traveled  every  day  until  his  chills  came  on,  and  then  stopped  until  the  fever 
came  on,  and  in  this  way  finally  arrived  at  his  destination.  Reaching  that  place  he  decided 
to  stay  there,  and  commenced  hauling  wood  to  the  river  for  $10.25  a month.  There  he 
remained  until  the  next  spring  and  then  he  returned  to  Indiana,  where  he  helped  his  mother 
with  the  crops.  Later  he  returned  to  Hamilton  County,  Ohio,  and  in  January,  1836, 
apprenticed  himself  to  Philip  A.  Hill  for  three  years  to  learn  the  carpenter’s  trade.  During 
his  apprenticeship  his  master  sent  him  to  school  three  months,  and  at  the  end  of  his  time 
presented  him  with  $50.  He  began  working  at  his  trade  and  on  October  7,  1840,  he  was 
married  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Gaston,  now  deceased.  The  next  spring  he  came  to  Indiana  and 
built  a log  house  on  the  forty  acres  he  had  entered  four  years  previously.  There  they  lived 
four  years  and  then  our  subject  bought  100  acres  near  this,  moved  on  it,  and  there  made  his 


171) 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

home  for  two  years.  He  then  sold  out  and  bought  IGO  acres  in  the  same  township.  He 
moved  on  this  and  later  bought  forty  acres  adjoining,  and  made  his  home  here  until  1868, 
when  he  moved  to  Southport,  Marion  County,  for  the  purpose  of  educating  his  children.  He 
sold  his  Johnson  County  farm  for  $10,000  and  bought  a farm  in  Perry  Township,  Marion 
County,  of  120  acres  on  which  he  built  a Ijrick  house.  There  he  lived  for  about  eight  years 
and  then  moved  to  Hendricks  County,  Ind. , where  he  had  purchased  208  acres  on  which 
were  seven  magnetic  medicated  springs,  which  have  a great  reputation  for  their  wonderful 
healing  qualities.  On  this  farm  our  subject  lived  for  ten  years.  Then  a stock  company  was 
organized  and  this  company  bought  the  springs  and  made  it  a place  of  resort  for  invalids. 
Our  subject  is  one  of  the  board  of  directors.  The  wonderful  curative  properties  of  these 
waters  have  long  been  known,  and  countless  testimonials  of  those  who  have  been  benelited 
by  their  use  can  be  found  on  demand.  The  water  is  absolutely  free  from  organic  matter. 
No  stifling  odors  or  unpleasant  taste,  but  delightfully  cool,  pleasant  and  refreshing.  Our 
subject  left  there  in  April,  1891,  and  came  to  Southport,  Ind.,  where  he  has  since  lived  in  a 
handsome  house  which  he  owns.  He  has  been  a member  of  tbe  Methodist  Episcopal  Church 
since  1839  and  has  served  as  class  leader  and  steward.  While  residing  in  Ohio  Mr.  Dobyns 
was  second  lieutenant  of  the  Ohio  militia.  He  is  a Republican  in  politics  although  his  first 
presidential  vote  was  cast  for  Martin  Yan  Buren.  His  next  vote  was  for  Polk  and  Dallas. 
Later  he  voted  for  John  C.  Fremont,  then  for  Abraham  Lincoln  and  since  that  time  he  has 
preserved  the  glorious  record  of  his  Republicanism.  To  his  marriage  were  born  eleven  chil 
dren,  two  of  whom,  Mary  E.  and  Alice,  died  in  infancy.  The  others  were  named  as  follows: 
Missouri  C.,  widow  of  Robert  T.  Groves;  Mary  E.,  wife  of  Dr.  A.  Morgan,  of  Indianapolis, 
is  the  mother  of  two  children,  Walter  A.  and  Jerome;  Dr.  K.  P.,  married  Alice  Crow;  Emma, 
died  unmarried;  Thursey,  married  Mr.  Wooley;  Olive,  died  unmarried;  John  Elsworth, 
unmarried;  Phcebe  A.,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  J.  S.  Michael,  who  was  all  through  the  war 
and  is  now  deceased,  and  Anna  B.,  who  married  Edward  White  and  they  have  one  son, 
Everett. 

William  M.  Wright,  M.  D.  More  than  ordinarily  successful  among  Indianapolis’ 
younger  jihysicians,  is  Dr.  William  M.  Wright,  if  the  length  of  time  during  which  he  has 
practiced  his  profession  and  the  difficulties  he  overcame  in  preparing  for  it  are  taken  into 
consideration,  as  they  undoubtedly  should  be.  Dr.  Wright  was  born  at  Bridgeport,  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  March  7,  1863,  a son  of  Peter  M.  and  Martha  A.  (McCloskey)  Wright.  Peter 
M.  Wright  was  born  in  Decatur  township,  Marion  County,  November  2J,  1826.  His  par- 
ents, Edward  and  Jemimah  (McVey)  Wright,  located  in  that  township  in  December,  1825, 
having  lived  for  a year  previous  to  that  time  at  Flat  Rock,  Ind.  Edward  Wright  was  a 
native  of  Maryland,  but  left  the  eastern  shore  of  that  State  when  a mere  lad.  He  was  a res- 
ident of  Marion  County  for  several  years  and  owned  a farm  in  Decatur  Township.  He  died 
at  Miller’s  Point,  Ky. , in  1844.  His  widow,  -Jemimah  (McVey)  Wright,  makes  her  home 
with  her  son,  Peter  M.  Wright,  in  Indianapoli.s.  She  has  attained  to  the  advanced  age  of 
ninety-three  years  and  is  one  of  only  a very  few  pioneers  of  1825  in  Marion  County,  who  are 
still  living.  Peter  M.  Wright  was  reared  on  a farm  in  Marion  County,  going  to  school  in 
the  winter  months  and  assisting  about  the  farm  work  during  the  balance  of  the  year.  He 
became  a successful  farmer  and  for  many  years  lived  in  his  native  township.  In  1891  he 
sold  his  farm  and  removed  to  Indianapolis,  where  he  lives  a quiet,  letired  life.  During  his 
residence  in  this  county,  Mr.  Wright  has  held  some  official  positions  of  importance,  having 
been  for  six  years  siqierintendent  of  the  Marion  County  asylum  and  for  two  years  janitor  of 
tlie  court  house.  He  was  married  -January  4,  1857,  to  Martha  A.  McCloske}',  a native  of  Ohio 
and  a daughter  of  Alexander  and  Cliristina  (Blatchford)  McCloskey,  the  first  mentioned  of 
whom  died  while  Mrs.  Wright  was  a cliild.  Peter  i\I.  and  Martha  A.  (McCloskey)  M'right 
had  four  children:  (Dr.)  William  M.,  -James  K.,  Lewis  G.  and  Ida  B.  I^eter  M.  W’right 
is  a Mason  and  he  and  his  family  are  identified  with  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Churcli.  In 
politics  he  is  a Reiiublican.  Dr.  William  M.  Wright  was  a member  of  his  father’s  house 
iiold  until  ho  was  eighteen  years  old,  working  on  the  farm  during  the  spring,  summer  and 
fall  and  attending  the  common  school  during  the  winter.  In  1881  he  liecame  a student  at 
tlie  Indianapolis  High  Scliool,  and  sulisecpiCntly  he  took  a three  years’  course  at  the  Butler 
University.  'I’he  succeeding  three  years  he  passed  as  clerk  in  a drug  store  and  in  the  study 


180 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


of  medicine  during  his  spare  time,  for  two  years  of  this  time  acting  as  prescription  clerk  for 
the  county  asylum.  It  does  not  detract  at  all  from  the  credit  that  is  due  hiin  to  state  that 
he  was  obliged  thus  to  earn  money  to  comjilete  his  medical  education,  and  on  the  contrary, 
the  fact  that  he  did  so  speaks  elocpiently  for  his  determination  and  his  sturdy  manhood. 
Entering  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana,  at  Indianapolis,  in  the  fall  of  1887,  he  was  gradu- 
ated therefrom  with  the  degree  of  M.  D.  in  1890.  While  a junior  in  the  college,  he  was,  on 
account  of  his  knowledge  of  pharmacy,  appointed  prescription  clerk  in  the  city  hospital  and 
in  the  (juarantine  hospital,  which  work  he  managed  to  do  in  well  arranged  intervals  in  study. 
At  the  time  of  his  graduation,  he  entered  a competitive  examination  for  appointment  as 
interne  to  the  city  hospital,  and  his  standing  was  the  highest  of  seven  who  entered  the  com- 
petition, and  as  a consequence  he  was  appointed  to  and  held  the  position  mentioned  for  a year. 
He  was  also  for  a like  period  senior  house  physician  to  the  city  hospital,  and  at  the  expiration 
of  his  term  of  appointment  entered  upon  a general  medical  practice  which  has  been  successful 
and  has  grown  from  year  to  year  ever  since  until  it  is  one  of  importance  and  ([uite  remuner- 
ative. In  1890,  he  was  made  prosecutor  of  anatomy  in  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana,  and, 
in  1891,  demonstrator  of  anatomy,  which  chair  he  still  holds.  He  is  a member  of  the  Marion 
County  Medical  Society  and  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Socitdy,  and  is  medical  director  of 
the  Indiana  militia  and  a member  of  the  consultation  staff  of  the  city  dispensary.  For  sev- 
eral years  he  has  been  a member  of  the  drill  team  of  the  Indianapolis  Light  Infantry.  He 
is  a Scottish  Hite  Mason  and  has  been  advanced  to  the  eighteentli  degree.  In  politics  he  is 
a Hepublican. 

Ephh.\im  Boring.  Characteristic  of  the  American  is  the  ability  to  change  the  line  of  his 
business  and  achieve  success  in  what  he  undertakes.  Of  the  old  adage  “a  rolling  stone  gath- 
ers no  moss”  the  reverse  may  often  be  said  to  be  true  if  accompanied  by  the  true  spirit.  For- 
tunate is  he  who  can  — when  times  are  troublous  and  circumstances  hard — keep  his  eye  fixed 
on  the  goal,  and  forge  ahead  to  grasp  success  as  a reward  for  his  striving.  A gentleman  who 
possesses  much  business  ability  is  E[)hraim  Boring,  a plastering  contractor  of  Indianapolis, 
who  has  followed  this  calling  since  18()4,  and  has  met  with  marked  success  in  this  line  of 
human  endeavor,  and  has  won  a reputation  for  ability  and  thoroughness  which  is  unsurpassed. 
He  was  born  in  Carroll  County,  Md.,  thirty  miles  northwest  of  Baltimore  on  a farm  belong- 
ing to  his  father  in  1836,  being  the  youngest  of  eight  children  born  to  Isaac  and  Elizabeth 
(Cole)  Boring,  who  were  also  born  in  Maryland.  The  father  was  a farmer  of  prominence, 
and  by  his  good  management  and  much  energy  he  accumulated  a goodly  property,  but  he 
unfortunately  died  when  just  in  the  prime  of  life,  when  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  about 
six  years  of  age,  but  his  widow  lived  to  be  about  seventy-three  years  of  age.  Several  members 
of  the  Boring  family  were  soldiers  in  the  War  of  I812,and  all  the  family  were  noted  for  their 
patriotism  and  loyalty.  In  his  native  county,  in  Maryland,  Ejihraim  Boring  received  his 
initiatory  education,  and  while  still  a mere  youth  he  began  learning  the  plasterer’s  trade, 
and  has  followed  that  occupation  ever  since — a period  of  forty  years.  After  finishing  his 
trade  in  Baltimore  he  did  more  or  less  contracting  for  some  time,  and  about  one  year  after 
his  arrival  in  Indianajiolis,  in  1863,  he  started  in  business  for  himself,  being  associated  with 
Cassius  Cornelius  for  thirteen  years,  and  was  then  by  himself  for  the  balance  of  the  time 
until  admitting  his  sons,  Edward  E.  and  Ephraim,  to  a partnership,  both  of  whom  are  prac- 
tical plasterers,  having  learned  all  the  details  of  the  business  from  their  father,  who  proved 
a wise  and  able  instructor-  Mr.  Boring  is  a member  of  the  Builders  and  Traders’  Exchange, 
and  has  been  since  its  organization,  having  lieen  a director  in  the  same  for  two  years.  During 
the  great  Civil  War  of  this  country  he  offered  his  services  to  the  Union,  but  for  good  reasons, 
but  by  no  means  to  Mr.  Boring’s  detriment,  he  was  not  accepted.  Politically  he  has  always 
been  a Republican.  In  1859  he  was  married  to  Miss  Mary  Wolf,  of  Maryland,  by  whom  he 
became  the  father  of  three  sons  and  five  daughters,  two  daughters  being  now  dead.  Socially 
Mr.  Boring  is  a member  of  the  Chosen  Friends,  and  as  a citizen  is  loyal,  public  spirited  and 
law  abiding. 

William  A.  Scott  & Sons.  This  well  known  firm  of  contractors  and  builders  have 
won  a reputation  for  thoroughness  and  honorable  and  upright  dealing  which  is  not  surpassed 
by  any  other  like  firm  in  the  city  of  Indianapolis',  and  they  therefore  have  a trade  that  keeps 
them  constantly  employed  and  nets  them  a satisfactory  sum  annually.  William  A.  Scott, 


LlSRARr 
OF  THE 
rnFRm  OF 


181 


AND  MAlilOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

was  born  in  Pennsylvania,  August  30,  1830,  a son  of  Robert  Scott,  a pioneer  of  Greene 
County,  lud.,  who  moved  to  the  wilds  of  Eel  River  in  1839  and  with  the  help  of  his  son 
Willaim  and  the  other  members  of  the  family  he  succeeded  in  clearing  a good  sized  farm. 
William  A.  was  educated  in  the  schools  of  Greene  County  and  upon  reaching  manhood 
learned  the  carpenter’s  trade  and  aided  in  the  building  of  the  town  of  Worthington,  in  which 
place  he  made  his  home  until  coming  to  Indianapolis  in  1882.  He  at  first  followed  his 
calling  by  himself,  then  he  and  his  son,  Samuel  R. , formed  a partnership,  and  later  two 
other  sons,  George  A.  and  W.  P. , entered  the  firm,  and  they  took  the  name  of  William  A. 
Scott  & Sons.  Since  that  time  they  have  built  a planing-mill  and  have  made  a specialty  of 
of  the  manufacture  of  screens,  of  which  they  are  the  most  extensive  manufacturers  in  the 
city  and  probably  in  the  State.  While  a resident  of  Worthington,  Mr.  Scott  took  an  active 
part  ill  politics  and  served  several  years  as  township  assessor,  and  also  held  other  positions 
of  trust.  Of  late  years  he  has  lieen  identified  with  the  Prohibition  party,  and  as  he  believes 
in  practicing  what  he  advocates,  he  is  a total  abstainer.  During  the  great  Civil  War, 
although  not  an  active  participant  in  the  service  of  his  country,  on  the  field  of  battle,  he 
was  none  the  less  actively  employed  at  home  and  through  his  influence  induced  many  others 
to  enlist  who  would  not  otherwise  have  done  so.  For  his  companion  through  life  he  cho.se 
Miss  Nancy  McLarren,  of  Greene  County,  and  to  their  marriage  a family  of  three  sons  and 
three  daughters  have  been  given,  all  of  whom  (except  one  daughter  who  died  at  the  age  of 
three  mouths  and  twenty-two  days)  are  intelligent  and  promising,  and  a credit  to  their 
parents.  For  many  years  Mr.  Scott  has  been  a member  of  the  Methodi.st  Episcopal  Church, 
and  socially  has  been  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  in  which  he  has  attained  to  the  encampment. 
He  and  his  sons  control  a liberal  and  profitable  business,  liirilt  up  by  their  own  energy  and 
careful  attention  to  the  higher  lines  of  their  indispensable  business.  Their  reputation  is  a 
sufficient  guarantee  of  their  honorable  past  record  and  they  have  made  many  friends  among 
the  business  men  of  the  city. 

Mr.  George  A.  Bcecklixg  was  born  in  Michigan  City,  Ind.,  February  2,  18()2.  and  is  the 
son  of  Anton  and  Elizabeth  (Smith)  Boeckling,  both  of  whom  were  born  in  Germany  and 
came  to  America  in  the  fifties  when  they  located  at  Michigan  City  Ind.,  where  Anton  Bceck- 
ling  in  order  to  provide  his  family  with  the  necessary  means  of  sustenance  followed  the 
occupation  of  a cooper.  At  the  present  time  he  resides  in  Indianapolis  retired  from  the  act- 
ive duties  of  life.  George  A.  Boeckling  was  reared  in  the  place  where  he  was  born  and 
after  attending  the  public  schools  for  a time  entered  St.  Ambrose  Academy,  in  which  in- 
stitution he  finished  his  literary  education.  Immediately  after  this  he  became  a clerk  in  a 
grocery  store,  then  a traveling  salesmen,  a business  which  he  followed  for  several  years 
traveling  through  all  the  larger  cities  of  the  Union  and  Canada,  after  which  he  decided  to 
embark  in  business  for  himself  and  engaged  in  the  wholesale  lumber  business,  locating  in 
Indianapolis  in  the  early  jiart  of  1890.  Mr.  Breckling.  is  one  of  those  enterprising  and 
wide  awake  business  men  who  believes  in  having  more  than  one  string  to  his  bow.  He  is  a 
most  honorable,  prudent  and  successful  business  man,  and  during  the  time  he  has  been  actively 
identified  with  the  business  in  this  city  he  has  become  connected  with  several  large  and  flour- 
ishing companies.  Being  the  president  and  executive  ollicer  of  the  following:  The  Berk- 
shire Investment  Company,  the  G.  A.  Bieckling  Company,  Marion  Investment  Company, 
Keystone  Land  A Improvement  Company,  Alliany  Land  Comj^any,  and  Kramer  Bros.  A 
Ikeckling  Company.  Entering  the  field  actively  some  years  ago,  upon  wise  investments, 
untiring  labor  and  tact  he  has  forged  his  way  to  the  head  of  the  successful  business  men 
in  the  State  of  Indiana,  and  his  council  in  matters  of  public  improvement  is  sought  as 
being  very  valuable.  Mr.  Breckling  has  done  much  to  build  up  this  city  having  erected 
in  the  past  three  years  over  100  houses  and  sold  them  on  the  monthly  payment  ])lan,  of 
which  he  is  the  originator,  and  in  this  manner  he  has  done  untold  good  in  inducing  citi- 
zens to  save  their  means  and  become  pioperty  holders.  Whilst  ^^r.  Bieckling  is  a very 
busy  man  he  is  easy  to  ajiproach,  and  to  make  his  ac(|uaintance  is  to  be  captivated  with 
his  capable,  practical,  honest  methods  of  business  and  those  interested  regarding  lots  for 
dwellings  or  sites  for  factories  etc.,  should  call  at  his  office,  where  all  iletails  are  cheer 
fully  furnished. 


182 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Dh.  Frederic  Carroll  Heath  of  Indianapolis  is  a native  of  Maine  and  was  born  in 
the  old  town  of  (Tardiner,  January  H),  1857.  His  grandfather,  Asa  Heath,  was  a physician 
of  local  prominence  and  his  father,  who  was  editor  and  publisher  of  the  Gardiner  Home 
Jounial,  lost  his  life  at  the  battle  of  Fredericksburg,  Va.,  in  December,  1862.  Dr.  Heath 

prepared  for  college  in  the  public  schools  of  Gardiner  and  was  graduated  at  Amherst 

College,  Mass.,  in  1878,  leading  his  class  in  Greek  and  winning  the  first  prize  for  the 
best  oral  and  written  examinations  on  all  the  work  of  the  sophomore  and  junior  years  in 
that  study.  He  was  also  appointed  to  the  P.  B.  K.  Society  for  high  general  rank  at  the  end 
of  the  junior  year.  After  teaching  school  a few  years  he  began  the  study  of  medicine 

under  Dr.  A.  Sawyer,  of  Gardiner,  and  graduated  in  1884  at  Bowdoin  College  (medical 

department)  at  the  head  of  his  class,  delivering  the  valedictory  address,  which  was  published 
in  full  or  in  jiart  in  many  of  the  leading  journals  of  the  State.  In  October,  1884,  he  was 
appointed  steward  and  in  January,  1885,  acting  assistant  surgeon  in  the  United  States  Marine 
Hospital  service  and  stationed  at  Portland,  Me.  In  April,  1886,  he  passed  first  among  a 
large  class  before  the  examining  board  of  Marine  Hospital  Surgeons  at  Washington  and 
was  made  an  assistant  surgeon,  serving  nearly  four  years  at  Chicago,  Mobile,  Buffalo,  Cleve- 
land and  Detroit,  and  then  resigning  to  enter  upon  the  practice  of  his  specialty  (eye  and  ear) 
to  which  he  had  devoted  considerable  attention  while  in  the  Marine  Hospital  service.  After 
a long  course  of  study  in  the  eye  and  ear  hospitals  and  dispensaries  of  New  York,  which  he 
suj){)leinented  with  much  instructive  clinical  work,  he  settled  at  Lafayette,  Ind.,  where  he 
was  soon  appointed  oculist  and  aurist  to  St.  Elizabeth’s  Hospital  and  St.  Joseph’s  Orphan 
Asylum.  December  20,  1880,  he  was  married  to  Mary  M.  Anderson,  daughter  of  T.  H. 
x‘4nder.son,  of  Rockville,  Ind.,  and  moved  to  Indianapolis  in  October,  1801,  but  from  Novem- 
ber, 1801,  to  May,  1802,  was  out  of  the  city  on  account  of  the  sickness  and  death  of  his  wife 
from  consumption.  Since  his  return  he  has  been  gradually  acquiring  an  increasing 
amount  of  the  confidence  and  support  of  the  profession  and  public,  and  has  been  appointed 
eye  and  ear  surgeon  to  two  dispensaries.  He  is  an  active  worker  in  medical  and  literary 
societies,  and  is  now,  or  has  been  connected  with  the  following  named  associations  ; Alex- 
andria and  Hitchcock  Society  of  Inquiry  at  Amherst  (president  of  latter),  Gardiner  Debat- 
ing Club,  East  Machias  Literary  Club,  Detroit  Academy  of  Medicine  (vice-president), 
American  Academy  of  Medicine,  Tippecanoe  County  Medical  Society,  Parlor  Club  of  La 
Fayette,  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  Indianapolis  Young  Men’s  Christian  Association 
Literary  Club,  Mitchell  District  Medical  Society,  Delaware  District  Medical  Society  (honor- 
ary), and  the  American  Medical  Association  (sections  in  ophthalmology  and  otology).  Among 
his  papers  are  the  following;  “Rejiort  of  a Case  of  Aneurysm  of  the  Pulmonary  Artery,” 
“Two  interesting  Cases  of  Enteric  Fever,”  “Heart  Tonics,”  “The  Physician’s  First  Indi- 
cation,” “Medical  Harmony,”  “Oliver  Wendell  Holmes,”  ‘‘Nasal  Reflexes,”  ‘’The  Patho- 
geny of  Sympathetic  Ojihthalmia,’’  “The  Eye  in  Relation  to  General  Disease,”  “Benefits  and 
Fvils  of  Glases,”  ‘ ‘Practical  Suggestions  to  the  General  Practitioner  in  Ear  Troubles,”  “A 
Case  of  Gonorrheal  Ophthalmia,”  “Report  of  a Case  Symblepharon  with  Successful  Opera- 
tion.” “Steel  in  the  Iris  Twenty-seven  years,  etc.,  etc. 

Robert  Denny.  There  are  many  lawyers  in  Indianapolis  but  there  are  very  few  lawyers 
left  who  were  members  of  the  bar  of  Marion  County  a quarter  of  a century  ago.  One  such 
is  the  old  and  highly  respected  gentleman  whose  name  appears  above.  The  American  fam- 
ily of  Denny  is  of  English  and  Scotch-Irish  descent,  and  Robert’s  ancestors  were  at  first  resi- 
dents of  Pennsylvania.  The  branch  of  the  family  from  which  he  descended  is  traceable  from 
Pennsylvania  to  Virginia,  from  Virginia  to  Kentucky,  and  thence  into  Indiana.  His  grand- 
father, also  named  Robert  Denny,  was  a farmer  and  a blacksmith.  He  lived  in  Virginia, 
but  al)out  the  year  1790  went  with  his  young  family  to  Kentucky  where  he  was  a pioneer. 
Two  of  his  sons  and  a son-in-law  were  soldiers  in  the  War  of  1812-14.  Eventually  he  came 
to  Washington  County,  Ind.,  and  there  died.  Elisha  Denny,  father  of  Robert  Denny,  of  In- 
dianapolis, was  during  his  earlier  active  life  a tanner  and  a stone-mason,  but  the  latter  half 
of  his  years  he  devoted  to  farming.  He  was  born  in  Frederick  County,  Va. . and  was  about 
six  years  old  when  the  family  removed  to  Kentucky,  In  1816  he  married  Miss  Polly  Hedger 
(a  most  worthy  Christian  lady  of  Scotch-English  descent),  and  the  same  year  came  on  horse- 
back to  Washington  County,  Ind.,  and  after  selecting  the  beautiful  and  fertile  tract  of  land 


183 


AXD  MABION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

which  he  afterward  purchased  from  the  Government,  returned  to  Kentucky.  In  the  autumn 
of  1811  he  again  came  to  his  intended  Indiana  home,  cleared  a small  patch  in  the  dense 
forest  and  erected  a cabin  of  unhewn  logs,  with  a stick-and-mortar  chimney,  and  the  roof  of 
clap  boards,  riveted  by  hand  and  held  in  place  by  weight  poles.  In  1812  he  brought  out  his 
family  and  a horse,  a cow  and  a sheep.  The  mother  and  their  son,  Morris  T.  Denny,  then 
eight  months  old,  rode  on  the  horse,  which  also  carried  a sack  of  provisions,  and  the  husband 
and  father  walked  and  drove  the  cow  and  sheep,  the  bedding  of  the  family  being  strapped  to 
the  cow.  Upon  their  arival  in  Washington  County,  April  12,  1812,  they  entered  Fleenor's 
Fort,  where  they  remained  several  months  for  protection  from  hostile  Indians.  On  leaving 
the  fort  they  moved  to  their  quarter  section  of  land  near  the  fort,  three  and  a half  miles 
northeast  of  Salem,  the  county  seat,  and  he  lived  upon  it  until  his  death  in  October,  1855. 
His  wife  died  ten  years  earlier  in  the  same  month.  They  had  thirteen  children,  twelve  of 
whom  lived  to  maturity  and  five  of  whom  are  now  living:  Morris  T. , of  Washington  County, 
Ind.,  in  his  eighty-third  year;  William  H.,  of  Cumberland  County,  111.,  in  his  eightieth  year; 
Thomas  H.,  of  Logan  County,  111.,  in  his  seventy-eighth  year;  Mrs.  Mary  Johnson,  of  Fre- 
mont County,  Iowa,  in  her  seventieth  year,  and  Robert,  now  in  his  sixty-sixth  year.  Elisha 
Denny  was  a most  conscientious  man.  He  rarely  had  a misunderstanding  aboirt  a business 
matter  and  never  was  a party  to  a law  suit  during  his  entire  career.  This  is  all  the  more 
remarkable  in  view  of  the  fact  that  he  was  to  some  extent  a public  man.  He  was  commis- 
sioner of  Saline  lands,  by  appointment  under  President  William  Henry  Harrison,  while  gov- 
ernor of  Indiana  Territory,  and  made  his  final  report  to  the  first  governor  of  the  State  of  Indi- 
ana, Jonathan  Jennings.  He  assisted  in  laying  out  the  State  road  from  Indianapolis  to  Leaven- 
worth, on  the  Ohio  River,  and  performed  various  other  public  services  under  the  Territorial 
and  State  Governments.  Notwithstanding  he  thus  received  ample  evidence  of  the  jJace  he 
occupied  in  the  public  estimation,  and  might  have  felt  assured  of  election  if  nominated,  he 
would  never  consent  to  be  a candidate  for  any  office.  He  was  fond  of  books  and  was  regarded 
as  unusually  well  imformed,  especially  upon  history  and  current  topics.  Robert  Denny  was 
reared  on  his  father’s  farm,  and  availed  himself  of  such  limited  educational  advantages  as 
were  afforded  by  the  district  schools  of  the  neighborhood,  reading  omuivorously  in  every  spare 
hour,  and  without  wearying,  whatever  he  could  rind  that  promised  to  instruct  and  edify  him. 
The  variety,  extent  and  accuracy  of  his  learning  is  very  surprising  in  view  of  the  fact  that 
he  never,  as  a student,  saw  the  inside  of  any  college,  lecture  room  or  institution  of  learning, 
other  than  a backwoods,  one-room  school-house.  In  the  beat  sense  of  the  phrase  he  is  self  edu- 
cated. He  left  the  farm  at  the  age  of  twenty-three,  and  busied  himself  at  whatever  he  found 
to  do,  dividing  his  time  partially  between  merchandising,  teaching  school  and  reading  law.  He 
early  espoused  Christianity  as  a member  of  the  Christian  Church,  and  spent  several  years 
before  the  war,  and  the  first  two  years  of  the  war,  in  church  and  Sunday-school  missionary 
work.  He  was  noted  for  his  anti-slavery  j)rinciples,  yet  he  held  the  post  niastershi])  of  Camp- 
bellsburg,  Ind.,  under  three  administrations,  those  of  Presidents  Fillmore,  Pierce  and  Bu- 
chanan, until  he  voluntarily  resigned.  In  18(53  Mr.  Denny  organized  Company  C,  One  Hun- 
dred and  seventeenth  Indiana  Volunteers.  He  declined  a captain’s  commission  in  favor  of  sol 
diers  of  experience  in  the  com|)auy,  but  wfis  soon  commissioned  as  second  lieutenant  and 
served  with  the  comi)any  with  that  ratdc  until  he  was  discharged  in  May,  18(54.  While  so 
serving  he  was  offered  the  ap|)ointment  of  (piartermaster  of  a division  of  the  army  of  East 
Tennessee,  but  declined  because  he  had  j)iomised  the  men  of  the  company  to  remain  with 
I hem  during  their  term  of  service.  Returning  to  Indiana,  he  located  at  Indianapolis  and 
entered  upon  the  practice  of  his  profession.  His  career  at  the  l)ar  has  been  one  of  honor  and 
success,  and  his  high  standing  is  but  the  legitimate  reward  of  the  earnest  and  sustained  en- 
deav<jr  to  succeed,  which  has  been  the  rule  of  his  professional  life.  To  him  the  law  has  been 
and  is  the  science  of  justice  ami  ecpial  rights  among  men,  and  he  abhors  the  course  of  those 
in  the  profession  who  use  the  law  as  a system  of  trickery,  to  defeat  justice  and  establish  wrong 
instead  of  right.  In  the  preparation  of  his  cases  he  had  been  most  caridul,  and  to  this  fact 
he  attributes  much  of  his  success.  He  never  held  the  office  of  judge  l)y  election,  l)ut  has  at 
times  been  called  to  the  bench  as  a sul)stitute  in  the  absence  of  n'gular  judg('s,  anil  U|)on 
such  occasions  he  has  acquitted  himself  mure  than  creditably,  so  that  he  is  universally  known 
as ‘‘.Judge”  Denny.  He  possesses  the  most  iidmirable  social  ipialities  and  has,  perhaps,  as 


184 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


many  warm  personal  friends  as  any  man  in  the  city.  In  politics  he  holds  the  Prohibition 
views,  not  because  he  considers  all  of  jiolitics  embraced  in  the  single  proposition  of  Prohibi- 
bition,  but  liecanse  he  believes  Prohibition  necessary  and  sees  no  way  to  bring  it  about  except 
through  a distinct  political  movement,  and  has  been  one  of  the  main  pillars  of  the  Prohibi 
t ion  [larty  ever  since  its  tir.st  organization  in  Indiana.  He  is  full  of  charitable  good  will 
toward  those  who  differ  from  him  in  either  religion  or  politics.  He  loves  to  associate  with  the 
veterans  of  the  late  war,  and  for  many  years  has  been  continuously  honored  liy  his  comrades  by 
election  to  various  positions  of  trust  and  responsibility,  including  the  presidency  of  the  Per- 
simmon Brigade  Association.  When  about  twenty-one  years  old  he  married  Mrs.  Mary  M. 
Hitchcock.  She  possessed  virtues  and  (jualities  of  mind  and  heart  which  made  her  one  of 
earth’s  noblest  of  Christian  women.  By  her  first  husband  she  had  four  sons,  all  of  whom 
entered  the  Union  army  at  the  outbreak  of  the  late  war,  and  two  of  whom  sleep  in  unknown 
graves,  having  sacrificed  their  lives  at  Chickamauga  and  Atlanta,  Ga.  Mrs.  Denny  is  de- 
ceased, leaving  him  an  only  daughter,  Adaline,  their  other  three  children  having  died  in 
infancy  and  childhood. 

Frederick  Stein,  M.  D.  Few,  perha})s  none,  who  have  trod  the  arduous  paths  of  the 
])rofession,  can  be  aware  of  the  array  of  attributes  and  the  host  of  minor  qualities  essential 
to  the  making  up  of  a great  physician  and  surgeon.  His  constitution  must  be  of  the  har- 
diest, to  successfully  withstand  the  constant  shock  of  wind  and  weather,  the  wearing  loss  of 
sleep  and  rest,  the  ever  gathering  load  of  care,  and  the  insidious  a})proach  of  every  form  of 
fell  disease  to  which  his  daily  round  of  duties  momentarily  expose  him.  The  above  is  but  a 
few  necessary  remarks  introducing  Dr.  Frederick  Stein,  who  for  many  years  has  been  a suc- 
cessful practicing  physician  of  Indianajiolis.  The  land  of  Germany  gave  him  birth  March 
27,  1825,  his  parents  being  Clemens  and  Amelia  (Ebert)  Stein.  He  was  reared  and  educated 
in  his  native  land  and  took  a full  course  in  a noted  university  there,  after  which  he  served  a 
two  years’  apprenticeshi])  at  the  drug  business,  but  never  followed  that  occupation.  He 
next  entered  the  service  of  the  German  Government  as  a civil  engineer  in  railroad  work,  in 
which  capacity  he  labored  conscientiously  until  1849,  when  the  German  revolution  came  up, 
in  which  he  took  an  active  part.  After  the  defeat  of  their  cause  and  fearing  the  conse- 
(juence  of  further  residence  in  the  land  that  gave  him  birth,  he  decided  to  come  to  America, 
and  in  the  spring  of  1 850  he  found  himself  in  the  city  of  New  York,  where  he  lived  and 
labored  for  live  years,  securing  employment  as  a druggist.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  came 
to  Indianapolis  and  soon  secured  employment  as  a draughtsman  in  compiling  maps  of  the 
different  counties  of  Indiana  and  also  one  of  the  State  from  United  States  surveys.  From 
the  fall  of  1855  to  1870  he  was  connected  with  the  State  auditor’s  office,  and  in  1809  he  was 
appointed  by  the  General  Government  as  superintendent  of  improvements  on  the  Wabash 
Biver,  which  work  occupied  his  time  and  attention  for  .seven  years,  at  which  time  he  became 
incapacitated  by  rheumatism  for  further  service.  Upon  regaining  his  health  he  began  the 
study  of  medicine,  and  in  1879  entered  the  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons, 
from  which  he  graduated  in  1881.  He  immediately  entered  upon  a general  practice,  which 
he  continued  successfully  until  February  19,  1891,  when  he  sustained  a stroke  of  paralysis, 
froui  which  he  has  never  fully  recovered,  although  at  present  his  professional  work  is  con- 
fined to  office  practice.  He  built  up  a reputation  and  knowledge  of  his  profession  that  is  an 
honor  to  himself  and  the  noble  calling  which  he  follows.  He  was  married  in  Germany  in 
1849  to  Catherine  E.  Kurzrock,  a native  of  that  country,  and  five  children  were  the  result  of 
their  union:  Theodore,  Albert,  Henry,  August  and  Frederick.  Mrs.  Stein  died  February  20, 
1882,  and  since  that  time  the  Doctor  has  remained  unmarried:  He  has  been  a Mason  of 
many  years  standing,  but  at  the  present  time  is  not  an  active  member  of  that  order.  He  has 
identified  himself  with  the  land  of  his  adoj)tion  since  coming  here,  and  is  of  the  stuff  of 
which  noble  and  useful  citizens  are  made. 

Theodore  Stein.  A somewhat  recent  movement  in  realty  circles  is  growing  (juite 
po])uhir  at  Indianapolis  and  other  cities,  this  is  the  establishment  of  companies  which 
furnish  complete  abstracts  of  titles.  Delays  in  securing  titles  in  the  old  way  w'ere  often 
interminable  and  vexatious,  and  often  after  they  were  secured  the  owner  found  himself 
involved  in  some  sort  of  trouble  which  had  escaped  the  notice  of  the  attorney  employed  to 
examine  the  title.  In  the  ohlen  days  when  land  was  very  chea])  the  same  care  was  not  exer 


185 


AND  MARIOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

cised  as  now,  hence  deeds  were  yot  so  closely  drawn  and  errors  would  creep  in.  A gentle 
man  who  makes  a specialty  of  this  line  of  work,  and  who  guarantees  the  utmost  satisfaction 
and  absolute  perfection  of  title  is  Theodore  Stein,  who  is  one  of  the  wide-awake,  progressive 
and  intelligent  business  men  of  the  city  of  Indiana()olis.  He  is  a native  of  the  city  in 
which  he  lives,  born  November  7,  1858,  a son  of  Frederick  and  Catherine  (Kurzrock)  Stein, 
a sketch  of  whom  appears  in  this  work.  In  this  city  he  was  reared  and  in  the  public  schools 
he  obtained  his  literary  education.  After  leaving  school  he  was  apprenticed  to  learn  litho- 
graphing and  engraving  with  Braden  & Burford,  with  whom  he  remained  foiir  years.  He 
then  entered  the  city  civil  engineer’s  office,  and  was  also  in  the  county  recorder’s  office  for  some 
time.  Succeeding  this  he  became  bookkeeper  and  afterward  manager  of  the  H.  Hermann 
Lumber  Mills,  in  which  capacity  he  served  until  1887.  In  the  fall  of  that  year  he  purchased 
tlie  al)stract  title  business  of  the  late  W.  C.  Anderson,  which  he  has  since  continued,  and  as 
that  gentleman  was  noted  as  one  of  the  most  painstaking  abstracters  of  the  city,  Mr.  Stein 
has  fully  sustained  this  reputation,  as  an  evidence  of  which  fact  he  at  piesent  employs  more 
clerical  help  in  the  prosecution  of  his  large  and  increasing  business  than  any  other  tirm  in 
the  same  line  in  Indianapolis.  Mr.  Stein  has  identitied  himself  with  the  varied  interests  of 
Indianapolis  and  has  paid  a great  deal  of  attention  to  building  and  loan  associations,  at  one 
time  being  president  and  secretary  of  six  different  corporations.  At  the  present  time  he  is 
a stockholder  in  about  twenty-five  of  them,  but  is  only  officially  connected  with  three,  being 
secretary  of  two  and  treasurer  of  one.  He  is  fully  equi}iped  for  his  work  and  it  requires 
but  a brief  investigation  into  the  objects  and  aims  of  his  business  to  learn  how  really  im- 
portant are  its  functions  and  to  pursuade  everyone  who  buys  laud  that  it  is  to  bis  interest  to 
avail  himself  of  the  services  of  this  gentlemen.  He  very  pioperly  takes  great  pride  in  his 
business,  and  it  is  throui;h  his  own  untiring  efforts  that  it  has  come  to  be  recognized  as  the 
leading  one  in  its  line  in  the  city.  He  is  of  a very  social  dis])08ition,  has  attained  the  Scottish 
Kite  degree  in  the  Masonic  fraternity  and  he  also  belongs  to  the  society  of  the  Sons  of  Revo 
lution,  the  Lyra  Casino  Club,  and  he  was  one  of  the  founders  of  the  Columbia  Clul),  although 
he  is  not  a member  of  this  society  at  jnesent.  He  has  always  been  a Re])ublican  in  politics, 
but  is  no  office  seeker,  the  duties  of  his  business  completely  occupying  his  time.  He  was 
married  March  15,  1882,  to  Miss  Bertha  Kuhn,  a native  of  Indianapolis,  and  a daughter  of 
William  F.  and  Nannette  (Hesselbach)  Kuhn,  both  natives  of  the  old  country.  The  union 
of  Mr.  atid  Mrs.  Stein  has  resulted  in  the  birth  of  two  children;  Pauline  and  Theodore. 

Jekiiy  Connixs,  def)uty  sheriff  of  the  county,  and  jailer,  owes  his  nativity  to  flie  Isle  of 
Erin,  his  birth  having  occurred  in  the  l)eautiful  County  of  Kerry,  December  29,  1893.  The 
Collins  family  came  to  America  in  1895,  and  very  shortly  after  landing  on  American  soil  tliey 
turned  their  faces  westward  and  in  a short  time  found  themselves  in  the  city  of  Indianapo- 
lis, Ind.,  in  the  public  schools  of  which  place  Jerry  Collins  was  |)laced  as  soon  as  he  was  old 
enough,  and  continued  to  attend  until  he  had  attained  about  the  age  of  sixteen  years.  He 
then  began  to  do  for  himself,  and  secured  the  position  of  bell  boy  in  an  Indianapolis  hotel, 
but  later  became  assistant  clerk  at  the  Crrand  Hotel,  during  which  time  he  acquired  such  a 
thorough  knowledge  of  the  details  of  the  business  that  he  secured  remunerative  jmsitions  in 
some  of  the  leading  hotels  in  different  cities  throughout  the  country.  His  agreeable  man- 
ners. kind  and  accommodating  disposition  and  desire  to  please  those  who  called  u|)on  his 
services  rendered  him  a great  favorite  with  the  ti-aveling  pul)lic  and  won  him  many  warm 
f)ersonal  friends.  In  1882  he  went  to  Colorado  and  Utah,  and  for  two  years  was  clerk  for 
the  superintendent  of  construction  of  bridges  and  buildings  on  the  Denver  S^  Kio  Grande 
Itailroad  t)etw<*eii  Grand  Junction  and  Salt  Lake  City,  his  heaihpiarters  btung  at  Green 
River,  Utah.  When  the  two  years  were  over  he  retuined  to  Indianapolis  and  since  that 
time  has  made  this  city  his  home,  with  the  exception  of  a trip  to  the  San  Juan  country,  in 
Colorado,  where  he  followed  mining  in  the  Sheridan  mine,  in  Marshall  Basin  for  nine 
months.  His  intelligence  and  al)ility  to  adapt  himself  to  circumstances  has  led  to  his  hold- 
ing a number  of  important  f)ffices,  and  for  some  time  he  was  in  tlie  township  assessor’s 
office  and  in  the  city  civil  engineer’s  dejjartment,  which  position  he  resigried  December  19, 
1892,  to  acce[>t  the  appointment,  of  d(>puty  sheriff,  to  wliich  he  was  elected,  and  he  was  at 
(jiice  i:)laced  in  charge  of  t he  jail,  a position  liri  still  hf)lils  and  for  which  he  is  admirably 
fitted.  He  is  keenly  alive  to  his  responsibilities,  fulfills  them  in  the  most  prompt  and  thor 


180 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


ongh  manner,  and  even  his  political  enemies  have  come  to  understand  that  he  is  the  “right 
man  in  the  right  place. ” His  management  of  the  jail  is  above  criticism,  notwithstanding 
the  fact  that  the  building  is  an  old  one,  many  times  inadequate  to  accommodate  its  occu- 
jiauts,  and  to  properly  look  after  those  placed  in  his  care  the  greatest  ingenuity  and  good 
judgment  is  required.  Politically,  he  has  always  been  in  strong  sympathy  with  the  Demo- 
crat party. 

He  NRY  Pauli.  It  is  a j)leasure  and  a privilege  to  record  the  charactei'  and  enterprise 
of  men  of  ljusiness,  who,  on  account  of  their  long  tenure  and  extensive  operations  comprise 
almost  a history  of  the  business  in  which  they  are  engaged.  Of  such  men  it  is  unnecessary 
to  speak  in  words  of  colored  praise.  “ By  tlieir  acts  ye  shall  know  them.'’  Their  very 
existence  is  emphatic  evidence  of  the  honorable  position  they  occupy  and  the  long  course  of 
just  dealing  that  they  have  })urRued.  A gentleman  in  mind  is  Henry  Pauli,  who  was  born 
in  Hessen,  Darmstadt.  (Termany,  in  1886,  a son  of  John  and  Katharina  (Jacobi)  Pauli,  also 
natives  of  the  German  Empire.  They  died  when  tlieir  son  Henry  was  a lad  of  nine  or  ten 
years,  the  father  having  been  a hour,  saw  and  oil-mill  oiierator.  In  the  schools  of  his  native 
place  Henry  acipiired  a jiractical  education,  but  in  1852  he  left  the  “ halls  of  learning,”  and, 
bidding  adieu  to  home  and  friends,  embarked  for  the  United  States,  and  for  some  time  after 
reaching  this  country  he  resided  in  the  city  of  Little  Falls,  N.  Y.  He  then  came  to  the  city 
of  Indianapolis  and  for  some  time  thereafter  worked  in  the  old  Palmer  House,  one  of  the 
old  landmarks  of  the  ]ilace.  now  the  Occidental  Hotel,  as  dining-room  boy.  After  a time  he 
commenced  to  learn  his  trade  uniler  Charles  Helwig,  with  whom  he  served  a three  years’ 
ajiprenticeshi)).  He  then  worked  for  other  parties  until  1867.  at  which  time  he  formed  a 
partnership  with  Christian  F.  Miller,  one  of  the  old  settlers  of  the  ])lace,  and  this  became 
one  of  the  best  known  contracting  firms  in  the  city.  He  built  many. of  the  prominent  busi 
ness  buildings  of  the  city,  as  well  as  some  of  the  finest  residences,  and  his  partnership  with 
Mr.  Miller  continued  until  (prite  recently,  since  which  time  Mr.  Pauli  has  conducted  his  opera- 
tions on  his  own  responsibility.  His  career  has  been  quite  a remarkable  one,  for,  on  starting 
out  in  life  for  himself  he  at  first  received  only  |3  a month  compensation  for  his  services, 
which  was  raised,  owing  to  his  good  conduct  and  efficiency,  to  the  munificent  sum  of  $3.50 
per  month,  and  this  was  later  increased  to  $4.50.  He  has  slowly  but  surely  climbed  the 
ladder  of  success  and  has  the  satisfaction  of  knowing  that  he  owes  his  present  independent 
position  to  no  one  but  himself.  He  is  in  the  prime  of  life,  has  the  advantage  of  having  long 
been  a settler  of  the  city  and  is  thus  in  touch  with  the  spirit  of  Indianapolis  and  its  enter- 
prise. He  is  a highly  esteemed  citizen  and  during  his  long  business  career  has  ever  proven 
true  and  honorable  to  his  transactions.  He  is  a member  of  the  board  of  the  German  Orphan 
Asylum,  being;  at  one  time  its  president,  and  was  one  of  the  organizers  of  that  well-known 
institution.  He  is  a member  of  Zion’s  Evangelical  Church,  joining  in  1864;  was  presi- 
dent of  the  board  of  trustees  for  fifteen  years,  and  has  been  a teacher  in  the  Sunday-school 
for  twenty  seven  years.  In  1859  Miss  Louisa  Niermann,  who  was  born  in  Prussia  in  1840. 
became  his  wife,  and  to  their  union  three  sons  and  four  daughters  have  been  given,  all  of 
whom  are  intelligent  and  promising. 

Nelson  J.  Hyde.  The  office  of  State  inspector  of  oils  is  a most  important  one,  requiring 
special  knowledge  and  a degree  of  integrity  demanded  in  but  few  other  positions.  II s 
present  incumbent.  Nelson  J.  Hyde,  was  appointed  in  1889,  after  a memorable  contest,  and 
has  proyen  a most  diligent  and  faithful  official.  Mr.  Hyde  was  born  in  Plattsville,  Wis., 
January  23.  1851,  a son  of  Daniel  and  Elizabeth  (Nelson)  Hyde.  His  father  was  a natiye 
of  Ohio  and  a well-to  do  farmer.  His  mother  was  born  in  Ireland  and  was  a woman  of  many 
virtues.  In  1856.  when  he  was  six  years  old,  young  Hyde  was  orphaned  by  the  death  of  his 
father,  and  his  mother  has  since  died.  In  1857  he  went  to  Indianapolis  to  make  his  home 
with  his  uncle.  Abner  K.  Hyde,  a pioneer  hotel  man  in  that  city.  He  grew  to  manhood  as  a 
mem  tier  of  his  uncle’s  household  and  was  educated  in  the  public  schools.  By  the  time  he 
was  twenty-one  he  was  a good  jrractical  hotel  man.  familiar  wdth  every  detail  of  the  business, 
and  during  his  active  career  he  has  managed  several  good  houses,  among  them  the  ‘‘National  ” 
and  ‘‘Capitol”  hotels  of  Indianapolis,  and  the  ‘‘Taylor”  house  at  Havana,  111.  Mr.  Hyde 
became  very  popular.  ])ersonally,  and  acquired  considerable  jiolitical  influence  of  the  quiet 
but  effective  kind.  He  has  never  sought  office  but  has  accepted  several  important  positions 


187 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

when  they  have  been  proffered  him.  He  was  for  three  years  clerk  in  the  county  auditor’s 
office  under  the  administration  of ‘‘Torn”  Taggart,  and  had  otherwise  served  the  public  more 
than  acceptably  prior  to  his  appointment  to  his  present  position.  He  is  a member  of  the 
Masonic  fraternity,  and  is  a K.  of  P. , and  is  prominently  identified  with  the  Hendricks  and 
Cleveland  clubs.  All  in  all,  he  is  one  of  the  most  popular  citizens  and  officials  in  this  part 
of  the  State.  He  was  married  April  27,  1876,  to  Miss  Julia  A.  Downey,  a native  of  Perry 
County,  Ohio. 

William  P.  Smith.  This  gentleman  was  born  October  lU,  1840,  in  Indianapolis,  Ind. 
His  paternal  ancestors  trace  their  genealogy  back  to  the  days  of  William  the  Compieror, 
where  the  line  is  lost  in  the,  then,  important  office  of  “butler”  or  cup  bearer  to  the  first 
King  of  England.  B.  K.  Smith,  father  of  our  subject,  came  from  South  Carolina  to  W7iyne 
County,  Ind.,  in  1816,  and  settled  on  the  west  fork  of  W'^hite  River,  where  his  early  boyhood 
was  passed.  Elder  B.  K.  Smith,  as  he  was  commonly  known,  was  truly  a self-made  man, 
having  left  the  civilization  of  South  Carolina,  which  his  father  had  spent  his  early  days  in 
helping  reclaim  from  a wilderness,  and  migrated  to  the  great  “Northwest”  before  Indiana 
was  admitted  into  the  Union.  His  scholastic  training  was  limited  to  two  years,  in  which 
time  he  mastered  Murray’s  grammar  and  learned  to  chew  tobacco,  as  he  facetiously  remarked 
when  speaking  of  his  “early  advantages.”  Later  he  learned  the  trade  of  blacksmith  and 
wagon  maker,  came  west  with  his  brother  Carey,  and  established  a business  in  Indianapolis. 
One  evidence  of  his  thrift  is  found  in  the  fact  that  for  the  building  and  ironing  of  one  two- 
horse  wagon  he  received  a warranty  deed  to  two  town  lots  in  Indianapolis,  each  195x674 
feet.  Exchanging  these  for  a farm  five  miles  from  the  city,  he  moved  his  family  to  the 
country  and  there,  leaving  them  to  take  care  of  themselves  as  best  they  could,  mounted  a 
horse  and  started  out  to  convert  the  denizens  of  the  unbroken  wilderness  of  Indiana  to  the 
doctrines  of  salvation  as  set  forth  by  Alexander  Camtibell.  Elder  Smith  was  one  of  the 
])ioneer  preachers  of  the  State,  whose  contributions  to  the  MUlenUtl  H((rbiu<jer,  Christian 
A(/e  and  Christian  Standard  did  much  toward  molding  religious  thought.  William  P. 
Smith  traces  his  maternal  ancestors  to  an  Irish  and  Welsh  origin  through  the  Bristows  and 
Prices.  His  great-grandsire  was  a revolutionary  soldier,  settled  in  Virginia  after  peace 
was  declared,  and  died  while  Peyton  Bristow  was  an  infant.  Peyton  Bristow  entered  490 
acres  of  Government  land  near  Indianapolis,  jiaying  !?1.2r)  per  acre.  Allured  by  the  abun 
dance  of  game  that  roamed  the  trackless  forest,  and  fish  that  filled  the  waters  of  White  River 
and  its  tributaries,  he  left  his  numerous  family  to  “clear  up”  the  land  while  he  furnished 
them  with  fish  and  venison  with  his  homemade  fishing  tackle  and  unerring  llintlock  gun. 
A typical  pioneer,  he  died  at  the  advanced  age  of  ninety-four  years,  having  celebrated  his 
diamond  wedding  to  Mary  Price,  who  survived  him  three  years.  They  left  six  daughters 
and  six  son.s,  ninety  six  grandchildren,  thirty-two  great-grandchildren  and  two  great-great 
grandchildren.  Their  daughter  Sarah  became  the  wife  of  B.  K.  Smith  and  bore  him 
twelve  children,  nine  sons  and  thiee  daughters,  of  whom  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  sixth 
in  order  of  birth.  Amanda,  the  first,  married  Aaron  Clem;  Araminta  died  when  sixteen; 
Mary  A.  married  John  Hosluook;  Charles  H.  died  at  the  age  of  fifty-two,  unmarried;  B.  K., 
Jr.,  now  drawing  a pension  for  disability  incurred  during  tlie  Rebellion;  AValter  S.  ; -John 
C. ; Alexander  C.;  4[ark  A.  and  Ben  jamin  E.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  combining  the 
Saxon.  Scotch,  Irish  and  Welsh  blood  in  eipial  firoportious,  is  strongly  fitted  by  nature  for 
the  peculiar  traits  of  character  which  he  seems  to  hav(‘  inherited  from  each  branch  of  his 
ancestors.  His  father  having  accepted  the  (diarge  of  a congregation  in  Edinburgh,  -Johnson 
County,  Ind.,  had  removed  there  al)out  1850.  'I'wo  years  of  struggle  against  the  characder 
islic  poverty  of  pioneer  preachers  at  this  place,  the  family  removed  to  Harrison,  Ohio,  where 
the  Hul)ject  of  this  sketcJi  lived  until  fifteen,  fishing  for  food  for  the  family,  skating,  swim- 
ming, and  marl)le  playing.  'I’he  family  moved  back  to  the  farm  in  Indiana  in  185(5  and  two 
years  later  William  entmed  tin*  Northwestern  Christian  I.’niversity,  chopping  cordwood  in 
vacations  to  pay  tuition  and  l)oard.  In  I)eceml)er,  1864,  he  read  law  with  his  umde, -Jeremiah 
Smith,  of  Winchester,  Ind.,  and  was  admitted  to  the  bar  the  following  year.  Returning  to 
Indianapolis  he  l)ecame  deputy  county  surveyor  of  Marion  County.  November  19,  1867,  he 
married  I'llvira,  daiigliter  of  itoyal  .Mayhow,  a prominent  attorney  and  ex  treasurer  of  the  State 
of  Jntliana,  wlio  is  a lineal  descendant  of  Thomas  Mayhew,  founder  and  patentee  of 


188 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Martha's  Viueyard,  Nantucket  and  Elizabeth  Isles.  Four  children  have  been  born  to 
them:  Minnie  Mayhew.  who  died  in  infancy;  Royal  Mayhew,  who  married  Miss  Flor- 
ence Abney,  and  Sarah  L.  ^Villiam  P.  Smith  is  original  in  style,  thought  and  reasoning. 
Early  im|)ressed  with  the  fact  that  authors  of  books  were  simply  men,  and  liable  to  err  as 
other  men,  he  ceased  to  ])lace  implicit  confidence  in  books  and  established  writings  and  to  look 
upon  “established  truth”  with  suspicion,  especially  when  remote  anticpiity  was  the  sole  sup- 
port. Regardless  of  his  rashness  in  daring  to  oppose  “established  truth  ”(?)  he  has  espoused 
the  cause  of  the  oppressed  wage  earners.  He  has  prepared  articles  arguing  that  the 
same  cause  that  {)roduces  ]>aupers  and  profligates  in  Russia,  Ireland  and  Spain,  will 
]>roduce  them  in  America.  Much  of  Mr.  Smith’s  time  has  been  spent  in  lecturing  on 
the  social  problem  under  the  title  of  the  “Problem  of  Civilization.”  None  of  his  best 
articles  have  appeared  in  print,  the  position  held  by  him  being  so  contrary  to  “established 
truth  ”( ‘f)  that  the  jiroprietors  of  magazines  iind  publishers  of  daily  papers  refuse  them 
space.  His  published  writings  consist  mainly  of  contributions  to  daily  and  weekly  papers, 
a collection  of  Irish,  Negro,  German  and  Yankee  dialect  verse,  including  orations,  dialogues 
and  dramas  of  versatility,  wit  and  morals.  He  was  the  founder  of  three  different  secret 
societies  of  an  educational  nature.  The  Archer  ritual  is  his  production.  Mr.  Smith,  recogniz- 
ing the  universal  taw  of  attraction  and  repulsion  as  operating  constantly  upon  all  matter 
through  all  space,  argues  by  an  ingenius  process  of  reasoning  from  cause  to  effect,  that 
planets,  satellites  and  suns  have  been  develoi^ed  from  a condition  of  absolute  cold  to  their 
present  proportions  and  that  the  ultimate  destiny  of  our  planet  is  to  atiain  the  proportions 
and  conditions  of  a sun,  when  the  “elements  will  melt  with  a fervent  heat.”*  Mr.  Smith’s 
ideas  of  religion  are  original  and  unique.  He  says:  “ The  mission  of  Christ  was  to  establish 
a kingdom  of  righteousness  and  joy  and  peace  upon  earth,  to  save  mankind  from  committing 
sin,  not  from  the  effects  of  sin  committed;  to  restore  mankind  to  the  blessing,  comforts  and 
delights  of  this  ])resent  life;  to  teach  man  how  to  live;  that  he  may  avoid  sin,  not  bow  he 
may  esca})e  from  the  effects  of  sin;  that  religion  is  not  to  get,  but  to  ‘ do  the  will  of  my 
Father  which  hath  sent  me;’  that  when  the  world  is  truly  civilized  the  religion  of  Christ 
will  be  the  business  of  the  world.  Christ  says;  ‘ My  people  shall  be  a contented  people;  they 
shall  build  houses  and  inhabit  them;  they  shall  plant  vineyards  and  eat  of  the  fruit  thereof; 
(hey  shall  not  build  and  another  inhabit:  they  shall  not  plant  and  another  eat.’”  This  he 
argues  is  the  true  test  of  a Christian  civilization.  Mr.  Smith’s  ideas  on  political  economy, 
as  might  be  expected,  are  opposite  to  those  accejited  by  the  political  economists  who  furnish 
text  books  for  our  schools  and  colleges.  He  says:  “Money  is  a memorandum  of  value  due 
the  bearer  from  the  commonwealth.”  That  “ honest  ” monej’^  can  not  be  made  from  the 
so  called  “ |)recioua  metals.”  That  no  government  can  become  free  from  any  debt  that 
forms  the  basis  of  its  circulating  medium,  unless  that  debt  is  paid  in  somtbing  else  beside 
the  money  based  on  it.  The  debt  grows  larger  by  accriring  interest,  the  money  less,  by  loss 
and  wear.  This  perpetually  widens  the  gap  between  the  debt  and  jiower  to  pay  the  debt, 
which  bankruptcy  alone  can  pay — that  a people  never  can  be  free  whose  circulating  medium 
is  based  on  bonds — that  bonds  are  instruments  of  bondage  and  bondage  im|)liea  servitude. 
Being  specially  gifted  in  his  powers  of  speech,  Mr.  Smith  has  been  called  upon,  at  various 
times  and  on  sundry  occasions,  to  talk  to  the  public  on  special  subjects.  Invariably  he  has 
ac(piitted  himself  with  credit  and  satisfaction.  He  is  a courteous  gentleman,  an  excellent 
neighbor  and  an  upright  citizen. 

Emandel  Anthony,  M.  D.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  following  a resolve  that  came 
upon  him  at  a very  early  age,  entered  ujion  the  study  of  medicine,  and  pursued  it  with  a 
rare  enthusiasm,  an  impression  being  strong  within  him  that  this  was  his  sure  vocation,  a 
feeling  that  was  as  strong  as  that  which  glows  in  the  breast  of  the  enthusiast  who  offers  him- 
self for  some  remote  missionary  service  under  the  idea  that  the  sacrifice  of  life  is  involved 
in  the  discharge  of  the  duty.  Such  was  not  the  thought  of  Dr.  Anthony,  but  rather,  that 
be  might  be  the  tneans  of  communicating  health  to  others  and  save  many  from  the  hands  of 
death.  It  was  this  spirit  of  resolute  purpose  that  sustained  him  when  he  applied  himself  to 
his  books  for  eight  hours  of  each  day  at  a time  when  he  was  teaching  a large  school  which 

*lt  is  regrettfHl  liy  tlie  iiiil)lisliers  of  tliis  volume  that  space  eaiiiiot  l)e  given  lierein  to  explain  fully  ami  at  lengtli.  tlie 
original  reasoning  of  Mr.  Smitli. 


189 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

demanded  more  than  ordinaiy  care  and  attention.  This  spirit  remains  as  strong  with  him 
to-day,  and  explains  the  success  that  has  attended  his  practice  and  the  distinction  he  enjoys 
in  his  profession.  Dr.  Emanuel  Anthony  was  born  in  Loudoun  County,  Va.,  May  27,  1840, 
being  the  son  of  Joseph  and  Rachel  (Rogers)  Anthony,  the  former  a native  of  Spain  and 
the  latter  of  England.  The  father  was  a farmer  by  occupation  and  in  1841  .settled  in  Athens 
County,  Ohio,  where  he  resided  until  his  death  in  June,  1856.  He  was  a soldier  in  the 
army  which  resisted  the  invasion  of  Napoleon  into  his  native  country  and  participated  in 
the  tirst  victory  of  the  Peninsula  war.  He  came  to  America  in  1807  and  settled  in  Virginia. 
Our  subject  was  about  a year  old  when  his  parents  settled  in  Athens  County,  and  there  he 
was  reared  upon  a farm,  receiving  his  early  education  in  the  public  schools,  afterward  attend- 
ing Miller’s  academy.  At  the  age  of  eighteen,  in  1858,  he  began  the  study  of  medicine  with 
Dr.  E.  M.  Bean,  at  Pleasanton,  Athens  County,  pursuing  his  studies  for  seven  years,  and 
taught  school  during  the  greater  jioition  of  the  time  in  these  years,  and  it  was  at  this  time 
that  he  compelled  himself  to  study  eight  hours  every  day,  and  this  without  neglecting  in 
any  wise  his  duties  as  a teacher.  At  the  expiration  of  the  seven  years  he  entered  the  office 
of  his  preceptor  and  assisted  in  the  general  practice  for  three  years,  when  he  entered  the 
Physio  Medical  College  at  Cincinnati,  in  1868,  from  which  he  graduated  in  tlie  spring  of 
1869.  Immediately  after  this  he  settled  at  Guysville,  Ohio,  and  practiced  there  until  Jan- 
uary, 1881,  when  he  came  to  Indianajiolis  and  entered  upon  a practice  which  has  continued 
uninterruptedly  up  to  the  present  time,  and  has  worked  up  a lucrative  practice.  He  pays 
special  attention  to  surgery,  his  tastes  and  inclinations  leading  him  into  this  line  of  work. 
In  1872  Dr.  Anthony  was  elected  to  fill  the  chair  of  anatomy  and  physiology  in  the  Physio 
Medical  College  at  Cincinnati,  which  he  accepted  and  filled  until  1877.  In  1879  he  was 
elected  to  the  chair  of  surgery  in  the  Physio  Medical  College  at  Indianajiolis,  which  he  still 
fills  with  great  credit,  and  in  1881  he  w'as  elected  president  of  the  faculty,  holding  this  posi- 
tion until  February,  1896.  The  Doctor  is  a member  of  the  Physio-Medical  Society  of 
Indianapolis,  of  the  Indiana  State  Physio-Afedical  Society  and  of  the  American  Association 
of  Physio  Medical  Physicians  and  Surgeons.  He  was  the  first  president  of  the  Indiana}>olis 
society  and  has  been  president  of  the  State  society.  Dr.  Anthony  served  in  the  One  Hun- 
dred and  Forty-first  Ohio  Volunteer  Infantry,  in  the  one  hundred-days  service  enlisting  in 
the  month  of  May  (first  day)  and  was  discharged  in  the  following  fall.  His  regiment  was 
assigned  to  general  duty  in  Virgiana,  being  on  guard  service.  Dr.  Anthony  was  married 
December  29,  1864,  to  Elvira  Calvert,  a native  of  Athens  County,  and  a daughter  of  Amos 
and  Margaret  (Stephenson)  Calvert,  also  natives  of  Ohio.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Anthony  are  the 
parents  of  one  child,  Elisha  O.  Anthony.  The  Doctor  and  his  family  are  members  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  In  politics  the  Doctor  is  a Prohibitionist,  believing  that  the 
morals  and  tlie  happiness  of  the  people  will  best  be  advanced  by  the  triumjih  of  the  jirin- 
ciples  of  that  party. 

Albert  E.  Buchanan,  D.  D.  S.  In  this  country  where  so  many  young  men  are  thrown 
upon  their  own  resources  at  an  early  age  and  are  often  obliged,  while  yet  inexperienced  and 
unfamiliar  with  their  osvn  tendencies  and  inclinations,  to  choose  their  occujiation  in  life,  it 
•cannot  always  be  expected  the  most  suitable  or  most  congenial  pursuit  will  be  selected.  In 
the  old  country,  where  too  often  genius  and  ambition  are  both  ab.solutely  opposed  by  the  old 
adage,  “follow  your  father,  my  son,  and  do  as  your  father  has  done.’’  young  men  do  not 
have  the  advantage  they  do  here.  In  this  country  it  is  the  trend  of  legislation  to  place  no 
obstacle  in  the  way  of  the  full  develojunent  of  talent  and  the  skyward  expansion  of  genius, 
and  thus  the  youth  of  this  country  usually  find  as  suitable  an  occupation  as  did  Albert  E. 
Jfuchanan,  who  chose  the  calling  of  a dentist,  and  has  found  it  admirably  suited  to  his  (juali- 
fications  and  desires.  He  was  born  in  Cumberland,  Marion  County,  Iml.,  June  8,  1860,  a 
son  of  John  and  Jane  C.  (Fei'guson)  Buchanan,  who  were  also  born  in  Indiana,  and  were 
among  the  early  settlers  of  Marion  County.  In  the  town  of  his  birth  the  subject  of  this 
sketch  was  reared,  and  he  there  obtaimnl  his  education  and  in  Moore’s  Hill  College.  In 
July,  1881,  he  came  to  Indianapolis,  and  began  the  study  of  dentistry,  his  ]>roc('ptor  being 
Dr.  4’.  S.  Hacker.  After  remaining  umler  his  instruction  for  some  time  he  entered  the 
Indiana  Dental  College  in  October,  1881,  and  was  graduated  therefrom  in  1886,  after  which 
he  remained  with  Dr.  Hacker  foi’ seven  years  as  his  associate  in  the  practice  of  dentistry.  At 


190 


memoirs  of  INDIANAPOLIS 


the  end  of  that  time  he  eml)arked  in  business  for  himself,  in  which  he  has  built  up  a very 
large  and  paying  practice.  For  a number  of  years  after  his  graduation  Dr.  Buchanan  as- 
sisted Dr.  Hacker  as  demonstrator  in  the  Indiana  Dental  College,  but  now  devotes  his  entire 
time  to  his  practice,  the  duties  of  which  he  has  found  arduous.  He  has  already  won  a repu- 
tation for  skill  that  is  by  no  means  local,  and  what  he  endeavors  to  do  he  does  well.  His 
charges  are  reasonable,  and  being  generous  and  considerate  he  never  pushes  his  debtors. 
He  was  married  January  20,  1886.  to  Miss  Nellie  Roll,  a native  of  Indianapolis,  and  a daugh- 
ter of  W.  H.  Roll,  and  to  their  union  one  child  has  been  given,  Julia  J.,  born  May  31,  1891. 
The  Doctor  is  a member  of  the  Indiana  Dental  Association,  and  is  a member  of  the  Com- 
mittee on  Code  of  Ethics  in  the  same.  He  is  a member  of  the  Post-Graduate  Society  of 
Indianapolis,  and  socially  belongs  to  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  He  and  his  wife  are  members  of  the 
First  Baptist  Church,  and  for  several  years  he  has  been  a teacher  in  the  Sabbath-school,  and 
also  assistant  superintendent.  Politically  he  has  always  affiliated  with  the  Republican  party, 
and  at  all  times  supports  its  men  and  measures. 

George  M.  Smith.  This  gentleman  is  a native  of  that  country  whose  citizens  are  noted 
for  their  industry,  frugality  and  honesty,  Germany,  and  throughout  life  he  has  shown 
that  he  is  possessed  of  these  worthy  characteristics  in  an  eminent  degree.  He  was  born  in 
Seidendorf,  October  14,  1836,  and  received  the  benefit  of  the  schools  of  his  native  land  from 
the  time  he  was  six  up  to  the  age  of  fourteen  years.  In  1852  he  came  to  America  in  com- 
pany with  his  brother  Conrad  and  his  sister  Elizabeth,  taking  passage  at  Bremen,  May  2, 
and  after  a long  voyage  of  fifty-six  days  they  reached  the  port  of  New  York.  They  then 
went  uj)  the  Hudson  River  to  Albany,  then  by  rail  to  Dunkirk,  then  across  the  lake  to  San- 
dusky, Ohio,  then  by  the  old  flat  bar  railroad  to  Dayton,  Ohio,  and  on  to  Hamilton.  Mr. 
Smith  says  that  frequently  the  cars  got  off  the  track  and  that  in  such  cases  the  passengers 
would  get  off  the  cars  and  walk  until  the  train  caught  up  with  them.  The  trip  from  San- 
dusky to  Hamilton  occupied  two  days  and  a night.  Upon  his  arrival  in  the  latter  place  Mr. 
Smith  went  to  work  in  Mr.  Becket’s  paper-mill,  then  apprenticed  himself  to  Philip  Huber,  a 
baker  and  confectioner,  but  as  his  employer  did  not  [lay  him  his  wages  as  agreed,  he  left  him 
at  the  expiration  of  six  months  and  entered  the  employ  of  Hon.  Lewis  D.  Campbell,  ex  con- 
gressman,  with  whom  he  remained  until  the  spring  of  1854,  when  he  came  to  Hancock 
County,  Ind. , where  his  brother  Conrad  had  preceded  him.  He  became  an  employe  of  Widow 
Gooding,  mother  of  Hon.  David  S.  Gooding,  at  the  hotel  kept  by  her  in  Greenfield.  He 
remained  in  her  employ  and  that  of  Dr.  N.  P.  Howard,  her  son-in-law,  for  two  years,  then 
went  to  Shelby  County,  and  for  two  years  conducted  a general  store  at  Pleasant  Vifew.  There 
he  was  married  March  28,  1858,  toDelphina,  daughter  of  Squire  Reuben  Barnard,  a Quaker 
and  a native  of  Nantucket,  Mass.  In  1860  he  bought  a farm  of  70  acres  of  Henry  Grass 
onto  which  he  moved  and  in  time  added  15  to  the  30  acres  that  had  been  cleared.  In  1867 
he  bought  40  acres  on  Sugar  Creek,  in  Shelby  County,  but  sold  it  in  November,  1868,  and 
in  the  sjwing  of  the  following  year  sold  the  rest  of  his  land  and  came  to  Marion  County, 
jurrchasing  160  acres,  consisting  of  two  80-acre  tracts,  for  which  he  paid  $10,000.  One  hun- 
dred acres  were  cleared  and  he  now  has  120  acres  cleared  on  which  he  raises  the  usual  farm 
products.  He  has  always  been  a Democrat,  and  since  the  time  of  Stephen  A.  Douglas  he 
has  never  missed  voting  for  a Democratic  president.  He  was  elected  trustee  of  his  township 
in  1874,  serving  for  two  years.  He  is  a worthy  member  of  the  Christian  Church  at  Irvington, 
and  is  an  enthusiastic  member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  Of  eleven  children  born  to  himself  and 
wife  only  one  is  dead,  Eudora,  who  passed  from  life  in  infancy.  The  rest  are  as  follows: 
Elizabeth  G.,  who  married  Isaac  Harlan,  has  two  children,  Mary  and  Smith;  Cora  M. ; 
William  C.,  ex-county  surveyor;  Oscar  L.  ; Amy  E.,  assistant  principal  teacher  in  the  Free 
Kindergarten  at  Buffalo,  N.  Y. ; Clarence  K. ; Ivy  M. ; Walter  E. ; George  M.  and  Mary  D. 
The  jiaternal  grandfather  of  these  children  was  George  J.  Smith,  who  died  in  his  native 
land  in  Germany  in  1843,  seven  weeks  after  his  wife  died,  at  which  time  he  was  fifty-one 
years  old.  He  had  been  married  twice,  his  first  wife  giving  him  four  children,  only  one  of 
whom  grew  to  maturity,  Michael.  His  second  wife  was  Anna  Marie  Helrareich,  and  by  her 
he  became  the  father  of  ten  children,  three  of  whom  survive  as  follows:  John  K.,  of  Fair- 
land,  Ind.;  Elizabeth,  widow  of  Jacob  Kohler,  of  Hamilton,  Ohio,  and  George  M.,  the  subject 
of  this  sketch.  The  latter’s  father-in-law  was  born  on  the  Island  of  Nantucket,  Mass. , in 


191 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

1805,  and  in  1800,  owing  to  the  persecntioiis  to  which  the  Quakers  were  subjected,’  his 
father,  Libroy  Barnard,  with  other  Quakers,  emigrated  to  North  Carolina,  settling  in  (luil- 
ford  County,  and  there  on  Deep  River,  within  twelve  miles  of  Greensboro,  Reuben  Barnard 
was  brought  up  and  lived  until  September,  1833,  when  he  came  to  Indiana,  locating  first  in 
Centerville,  from  whence  he  walked  in  March,  1834,  to  Indianapolis,  entering  80  acres  of 
land  in  Hancock  County.  About  two  years  later  he  entered  80  acres  more  and  there  lived 
until  his  death  in  1869.  He  was  justice  of  the  peace  in  Hancock  County  for  quite  a number 
of  years,  and  politically  was  a Democrat,  his  tir.st  vote  having  been  cast  for  Andrew  Jackson. 
He  was  a Quaker  but  was  e.xcommunicated  for  marrying  outside  the  pale  of  the  church.  He 
was  married  to  Elizabeth,  daughter  of  David  and  Sarah  Curry.  She  was  born  and  reared 
in  Davidson  County,  N.  C.,  and  bore  her  husband  ten  children,  as  follows:  Louisa;  Fred- 
erick, who  died  in  Texas,  was  married  to  Mattie  Bond,  whose  father  was  a Colonel  in  the 
Coqfederate  service  during  the  Civil  War;  James  J.  married  Jane  McAdams  (nee  Shannon) 
and  had  four  children — Reuben,  Elizabeth,  Eunice  and  Frederick;  Sarah  E.  first  married 
Ezekiel  Cunningham,  who  died  in  the  Federal  service  at  Helena,  Ark.,  and  by  whom  she  had 
three  children — Adolphus,  Elenora,  and  Samuel,  and  after  his  death  she  married  Christian 
Scheldmeir  and  to  whom  four  children  were  given,  two  of  whom  survive — Bertha,  who  mar- 
ried Thomas  Groves,  and  Laura;  Delphina  became  the  wife  of  George  M.  Smith;  Mary  E., 
as  the  widow  of  William  T.  King,  married  George  W.  Jenks  (Mary  T.,  her  child  by  her  first 
husband,  married  Robert  T.  Lee),  and  by  George  W.  Jenks  she  became  the  mother  of  one 
sou,  Charles;  Elihu  B.,  who  died  at  the  age  of  sixteen  years;  Eunice  (deceased)  married 
Richard  Senour,  by  whom  she  had  seven  children,  of  whom  five  survive — Mary,  Edward, 
Laura,  Nellie,  and  Eliza))eth;  William,  of  Greenfield,  Ind.,  married  Amanda  Gibson  and 
has  two  children,  Borgia  and  Audrey;  Charlotte  J.,  who  married  John  Burkhart,  lives  in 
Shelby  County,  Ind.,  lias  seven  children  — John;  Charley,  who  married  a Miss  Williams; 
Eunice,  Adrian,  Edna,  Jesse,  and  Ernest.  Mr.  Barnard,  the  father  of  Mrs.  Smith,  died  in 
1869,  and  his  wife  July  24.  1892,  at  the  age  of  eighty-six  years.  Mrs.  Smith’s  paternal 
great  grandfather,  was  in  all  probability  the  Huguenot  emigrant  ancestor  who,  with  so  many 
of  his  co-religionists,  tied  from  France  after  the  revocation  of  the  Edict  of  Nantes,  and  with 
a band  of  brotherly,  loving  friends,  purchased  the  Island  of  Nantucket  that  they  might 
have  a place  to  worship  God  according  to  the  dictates  of  their  own  conscience. 

J.  O.  Henderson.  The  career  of  this  well-known  journalist  and  politician  illmstrates 
the  value  of  those  sterling  qualities  which  enable  men  to  make  their  way  to  positions  of 
responsibility  and  distinction.  John  Oscar  Henderson  was  born  in  New  London,  Howard 
County,  Ind.,  forty-five  years  ago,  the  second  of  five  sons  of  the  late  J.  F.  Hendei'son,  a 
pioneer  ])hysician  and  noted  early  Democratic  leader  of  the  Indiana  Reserve.  Soon  aftei' 
the  beginning  of  the  Civil  War  the  family  moved  to  Kokomo,  the  seat  of  justice  of  Howard 
Count}',  and  Dr.  Henderson  entered  the  Union  army  as  surgeon  of  the  Eighty-ninth  Regi- 
ment Indiana  Volunteers.  Mr.  Henderson  received  an  academic  education  at  Kokomo  and 
was  graduated  from  Asbury  (now  DePauw)  University  in  1872.  Meantime  Dr.  Henderson 
had  founded  and  was  the  owner  of  the  Kokomo  Dispatch,  and  his  two  sons,  J.  O.  and  H.  E. 
Henderson  entered  upon  their  career  as  journalists  in  1876,  and  soon  established  themselves 
firmly  among  the  leading  Democratic  editors  and  political  managers  of  the  State.  For 
years  J.  O.  Henderson  was  chairman  of  the  local  county  committee.  In  1885  he  was 
appointed  revenue  collector  for  the  Eleventh  Indiana  District  by  President  Cleveland,  and 
filled  that  position  two  years  with  much  credit  and  success.  In  1886  he  served  as  a member 
of  the  executive  committee  of  the  Democratic  Slate  central  committee,  and  in  1888  he  was 
a delegate  to  the  Democratic  national  convention  and  was  made  assistaid.  secretary  of  that 
body.  In  1889  he  was  elected  [)reHident  of  the  Democratic  Editorial  Associat  ion  of  Imliana. 
In  1890  he  was  elected  auditor  of  the  State  of  Indiana,  and  was  re  elected  in  1892,  anti  is 
now  for  the  second  term  filling  tliat  oilice. 

Amos  L.  Wii-son,  M.  D.,  of  Indianapolis  was  l)orn  near  Casey,  111.,  August  20, 
1858,  son  of  Jonathan  and  .Mary  (Huntington)  Wilson,  the  former  a nat.iv('  of  Kentucky,  the 
latter  a native  of  New  Vork.  His  fath(*r,  who  had  been  a life  long  farmer,  came  to  Indiana 
when  a young  man  ami  has  lived  in  this  State  and  Illinois  all  his  life  since,  btu'ng  at  this 
time  resident  in  the  vicinity  of  Casey,  III.  Two  of  his  sons  (biothers  of  Dr.  Wilson)  named 


192 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


James  N.  and  Josliua  C.  Wilson,  served  their  country  in  the  Civil  War,  and  the  former,  a 
meinl)er  of  Gen.  Benjamin  Harrison’s  regiment,  h^st  his  life  at  llesaca,  May  15,  1864.  Joshna 
C.  Wilson  is  a resident  of  Nebraska.  Another  son  of  Jonathan  Wilson  (John  A.)  served 
for  seven  years  with  the  regular  army  in  the  West  until  discharged  for  disability.  Besides 
those  mentioned  above  there  are  three  other  children  of  Jonathan  Wilson  living,  and  resid- 
ing in  Indianapolis,  viz. : Asa  B.  Wilson,  IMary  A.  Wilson  and  Mrs.  Sarah  McFall,  and 
three,  one  son  and  two  daughters,  dead.  When  Dr.  Wilson  was  about  four  years  old  his 
mother  died.  He  was  reared  in  Johnson  County  and  divided  his  youth  between  farm  labor 
and  the  common  schools,  followed  by  a normal  school  course.  For  live  years  thereafter  he 
taught  in  the  public  schools  of  Johnson  and  Bartholomew  Counties,  Ind.,  and  in  the  spring 
of  1884  came  to  Indianapolis,  and  in  September  of  that  year  was  appointed  clerk  in  the  city 
postoffice,  one  of  the  tirst  appointed  under  the  civil  service  rule.  Thirteen  months  after 
entering  upon  the  duties  of  this  position  he  resigned  it  to  devote  his  entire  time  to  the  study 
of  medicine  under  the  preceptorship  of  Dr.  E.  F.  Hodges,  graduating  from  the  Medical  Col- 
lege of  Indiana  in  the  spring  of  1887,  and  by  competitive  examination  securing  the  appoint- 
ment as  physician  to  the  city  dispensary  for  one  year.  At  the  end  of  that  time,  he  entered 
upon  the  regular  {)racticeof  his  profession,  which  he  has  continued  to  the  present  time.  He 
is  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society 
and  of  the  American  Medical  Association,  and  has  prepared  and  read  papers  before  the 
county  and  State  societies.  Of  the  County  Medical  Society  he  has  been  secretary.  In 
politics  he  is  a Republican  and  is  connected  with  the  K.  of  P.  and  the  R.  A.  April 
24,  1889,  he  married  Mrs.  Nellie  (Gifford)  Rothingatter,  a native  of  Michigan  and  a 
daughter  of  George  and  Laura  (Fanning)  Gifford.  They  have  a daughter  named  Helen 
Gifford  and  a son  named  Wilbur  Niles.  Georgia  Rothingatter  is  Mrs.  Wilson’s  dairghterby 
her  former  marriage. 

ViRoiL.  H.  Lockwood,  the  well-known  lawyer  and  patent  attorney,  was  born  on  a farm 
near  Fort  Branch,  Gibson  County,  Ind. , May  6,  1860.  His  father,  James  T.  Lockwood, 
was  a native  of  Westchester  County,  N.  Y.,  and  is  now  a leading  merchant  at  Prince- 
ton, Ind.  His  mother,  Juliet  Neely  Adams,  was  born  in  north  central  Kentucky  and 
belonged  to  a family  that  produced  several  able  men  in  Kentucky,  southwestern  Indiana 
and  elsewhere,  including  Gen.  John  I.  Neely,  Gov.  Neely,  of  California,  Gov.  Ralston,  of 
Tennessee,  and  Ex  Congressman  Thomas,  of  Metropolis,  111.  Mr.  V.  H.  Lockwood  grew 
up  on  the  farm  and  received  his  early  education  at  Fort  Branch.  That  he  was  an  apt  and 
diligent  student  is  apparent  from  the  fact  that  he  was  graduated  from  the  Fort  Branch  High 
School  at  the  early  age  of  fifteen.  His  father  being  at  the  time  unable  to  ^ive  him  the  col- 
legiate education  he  desired,  Mr.  Lockwood  taught  school  during  the  remainder  of  his 
minority,  except  in  1878,  when  he  was  a student  at  DePauw  (then  Asbury)  University.  At 
the  early  age  of  eighteen  he  assumed  the  ])rincipalship  of  the  High  School  and  continued  in 
that  position  for  three  years.  In  1881  he  entered  the  law  school  of  the  University  of  Vir- 
ginia and  was  graduated  therefrom.  The  next  four  years  he  devoted  to  various  special 
branches  of  scientific  and  literary  study  in  the  University  of  Virginia.  After  reviewing  his 
legal  studies  at  the  same  institution,  he  began,  in  March,  1886,  the  practice  of  his  profes- 
sion at  Detroit,  Mich.,  in  association  with  E.  Y.  and  C.  M.  Swift.  During  his  legal  and 
collegiate  training,  which  Mr.  Lockwood  procured  through  his  own  unaided  efforts,  he  pre- 
))ared  himself  for  the  practice  of  the  specialty  which  has  since  received  his  entire  attention 
with  marked  success.  He  was  led  to  choose  his  specialty  by  reason  of  his  interest  in  the 
material  progress  of  the  people,  his  liking  for  all  means  whereby  man  utilizes  the  laws 
and  materials  of  nature  for  his  own  advancement,  and  the  belief  that  a man  can  be  of  great- 
est service  to  his  fellow  man  by  limiting  the  scope  of  his  efforts  and  investigations.  Mr. 
Lockwood  came  to  Indianapolis  and,  in  March,  1892,  succeeded  to  the  patent- law  business 
of  Charles  P.  Jacobs,  Esq.  His  efforts,  both  in  general  law  and  in  patent  law,  have  met 
with  invariable  success,  due  to  his  thorough  training  and  the  study  and  care  he  always 
devotes  to  the  preparation  and  conduct  of  all  cases.  Above  all,  he  is  reliable  and  spares  no 
efforts  to  gain  success  in  any  undertaking.  He  is  popular  at  the  bar  and  in  business  and 
social  circles.  He  is  a member  of  the  D.  K.  E.  college  fraternity,  of  the  Century  and  Com- 
mercial Clubs  and  of  other  well  known  and  useful  organizations.  In  1889  he  married  Miss 


193 


.-i-Vi;  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Bertha  M.  Greeue,  a Jaughter  of  Charles  P.  Greene,  Esq.,  of  Indianapolis.  He  is  a mem- 
ber of  the  Second  Presbyterian  Church  of  Indianapolis  and  is  interested  in  all  movements 
for  the  betterment  of  the  condition  of  his  fellow  citizens  and  for  that  reason  is  public- 
spirited  and  devoted  to  the  rapidly-growing  interests  of  Indianapolis,  and  especially  of  the 
State  of  Indiana. 

Joel  T.  Elliott.  There  is  no  class  of  business  men  who  more  surely  rear  up  visible 
monuments  to  their  industry  and  their  enterprise  than  the  builders  of  the  sightly  structures 
which  become  a landmark,  not  only  locally  but  in  the  historical  sense,  in  all  our  great  cities, 
and  Joel  T.  Elliott  holds  a prominent  place  among  them.  He  was  born  in  Putnam  County, 
Ind. , August  II,  1865,  a son  of  J.  M.  Elliott,  who  was  born  on  Blue-Grass  soil  and  is  now  a 
resident  and  successful  farmer  of  Putnam  County,  Ind.  In  his  early  manhood  he  followed 
the  calling  of  a wagon  maker  and  during  this  time  his  son,  Joel  T. , acquired  a knowledge  of 
how  to  handle  a satv  and  plane.  He  was  the  second  of  eight  children  born  to  his  parents, 
and  when  he  had  attained  a proper  age  he  was  placed  in  the  public  schools  of  Putnam  County, 
where  he  acquired  an  excellent  and  practical  education.  During  the  time  that  he  was  not 
pursuing  the  paths  of  learning,  he  was  assisting  his  father  in  the  shop.  At  the  age  of  sixteen 
he  began  learning  the  trade  of  a carpenter,  at  which  he  continued  to  labor  until  he  had  attained 
the  age  of  nineteen  years,  then  he  entered  the  railroad  office  at  Fillmore,  and  learned 
telegraphy,  and  continued  until  the  Fall  of  1887.  In  1887  he  located  in  Indianapolis  and 
commenced  his  present  business  of  contracting  and  building  and  from  the  start  his  work  was 
in  every  way  satisfactory  and  this  fact  soon  became  known  to  those  who  contemplated  build- 
ing and  his  services  were  employed  and  he  has  now  a patronage  among  the  best  class  of  citi- 
zens and  all  he  can  properly  attend  to.  He  was  one  of  the  tirm  of  Ayers  & Co.,  who  put  up 
§48,000  worth  of  work  on  the  State  Fair  Grounds,  principally  on  the  Woman’s  Building  and 
has  built  many  of  the  handsomest  private  residences  in  the  city  as  well  as  having  erected 
numerous  other  buildings  of  prominence.  His  work  is  characterized  by  its  substantial  and 
symmetrical  nature,  and  his  patrons  have  found  it  a pleasure  to  deal  with  him,  for  he  is 
thoroughly  to  be  relied  upon,  is  prompt  in  fulfilling  his  coidracts  and  is  the  soul  of  honesty. 
Although  he  started  without  means  he  has  now  a comfortable  property,  the  result  of  energy, 
perseverance  and  economy.  In  September,  1892,  he  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Nona 
Horine,  of  Bichraond,  Ind.  Mr.  Elliott  has  taken  quite  an  interest  in  politics  and  has  ever 
voted  the  Democratic  ticket,  the  success  of  which  has  ever  been  dear  to  his  heart.  Socially 
he  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.,  West  Indianapolis  Lodge,  No.  244,  and  he  and  his  wife  belong 
to  the  Pythian  Sisters. 

George  W.  Nash,  M.  D.  An  able  physician  in  general  practice  who  gives  special  at 
tentioii  to  the  diseases  of  children  and  is  therefore  most  successful  as  a family  practitioner,  is 
Dr.  George  W.  Nash,  of  Indianapolis.  Dr.  Nash  was  born  in  Hendricks  County,  Ind., 
October  15,  1835,  and  i.s  the  eldest  of  seven  children  of  Bichard  E and  Frances  (Smith) 
Nash,  the  former  a native  of  Ohio,  the  latter  a native  of  Kentucky.  Bichard  Nash  was  a 
farmer  by  occupation,  and  was  a man  of  the  strongest  common  sense  and  of  the  most  praise- 
worthy enterprise  wilhin  the  limits  by  which  he  was  necessarily  circumscribed.  He  died  in 
1846,  his  wife  in  1856.  Of  their  children,  three  .sons.  Bichard,  Isaac  and  \Villiam  B., 
served  in  the  late  war.  'I’he  two  first  mentioned  lost  their  lives  in  the  service,  the  latter  is  a 
successful  physician  at  F'airmount,  111.  Dr.  George  W.  Nash  was  ten  years  old  when  his 
father  died,  and  the  resjionsibility  of  carrying  on  the  farm  of  eighty  acres  and  caring  for  his 
six  younger  brothers  and  sisters  devolved  upon  him  to  a very  marked  extent,  and  it  is  credit 
able  to  him  that,  turning  aside  from  the  amusements  and  recreations  so  dear  to  youth,  he 
devoted  himself  assiduously  to  work  and  in  every  manner  possible  aided  his  mother  and 
made  her  burdens  lighter.  His  early  educational  opportunities  were  not  of  the  best,  but 
he  made  such  as  he  had  available  with  the  result  that  he  was  soon  able  to  teach  school,  and, 
for  a part  of  the  time  at  least,  leave  the  heavier  work  of  the  farm  to  others  better  adajited 
to  it  physically,  for  the  hard  labor  of  his  early  years  had  to  an  extent  broken  down  his  con 
stitution,  never  robust,  and  made  such  a change  necessary  to  him  above  almost  anything  elst*. 
For  five  years  he  taught  with  increasing  success,  and  in  186t)  he  opened  a drug  store  at 
Brownsburg,  Ind.,  and,  in  his  leisure  time,  devoted  himself  to  the  study  of  inediciiu',  which 
he  pursued  ililigently  for  three  vears.  .Meaidime,  as  a druggist,  he  was  making  (!onsider 

13 


194 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


able  (inaiicial  progress,  atul  he  determined  to  forego  the  furllier  study  of  his  chosen  profes- 
sion for  a time  and  dispose  of  his  drug  store  and  engage  in  general  merchandising  and  mill- 
ing. In  this  new  venture  he  was  not  so  successful,  Imt  on  the  contrary  sunk  al)out  all  the 
means  he  had  accumnlated,  and  in  1871  he  relimpiished  it,  and,  removing  to  Covington, 
lud.,  again  engaged  in  the  drug  business,  in  which  he  continued  for  three  years.  In  1875 
he  became  a commercial  traveler,  and  as  such  was  on  the  road  until  1884.  Meantime,  in 
1881,  he  located  in  Indianapolis,  and  upon  quitting  the  road  opened  a drug  store  in  that 
city,  which  he  conducted  successfully  until  1890,  when  he  sold  it  to  his  son.  During  all  of 
this  time  he  had  not  forgotten  his  natural  liking  for  the  profession  of  medicine,  and  he  had 
availed  himself  of  every  opportunity  to  retain  and  add  to  all  he  had  acquired  of  its  theory  in 
the  course  of  reading  he  had  taken,  and  in  1885  he  entered  the  College  of  Physicians  and 
Surgeons,  Indianapolis,  and  was  graduated  therefrom  in  1888  with  the  degree  of  M.  D., 
and  at  once  began  a general  i)ractice,  which  has  been  interrupted  only  by  his  absence  in 
New  York  during  the  fall  and  winter  of  1890  to  take  a j>ost-graduate  course.  He  is  a mem- 
ber of  the  dispensary  staff  of  the  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons.  He  is  identified 
with  the  Marion  County  IMedical  Society  and  the  Indiana  State  Jledical  Society,  and  has 
read  papers  befoi'e  the  two  bodies  which  have  atti’acted  much  attention  in  the  profession. 
In  politics  Dr.  Nash  is  a liepublican.  He  was  married  Maich  4,  1857,  to  Mary  J.  Clark,  a 
native  of  Kentucky,  who  bore  him  four  children:  William  B.,  Lee  T.,  Dolly  and  Daisy,  and 
who  died  April  ‘2  ),  1890.  August  12,  1891,  Dr.  Nash  married  Alice  IM.  Brown,  a native  of 
Kentucky.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Nash  are  members  of  the  Christian  Church. 

SvLVESTEit  A.  Moikjan.  The  finger  of  time  is  one  of  the  most  satisfactory  and  reliable 
endorser's  of  a man’s  business  career  usually.  Men  in  the  various  walks  of  life  may  with 
justification  halt  and  refuse  to  listen  to  the  solicitation  of  a beginner;  but  in  so  doing  he 
would  in  many  cases  make  a mistake  and  pass  by  one  who  was  in  every  way  worthy  his  pat- 
ronage, and  this  would  be  es[)ecially  true  in  the  case  of  Sylvester  A.  Morgan,  who,  although 
he  has  been  in  business  here  only  five  years,  has  yet  made  an  e.vcellent  reputation  as  a con- 
tractor and  builder.  He  is  a product  of  Butler  County,  Ohio,  where  he  was  born  January  2, 
1858,  a son  of  Edward  J.  and  Mary  Morgan,  well  known  residents  of  Elizabethtown,  Bar- 
tholomew County,  lud.  Although  the  father  was  formerly  a builder  of  considerable  note, 
he  has  for  some  time  since  given  his  attention  to  farming,  in  which  occupation  he  has  been 
reasonably  successful.  In  Elizabethtown,  Sylvester  A.  Morgan  received  such  educational 
advantages  of  which  he  is  now  posse.ssed,  and  his  leisure  time  when  not  in  school,  or  the 
greater  portion  of  it,  was  spent  in  learning  the  trade  of  a carpenter  under  his  father.  He 
remained  with  him  until  he  attained  his  majority  and  then  engaged  in  the  ice  business  in 
Louisville,  Ky.  He  very  soon  gave  up  this  work  to  engage  in  farming  near  Elizabethtown, 
Ind.,  and  after  devoting  his  attention  to  this  business  for  two  years,  meeting  with  misfortune 
in  this,  he  then  moved  to  Noblesville,  Ind.,  and  began  teaching  school  during  the  winter 
season,  the  warm  months  being  devoted  to  carpentering  which  he  had  resumed,  soon  having 
charge  of  work  as  foreman.  He  remained  in  that  locality  until  about  1888,  at  which  time 
he  took  up  his  residence  in  West  Indianapolis,  commencing  business  on  his  own  responsibil- 
ity, and  here  has  been  very  successfully  engaged  in  contracting  and  building  ever  since. 
Many  of  the  important  structures  of  west  Indianapolis  have  i)een  erected  by  him  and  all  the 
houses  in  many  blocks  stand  as  monuments  to  his  industry,  knowledge  of  his  calling  and  the 
estimation  in  which  he  is  held  by  the  public.  He  also  built  the  whole  plant  for  the  Van 
Camj)  Packing  Company  and  has  fultilled  some  large  contracts  for  the  Atnerican  and  Standard 
Wheel  Company,  Parry  Manufacturing  Company,  built  the  adamant  wall  plaster  building  and 
some  beautiful  residences,  particularly  in  the  neighborhood  of  Ft)urteenth  and  Pennsyl- 
vania Streets,  in  the  city  of  Indianapolis.  He  has  under  his  management  a large  force  of 
men,  and  his  operations  are  invariably  conducted  with  safety  and  are  always  brought  to  a 
successful  termination  at  the  specified  time  and  to  the  letter  of  contract.  He  is  a man  of 
unblemished  honor  and  loyal  to  his  promises  in  all  his  undertakings.  In  1890  he  wedded 
Miss  Sylvinia  Snowden,  of  Elizabethtown,  and  both  are  worthy  members  of  the  Trinity 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  Mr.  Morgan  being  a trustee  and  treasurer  since  its  founding. 
Socially  he  is  a member  of  Mystic  Tie  Lodge  F.  & A.  M.,  the  K.  of  P.,  being  a charter 
member  of  West  Indianapolis  Lodge,  No.  244,  and  the  Builders’  Exchange. 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

'J.^iyFR‘'>iry  of  K i iNor 


'C 


■> 


195 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

William  F.  Lander.  This  gentleman  has  hail  a career  in  some  respects  remarkable,  a 
narrative  of  which  will  be  found  most  interesting.  He  is  a New  England  Yankee,  and  was 
born  in  Medford,  Mass.,  March  21,  1847,  a son  of  Francis  and  Hariiet  (Kenedy)  Lander, 
natives,  respectively,  of  Boston,  Mass.,  and  the  State  of  Maine.  His  father,  a distant  rel- 
ative of  Franklin  Pierce,  was  born  and  reared  on  ‘‘Old  Fort  Hill,”  a locality  popularly 
regarded  at  that  time  as  ipiite  an  aristocratic  neighborhood,  now  known  as  Washington 
Square.  He  became  a ship  contractor,  and  is  now  a resident  of  Cambridge,  Mass.  In  the 
course  of  his  Imsy  career  he  has  built  wholly  or  in  part  many  vessels,  making  a specialty 
of  cabin  work.  He  was  well  known  among  seamen  and  vessel  owners,  and  had  a most  envia- 
ble reputation  with  the  general  business  public.  Mr.  Lander  comes  from  patriot  stock. 
His  great-grandfather  was  orderly  sergeant  of  the  Concord,  Mass.,  company,  which  did 
service  in  the  Revolutionary  struggle,  and  was  at  the  historic  liattle  of  Lexington,  and  lost 
a leg  at  the  battle  at  Monmouth.  He  died  at  the  age  of  forty-live  years.  His  paternal  and 
maternal  grandfathers  were  both  soldiers  and  officers  in  the  United  States  army  during  the 
War  of  1812-14.  His  father  is  a veteran  of  the  late  war.  having  served  as  second  sergeant 
of  Company  F,  Fifth  Massachusetts  Infantry,  mostly  in  North  Carolina.  His  grandfather 
Lander  was  educated  at  Eton  and  Oxford  Colleges,  England,  and  for  several  years  was  a 
professor  of  penmanship  in  the  schools  of  Boston,  in  which  his  wife  was  also  a teacher. 
He  was  a native  of  England,  and  was,  no  doubt,  related  to  the  great  English  traveler  of 
that  name.  He  died  and  was  buried  in  Massachusetts.  Mr.  Lander’s  maternal  grandfather 
was  a sea  captain,  and  was  lost  at  sea  at  the  age  of  thirty-seven,  by  being  washed  over- 
board during  a storm  which  his  vessel  encountered  en  route  from  Cuba  to  Boston.  Will- 
iam F.  Lander  was  reared  at  Medford,  Mass.,  and  educated  in  the  public  schools  of  that 
place.  At  the  age  of  seventeen  he  went  to  sea  and  led  a seafaring  life  for  four  years 
thereafter,  making  voyages  to  South  America,  the  Sandwich  Islands,  Chili,  Peru,  Rio 
Janeiro,  the  IMediterranean  and  the  island  of  Sicily.  He  doubled  Cape  Horn  four  times, 
visited  Gibralta  twice,  sj)ent  eight  weeks  at  Yalentia,  Spain.  Relimpiishing  his  sea  life,  he 
engaged  in  piano  and  organ  manufacture  at  Cambridge,  Mass.,  and  continued  in  it  with 
much  success  until  1884,  as  a contractor,  em|)loying  from  sixteen  to  twenty  men.  During 
that  year  he  came  to  Imlianapolis  and  engaged  in  the  organization  of  fraternal  orders  and 
branches  of  the  same,  a kind  of  work  in  wliicli  he  had  already  had  considerable  experience, 
having  been  for  a few  years  grand  secretary  of  tlie  K.  A L.  of  H.,  of  Massachusetts.  In 
1889  he  organized  the  O.  of  E.,  and  was  made  its  supreme  secretary.  The  affairs  of 
this  order  are  conducted  in  the  most  conservative  manner,  and  it  has  come  to  the  front  as 
a popular  and  growing  enterprise.  Fully  5,000  membershij)  certificates  have  been  issued, 
and  more  than  a hundred  local  councils  have  lieen  organized  and  are  in  a flourishing  con 
dition.  Mr.  Lander  is  a member  also  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  the  K.  P. . the  Uniformed  Rank, 
the  A.  O.  U.  W.,  the  K.  &;  L.  of  H.,  the  51.  W.  and  other  orders.  He  is  a popular  mem 
her  of  the  Columbia  and  Marion  Clubs,  of  Indianajiolis.  5Ir.  Ijander  was  mai»ried  in  1875, 
to  Miss  Emma  J.  Alderson,  of  Plymouth,  Mass. , and  has  six  sons:  Francis,  Percy  \\  . , 
Roswell  S. , Frederick,  Charles  A.  and  Robert  Y. 

Simon  P.  Scherer,  51.  D.  The  younger  physicians  of  Indianapolis  have,  some  of  them, 
done  as  much  to  give  reputation  to  the  medical  profession  of  the  city  as  any  of  their  older 
jirofessional  lirethren,  and  one  of  the  brightest,  best  informed  and  most  promising  of  this 
class  is  Di’.  Simon  P.  Scherer,  who  was  born  in  'I’ipton  County,  Ind.,  August,  29,  1895,  a son 
of  the  Rev.  .Ambrose  H.  and  Sarah  1‘1.  (Patton)  Scherer.  Rev.  Ambrose  Hinkle  Scherer  was 
born  in  Guilford  County,  N.  C.,  November  22,  1822,  and  died  April  14,  1892,  at.  Shar|)sville, 
Tijiton  County.  At  the  age  of  twelve  ycais  he  removed  with  his  par(>nts  to  'I'ennessee, wlime 
he  remained  three  years.  He  then  came  to  Hendricks  County,  Ind.,  in  which  State  he  lived 
until  the  day  of  his  death.  At  the  age  of  seventeen  yeais  he  united  with  the  English  Evan 
gelical  Lutheran  Church.  He  stuilied  theology  under  tin*  direction  and  tntoragi!  of  Kev. 
Jacob  Scherer,  his  uncle,  at  Olney,  HI.  He  was  regularly  licmistsl  to  preach  the  gospid  at 
the  second  session  of  the  synod  of  northern  Indiana,  held  at  Columbia  City,  Ind.,  in  1819, 
and  was  ordained  at  Ladoga,  Ind.,  in  1852.  His  first  charge  was  the  Bethel  Church,  in 
•Alorgan  County,  Iml.,  which  church  he  organizeil,  T’his  charge  he  served  one  year,  when 
he  moved  to  New  London,  Ind.,  organized  Union  Church,  and  supplied  with  it  several 


190 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


iiei^bboriug  points  for  live  years.  This  work  of  organizing  cburcbes  in  central  Indiana, 
acting  as  a missionary,  and  most  of  tbe  time  without  any  assistance  from  tbe  board  of  borne 
missions,  be  was  engaged  in  until  tbe  day  of  liis  death.  Seventeen  cburcbes  stand  to  day  in 
Morgan,  Madison,  Hendricks,  Hamilton,  Tipton,  Howard  and  adjoining  counties,  as  the  result  of 
Ids  early,  self-sacriticing  and  earnest  work.  In  tbe  orgapization  of  several  of  tbe  above  named 
cburcbes,  Mr.  Scherer  was  assisted  by  tbe  venerable  “Father”  Wells.  Three  years  ago  be 
was  stricken  with  paralysis,  when  in  tbe  midst  of  Ids  last  work — tbe  organization  of  St. 
Peter’s  Church,  in  Sbarpsville,  Ind.,  and  tbe  erection  of  the. church  building.  At  its  com- 
pletion and  dedication,  in  June,  1890,  be  felt  that  bis  life-work  was  accomplished  and  resigned 
himself  to  tbe  call  of  God.  He  was  married  to  Sarah  Patton,  a native  of  Maryland,  in  Car- 
roll  County,  October  9,  1850,  and  bis  widow  and  ten  children  survive  him,  remembering  him 
as  a devoted  husband  and  most  indulgent  father.  Dr.  Scherer  was  reared  amid  all  tbe 
advantages  of  a cultured  Christian  household,  in  tbe  county  of  bis  birth,  and  was  educated 
in  the  common  and  graded  schools  of  Sbarpsville,  and  at  tbe  county  normal  school.  He 
remained  on  bis  father’s  farm  until  be  was  twenty-two  years  old,  and  then,  going  to  Indian- 
apolis, was  for  a year  a student  in  a jirominent  business  college.  Tbe  next  year  be  spent  in 
reading  medicine  under  tbe  direction  of  Drs.  Heath  and  Publish,  of  Sbarpsville.  Then, 
returning  to  Indianapolis,  be  continued  bis  medical  studies  with  Drs.  Todd  and  Maxwell 
and  entered  tbe  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  in  tbe  fall  of  1889,  and  was 
graduated  therefrom  with  honors,  as  tbe  valedictorian  of  bis  class,  in  March,  1891.  In  1890 
be  was,  for  about  seven  months,  employed  as  a drug  clerk  and  assistant  at  tbe  city  dispen- 
sary, a connection  that  was  of  much  practical  benefit  to  him  in  tbe  prosecution  of  bis  studies. 
Immediately  after  bis  graduation  be  entered  upon  tbe  practice  of  his  profession  in  Indian 
apolis.  His  standing  as  a practitioner  is  indicated  by  tbe  following  facts:  He  is  attend- 
ing physician  to  tbe  polyclinic  of  tbe  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons,  a 
member  of  tbe  Marion  County  Medical  Society  and  a member  of  tbe  Indiana  State  Medical 
Society.  He  was  married  October  14,  1891,  to  Miss  Allie  J.  Culley,  a native  of  Monroe 
County,  Ind.,  and  a daughter  of  James  and  Elizalietb  (Field)  Culley,  both  of  whom  were 
born  in  this  State,  tbe  former  being  now  dead  and  tbe  latter  a resident  of  Indianapolis. 
Dr.  Scherer  is  a member  of  tbe  Presbyterian  Church;  bis  wife  is  identified  with  tbe  Christian 
Church.  In  politics  tbe  Doctor  is  Pepublican.  He  is  a member  of  tbe  I.  O.  O.  F.,  and 
is  connected  with  other  worthy  organizations.  As  a citizen  be  is  zealous  for  the  public 
good  and  has  ever  contributed  bis  full  share  to  tbe  furtherance  of  all  worthy  objects  and 
measures. 

Alfred  R.  Hovey  is  one  of  tbe  leading  lawyers  of  Indianapolis,  and  tbe  firm  of  Hard- 
ing & Hovey,  of  which  be  is  a member,  is  tbe  second  oldest  law  firm  in  tbe  city.  Mr.  Hovey 
comes  of  the  best  American  stock.  His  father  is  Goodwin  S.  Hovey.  His  mother  was 
Salina  Weed,  a daughter  of  Reuben  Weed  and  a relative  of  tbe  late  Hon.  Tburlow  Weed 
and  Smith  M.  Weed,  of  New  York,  men  of  national  fame.  On  bis  mother’s  side  Mr.  Hovey 
can  trace  bis  ancestry  in  America  back  to  1635.  Tbe  Weed  family  are  of  revolutionary 
memory  and  Mr.  Hovey’s  great-grandfather  was  an  officer  in  a Connecticut  regiment  and 
as  such  risked  bis  life  in  defense  of  American  independence.  Reuben  Weed,  Mr.  Hovey’s 
maternal  grandfather,  was  a judge  in  Allegany  County,  N.  Y.  His  great-grandfather  was 
one  of  the  early  judges  in  Wyoming,  in  eastern  Pennsylvania,  and  bis  family  were  there  at 
tbe  time  of  tbe  historic  Wyoming  Massacre,  south  of  the  present  Wyoming  County,  on  tbe 
bank  of  tbe  Susquehanna,  opposite  Wilkesbarre.  At  that  time  Judge  Gore  was  in  tbe  revo- 
lutionary army.  The  Hovey  family  are  of  Anglo-Saxon  origin.  Three  brothers  came  to 
America  in  tbe  seventeenth  century,  one  locating  in  Massachusetts,  one  in  Vermont  and  one 
in  Connecticut,  and  from  tbe  latter  descended  tbe  line  of  Avbicb  Alfred  R.  Hovey  is  repre- 
sentative. From  tbe  time  of  bis  great-grandfather,  tbe  Hoveys  and  many  of  the  families 
with  which  they  have  intermarried,  have  lived  in  New  York  State.  Some  of  them  were 
among  the  early  settlers  in  Wyoming  County,  tbe  very  garden  spot  of  tbe  State.  With 
others,  some  of  Mr.  Hovey’s  maternal  ancestors  made  a trade  with  tbe  Indians,  under 
authority  of  tbe  general  Government,  and  secured  much  valuable  land  in  Cayuga  County, 
N.  Y.,  upon  which  they  erected  bouses,  barns,  and  fences  and  made  otlier  improvements. 
There  was  a conflict  of  authority  which  has  become  historical,  and  under  orders  from  Gov. 


197 


AXD  MARIOX  COrXTY,  IXDIAXA. 

De  Witt  Clinton,  the  sheriff  of  Cayuga  County  was  ordered  to  proceed  to  the  neighborhood 
and  burn  out  these  sturdy  settlers  whom  it  had  been  found  impossible  to  dispossess  by  milder 
means.  Even  this  harsh  measure  did  not  succeed,  for,  bereft  of  house  and  home,  Mr. 
Hovey’s  ancestor  and  his  companions  retained  possession  of  and  protected  their  title  to  their 
lands.  This  ancestor,  Elisha  Durkey,  was  a member  of  the  general  assembly  of  New 
York.  Mr.  Hovey  has  in  his  possession  a letter  concerning  the  burning  of  the  farm- 
houses written  by  his  great-grandfather  101  years  ago.  Mr.  Hovey’s  paternal  grand- 
father, Alfred  Hovey,  was,  at  the  time  of  his  death,  principal  of  the  old  Binghampton, 
N.  Y.,  Academy,  and  had  been  for  fourteen  years.  He  was  a civil  engineer  of  the  tinest 
attainments,  and  in  his  professional  capacity  made  surveys  for  several  canals  in  the  State  of 
New  A'ork  and  of  the  Saginaw  Canal  in  Michigan,  and  made  the  first  survey  for  the  Erie 
Railwaj'  west  from  Binghampton.  Goodwin  S.  Hovey,  father  of  the  immediate  subject  of 
this  sketch,  was  born  and  reared  and  has  always  lived  in  New  York.  His  earlier  years  were 
spent  in  the  lumber  business  and  he  is  now  living,  retired  from  active  business,  in  the  little 
old  town  of  Dalton.  He  is  the  owner  of  considerable  property  gained  by  the  industry  and 
prudence  of  his  active  years.  Always  prominent  where  he  has  been  known  he  has  countless 
times  been  solicited  to  accept  public  office,  but  has  never  been  prevailed  upon  to  do  so 
except  when  he  consented  to  take  the  office  of  township  supervisor,  to  which  he  was 
successively  elected,  an  office  involving  grave  responsibilities  under  tbe  laws  of  New 
York.  Very  active  in  religious  matters,  he  has  always  been  a liberal  supporter  of 
churches  and  for  more  than  twenty-five  years  has  been  a Sunday-school  superintendent. 
Formerly  he  was  a Free  Soil  Democrat,  but  since  the  organization  of  the  Be])ublican  party  has 
affiliated  with  it  and  exerted  all  his  influence  in  support  of  the  principles  it  has  rejiresented. 
Goodwin  S.  and  Salina  (Weed)  Hovey  had  one  son  and  two  daughters.  Of  the  latter  Helen 
ll.  married  Fernando  Baldwin,  a prosperous  farmer,  living  near  Dalton,  N.  Y.  : IMinnie  L. 
is  the  wife  of  Lorenzo  S.  Gelser.  one  of  the  leading  business  men  of  Filmore,  N.  Y.;  Alfred 
R.  Hovey  was  reared  at  the  family  home  in  New  York  State  and  was  educated  at  the  Alfred 
T’^niversity,  Alfred,  N.  Y.  After  teaching  school  a couple  of  years  in  his  native  State  he 
taught  for  a year  at  Sycamore,  111.,  meantime  reading  law.  In  November,  1877,  he  came  to 
Indianapolis  and  pursued  the  study  of  law  under  the  direction  of  Hon.  Lucian  Barbour. 
In  May,  1878,  he  was  admitted  to  practice  in  the  District  and  Circuit  Courts  of  the  United 
States.  He  remained  with  Mr.  Barbour  until  October,  1879.  The  firm  of  Harding  & Hovey 
was  organized  in  1880.  IMr.  Hovey  is  popular  at  the  bar  and  no  less  so  in  commercial  and 
social  circles.  Followingin  the  footHte))S  of  his  father,  he  is  a stanch  Republican.  He  was 
the  first  jrresident  of  the  INIarion  Club,  the  most  active  Republican  organization  in  the  city, 
and  in  1892  was  nominated  by  his  party  for  juesidential  elector.  He  is  a K.  of  B.  and  a 
member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity.  He  was  married  in  November,  1882,  to  Miss  Sylvia  M. 
Wade,  a native  of  Champaign  County.  Ohio,  and  has  two  children,  Maude,  aged  eight,  and 
Goodwin  S.,  aged  two.  Tlie  late  Gov.  Hovey  was  a descendant  frojii  the  same  old  Hovey 
family  from  which  Alfred  R.  Hovey  descended. 

Daniel  N.  Brown,  D.  I).  S.  The  calling  of  the  dentist  is  a most  important  one  and  to 
become  thoroughly  grounded  in  this  branch  of  medical  science,  reipiires  years  of  arduous 
study.  To  attain  perfection  as  an  operator,  reijuiies  not  only  natural  aptitude  but  experi- 
ence as  a practitioner,  and  all  their  fe(|uirements  are  possessed  or  have  been  fulfilled  by  Dr. 
Daniel  N.  Brown  who  is  one  of  the  highly  regarde<l  piofessional  men  of  the  city  of  Indian 
apolis.  The  town  of  Brownsville,  Ind..  gave  him  l)irth  August  23,  1855,  and  the  “Hoosier 
State”  has  been  his  home  up  to  the  jiresent  time.  The  family  of  which  he  is  a member 
was  atiifing  the  first  to  settle  in  the  State  and  for  many  years  they  were  prominently  con 
nected  with  the  history  of  Union  County.  The  paternal  grandfather,  William  Brown,  was 
a native  of  North  Carolina  and  after  locating  in  Union  County,  Ind.,  he  enterml  land  from 
the  Government,  which  he  cleared  and  converted  into  a fine  farm.  He  resided  on  this  home- 
stead for  many  years  or  until  his  di^ath  which  occurred  at  the  patriarchal  age  of  ninety-six 
vears.  .A  part  of  the  old  house  first  erected  on  the  place  and  occujiied  by  him  is  still  stand 
ing.  He  was  a man  of  intelligence,  enterprising,  industrious  and  frugal,  and  as  a iiatnral 
seipience,  he  accumulated  a comforlalile  competency.  He  was  an  nnch'  of  Gen.  Ambrose  Ibirn 
side.  He  was  active  in  the  affairs  of  his  section,  was  interested  in  the  political  alfairs  of 


198 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


his  ilay,  and  lield  the  office  of  county  treasurer  and  was  several  terms  county  commissioner. 
The  parents  of  the  subject  of  the  sketch,  Thomas  E.  and  Mary  J.  (Brown)  Brown,  were 
born  in  Indiana,  and  from  this  State  the  father  enlisted  in  the  service  of  his  country  at  the 
openiiiff  of  the  Rebellion,  and  was  in  the  service  from  18()1  to  18()5,  participating  in  many 
hard  fought  and  l)ioody  combats.  He  was  seriously  wounded  in  the  engagement  at  Mission 
Ridge,  being  shot  through  t he  hip  and  back,  and  as  he  was  unable  to  make  his  escape,  he  was 
cajitured  and  taken  as  a prisoner  of  war  to  Andersonville,  in  which  foul  pen  he  was  confined  for 
eight  months.  He  is  now  much  l)roken  in  health  from  the  hardships,  toils,  and  privations  of 
army  life  and  from  the  effects  of  the  untohl  privations  he  endured  while  in  prison.  He  and 
his  worthy  wife  are  now  living  in  retirement  at  Liberty,  Ind.  The  early  days  of  Dr. 
Daniel  N.  Brown,  were  spent  in  Union  County,  in  the  public  schools  of  which  he  obtained 
a fair  knowledge  of  the  English  branches,  after  which  he  finished  his  education  in  the  high 
school  of  Liberty,  from  which  he  graduated.  At  the  early  age  of  seventeen  he  engaged  in 
teaching  the  “young  idea  ” and  continued  to  follow  this  occupation  during  the  winter  months 
for  about  four  years,  the  summer  seasons  being  devoted  t(j  the  study  of  dentistry,  which 
profession  he  had  decided  to  make  his  life  work,  his  [)receptor  being  Dr.  S.  C.  Carter,  now 
of  Minneapolis,  Minn.  In  1877  he  began  practicing  his  profession  at  Dublin,  Ind.,  but  one 
year  later  came  to  Indianapolis  and  became  associated  with  Dr.  B.  B.  Eaton,  with  whom 
he  contined  to  labor  until  the  latter’s  death.  Soon  after  this  he  entered  the  office  of  Dr. 
Talbot  with  whom  he  remained  until  the  latter  sold  out  his  business  and  moved  from  the  city. 
Following  this  Dr.  Brown  went  to  Cincinnati  and  for  two  years  thereafter  worked  for  the 
Ohio  Steam  Dental  Company  and  at  the  expiration  of  this  time  located  at  Portland,  Ind. 
(in  1881)  where  he  opened  an  office  of  his  own  and  practiced  his  profession  until  1888.  At 
the  end  of  that  time  he  returned  to  Indianapolis  and  accepted  a position  with  the  New 
York  Steam  Dental  Company,  but  in  the  winter  of  1891  he  again  opened  an  office  of  his  own 
and  has  built  up  an  extensive  and  paying  pationage.  He  is  skillful  and  thorough  in  his 
work,  anxious  to  please  and  willing  to  [)nt  himself  to  any  trouble  to  do  so.  the  result  being 
that  he  has  made  money  and  has  accumulated  considerable  j)roperty  in  Indianapolis.  He 
was  married  on  December  25,  1881  to  Miss  Lillie  B.  Ellis,  native  of  Darke  County,  Ohio,  and 
a daughter  of  Micajah  and  Mary  J.  Ellis,  and  to  their  union  four  children  have  been  given; 
Pearl  M. , Thomas  i\I.,  Groldie  V.  and  Ernest  Max.  Mr.  Brown  is  a member  of  the  Marion 
Lodge,  No.  1,  of  the  K.  of  P.,  Uniformed  Rank  Indianapolis  Division  No.  2.  He  is  a past 
Ccnumander  of  the  grand  order  of  the  (I.  C.,  and  lie  and  his  wife  are  members  of  the  Myrtle 
Temple  No.  7,  Pythian  Sisters.  In  the  Uniformed  Rank  of  the  K.  of  P.  he  has  served  as 
keeper  of  records,  and  he  was  also  a member  of  the  Drill  Team,  No.  18,  which  participated  in 
and  won  the  prize  drill  at  Kansas  City.  The  Doctor  and  his  wife  are  members  of  the  Friend’s 
Church,  and  in  politics  he  is  a Republican. 

D.  A.  Myers.  One  of  the  well-known  attorneys  at  law  of  Indianaj)olis  who  commands 
the  respect  as  well  as  the  admiration  of  his  lirother  practitioners  is  D.  A.  ^lyei  s,  who  stands 
as  a living  refutation  of  the  popular  idea  that  “ there  is  no  honest  lawyer.”  His  birth 
occurred  at  Gettysburg,  Ohio,  February  28,  1848,  a son  of  Scipio  and  Mary  (Campbell) 
Myers,  the  former  of  whom  was  born  on  what  afterward  became  the  battle-field  of  Gettys- 
burg, Penn.,  the  latter’s  birth  occurring  near  that  place.  This  worthy  couple,  in  company 
with  some  of  their  Pennsylvania  neighbors,  moved  by  wagon  to  Darke  County,  Obit),  where 
they  took  up  their  residence  on  a farm,  their  neighbors  settling  in  the  same  vicinity.  They 
established  the  town  of  Gettysburg,  Ohio,  and  named  the  township  Adams  in  honor  of  their 
old  home  in  Pennsylvania.  Scij)io  Myers  manifested  his  patriotism  at  the  opening  of  the 
Civil  War  l)y  enlisting  in  the  Forty-fourth  Ohio  Infantry  and  re-enlisting  in  January,  1864,  in 
the  Eighth  Ohio  Cavalry  service,  and  was  in  the  command  of  Gen.  Phil  Sheridan  to  the 
close  of  the  war.  After  his  return  home  at  the  close  of  hostilities,  he  was  elected  to  the 
State  Legislature  from  Darke  County,  and  in  this  capacity,  as  well  as  that  of  a soldier,  his 
duties  were  discharged  faithfully,  earnestly  and  efficiently.  He  is  still  a resident  of  Darke 
County  and  is  retired  from  the  active  duties  of  life  and  in  the  enjoyment  of  the  fruits  of  a 
life  well  spent.  He  and  six  children  survive  the  wife  and  mother,  who  died  in  SejJember, 
1892.  and  all  reside  near  Gettysburg,  Ohio,  with  the  exce])tion  of  D.  A.  Myers.  He  was 
brought  up  on  his  father’s  farm  and  in  early  life  attended  the  public  schools,  tinishiug  his 


tf*. 


LJD.'^ARY 
OF  THE 

L'NIVERSiTY  OF  lij  lNOr' 


THEODORE  V.  DENNY. 


I 


-i. 


J 


199 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

education  in  and  graduating  from  the  Iowa  State  University  in  June,  1874;  The  following 
year  he  graduated  from  the  law  department  of  the  State  University  at  that  place,  after  which 
he  came  to  Indianapolis,  a total  stranger,  and  entered  upon  the  practice  of  his  profession. 
Unlike  the  majority  of  young  attorneys  he  was  not  compelled  to  wait  long  for  clients,  and 
his  agreeable  manners  and  undoubted  ability  soon  won  him  recognition  at  the  bar,  a reputa- 
tion which  has  known  no  diminution  since  that  time.  His  practice  extends  in  nearly  all 
the  courts.  He  is  a forcible  speaker  and  pleader,  and  in  the  advocacy  of  cases  before  a jury 
he  is  especialy  strong  and  successful.  His  legal  training  has  been  careful  and  thorough, 
which  enables  him  to  grasp  and  easily  solve  the  most  complicated  legal  questions  into  their 
elementary  constitutent  principles.  He  is  attorney  for  three  of  the  leading  building  and 
loan  associations  of  the  city,  as  well  as  for  a number  of  its  most  prominent  business  firms. 
He  enjoys  the  confidence  and  esteem  of  all  the  brethren  of  the  legal  profession,  and  in  all 
matters  looking  to  the  advancement  and  welfare  of  the  community  he  has  always  been  prompt 
and  liberal.  In  1879  Miss  Mattie  Wolf,  who  resided  in  the  vicinity  of  Indianapolis,  became  his 
wife,  and  to  their  union  two  children  have  been  given:  Ernest  and  Tyner.  Mr.  Myers  and 
his  wife  are  church  members. 

Theodore  Yerxon  Denny  .4nd  Eliz.\beth  (McLauohlin)  Denny.  It  is  always  a pleasure 
to  deal  with  the  history  of  one  of  those  grand  old  ))ioneer  families  that  have  been  distin- 
guished for  patriotism,  the  genuine  spirit  of  Christianity  and  the  strong  characteristics  which 
have  made  its  members  men  and  women  of  mark.  When  a citizen  of  worth  and  character 
has  departed  from  this  life,  it  is  meet  that  tho.se  who  survive  him  should  keep  in  mind  his 
life  work,  and  should  hold  up  to  the  knowledge  and  emulation  of  the  young  his  virtues  and 
the  characteristics  which  distinguished  him  and  made  him  worthy  the  esteem  of  his  neighbors. 
We,  therefore,  present  to  our  readers  a narrative  of  the  life  of  the  representative  pioneer, 
Theodore  Vernon  Denny.  This  highly  honored  and  eminently  useful  member  of  society  was 
a native  of  the  Old  Bay  State,  born  in  the  town  of  Leicester,  the  seat  of  an  academy,  then, 
and  long  after,  noted  for  the  thoroughness  of  its  pre])aratory  instruction  as  well  as  for  having 
laid  the  educational  foundation  of  many  men  renowned  in  statesmanshij).  in  letters,  and  in 
the  learned  professions.  Like  all  thorough  going  institutions  of  learning,  Leicester  Academy 
imparted  a high  moral  tone,  a culture,  to  the  people  of  its  immediate  neighborhood,  by  mere 
al)sorf)tion  if  not  by  actual  contact.  To  this  day,  though  the  academy  has  no  longer  its 
prominence  nor  its  prestige,  the  town  still  retaiiis  all  the  characteristics  of  a literary  cen 
ter.  Thecjdore  Vernon  Denny  partook  of  the  academic  insti'uction  of  his  native  town, 
though  not  so  liberally  as  did  his  brothers  and  sistei’s,  w'ho  became  teachers,  bankers, 
merchants,  manufacturers  and  capitalists.  The  religions  and  practically  missionary  spirit 
was  strongly  manifested  throughout  the  family.  Without  exception,  its  members  were 
orderly,  industrious,  inde])endent,  resjjected  and  influential.  The  family  was  a large  one. 
It  may  be  found  to-day  with  ci'editable  representatives,  in  large  num])ei's,  in  Leicester  in  the 
neighboring  cities  of  Worcester  and  Boston,  and  scattered  throughout  Massachusetts  and 
-Maine,  and  indeed  all  New  England,  with  a not  inconse(]uent  delegation  in  the  IVliddlg, 
North-wesfeiii  and  Southern  States.  The  family  traces  its  genealogy  to  John  Denny,  who 
received  from  King  Henry  VI,  a grant  of  land  in  Combs.  Suffolk  (bounty,  England,  in  1489. 
It  is  a curious  fact  characteristic  of  its  English  strain  and  of  its  conservative  and  cautioiis 
tendencies,  that  lineal  descendants  of  John  Denny  still  own  and  occupy  that  ))articular  land. 

'I’heodore  Vernon  Denny  had  within  himself,  to  a greater  extent  than  any  of  his  collateral 
kindred,  the  constituent  elements  of  the  ])ioueer  in  civilization.  He  remained  in  his  parental 
home  until  he  attained  his  majority.  I^poii  attainitjg  his  twenty-first  birth-day  he  gave  way 
to  his  longing  for  that  broader.  less  restrained  and  less  conventional  life  to  be  found  in  the 
then  far  West.  Early  in  1821,  when  4ohn  Hobart,  a mughbor  and  companion  from  child- 
hood, he  abandonded  his  native  town.  'J’hey  made  their  toilsonni  journi'y  to  Ohio,  where  thev 
remained  for  a year  without  settled  residence,  and  then  in  |)ursuanceof  their  original  impulse, 
they  j)UHhed  on  to  Indiana,  to  seek  a |)('rmanent  honi(>,  and  as  they  fondly  h()))ed.  to  lay  the 
foundation  foi-  modtuate  fortunes,  in  the  capital  of  the  lu'w  Stale.  I’hey  l)()ught  land,  cov 
ered  with  a dense,  dark  foiest,  near  the  town  of  Itidianapolis.  'I’he  r(>8idenc(‘  of  these  two 
families  in  .Marion  County  datc^  from  1822.  .Mr.  Denny’s  land  w!is  locatc'd  about  three 
miles  .southeast  from  th(»  court  house.  The  Cincinnati  branch  of  the  Big  Four  and  the  Bell 


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railroads  cross  on  the  Denny  farm.  When  the  road  to  Cincinnati  was  built  it  ran  through 
the  old  farm  house,  necessitating  the  building  of  a new.  When  the  Belt  road  was  built  it 
ran  over  the  spot  where  the  new  was  built,  necessitating  its  removal.  Near  this  spot  Mr. 
Denny  started  in  a settled  life.  On  the  80th  day  of  March,  1828,  he  married  Miss  Elizabeth 
McLaughlin,  a member  of  the  family  and  a niece  of  William  McLaughlin  who  came  to  this 
county  in  1821,  and  who  lived  near.  Mr.  Denny  participated,  as  one  of  the  original  mem- 
bers, in  the  organization  of  the  First  Baptist  Church  of  Indianapolis.  According  to  facts  and 
dates  given  in  Col.  Holloway’s  History  of  Indianapolis,  it  appears  that  this  is  the  second 
church,  now  in  existence,  organized  in  the  capital.  In  1825,  his  wife  who  had  previously 
been  a Methodist,  united  with  this  congregation.  For  many  years  this  husband  and  wife  re- 
mained earnest  and  efficient  members  of  that  society;  and  then,  to  aid  a weaker  one,  removed 
their  membership  to  the  Lick  Creek  Ba])tist  church,  an  organization  old  enough  to  have 
tigured  at  the  constitution  of  the  First  Bajhist  Church  of  Indianapolis.  Mr.  Denny  was 
a farmer,  and  an  intelligent  man,  prominent  in  the  councils  of  his  fellows,  and  in  school, 
church,  and  political  matters.  He  was  well  read  in  the  current  to})ics  of  the  day,  and  he  was 
always  prepared  for  the  most  intelligent  adversary  in  the  discussion  of  any  social,  political 
or  theological  cpiestion.  His  reasoning  was  fearless,  clear  and  convincing.  He  was  too  bold 
a man  to  truckle  for  favor.  He  never  held  an  office  higher  than  that  of  school  director,  and 
lie  never  sought  one.  He  was  exacting  in  his  expectations  of  just  treatment  from  others,  and 
in  his  requirements  of  the  conduct  and  associations  of  his  children.  He  was  astern  adher- 
ent to  any  cause  or  doctrine  that  seemed  to  him  to  be  right.  He  lived  in  a time  when  theo- 
logical controversy  was  an  absorbing  occupation,  and  no  man,  not  a professional  controver- 
sialist, could  maintain  his  side  of  a theological  argument  with  greater  force.  He  was  a 
stanch  Whig,  and  had  an  intelligent  comprehension  of  the  doctrines  and  tendencies  of  that 
jiarty.  He  did  not  live  to  witness  its  extinction.  He  was  a pronounced  anti -slavery  man, 
but  did  not  sympathize  with  the  lawless  methods  of  the  Abolitionists.  Earnest  in  his 
ojiinions  that  the  newly  ojiened  Territory  should  not  be  contaminated  with  slavery,  it  cannot 
be  doubted  that,  had  he  lived,  he  would  have  espoused  warmly  every  position  of  social  or 
economic  doctrine  taken  by  the  Republican  j)arty.  He  lived  to  see  four  children  from  his 
family  of  eight,  attain  Tiiature  years  and  start  in  life  apart  from  the  parental  roof.  One  day 
he  complained  of  feeling  ill,  but  took  his  axe  and  went  to  the  woods  to  drive  away  ill  feeling 
by  hard  work.  That  effort  no  doubt  hastened  his  death.  He  was  immediately  prostrated 
by  a fever  from  which  he  died,  on  January  11),  1854.  His  remains  wereinterred  in  the  church 
yard  of  the  Lick  Creek  Bafitist  church.  After  the  establishment  of  Crown  Hill  Cemetery, 
the  body  was  removed  to  the  family  lot  in  that  beautiful  resting  place. 

As  we  have  already  seen,  the  maiden  name  of  Mrs.  Elizabeth  Denny  was  McLaughlin. 
She  was  born  in  Washington  County,  Kentucky,  Mai  ch  24,  1805.  When  but  nine  jmars  of  age 
she  lost  her  father  and  mother  in  a fatal  epidemic  then  prevailing.  Her  uncle,  William  IMc- 
Laughlin,  took  her  to  his  home  in  Fayette  County,  Ohio.  There  she  lived  for  four  years,  and 
then  moved  with  her  uncle’s  family  to  a point  near  Rushville,  Ind.,  where  they  resided  until 
1821.  From  there  they  removed  to  Indianapolis,  then  containing  but  six  houses,  and  settled 
on  a farm  two  miles  southeast  from  the  village.  Through  that  land  now  jiasses  the  Michi- 
gan road,  the  Bent  railroad,  and  that  beautiful  stream  apiu’opriately  named  “Pleasant  Run. ” 
The  farm  is  yet  well  known  as  the  “McLaughlin  Farm’’  and  is  chiefly  owned  by  members  of 
the  family.  There  Elizabeth  lived  until  her  marriage  with  Theodore  V.  Denny.  The  relig- 
ious and  moral  training  of  this  young  woman  as  well  as  her  inherent  strength  of  character, 
fitted  her  for  the  arduous  tasks  that  lay  before  her.  In  her  home  in  the  wilderness,  with 
hardship  and  without  material  comfort,  she  and  her  husband  struggled  to  build  up  a home. 
Eleven  children  were  born  to  her,  three  of  whom  died  in  infancy.  Her  aim  was  then  to  rear 
and  guard  from  physical  and  moral  ill  the  eight  who  remained.  It  is  enough  to  say  of 
Elizabeth  Denny  that  no  one  could  ever  point  to  a mean  or  dishonorable  act  of  any  child 
of  her.-i.  The  death  of  her  husband  left  Mrs.  Denny  with  a small  farm,  not  over  fertile, 
with  a debt  of  nearly  $1,000;  with  four  children  not  of  age  and  one  a helpless  infant, 
and  with  the  ceitainty  of  a future  struggle  for  existence  and  for  an  honorable  and  re8])ected 
])lace  in  the  community.  She  took  uti  her  burden  with  courage,  and  carried  it  to  the  end. 
In  a few  years  she  relieved  her  husband's  estate  from  debt;  in  time  she  educated  her 


ELIZABETH  DENNY 


AXD  MARIOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


201 


younger  children  beyond  the  limit  adopted  by  her  abler  neighbors.  She  showed  executive 
and  business  capacity  of  a high  order  and  lived  on  the  portion  of  the  farm  allotted  to  her  in 
the  partition,  tilled  it,  marketed  the  produce,  and  had  money  at  interest.  In  1873,  just 
before  the  inception  of  the  great  hnancial  de])reseion,  by  the  fortunate  disposal  of  her  land, 
she  became  as  affluent  as  she  had  been  poor.  She  did  not  wait  her  death  for  the  distribution 
of  her  estate;  but  divided  the  most  of  it.  equally  among  her  children  -giving  liberal  gifts, 
however,  in  the  mean  time,  to  Franklin  College,  to  the  South  Street  Baptist  Church,  and  to 
the  Home  and  the  Foreign  ^Missionary  Societies  of  her  church,  objects  in  which  she  felt  the 
warmest  interest.  Lick  Creek  Baptist  Church,  to  which  she  belonged  at  the  time  of  her  hus- 
l)and’s  death,  affected  perhaps  by  the  more  convenient  location  of  other  churches,  and  by  a 
changed  poj)ulation  intluenced  by  the  neighborhood  of  a large  city,  relapsed  into  desuetude 
and  dissolved.  She  reunited  with  the  First  Baptist  Church  and  remained  in  it,  as  a member, 
as  long  as  she  lived.  Her  death  occuried  October  (),  181H),  and  she  was  buried  at  her  hus- 
band’s side,  in  Crown  Hill  Cemetery.  The  children  born  to  this  worthy  couple  are  named  in 
order  of  birth  as  follows:  Martha  A.,  wife  of  John  Wade  Thompson  of  Indianapolis;  Josej)h 
A.,  of  Lake  City,  Iowa;  William  C.,  of  Indianapolis;  Lucinda  A.,  wife  of  Joshua  H.  Vande- 
man,  of  Warren  township,  this  county;  Austin  F.  and  Albert  W. , both  of  Indianapolis. 
Besides  the  living  children  of  this  pioneer  couple,  their  living  descendants  number  nineteen 
grandchildren  and  sixteen  great-grandchildren. 

Dr.  Thomas  B.  Harvey.  There  are  physicians  and  “doctors.’"  The  public  faith  in 
men  so-called  is  almost  unbounded,  but  it  is  not  deserved  in  ecjnal  degree  by  all  such.  Theie 
are  pretenders  in  every  profession  and  business.  Indianapolis  has,  from  its  j>ioneer  days, 
been  most  fortunate  in  the  number,  character  and  skill  of  her  family  physicians,  and  among 
them  was  the  ideal  family  jJiysician,  Dr.  Thomas  B.  Harvey,  who  was  both  a ])hysician 
and  the  son  of  a physician.  His  father.  Dr.  Jesse  Harvey,  a member  of  the  Society  of 
Friends,  was  a noted  Abolitionist  and  philanthropist,  an  educator  who  taught  the  first  scliool 
in  Ohio  to  which  colored  children  were  admitted  and  a missionary  among  the  Indians  of 
Kansas,  where  he  died  in  18-18.  His  maternal  grandmother,  Mrs.  Burgess,  a Virginian, 
when  her  father’s  estate  was  divided,  received  her  jiatiimony  in  slaves,  whom  she  brought  to 
Ohio  and  gave  their  liberty  in  a land  of  freedom.  The  mother  of  Dr.  Harvey  was,  like  his 
father,  of  Quaker  stock  and  she  fully  sympathized  with  the  latter  in  his  humanitarian  efforts 
and  lived  a life  of  self-denial  that  he  might  the  more  easily  carry  on  his  self  chosen  work  for 
mankind.  When  he  died  the  family  were  left  in  straitened  circumstances  and  were  obliged 
to  practice  the  most  rigid  economy.  Dr.  Harvey's  means  of  literary  education  were  restricted 
to  evening  reading,  and  early  in  life  he  addicted  himself  to  a habit  learned  from  his  mother 
of  studying  far  into  the  night.  From  his  father  he  had  inherited  a natural  inclination  and 
talent  for  scientific  research  especially  in  the  domain  of  medicine  and  surgery.  In  1813,  at 
the  age  of  nineteen  (for  he  was  born  in  (Hinton  County,  Chio,  November  2b,  1827),  he  began 
the  study  of  medicine,  and  he  graduated  from  the  Miami  IMedical  College  in  the  spring  of 
I8;)l  ami  located  at  Plainfield,  Ind..  where  he  remained  ten  years,  building  u|)  a larg(! 
practice  and  identifying  hitnself  with  all  the  interests  of  the  town.  He  was  a part  of  its 
social  and  educational  life,  and  organized  a literary  society  which  was  maintained  with 
weekly  meetings  during  the  (uitire  period  of  his  residence  in  Plainfield.  Those  ten  years 
passed  in  Hendricks  County  constituted  a period  of  intelligent  and  busy  apprenticeshij). 
'I’lie  spirit  and  sentiment  which  had  led  his  grandmother  to  free  her  slaves  and  had  impelled 
his  fathei-  to  give  up  much  of  his  devoted  life  to  the  education  of  the  negro  was  alive  and 
• piicketied  in  Dr.  Haivey  by  the  outbreak  of  theCivil  War.  His  call  was  not  to  the  front  and  in 
tlie  field,  but  to  the  State  Ca[)itat  where  he  was  appointed  examining  surgeon  for  the  Indian 
apolis  district,  a position  wliich  he  Indd  to  the  close  of  the  war.  and  whicli  led  him  to  remove 
his  househiild  to  I iidianopolis,  where  he  resided  t hereaft**!'  unt il  his  death,  h’ollowing  the. 
war  came  the  revival  in  literary  and  pnjfessional  education  which  has  resulted  in  so  much 
good  to  every  departrneut  of  human  endeavor.  By  nature  and  inheritance  Dr.  Harvey  was  a 
teacher.  'I’his  was  first  manifested  during  his  residenci-  at  I’lainfield,  not  alone  in  the  organ- 
ization and  long  maintmiance  of  the  literary  seciety  mentioned,  but  as  well  in  his  activity  in 
bringing  into  existfuice  the  Hendricks  County  INIedical  Society,  of  which  he  was  the  first 
president  and  which  he  did  much  to  make  studious,  harmonious  and  |)rogressive  by  the 


202 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


establishment  of  a winter  course  of  lectures,  weekly,  for  the  benefit  of  students  and  neigh- 
boring physicians,  and  by  other  scarcely  less  effective  means.  When,  in  1809,  the  Indiana 
itledical  tlollege  was  organized.  Dr.  Harvey  was  elected  to  the  chair  of  medical  and  surgical 
diseases  of  women,  which  he  held  until  his  death.  For  twenty  years  he  lectured  in  his 
chosen  specialty  and  was  particularly  an.xious  to  complete  the  course  in  which  Death  found 
him  engaged,  remarking  fre(]irently  to  his  family  and  friends  that  he  might  after  having  so 
done,  be  willing  to  retire  from  the  exciting  work  of  a didactic  course.  In  the  palmy  days  of 
the  old  Indiana  Medical  College,  it  was  not  vtncommon  for  Dr.  Harvey  to  hold  a clinic  for 
hours,  comprising  the  whole  range  of  medical  diseases.  It  has  been  related  that,  once  in 
bSTt),  when  there  was  .some  difficulty  as  to  the  hospital  clinics  and  the  faculty  of  the  Indiana 
Medical  Colk'ge  had  withdrawn  from  the  hospital  staff.  Dr.  Harvey  appeared  before  the  class 
and  said:  “Crentlemen,  yon  need  not  concern  yourself  about  clinical  material,  my  associates 
and  I have  not  practiced  twenty  years  among  the  poor  of  this  county  to  find  ourselves  at  this 
time  unknown  and  una])|ireciated.  Let  it  be  but  once  announced  that  there  will  be  free 
cllidcs  on  Wedne.sday  and  Saturday  afternoons  at  the  Indiana  Medical  College,  and  there  will 
be  abundant  material  in  our  ante  rooms.”  Under  this  arrangement  he  then  presented  cases 
from  3 o’ clock  until  dark  and  was  not  able  to  treat  all  the  waiting  patients  who  were  thus  enabled 
to  avail  themselves  without  charge  of  this  great  knowledge  and  skill.  His  clinics  at  the  city 
dispensary  for  women  were  never  neglected,  nor  those  at  the  city  hospital,  where  every 
W ednesday  for  twenty-live  years  he  was  in  attendance,  attracting  always  a large  concourse  of 
students  from  all  the  medical  schools  of  the  city  as  well  as  many  active  practitioners.  He 
was  distinctively  a family  physician,  and  as  such  he  combined  all  the  pualities  that  go  to  make 
up  the  highest  conceivable  professional  type.  No  man  ever  rated  his  profession  more  highly. 
He  loved  his  work  with  an  unsparing  and  increasing  devotion,  and  more  than  forty  years  in  it 
found  him  as  full  of  enthusiasm  and  anxiety  to  improve  as  when  he  began  it.  He  loved  his 
work  for  itself  and  not  for  any  jiecuniary  reward  or  honor  that  it  might  bring  him.  He 
regai'ded  it  as  a sacred  trust,  ennobled  it  in  his  own  mind  and  gave  the  utmost  powers  of  his 
heart  and  lirain  to  it.  To  uphold  the  dignity  of  the  profession,  to  enhance  its  character  and 
to  widen  its  scope  and  grasj>,  rvas  a burden  always  borne  upon  his  heart.  To  produce  edu- 
cated physicians  with  noble  aspirations  and  broad  culture,  to  elevate  the  standard  of  profes- 
sional requirements,  were  objects  that  apjiealed  to  his  whole  nature,  and  he  counted  no  per- 
sonal cost  too  dear  that  aided  it.  Not  only  was  he  the  chief  spirit  in  organizing  the 
Hendricks  County  Medical  Society  of  which  he  was  president  and  before  which  he  read  the 
tirst4)apei',  but  he  also  aided  in  the  organizat  ion  of  the  Indianapolis  Academy  of  Medicine,  which 
was  afterward  inerged  into  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society;  was  a member  of  the  Indiana 
State  IMedical  Society,  the  American  Medical  Association  and  the  Mississipfii  Valley  Medical 
Society.  In  1880  he  was  elected  president  of  the  Indiana  State  TMedical  Society.  Iti  1886 
the  degree  of  LL.  I),  was  conferred  ujion  him  by  the  Indiana  State  University.  In  1888  he 
was  a delegate  from  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society  to  the  International  Medical  Congress 
held  at  Washington,  D.  C.  He  was  a permanent  dean  of  the  faculty  of  the  Indiana  Medical 
College.  Nothing  could  induce  him  to  forego  his  lectures  and  clinics,  though  often  he  was 
worn  out  with  overwork  and  should  have  been  in  bed  or  recreating  free  from  professional 
cares.  “I  will  tinish  my  twentieth  year”  said  he  to  his  family  “before  I resign  my  chair.” 
I’pon  the  afternoon  iqion  which  he  was  stricken  he  said  to  his  son  Jesse,  in  the  ante-room: 
‘T  hope  to  get  through  this  lecture  all  right.  It  is  an  im])ortant  subject  and  I am  going  to 
cite  some  cases  I re|)orted  to  the  St.  Louis  meeting  of  the  American  Medical  Association.” 
In  a brief  half  hour  he  lav  unconscious  in  the  arms  of  his  son  and  his  fellow  studeids  and 
was  transferred  to  the  clinical  chair  on  which  he  had  examined  scores  of  patients.  Even  as 
he  was  wheeled  from  the  amphitheatre  he  asked  for  his  notes  and  attempted  to  assort  and 
arrange  them,  inteid.  only  on  the  work  he  had  been  striving  to  do  until  the  surging  stream 
that  destroying  his  noble  brain  had  overwhelmed  the  remotest  chamber  of  thought  and  action, 
and  he  passed  into  unconsciousness  and  silence.  At  8 o’clock  on  the  evening  of  that  day 
(December  5,  1889),  he  died.  While  a resident  of  Plainfield  Dr.  Harvey  married  Miss 
Delitha  Butler,  who  with  two  sons  and  a daughter,  Lawson.  Jesse  and  Elizabeth,  survive 
him.  Another  .son,  Frank,  who  had  determined  on  a medical  career,  was  drowned  during 
his  sophomore  year  at  Harvard.  Dr.  Harvey  made  many  contributions  to  the  Marion  County 


203 


AXD  MAEIOX  COUXTY,  IXDIAXA. 

Medical  Society,  but  few  of  them  have  been  published.  Among  his  papers  contributed  to 
the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society  and  published  in  its  transactions,  are  the  following:  In 
1801,  “Report  on  Xew  Remedies;”  in  1803,  “Puerperal  Eclampsea;”  in  1871,  “Prevention 
of  Lacerations  of  the  Cervi  Uteri;”  in  1887,  “Ovarian  Diseases  Complicated  with  Preg- 
nancy;” in  1888,  “Conditions  Rendering  Diagnosis  Difficult  in  Pelvic  and  Abdominal 
Diseases.” 

Jesse  Butleu  H.vkvey,  M.  D.  Men  do  not  choose  professions  under  accidental  circum- 
stances, or  if  they  do,  their  names  almost  invariably  become  enrolled  on  the  list  of  lamentable 
failures.  In  writing  the  biographies  of  the  “successes”  in  the  different  avocations,  we  write 
for  future  as  well  as  pre.sent  readers:  and  they  will  ask  “why  successful,  and  how ?”  In 
answering  this  question  it  is  but  necessary  to  tell  something  of  the  career  of  Dr.  Jesse  But- 
ler Harvey,  who  was  born  in  Indianapolis  November  4,  1864,  a son  of  Dr.  Thomas  B.  and 
Delitha  (Butler)  Harvey,  the  former  of  whom  was  a leading  practitioner  of  the  city  for  many 
years  and  a sketch  of  whom  appears  in  this  volume.  Dr.  -lesse  B.  Harvey  was  educated  in 
the  public  and  high  schools  of  Indianapolis,  after  which  he  entered  Earlham  College,  where 
he  pursued  the  scientific  course  three  years.  He  then  began  the  study  of  medicine  with  his 
father,  from  whom  he  had  inherited  a decided  taste  for  the  profession,  his  kind  heart  natu- 
rally turning  to  that  field  of  human  suffering  for  his  life  work,  and  in  1886  he  entered  the 
Indiana  Medical  College  and  after  a thorough  three  year’s  course,  graduated  in  March,  1862, 
at  which  time  he  received  the  apf)ointment  from  the  Government  as  assistant  surgeon  at  the 
National  Military  Home  at  Marion,  Ind..  in  which  capacity  he  served  one  year.  In  the  win- 
ter of  1862  63  he  went  to  the  city  of  New  A"ork  where  he  took  a post-graduate  course  and 
also  attended  the  Bellevue  Hospital  IMedical  College,  from  which  institutions  he  received  cer- 
tificates. He  returned  to  Indianapolis  at  once  and  entered  ujion  an  extensive  general  jirac 
tice  which  has  since  knowui  no  diminution.  As  a jihysician  his  rank  is  among  the  first  in 
the  city.  His  diagnosis  of  disease  is  comprehensive,  accurate  and  quick,  his  application  of 
remedies  speedy  and  bold,  and  the  result  is  that  his  patronage  is  continually  and  rapidly 
grow  ing  in  proportions,  and  in  f)ro[)ortion  he  is  prosjiering  financially.  He  is  fully  abreast 
of  the  latest  discoveries  in  medical  science  and  is  absorbed  in  his  profession.  He  has  found 
that  to  be  successful  necessitates  continuous  study,  and  therefore  is  a deep  and  earnest  reader 
and  carefully  and  conscientiously  studies  each  case  that  is  placed  under  his  care.  He  is  a 
member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society  and  while  attending  medical  college  in  In- 
diana he  was  a druggist  and  clinical  assistant  of  a city  dispensary  for  one  year.  He  was 
married  June  21,  1863,  to  Miss  Elenora  Warner,  of  Chicago,  a native  of  Springfield,  Ohio, 
and  a daughter  of  Simeon  and  Rebecca  (Harrison)  Warner,  who  W'ere  also  born  in  the  Buck- 
eye State.  In  politics  the  Doctor  is  a Republican  although  he  is  by  no  means  a partisan  or 
a politician. 

Alonzo  A.  Zion,  master  of  transportation  of  the  Indianapolis  Union  Railroad,  was  born 
in  Lelianon,  Ind.,  .July  23,  I84(),  a son  of  William  Zion,  who  located  in  Boone  County,  Ind., 
in  1834,  to  which  region  he  came  from  east  Virginia,  where  he  was  tiorn  January  16,  1812, 
and  died  March  In,  1886,  in  ]3oone  County.  He  was  a blacksmith  by  trade,  but  later 
engaged  in  general  merchandising,  a calling  which  received  more  or  less  of  his  attention  the 
remainder  of  liis  life.  He  was  a man  of  great  energy  and  public  spirit,  and  held  various  offi- 
cial positions  in  his  section,  among  which  was  county  sheriff  from  1836  to  1840,  and  at  vari- 
ous limes  for  many  j’ears  he  was  jiostmaster  at  Lebanon.  He  was  for  a long  {leriod  railroad 
agent  at  fjelianon.  and  he  was  one  of  the  active  ])romoters  of  the  old  luifayette  & Indian- 
apolis Bailroad.  and  was  one  of  tln^  directors  of  the  road.  The  town  of  Zionsville  was  named 
in  Ids  honor.  He  was  a Repulilican  in  |;olitics,  was  a member  of  theMasoidc  fraternity,  and 
in  tliis  lionorable  secret  organization,  look  some  of  the  highest  degrees.  He  was  noted  for 
his  benevolence,  in  fact,  he  was  charitable  to  a fault,  and  his  friends  were  legion.  He  was 
married  to  Miss  Amelia  Sims,  who  was  liorn  in  Brookville,  Ind.,  May  26,  1814,  their  uidon 
taking  place  on  Decembr*r  13,  1832,  at.  Bushv  ille,  Hush  County,  Ind.  To  tlieir  union  seven 
sons  arni  four  daughters  were  liorn,  of  wliom  the  immediate  sulqect  of  (his  sketch  was  the 
seventh  in  ordm-  of  birth.  'I’lie  mother  is  still  living,  and  is  a devout  member  oftlie  Metliod- 
ist  H|)iscopal  Churcli  of  many  years  standing.  Alonzo  A.  Zion  inherited  German  lilood 
from  liis  father,  and  English  from  his  mother,  a comliinution  that  made  him  a decitled,  ener 


204 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


getic,  piisliiiig  and  eiiterj)i  ising  man.  He  attended  the  schools  of  his  native  town  until  he 
attaineil  his  thirteenth  year,  then  entered  railroad  service,  and  in  1850  commenced  to  learn 
telegraphy  in  the  office  of  the  old  Lafayette  & Indianajiolis  Railroad,  where  he  remained 
until  ISOd.  He  then  entered  the  service  of  the  United  States  Military  Telegraph  as  an  oper- 
ator, and  was  on  duty  in  Tennessee,  Alabama  and  Georgia,  as  well  as  a number  of  other 
southern  States.  He  was  on  the  battle-fields  of  Nashville  and  Cleveland,  Tennessee  and  De- 
catur, Ala.,  and  although  his  duties  as  military  telegraph  operator  was  considered  very  dan- 
gerous service,  he  fulfilled  his  duties  untlinchiugly,  and  escaped  unharmed.  He  received  an 
honorable  discharge  in  March,  1804,  after  which  he  was  appointed  agent  of  the  Indianapolis, 
Cimannati  A Lafayette  Railroad  at  Lebanon,  Ind.,  and  became  freight  agent  of  the  Big  Four 
road  at  Indianapolis  in  1S74.  When  the  Belt  Railroad  was  completed  he  was  appointed  chief 
train  dispatcher  November  11,  1877,  which  position  he  held  until  the  Indianapolis  Lbiion 
l)urchased  the  Belt  Railroad,  when  he  received  the  appointment  to  the  responsible  position 
lie  now  holds.  He  has  served  two  years  on  the  school  board  of  West  Indianapolis  as  treas- 
urer, and  the  ably  conducted  schools  which  are  in  vogue  at  the  present  lime  are  in  a great 
measure  due  to  the  etforts  of  Mr.  Zion,  and  to  the  building  of  the  pleasant,  commodious  and 
light  school-houses  which  were  erected  through  his  energy  and  push.  September  1,  1868, 
he  was  married  to  Miss  Anna  Morris,  a daughter  of  Peter  and  Esther  Morris,  of  Lebanon, 
Ind.,  her  birth  having  occurred  in  Columbus,  Ind.,  June  11,  1849, and  their  son  Eddie  A., was 
burn  November  6,  1869,  and  died  September  7,  1890,  his  untimely  death  being  deeply 
mourned  by  all  who  knew  him.  Harry  F.  was  born  August  29,  1875.  The  elder  son  was  a 
fireman  on  the  Iliiiou  Railroad  at  the  time  of  his  death,  a position  his  brother  Harry  holds  at 
the  present  time.  IMr.  and  Mrs.  Zion  and  Harry  can  each  use  a telegraph  key  in  an  expert 
manner.  Mr.  Zion  has  passed  through  the  chairs  of  Lebanon  Lodge,  No.  48,  and  Magnolia 
Encampment,  No.  45,  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  and  has  represented  both  in  the  grand  lodge 
and  grand  encampment  of  the  State.  He  is  a trustee  of  West  Indianapolis  Lodge,  No.  244 
of  the  K.  of  P. , and  is  also  a member  of  Comanche  Tribe,  No.  128.  I.  O.  R.  M., 
in  which  he  has  jiassed  all  the  chairs,  and  has  also  rejiresented  this  tribe  in  the  Great 
Council  of  the  State.  He  is  a member  of  the  Train  Dispatcher's  Association  of  North 
.America,  of  which  he  was  president  two  terms,  and  he  was  also  one  of  its  promoters  and 
organizers.  Mr.  Zion  is  a man  who  keeps  thoroughly  posted  and  up  with  the  times,  is  ener- 
getic and  pushing,  and  being  in  the  full  vigor  of  manhood  he  has  many  years  of  usefulness 
liefore  him.  He  understands  his  business  thoroughly,  can  be  relied  upon  at  all  times,  and 
is  one  of  the  thoroughly  popular  officials  of  the  road  with  which  he  has  so  long  been  con- 
nected. 

Ovin  Butler.  This  distinguished  lawyer,  journalist  and  philanthropist  was  born  at 
Augusta,  N.  Y.,  February  7,  1801,  and  died  at  Indianapolis,  July  12.  1881.  He  was  a son 
of  Rev.  Chauncey  Butler,  the  first  jiastor  of  the  Disciples  Church  of  Indianapolis,  who  died 
in  1819.  His  grandfather.  Capt.  Joel  Butler,  who  was  a revolutionary  soldier  and  served 
at  Quebec,  died  in  1822.  In  1817  the  family  removed  from  New  York  to  Jennings  County, 
Ind. , where  Ovid  Butler  grew  up  and  was  educated  according  to  his  opportunities,  and  taught 
school  and  read  law.  He  settled  at  Shelbyville  in  1825.  and  practiced  his  profession  there 
until  1836,  when  he  removed  to  Indianapolis.  He  continued  his  practice  in  that  city  until 
compelled  to  retire  on  account  of  ill  health  in  1849,  having  as  ]>artners  Calvin  Fletcher, 
Simon  Yanders  and  Horatio  C.  Newcomb,  successively,  and  during  this  period  he  built  up 
a large  and  lucrative  clientage.  As  a lawyer,  Mr.  Butler  excelled  as  a counsellor  and  in  the 
jireparation  of  cases.  With  not  many  of  the  graces  of  the  orator,  his  style  was  concise  and 
strong,  neither  humorous  nor  ornate  but  logical  and  convincing.  He  was  noted  for  the  rest- 
less perseverance  with  which  he  pushed  every  cause  through  the  courts  and  he  was  regarded 
as  a most  formidable  antagonist.  Few  of  his  competitors  at  the  bar  possessed  mental 
strength  and  culture  in  the  same  degree  and  few  were  so  indefatigable  in  their  perseverance. 
During  a few  years  succeeding  the  Mexican  War.  while  the  <|ue8tion  of  the  extension  of 
slavery  was  being  agitated,  he  was  active  in  politics.  He  established  the  Free  Soil  Banner 
at  Indianapolis  in  1848.  This  jiaper  went  beyond  the  mere  question  of  the  extension  of 
slavery  and  attacked  slavery  Itself  in  its  stronghold.  Its  motto  was  “Free  soil,  Free  States, 
Free  Men.”  Before  this  humanitarian  problem  engaged  his  attention,  he  had  been  a 


205 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Democrat.  He  served  on  the  Free  Soil  electoral  ticket  and  upon  important  ])olitical  com- 
mittees and  made  many  speeches  in  advocacy  of  the  anti  slavery  principle  in  the  campaigns 
of  1848  and  1852.  In  the  year  last  mentioned  he  contributed  very  largely  to  the  fund  for 
establishing  the  Free  Soil  Democrat  which  in  1854  was  merged  into  the  Indianapolis  donr 
nal  in  which  Mr.  Butler  had  a controlling  interest  and  which  became  the  organ  of  the  Repub- 
lican party.  IMr.  Butler  also  helped  to  establish  an  influential  Free  Soil  ]>aper  at  Cincinnati 
and  he  was  liberal  in  contributions  to  and  prominent  in  advocacy  of  the  cause  espoused  by  Louis 
Kossuth  upon  his  memorable  visit  to  America.  After  his  retirement  from  the  bar,  he  gave 
much  attention  to  the  interests  of  the  Christian  Church  and  of  the  Northwestern  Christian  Uni- 
versity, now  called  Butler  University.  For  many  years  he  and  some  friends  had  contemi)lated 
the  establishment  of  an  institution  such  as  this  university,  and  the  session  of  the  Legislature  of 
1849-50  they  obtained  its  charter,  which  was  drafted  by  Mr.  Butler,  and  which  thus 
clearly  set  forth  the  object  of  the  University:  “An  institirtion  of  learning  of  the  highest  class 
for  the  education  of  the  youth  of  all  parts  of  the  United  States  and  of  the  Northwest;  to  establish 
in  said  institution  departments  or  colleges  for  the  instruction  of  students  in  every  branch  of 
liberal  and  j)rofes8ional  education;  to  educate  and  prepare  suitable  teachers  for  the  common 
schools  of  the  country;  to  teach  and  inculcate  the  Christian  faith  and  Christian  morality  as 
taught  in  the  sacred  scriptures,  discharging  as  uninspired  and  without  authority  all  writings, 
formulas,  creeds  and  articles  of  faith  subseipient  thereto;  and  for  the  promotion  of  the 
sciences  and  arts.’’  For  twenty  years  he  served  as  president  of  the  board  of  directors  of 
the  university,  retiring  in  1871  at  the  age  of  seventy.  In  1827  Mr.  Butler  married  Cordelia 
Cole,  who  died  in  1838.  In  1840  he  married  Mrs.  Elizabeth  A.  Elgin,  daughter  of  the  late 
Thomas  McQuat,  who  survived  him  only  a year,  dying  in  1882.  During  the  latter  years  of 
his  life  he  sought  (piiet  and  retirement  and  removed  his  residence  from  his  old  home  in 
town  to  his  farm  north  of  the  city.  Here  his  family  assembled,  his  children  and  their  chil 
dren,  to  enjoy  his  society  and  pay  respect  to  his  wishes  in  all  things.  His  life  was  well 
spent  and  useful,  devoted  mo.st  generously  to  the  good  of  his  fellow-men. 

Henry  Cruse,  farmer.  Although  over  four-score  years  have  passed  over  the  whitened 
head  of  this  venerable  old  pioneer,  his  mind  is  as  keen  and  as  active  as  in  the  days  of  his 
early  manhood,  and  it  is  only  so  far  as  his  physical  being  is  concerned  that  Father  Time 
has  left  his  traces.  His  walk  through  life  has  been  characterized  by  a sturdy  independence, 
uncompromising  honesty,  great  energy,  and  the  utmost  loyalty  to  his  family,  his  friends  and 
his  country,  and  he  may  truly  be  said  to  be  a man  among  men.  He  is  a product,  of  Butler 
County,  Ohio,  where  he  was  born  February  t),  1812,  but  since  182(>he  has  been  a resident  of 
Indiana,  at  which  date  he  came  with  his  parents  to  this  region,  and  has  ever  since  resided 
here  with  the  exception  of  three  years  which  he  spent  in  Illinois.  He  is  a son  of  Henry  and 
Susannah  (Cress)  Cruse,  who  were  natives  of  the  Buckeye  State  where  they  were  married 
about  the  year  1798,  and  eventually  their  union  resulted  in  the  birth  of  live  sons  and 
five  daughters,  of  whom  Henry  was  the  eighth  in  order  of  birth.  Their  names  are  as 
follows:  Philij),  Susannah,  Absolom,  Leah,  Solomon,  Joseph,  Rachel,  Henry  (the  subject 
of  this  sketch),  John  and  Levina,  all  of  whom  are  now  deceased  with  the  exce})(ion  of  Henry. 
The  })aternal  grandparents  of  the  latter  were  Philip  and  May  (Stumpj))  Cruse,  natives  of 
Crermaiiy,  who  left  the  home  of  their  birth  and  crossed  the  ocean  to  America  about  1725. 
After  thirteen  weeks  on  the  ocean  they  reached  this  country  and  look  up  their  residence  in 
North  Carolina,  where  they  each,  for  seven  \'ears  afterward,  worked  for  one  man  in  payment, 
for  their  j)asRage  thither.  4’hey  were  shortly  after  married  and  brought  up  a large  family, 
j)rincipally  boys,  who  like  their  father,  who  died  at  the  age  of  one  hundred  and  ten  years, 
became  blackstuiths  by  trade.  Among  thes(!  sons  was  Henry,  whose  birth  occurred  about 
17(51  in  (iiiilford  County,  N.  C.  His  union  with  Miss  Cress  took  ])lace  about  1785  in  the  Old 
North  State  and  there  they  made  their  home  until  their  removal  to  Sutler  County,  Ohio.  In 
I8I(5  they  took  up  their  residence  in  Vincennes,  Iiid.,  and  in  1820  came  to  Marion  (k)unty 
where  the  remainder  of  lluui- days  were  sp^mt.  Upon  the  opening  of  the  Black  Hawk  war 
Henry  Cruse  erdisted  in  the  service  in  1832  and  was  under  the  command  of  Caj)!.  .John  W . 
Reddin.  While  lighting  the  redskins  he  camped  on  the  griaind  where  the  city  of  (diicago 
now  stands,  at  which  time  there  were  500  regulai'  tr()0|)s  stationed  there  ami  the  now  second 
city  in  the  Union  consisted  of  a few  French  settlers.  After  the  Indians  had  l)een  sulxluetl 


MEMOIRSi  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


200 

Henry  returned  to  liis  liome  where  he  shortly  after  fell  a victim  to  cupid’s  darts,  and  wooed 
and  won  for  his  wife  Miss  Eliza -Jane  Whitinger,  and  the  two  were  made  one  on  October  t), 
18d4,  in  Marion  County,  which  has  been  their  home  ever  since.  To  them  a good  old-fash- 
ioned family  of  tifteen  childien  were  given  and  they  were  named  as  follows:  Susan,  born 
August  2,  1880,  was  married  to  Jonathan  Campbell  in  1861  and  is  now  a resident  of  Hamil- 
ton County,  Ind;  Mary  Jane,  born  September  2‘J,  1886,  married  J.  S.  Hinshaw  in  1858  and 
resides  in  Hamilton  County;  Margaret,  born  December  8,  1887,  married  James  Moulton 
(deceased)  in  1857  and  is  a resident  of  Indianapolis,  Ind.;  Solomon,  born  August  22,  1889, 
married  Nancy  Jane  Stultz,  who  is  now  deceased,  and  resides  in  Hamilton  County;  Leah, 
born  September  80,  1841,  married  Thomas  Campbell  in  1866  and  now  lives  in  Argentine, 
Kan.;  Martha,  born  December  21,  1842,  married  Jacob  Cloe  in  1865  and  died  one  year  later; 
Absolom  was  born  May  14,  1844,  married  Myra  Vance  in  1871  and  now  lives  in  Clay  County, 
111.;  Henry,  born  November  17,  1845,  married  Sarah  Heaton  in  18<)9  and  lives  in  Clay  County, 
111.;  Jacob,  born  December  16,  1847,  married  Sarah  Pierce  in  1870  and  lives  in  Hamilton 
County,  Ind.;  Daniel,  born  December  8,  1849,  married  Lucinda  Imbler,  and  now  lives  in 
Boone  County,  Ind.;  Sarah,  born  December  29,  1852,  died  in  infancy;  Eliza,  born  Novem- 
ber 16,  1858,  married  John  Kolyer  in  1888  and  now  lives  in  Indianapolis;  William,  born 
November  25,  1855,  married  Sarah  Sutton  in  1880  and  lives  in  Marion  County,  Ind.;  Peter, 
born  November  5,  1858,  married  Ellen  Newby  in  1879  and  lives  in  Marion  County,  and 
Thomas,  born  September  18,  1860,  married  Delilah  Sutton  in  1885,  and  died  in  1890. 
Henry,  Absolom  and  Jacob  served  in  the  Civil  War,  the  first  two  serving  in  the  Seventieth 
Indiana  Infantry,  and  all  returned  safely  to  their  home  with  the  exception  of  Henry  who 
was  wounded  in  the  left  leg  in  one  engagement.  The  mother  of  this  family  is  a plump  and 
active  old  lady,  still  capable  of  doing  a considerable  amount  of  hard  labor,  and  bids  fair  to 
live  many  years  longer.  She  is  a daughter  of  Henry  and  Susannah  (Ernest)  Whitinger,  who 
were  Ohio  jieople,  married  in  1813.  She  had  thirteen  brothers  and  three  sisters,  making  a 
family  of  seventeen  children,  all  of  whom  lived  to  maturity,  and  six  of  whom  are  living  at 
the  present  time.  Mr.  and  IVIrs.  Cruse  are  the  grandparents  of  eighty-two  children  and 
have  twenty  great-grandchildren,  which  makes  their  family  record  almost  unparalleled.  Mr. 
Cruse’s  father  and  mother  lived  to  be  sixty  five  and  ninety  six  years  respectively  while  Mrs. 
Cruse’s  father  lived  to  l)e  sixty-six  years  and  her  mother  to  the  age  of  ninety-two  years. 

Amos  W.  Fisher,  M.  D.  The  field  of  medicine  and  surgery  has  so  widened,  the  reme- 
dies in  use  being  so  many,  the  diseases  so  numerous  and  increasing  througli  the  modifications 
of  life  in  our  growing  civilization,  and  surgery  lieing  applied  now  in  so  many  cases  where 
jireviously  medicines  alone  were  given  for  relief,  that  the  most  conservative  of  physicians, 
even,  have  become  persuaded  that  there  are  potent  reasons  why  there  should  be  sjiecialists 
in  the  profession.  It  is  manifest  that  the  ])hysician  and  surgeon  who  apjilies  himself  dili 
gently  to  the  study  and  practice  of  the  profession  in  given  forms  only  should  become  much 
more  expert  in  them  than  hewould  be  if  he  divided  his  time  between  all  the  ills  of  which  fiesh 
is  heir.  Every  school  of  medicine  now  permits  sjiecial  practice  and  to  this  is  due  much  of 
the  knowledge  and  experience  that  have  been  given  to  the  world  in  the  past  quarter  of  a 
century.  The  subject  of  our  sketch,  a well  known  and  popular  physician  of  Indianapolis, 
one  whose  fame  and  practice  extend  far  out  into  the  States  on  every  side,  was  born  in  Preble 
County,  Ohio,  March  8,  1837.  His  father,  John  Fisher,  was  a farmer  by  occupation,  born 
in  Ohio  in  1816,  of  German  descent,  and  died  at  the  age  of  thirty-three.  His  wife  was  Eve 
liaper,  a native  of  Wayne  County,  Ind  , and  daughter  of  -lohn  and  Elizabeth  (Keesling) 
Paper,  the  former  a native  of  Liverpool,  England,  who  came  to  America  when  a lad  and 
settled  in  Wayne  County  in  1808.  John  Raper  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812,  and  after 
his  death  his  widow  drew  a pension.  She  was  a native  of  Virginia,  of  German  descent,  and 
lived  until  Aju  il  29,  1879,  and  was  nearly  ninety  years  old  at  her  death.  The  mother  of  the 
subject  of  this  sketch  survives  her  husband  and  resides  near  Richmond,  Ind..  at  the  age  of 
seventy-six.  John  Fisher  and  his  wife  were  the  parents  of  live  children,  our  subject  being 
the  eldest.  He  was  reared  in  Union  County,  Ind.,  upon  a farm  and  received  his  primary 
education  in  the  old  conventional  school-house  of  logs.  Subsequently  he  attended  the  college 
at  Richmond,  Ind.,  and  later  the  Southwestern  Normal  School  at  Lebanon,  Ohio.  After 
teaching  school  for  about  five  years,  or  in  the  sfiring  of  1861,  he  began  the  study  of  medi 


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library 

OF  THE 

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IS.:'  S'  * 
» • .- 


•207 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

cine  with  Drs.  Hasty  it  Weeks,  in  Henry  Conuty,  Inch  Two  years  afterward  Dr.  Fisher 
entered  the  Physio-lledical  Institute  at  Cincinnati  and  attended  one  course  of  lectures,  when 
he  began  the  practice  in  Wayne  County,  which  he  continued,  witli  the  exception  of  two  years 
spent  in  Illinois,  until  his  coining  to  Indianajiolis  in  1S80.  At*  this  time  he  entered  the 
Physio-Medical  College  of  Indiana  at  Indianapolis,  from  which  he  graduated  one  year  later, 
and  since  that  time  has  continued  to  practice  in  this  city,  confining  himself  to  treatment  of 
piles  and  diseases  of  the  rectum.  In  this  special  practice  he  has  been  eminently  successful, 
ranking  among  the  foremost  phy.sicians  in  Indiana  in  his  specialty.  Since  1881  Dr.  Fisher 
has  tilled  the  chair  of  diseases  of  the  rectum  in  the  Physio  Medical  College  of  Indiana  at 
Indianapolis,  and  he  has  also  been  a trustee  of  the  institution  for  the  past  several  years. 
The  practice  of  Dr.  Fisher  extends  all  over  the  country  westward  to  Nebraska  and  Colorado, 
southward  to  Mississippi  and  also  north  and  east.  Dr.  Fisher  has  been  for  live  years  secre- 
tary of  the  American  Association  of  Physio  Medical  Physicians  and  Surgeons,  and  has  held 
the  same  position  in  the  State  association  of  that  body  for  an  equal  length  of  time.  Since 
the  organization,  over  thirty  years  since,  he  has  held  numerous  positions  in  that  body  and 
was  its  second  secretary.  The  Doctor  is  a gentleman  of  social  impulses,  finding  much  pleas 
ure  in  the  companionship  of  agreeable  people,  and  he  takes  much  interest  in  the  Masonic 
order,  with  which  he  has  been  connected  for  a great  many  years.  Dr.  Fisher  was  married 
April  28,  18(52,  to  Nellie  A.  Pennock,  a native  of  Ohio,  and  daughter  of  Ira  and  Aurora 
(Oilbertj  Pennock,  the  former  a native  of  New  York,  and  the  latter  of  Ohio.  Mrs.  Fisher 
died  April  1(5,  1888,  and  Dr.  Fisher  again  married  June  1(5,  1881),  his  last  wife  being  Mrs. 
Martha  E.  (Coddington)  Green,  a native  of  Union  County,  Ind.,  and  daughter  of  Enoch 
Coddington.  Dr.  Fisher  is  a member  of  Plymouth  Church.  In  politics  the  Doctor  is  a 
Hepublican,  earnestly  supporting  the  candidates  of  that  ])arty. 

Hox.  John  C.wen.  Few  men  have  lived  more  (piietly  or  unostentatiously  than  John 
Caven,  and  yet  few  have  exerted  a more  salutary  inlhience  upon  the  immediate  society  in 
which  they  move,  or  impressed  a community  with  a more  profound  reliance  on  tlieir  honor, 
ability  and  sterling  worth.  His  life  has  not  been  illustrious  with  startling  incidents  or 
striking  contrasts;  but  it  has  shown  how  a laudable  ambition  may  be  gratified  when  accom 
panied  by  pure  motives,  persevering  industry  and  steadfastness  of  {)urj)Ose.  In  presenting 
to  the  readers  of  this  volume  a sketch  of  his  life,  character  and  public  acts,  it  will  be  found 
that  his  name  is  closely  connected  with  the])eace  and  prosperity  of  the  capital  city  of  Indiana. 
For  ten  years  he  ably  performed  the  duties  of  chief  magistrate  of  the  city  of  Indiana])olis, 
andduring  this  time  evinced  qualities  of  head  and  heart  which  shed  lustre  upon  his  name  and 
won  the  hearty  aj)proval  of  all  right  t hiidiing  peo)>le.  His  career  points  its  own  moral,  and 
it  is  not  to  be  wondered  at  that  a history  of  his  life  would  be  of  more  than  ordinary  interest, 
for  it  enables  society  to  arrive  at  correct  conclusions  and  to  estal)lisli  theories  of  life,  its 
obligations  and  possibilities,  which  cannot  fail  to  be  of  benefit  to  thoughtful  people.  He 
comes  of  Scotch  Irisli  and  English-Scotcdi  [)areidago,  and  was  born  in  Allegheny  County, 
Peiin.,  April  12,  1821,  his  parents  being  William  and  Jane  (Laughead)  Caven.  He  was 
left  with  but  little  means,  but  he  inherited  what  was  far  better,  a healthy  body  and  a 
vigorous  mind  and  a reverence  for  the  good  and  beautiful  and  the  true,  which  were  the 
stepping  atones  to  success  in  latei'  years.  He  was  always  very  generous  in  his  judgments, 
for  he  studied  <*very  side  of  a (piestion  carefully,  and  in  the  councils  of  his  city  has 
ever  l)een  considered  a leader  whose  judgTnent  could  at  all  times  be  relied  upon.  In  youth 
he  was  inured  to  liard  work  and  his  labor  brought  him  into  direct  contact  with  the  children 
of  toil,  for  which  reason  he  has  (»very  right  to  be  consider<*d  a self  made  man.  His  ad 
vantages  for  acfpiiring  an  ediuration  were  not  of  the  best,  but  he  was  a student  by  l)irth,  and 
although  his  books  were  few  and  his  instructors  inferior,  his  mind  was  retentive  and  what 
he  learned  lie  did  so  thoroughly.  In  time  he  acquired  a wide  range  of  knowledge  and  a 
polish  that  would  have  done  credit  to  a graduate  of  any  university.  At  school  In;  mastered 
the  old  1‘higlish  reader  and  Daboll’s  arithemethic,  and  with  this  foundation  he  went  fourth 
t(;  mastei- all  branches  of  learning  that  would  better  |)repare  him  foi'  a successful  (;are(>r  at 
the  bar.  He  spent  some  time  as  a workman  in  salt  works  and  coal  mines  and  also  as  a Hat 
boatman,  unhesitatingly  putting  his  hand  to  any  honorable  employment  he  (!ould  (ind  to  do. 
In  1845  he  came  to  Indianapolis,  and  in  1847,  at  (ho  age  of  twenty  three,  entered  the  law 


2()S 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


otiice  of  Smith  & Yandes,  and  in  due  time  entered  uj)ou  tlie  practice  of  the  profession  he 
later  adorned.  In  1S68,  when  thirty-nine  years  of  age,  he  was  elected  to  the  mayorality  of 
Indianapolis  without  opposition,  and  his  administration  was  so  able  that  in  1865  he  was 
again  elected  without  o{)position,  and  during  this  time,  which  comprised  eight  years,  and 
wliile  Indianapolis  was  rapidly  developing  in  every  way,  he  gave  much  impetus  to  her  prog 
ress  and  development.  In  1868  the  residents  of  the  city  elected  him  to  the  State  Senate 
for  four  years,  during  which  time  he  made  an  enviable  recorri  for  himself,  and  his  speeches 
were  elocpient  upon  all  matters  toucliing  political,  educational  and  humanitarian  subjects. 
He  voted  for  the  fifteenth  amendment,  and  earnestly  advocated  the  establishment  of 
schools  for  colored  children.  He  was  again  elected  to  the  office  of  mayor  of  Indianapolis  in 
1875,  and  the  two  terras  following  he  succeeded  himself  in  the  position.  In  the  routine 
work  of  the  office  of  mayor  he  tilled  the  requirements  of  a just  and  humane  magistrate,  and 
his  efforts  to  reform  the  fallen  who  were  brought  before  him  will  ever  remain  as  monuments 
to  his  faith  in  the  good  that  lies  in  every  human  heart,  and  the  powerful  effect  of  moral 
suasion.  He  was  instrumental  in  securing  the  Belt  Railroad,  and  establishing  the  stock 
yards  at  Indianapolis,  and  at  the  time  of  the  great  strike  of  1877  he  proved  himself  equal  to 
tlie  demands  of  the  hour,  and  made  a record  for  himself  and  the  city,  which  has  been  com 
mented  on  favorably  by  the  press  of  the  entire  country.  Mr.  Caven  is  an  honored  member 
of  the  ancient  order  of  Masons,  in  the  mysteries  of  which  he  is  thoroughly  drilled,  and  he  is 
deej)l}'  devoted  to  its  ])riiiciples.  He  was  the  first  and  for  seven  years  continued  to  be  the 
deputy  for  Indiana  of  the  8uj)rerae  council  A.  <fe  A.  Rite,  northern  jurisdiction.  He  was  the 
tir.st  worshipful  master  of  Mystic  Tie  Lodge,  F.  «&  A.  M.,  and  held  the  position  seven 
years.  He  was  the  first  grand  chancellor  of  the  K.  of  P.  for  Indiana  and  was  re-elected, 
and  was  the  only  one  who  ever  was,  and  was  the  first  officer  of  the  first  Uniform  Rank  in 
Indianapolis.  Mr.  Caven  is  a tine  specimen  of  physical  manhood,  is  six  feet  tall  and  weighs 
210  pounds.  He  is  a l)achelor,  but  by  no  means  a recluse  or  cynic,  for  he  loves  home  and 
social  enjoyments.  Time  has  dealt  kindly  with  him,  and  many  years  of  usefulness  are  yet 
before  him. 

William  Henry  Wagner.  The  question  of  demand  and  supply  is  one  which  agitates 
the  mind  of  every  thinking  man  to-day.  The  rapid  growth  of  cities,  the  abnormal  increase 
in  population  tend  to  raise  to  a higher  pitch  the  call  for  more  iiroducts  to  sustain  life,  and 
there  are  constant  opportunities  for  bright  men  to  array  themselves  as  public  providers. 
The  groceryman  is  especially  essential  and  from  him  may  be  olitained  everything  that  goes 
to  supply  a well  set  table.  A well  conducted  and  well  supplied  house  is  that  of  which 
William  Henry  Wagner  is  the  proprietor  in  Haughville.  He  is  the  oldest  citizen  now 
residing  in  the  town  and  in  days  of  yore  cultivated  the  land  on  which  the  town  of  Haughville 
is  located.  He  was  liorn  in  Jackson  County,  Ind.,  in  1844,  a son  of  Jolm  Wagner,  who  is 
still  living  and  a resident  of  Jackson  County.  The  latter  was  born  in  Kentucky  and  came 
to  Indiana  seventy  four  or  seventy  five  years  ago  and  took  up  his  residence  in  Jackson 
County  with  his  father,  tleorge  Wagner,  who  was  a Pennsylvanian  by  birth.  George  Wag- 
ner went  to  Kentucky  when  a young  man  and  there  lived  among  the  Indians  for  some  time 

l)ut  died  in  Indiana  at  the  extreme  old  age  of  ninety-eight  years.  He  was  a man  of  fine 

constitution  and  great  vigor  and  when  in  his  ninety-seventh  year  he  walked  from  Jackson  to 
where  Haughville  now  is,  preferring  this  mode  of  locomotion  to  riding.  He  was  a farmer 
by  occupation,  as  is  his  son,  John  Wagner,  who  has  attained  to  the  age  of  seventy-nine 
years.  He  has  been  successful  in  the  accumulation  of  worldly  goods  and  is  now  in  the 
enjoyment  of  a liberal  competency.  He  was  one  of  the  pioneers  of  Jackson  County  and  has 
been  a healthy  and  rugged  man  the  most  of  his  life,  his  tine  constitution  being  without 
doubt  inherited  from  his  father  who  was  never  sick  a day  in  his  life,  never  had  the  toothache, 
even,  and  never  took  a dose  of  medicine  throughout  his  long  career.  William  Henry  Wag- 
ner was  one  of  a large  family  of  children  born  to  his  parents  and  his  early  education  was 

obtained  in  the  district  schools  of  Jackson  County.  On  October  7,  1861,  he  enlisted  in 

Company  A,  Fiftieth  Indiana  Infantry,  and  during  his  service  was  in  many  hard  fought 
battles  among  which  may  be  mentioned  Murfreesboro  aiul  Mumfoi'dsville,  Ky.,  where  he  was 
taken  prisoner  and  was  kept  in  captivity  three  weeks  before  being  paroled.  Some  time  after 
rejoining  his  command  he  was  again  taken  prisoner  at  Lexington,  Tenn.,  this  time  by  Gen. 


209 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Forrest.  He  served  hi.s  country  faithfully  in  Tennessee,  Kentucky,  Alabama,  Arkansas  and 
Mississippi,  and  besides  the  engagements  above  mentioned,  was  at  the  battles  of  Franklin, 
Nashville,  Mobile,  Fort  Blakely  and  others.  He  was  mustered  out  of  the  service  September 
20,  1865,  and  returned  to  Jackson  County,  Ind.,  and  was  married  to  Miss  Abigail  Carman, 
who  died  in  1890.  He  has  since  been  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Maggie  Longfellow,  of 
Haughville.  Soon  after  wedding  his  fir.st  wife  he  came  to  Haughville  and  turned  his  atten- 
tion to  farming  and  teaming,  in  fact,  did  not  hesitate  to  engage  in  anything  that  was  honor- 
able in  order  to  obtain  a livelihood.  He  has  many  a time  plowed  the  ground  on  which  his 
present  grocery  store  is  standing,  and  at  one  time  or  another  has  cultivated  the  entire  ground 
on  which  Haughville  is  situated.  In  1889  he  opened  a grocery  store  and  meat  market  and 
since  that  time  has  been  successfully  engaged  in  following  this  occupation.  He  keeps  a 
first-class  line  of  goods,  a large  stock  at  all  times,  and  has  a patronage  which  speaks  in  an 

eloquent  manner  as  to  the  popularity  of  his  house.  He  has  served  two  terms  as  marshal  of 

Haughville,  and  for  six  years  acted  in  the  capacity  of  constable.  Socially  he  is  a member 
of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  the  K.  of  P.  and  for  some  time  he  has  been  major  of  Anderson  Post  of 
the  G.  A.  K.  Politically  he  has  always  been  a llepublican.  Mrs.  Wagner’s  father  was  a 
succe.ssful  physician  of  Decatur,  and  was  extremely  well  and  favorably  known  throughout 
that  section.  He  was  born  in  New  York  State,  on  Lake  Champlain,  removed  from  there  to 
Ohio  where  he  was  married  to  Miss  Sarah  Williarms,  then  came  to  Decatur  County,  Ind. 
Mrs.  Wagner  is  the  only  surviving  member  of  that  family  and  was  the  youngest  of  their 
six  children,  four  of  whom  lived  to  be  grown.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Wagner  are  members  of  the 
Christian  Church,  and  he  has  been  an  officer  in  the  same.  He  comes  of  sturdy  Penn- 
sylvania Dutch  stock,  and  is  a man  of  sound  business  principles,  to  be  relied  upon  at  all 

times. 

Edwin  R.  Lewis,  A.  M. , M.  D.  The  philosophy  of  the  German,  to  learn  one  thing, 
but  to  learn  that  well,  is  being  adopted  liy  the  medical  profession  to  a very  considerable 
extent,  the  olden  prejudice  against  any  member  becoming  a specialist  having  practically  died 
out.  Time  has  demonstrated  that  the  physician  who  devotes  himself  exc-lusively  to  given 
forms  of  disease,  or  to  surgery,  or  given  forms  of  surgical  cases,  becomes  far  more  successful 
than  if  he  generalized,  and  at  the  same  time  he  confers  inestimable  benefits  iqion  the  gen 
eral  practitioner  liy  imparting  to  him  the  general  results  of  his  investigations,  practices 
and  triumphs.  The  subject  of  this  sketch.  Dr.  Edwin  R.  Lewis,  has  devoted  himself  to 
diseases  of  the  nose  and  throat,  with  the  result  that  he  has  become  eminent  in  his  profession 
and  has  conferred  inestimable  benefit  upon  his  fellow  creatures  who  have  suffered  from 
attacks  in  those  members,  and  at  the  same  time  the  results  of  his  jiractice  have  aided  his 
brethren.  Dr.  Lewis  was  liorn  at  Madison,  Ind.,  April  2,  1889,  being  the  son  of  •lames 
and  Sophronia  (West)  Lewis,  the  former  a native  of  Ohio  and  the  latter  of  Massachusetts. 
The  paternal  grandfather  settled  in  Madison,  Ind.,  in  the  year  1818,  being  one  of  the  pio 
neers  of  the  place,  and  he  was  previously  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812.  The  maternal 
grandfather  of  our  suliject  was  in  the  navy  in  the  War  of  1812,  and  his  great  grandfather 
WHS  a .soldier  in  the  Revolutionary  War.  Thus  it  will  be  seen  that  the  blood  of  loyalty  and 
patriotism  [lervades  the  veins  of  Dr.  Lewis.  The  father  of  Dr.  Lewis  was  reared  in  Madi- 
son, where  he  engaged  in  l)U8ine8s  when  he  grew  to  man’s  estate,  and  resided  there  until  his 
death.  Our  subject  was  reared  in  his  native  |)lace,  receiving  instruction  in  the  graded 
schools,  and  subsequently  attended  Amherst  (Mass.)  College,  whence  he  graduated  in  the 
year  1861.  In  that  same  year,  August,  and  directly  after  he  passed  from  college,  he  enlisted 
in  the  Twenty  first  .Hassachusetts  Volunteer  Infantry  and  ser\  ed  three  years,  being  mustered 
out  in  .\ugust,  1861,  with  the  rank  of  ca[)tain.  I’revions  to  enlisting  he  served  three  months 
on  the  staff  of  Gen.  Wallace.  During  his  service  with  the  gallant  'rwenty-first  he  jiartici 
pated  in  the  battles  of  Antietam;  J'’redericksburg,  siege  of  Knoxville,  Wilderness,  Spottsyl- 
vania,  Cohl  Harbor,  Petersburg,  and  numerous  skirmislu's,  l)eing  constantly  in  active  service. 
At  the  battle  of  Knoxville  he  was  wounded  in  the  right  aim,  a most  serious  injury,  and  In* 
narrowly  missed  losing  that  memlier.  After  being  mustered  out  with  a record  of  which  he 
may  well  be  proud,  for  he  was  always  at  his  post  of  duty  and  was  brave  in  batth*  ami  a gal 
laiit  and  skilled  officer,  he  ent<*red,  in  the  fall  of  1864,  (he  m(*dical  (hqiartment  of  Harvard 
University,  from  which  he  graduated  in  1867.  He  then  migaged  in  practice  at  Andierst, 
H 


210 


M?:M01RS  of  INDIANAPOLIS 


Mass.,  until  1870,  when  be  went  to  Syria  as  professor  of  chemistry  in  the  medical  college  at 
Beirut.  Here  he  remained  for  thirteen  years,  or  until  1883,  and  then  returned  to  America  and 
entered  the  Polyclinic  College  in  New  York.  In  April,  of  the  following  year,  he  came  to 
Indianapolis  and  entered  upon  his  practice,  hut  left  in  the  fall  to  accept  the  professorship 
of  chemistry  in  Wabash  College,  a position  he  held  until  the  fall  of  1888,  pursuing  the 
practice  of  his  jirofession  during  this  time.  He  then  retirrned  to  Indianapolis,  where  he 
has  since  remained,  being  a specialist  in  disease  of  the  throat  and  nose,  and  has  built  up  a 
very  large  and  lucrative  practice  and  has  attained  great  eminence.  He  is  a patient,  studious 
and  persevering  man,  possessed  of  avast  fund  of  general  knowledge,  leai  ned  and  skillful 
in  his  profession,  and  a gentleman  of  culture  and  refinement.  His  is  a nature  that  attracts 
and  he  ins])ires  confidence  and  respect  on  all  sides.  Dr.  Lewis  was  married  in  18f)4  to  Har- 
riet Coodell,  at  Amherst,  Mass.,  who  died  in  Syria  in  1878.  A son  born  to  this  union,  Edwin 
raduated  from  Wabash  College  in  1888  and  then  spent  four  years  in  John  Hopkins 
University,  at  Baltimore,  where  he  took  the  degree  of  Ph.D.,  and  during  his  study  there 
took  two  scholarship  prizes,  which  entitle  him  to  two  seasons  of  study  in  Europe,  under  the 
direction  of  the  ITniversity.  After  graduating  he  received  an  apjiointment  as  professor  of  the 
Boinan  languages  at  Princeton  College,  which  distinguished  position  this  remarkably  talented 
young  man  is  now  tilling.  The  attainments  of  Prof.  Lewis  in  scholarship  are  truly  extraor- 
dinary and  he  has  before  him  a brilliant  future.  Dr.  Lewis  was  married  a second  time  in 
1885,  at  Crawfordsville,  Ind.,to  Ellen  Poole,  of  Philadelphia,  who  died  in  April,  1889.  In 
April,  1892,  the  Doctor  was  married  to  Rose  Baldwin,  of  Indiana|)olis.  Our  sul)jpct  is  a mem- 
ber of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  of  the  Indiana  Medical  Society,  American  Medical 
Association,  the  American  Rhinological  Society  and  the  American  Academy  of  Medicine. 
Besides  his  connection  with  these  several  bodies  of  distinguished  men,  he  is  also  a member 
of  the  O.  A.  li.,  of  the  L.  L.,  and  of  the  various  orders  of  masonry  U{)  to  and  including  the 
Scottish  Kite,  or  thirty  second  degree.  He  is  likewise  connected  with  a number  of  prominent 
social  organizations,  among  which  is  the  Columbia  Club,Country  Club,  and  the  Indianapolis 
Literary  Club,  the  latter  being  a must  exclusive  association,  the  membership  being  based 
upon  merit.  The  Doctor  is  a member  of  the  Second  Presbylerian  Church,  as  also  is  his  wife. 
In  politics  he  is  an  independent,  being  intluenced  in  his  vote  largely  by  the  character  and 
merit  of  the  candidates  for  office,  having,  of  course,  jn'onounced  views  upon  the  great  ques- 
tions that  divide  parties,  but  neither  of  the  great  parties  properly  reflects  his  opinions.  He 
is  a warm  personal  friend  of  Secretary  Crresham  and  ardently  endorses  the  independent 
stand  of  that  gentleman.  Dr.  Lewis’  connection  with  the  many  organizations  named  above, 
in  all  of  which  he  takes  active  interest,  would  indicate  a very  large  personal  acquaintance, 
but  these  represent  only  in  part  those  with  whom  he  has  association,  for  he  enjoys  the  friend- 
ship and  esteem  of  distinguished  people  all  over  this  country  and  in  Europe,  wdio  are 
attached  to  him  on  account  of  his  noble  ijualities  of  mind  and  heart,  and  who  admire  him 
for  his  scholastic  and  professional  attainments. 

Judge  Addison  L.  Koache.  Seventy-six  years  have  passed  over  the  head  of  the  gen- 
tleman whose  name  heads  this  sketch,  leaving  their  impress  in  the  whitening  hair  and 
lined  features,  but  while  the  outer  garment  of  the  soul  shows  the  wear  and  tear  of  years, 
t he  man  himself  is  richer  and  nobler  and  grander  for  the  experience  that  each  successive 
decade  has  lirought  him.  He  is  one  of  the  old  settlers  of  Indiana,  but  was  born  in  Ruther- 
ford County,  Tenn. , in  1817.  In  1828  he  moved  with  his  parents  to  Bloomington,  Ind., 
and  was  educated  in  the  State  university,  graduating  in  the  class  of  1830.  All  his  class- 
mates except  one  have  j)assed  over  to  the  silent  majority  and  he  is  left  almost  alone.  After 
finishing  his  schooling,  young  Roache  went  to  Rockville,  Ind.,  and  entered  the  law  office  of 
(leu.  T.  A.  Howard,  being  admitted  to  the  bar  in  1839.  After  traveling  for  about  two 
years  he  located  in  Rockville,  Ind.,  in  1842,  and  began  practicing  law,  remaining  there  until 
April,  1859.  In  the  meantime  he  was  elected  to  the  Legislature  from  Parke  County,  Ind., 
first  in  1847-48,  and  re-elected,  serving  two  terms.  In  the  year  1852  Mr.  Roache  was 
elected  to  the  State  supreme  bench,  and  after  serving  eighteen  months  resigned  and 
resumed  his  practice  at  Rockville.  In  April,  1859,  he  removed  to  Indianapolis,  and  formed 
a partnership  with  the  late  Joseph  E.  McDonald,  which  continued  until  the  latter  part  of 
1869.  During  the  eleven  years  they  were  together  Mr.  Roache  and  Mr.  McDonald  built  up 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANS’ A.  211 

a very  large  corporation  practice,  and  were  altorneys  for  the  defendant  in  many  of  the 
whisky  cases,  then  very  numerous.  As  a result.  Judge  Koache’s  health  became  shattered, 
and  in  the  latter  part  of  1869  he  was  obliged  to  abandon  his  practice,  which  he  did  not 
resume  until  1876.  At  that  date  he  began  practicing  with  his  son-in-law,  E.  H.  Lamme, 
the  partnership  continuing  until  the  fall  of  1887,  when  Mr.  Lamme  removed  to  Los  An- 
geles, Cal.,  where  he  now  resides.  Judge  Roache  has  not  practiced  any  since  1887,  and  is 
now  retired  from  the  active  duties  of  life,  satisfied  with  a long  career  of  usefulness.  In  the 
j'ear  1871  he  was  one  of  a committee  of  five  to  devise  a city  school  law,  which  they  did, 
and  which  law  is  now,  with  minor  amendments,  the  school  law  of  Indiana.  The  section 
which  made  the  public  libraries,  now  so  common,  possible,  was  originated  by  Judge  Roache, 
and  the  people  of  the  State  are  now  reaping  the  benefit  of  his  wise  foresight.  He  served 
on  the  school  board  of  Indianapolis  for  years,  and  also  served  for  years  as  one  of  the 
trustees  of  the  State  university  at  Bloomington,  Ind.  He  is  of  English  descent  on  the 
paternal  side,  and  his  father.  Dr.  Stephen  Roache,  was  a native  of  the  Old  North  State. 
The  latter  came  to  Indiana  in  1828,  located  at  Bloomington,  but  later  removed  to  Rockville 
(1855),  and  died  at  the  home  of  our  subject  in  1873,  when  seventy-eight  years  of  age. 
His  wife  died  in  August,  1891,  when  ninety-three  years  of  age.  Socially  Judge  Roache  is 
a member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity.  He  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  Churcii.  In 
June,  1842,  he  married  Miss  Emily  A.  Wedding,  and  to  them  were  born  seven  children,  of 
whom  five  survive,  one  a son,  A.  L.  Roache,  Jr.,  and  the  remainder  daughters. 

John  G.  R.a.ths.\m.  In  him  is  found  a man  whose  business  career  is  a decidedly  inter- 
esting one  showing  the  shrewdness,  business  ability  and  competency  which  can  be  attained 
by  the  natives  of  other  lands.  This  gentleman  is  a florist  whose  place  of  business  is  a most 
attractive  one  to  the  lover  of  the  beautiful,  and  is  advantageously  situated  on  the  corner  of 
College  Avenue  and  Fifteenth  Street,  where  he  does  a general  greenhouse  business,  and 
retails  his  goods  at  figures  within  the  reach  of  rich  and  poor  alike.  Mr.  Rathsam  owes  his 
nativity  to  Bavaria,  Germany,  where  he  was  born  in  1856,  and  when  still  a lad,  over  twenty 
years  ago,  he  cro.ssed  the  ocean  to  the  LTnited  States  to  see  what  Dame  Fortune  had  in  store 
for  him  on  this  side  of  the  water.  He  almost  immediately  came  to  Indiana])olis  and  com- 
menced working  at  anything  honorable  he  could  find  to  do.  After  continuing  thus  for  two 
years,  and  being  anxious  to  give  his  attention  to  some  settled  pursuit,  he  engaged  in  garden- 
ing, for  which  occupation  he  seemed  to  possess  a natural  aptitude  and  decided  liking. 
After  some  time  he  removed  to  Noblesville,  Ind.,  following  gardening  for  three  years.  With 
the  laudable  desire  of  bettering  his  financial  condition  he  moved  l)ack  to  Indiana})olis  and 
embarked  in  the  manufacture  of  crockery  and  flower  pots  for  florists,  at  the  corner  of 
Alabama  Street  and  Fort  Wayne  Avenue,  which  business  he  continued  with  success  for 
eight  years.  At  the  expiration  of  this  time  he  came  to  his  present  location  and  began  his 
career  as  a florist  and  gardener,  in  which  he  has  met  with  good  success  and  has  built  up  a trade 
strictly  in  keeping  with  his  honorable  methods  of  conducting  his  affairs,  his  energy,  perse- 
verance and  reliability.  He  is  prompt  and  accuiate  in  sup|)lying  the  wants  of  his  patrons, 
has  a fine  line  from  which  to  select,  and  is  deserving  of  great  credit  for  the  manner  in  whicli 
he  has  bent  tlie  force  of  circumstances  to  his  will,  and  has  gained  a liberal  patronage  and  a 
comfortable  competency.  April  15,  1879,  witnessed  the  celebration  of  his  marriage  with 
Miss  Maggie  Decker,  of  Lawrenceburg,  Ind.,  and  four  chihben  have  blessed  their  union  — 
three  daughters  and  a son.  i\Ir.  Ratlisam  is  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Florists’ 
Association,  and  he  and  his  wife  are  members  of  St.  Paul’s  (lerman  Ijutheran  Church,  of 
which  he  has  fur  some  time  been  officiating  elder.  lie  is  of  the  stuff  of  which  gooil  citizens 
are  made  and  is  a credit  to  his  calling  and  to  the  business  community  in  general. 

JoFiN  RANnoi.pn  Brown,  M.  D.  A recognized  ex])ert  in  the  treatment  of  diseases  of  the 
mind  and  nervous  system.  Dr.  John  R.  Brown,  of  Indianapolis,  is  likewise  well  and  favoi- 
able  known  as  a general  practitioner  of  skill  and  success.  Born  in  Handolph  County,  N. 
C.,  December  26,  1855,  he  is  a son  of  Joliti  R.  and  Mary  (Lane)  Brown,  his  father’.s  occupa- 
tion l)eing  that  of  merchant  and  planter.  Dr.  Brown  receivcul  his  literary  education  at 
Trinity  College  (N.  C ).  and  began  the  stiidy  of  medicine  in  187(),  utulei'  tlu^  direction  of  Dr. 
J.  D.  Graves.  Later  he  attended  lectures  at  the  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons,  Balti 
tnore,  and  at  the  University  of  Louisville  (nmdical  de[)arl ment) ; and,  coming  to  Indianapolis 


212 


AlEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


in  1877,  be  was  graduated  from  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana  in  1882,  and  was  immedi- 
ately thereafter  appointed  interne  at  the  Indiana  Hospital  for  the  Insane.  Not  long  after- 
ward be  was  made  first  assistant  physician  of  that  institution  and  be  served  in  that  capacity 
for  six  years,  resigning  it  to  accept  the  position  of  assistant  superintendent  in  the  Eastern 
Hospital  for  the  Insane,  at  Knoxville,  Tenn.,  to  which  he  had  been  called.  In  this  position 
he  served  with  credit  and  increasing  reputation  for  four  years,  but  relimpiished  it  to  remove 
to  Indianapolis  to  enter  private  practice.  At  this  time,  in  connection  with  his  general  prac- 
tice, he  is  conducting  a private  sanitarium  for  the  treatment  of  diseases  of  the  mind  and 
nervous  system,  which  is  meeting  with  such  success  that  it  promises  soon  to  rank  with  the 
most  popular  institutions  of  its  kind  in  the  country.  Dr.  Brown  is  a member  of  the  Marion 
County  Medical  Society,  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society  and  of  the  American  Medical 
Association.  He  was  married  in  1889,  to  Agnes  Fletcher,  of  Indianapolis,  daughter  of  Dr. 
W.  B.  Fletcher,  and  has  one  daughter,  Agnes  C.  Brown.  Dr.  Brown  stands  no  less  high  in 
the  public  esteem  as  a citizen  than  as  a physician,  and  as  an  expert  in  mental  and  nervous 
affections  he  is  becoming  well  and  widely  known. 

Hir.\m  C.  C.\stok,  M.  D.  During  the  comparatively  short  period  of  Dr.  Castor’s  prac- 
tice he  has  met  with  unusual  success  and  gained  much  substantial  reputation  as  a general 
practitioner  with  the  profession  and  the  ])ublic.  Hiram  C.  Castor  was  born  in  Indianapolis, 
April  11,  18()t),  a son  of  Edwin  A.  and  Samantha  \V.  ((Traham)  Castor.  His  father  was  by 
birth  a Pentisyl vanian : his  mother  was  an  Indianian.  They  took  irp  their  residence  in 
Indianapolis  about  1858  and  are  well  known  and  highly  respected  in  the  city,  Edwin  A.  Cas- 
tor, who  is  a master  builder  and  superintendent  of  construction,  having  a record  as  a soldier 
during  the  Civil  War  of  which  any  man  might  well  be  proud.  He  was  a member  of  a 
Pennsylvania  regiment  and  did  gallant  service  on  many  a hard-contested  field.  Dr.  Cas- 
tor was  reared  in  Indianapolis  and  received  his  literary  education  in  the  public  schools  of 
the  city.  In  1886  he  began  the  study  of  medicine  under  the  direction  of  Dr.  E.  S.  Elder, 
and  in  the  fall  of  the  same  year  entered  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana,  from  which  institu- 
tion he  was  graduated  in  189(1  with  the  degree  of  M.  D.,  and  immediately  entered  upon  the 
practice  of  his  profession.  He  has  been  careful  and  conservative,  yet  sufficiently  original  in 
his  practice,  and  has  achieved  a success  which  has  already  been  quite  substantially  rewarded 
financially,  he  having  been  enabled  to  purchase  from  his  professional  earnings  a comfortable 
home  and  tix  up  an  attractive  and  well  appointed  office.  Dr.  Castor  is  a member  of  the 
the  Marion  County  Medical  Society  and  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society.  His  popu- 
larity as  a man  and  a citizen  may  be  inferred  from  the  fact  that  he  is  a member  of  the 
Masonic  fraternity  and  of  the  K.  of  P.  and  the  Uniformed  Rank,  K.  P.  In  politics  he  is  a 
Republican,  but  he  has  no  political  aspirations  and  is  too  busily  devoted  to  his  profession  to 
ever  think  of  any.  He  was  married  November  25,  1888,  to  Gertrude  Isaacs,  a native  of 
Marion  County  and  a daughter  of  Alfred  and  Sarah  (Webb)  Isaacs,  who  has  borne  him  one 
son  named  Byron  E.  Castor. 

Henry  Russe.  “Man  lives  not  unto  himself  alone”  was  said  by  one  who  was  wise  and 
good,  and  there  is  nothing  in  this  world  that  })resents  a more  inspiring  or  nobler  spectacle 
of  a man,  who,  although  immersed  in  business  that  requires  much  ardent  labor  and  care, 
finds  time  to  give  to  the  sxrccor  of  the  needy  and  distressed,  and  upon  whom  the  cries  of  the 
orphaned  and  the  sorrows  of  the  widowed  are  not  lost.  Such  a man  is  the  subject  of  this 
sketch,  Henry  Russe,  wholesale  dealer  in  seeds,  grain,  flower  and  feed,  at  Nos.  23  and  25 
North  Tennessee  Street,  Indianapolis,  and  also  a member  of  the  school  board  of  this  city. 
Mr.  Russe  has  felt  the  touch  and  the  sting  of  poverty  and  the  spirit  of  man’s  infirmities  hav- 
ing been  upon  him,  it  has  quickened  his  sympathies  and  broadened  his  charities  so  that  he 
is  a man  who  has  done  and  is  doing  much  good  in  this  world.  Mr.  Russe  was  born  at  Osna- 
brueck,  Germany,  April  17,  1849,  being  the  son  of  Herman  and  Angel  (Schue-tte)  Russe, 
both  of  whom  died  in  theii’  native  country,  Germany.  The  father  carried  on  the  business  of 
a general  merchant  and  was  also  a farmer,  besides  he  held  office  under  the  Government  for  a 
number  of  years.  He  and  his  wife  were  the  parents  of  nine  children,  namely:  Louisa,  liv- 
ing in  Germany;  Mary,  living  in  Cincinnati;  Lisetta,  matron  of  the  German  Orphans’ 
Home  of  Indiana,  and  William,  living  in  Germany,  the  others  being  dead.  The  subject  of 
our  sketch  was  reared  in  Germany,  where  he  received  an  education,  to  a certain  extent,  and 


213 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

remained  with  bis  father  in  the  store  until  181)9,  when  he  set  sail  for  America  from  Bremen, 
and  arrived  in  New  York  on  the  steamer  “Herman;”  went  thence  to  Richmond,  Ind.,  where 
he  was  employed  as  laborer  on  the  Panhandle  road  for  some  years.  He  held  the  position  of 
fireman  for  two  years  and  was  then  made  railroad  car  inspector,  holding  the  position  until 
the  strike  of  1874,  when,  because  he  refused  to  obey  an  order  to  take  out  an  engine  and  run 
it  (which  meant  his  antagonizing  his  fellow  workmen),  his  wages  were  cut,  which  led  him  to 
leave  the  employ  of  the  Panhandle  and  go  to  the  Big  Four  road,  where  he  filled  the  posi- 
tion of  car  inspector  for  sixteen  years  at  the  Union  depot.  Then,  in  1889,  he  bought  his 
present  business  from  John  Osterman  and  has  carried  it  on  most  successfully  ever  since. 
Mr.  Russe  was  elected  a member  of  the  school  board  in  June,  1892,  and  tills  the  office  with 
great  fidelity  and  usefulness.  He  has  been  president  of  the  German  Orphan  Home  for  the 
past  twelve  years,  was  its  secretary  for  five  years  and  is  now  one  of  its  trustees,  manifesting 
a most  lively  and  sincere  interest  in  and  sympathy  for  the  unfortunate  ones  who  have  been 
deprived  of  their  natural  protectors.  Mr.  Russe  has  deep-seated  and  reverential  religious 
convictions  and  is  a member  of  the  German  Evangelical  Zion  Church,  is  a trustee  in  that 
body  and  has  been  its  i)resident.  Our  subject  has  many  social  and  business  interests, 
among  which  may  be  named  his  connection  with  the  Odd  Fellows,  he  having  passed  all  the 
chairs  of  the  subordinate  lodge  and  the  encampment;  is  a member  and  a trustee  of  the  K. 
of  H. ; is  president  of  the  Standard  Building  & Loan  Association,  a very  flourishing  and 
popular  organization;  is  a trustee  in  the  Turners’  Association,  in  which  he  takes  a very  de- 
cided interest;  is  a member  of  the  board  of  trade,  and  is  president  of  the  German  Amer- 
ican Democratic  Club.  Thus  it  will  be  seen  that  Mr.  Russe  is  a very  busy  man,  for  his  busi- 
ness is  a large  and  growing  one,  demanding  a great  deal  of  his  time  and  care,  and  in  every 
organization  mentioned  with  which  he  is  connected  he  is  known  as  one  of  the  mo.st  industri- 
ous and  useful  members  of  them,  respectively.  Besides  the  individual  cases  which  he 
looks  up,  the  many  charities  and  public  enterprises  with  which  he  is  connected,  and  the 
every-day  call  that  is  made  upon  him  for  advise  and  counsel,  all  these  unite  to  make  of  him 
one  of  the  l)U8iest  and  most  useful  men  in  the  city.  When  Mr.  Russe  landed  in  this  coun- 
try he  had  but  65  cents  in  all  the  world;  but  he  had  a big  capital  of  pluck,  nerve, 
industry  and  good  common  sense.  He  was  not  afraid  of  any  kind  of  honest  work,  and  had 
strong  arms,  a robust  l)ody  and  the  best  of  health.  Working  hard  by  night  he  attended  a 
commercial  college  one-half  of  each  day,  reserving  the  remaining  one-half  for  sleep.  Doubt- 
less as  he  worked  through  the  long  and  silent  hours  of  the  night  he  reviewed  in  his  mind 
what  had  been  taught  him  during  the  day  and  thus  indelibly  impressed  the  lessons  upon  his 
memory.  In  this  way  the  persevering  and  good  man  ac(piired  his  English  education. 
After  the  storm,  calm;  after  the  battle,  peace.  Mr.  Russe  has  toiled  early  and  late,  but  his 
duties  now,  while  many  and  great,  are  not  compulsory,  for  he  has  by  thrift  and  good  manage- 
ment accjuired  a very  nice  property  and  might  retii'e  altogether  from  business  if  he  would. 
He  has  surrounded  himself  with  the  comforts  and  luxuries  of  life  and  has  a Tiiost  hap])y 
home,  which  is  to  him  in  very  truth  the  dearest  place  U[)on  earth.  He  was  married  in  1873 
to  Miss  Amelia  Hebany,  a native  of  this  city  and  a most  worthy  woman,  wife  and  mother. 
He  and  his  wife  are  the  jiarents  of  a most  interesting  family  of  four  living  children,  namely; 
Harry,  William,  Eddie  and  Paul;  one,  Freddie,  is  dead. 

AnrKED  Hrewer.  This  well  known  and  enterprising  contractor  is  a member  of  the  lirm 
of  A.  Brewer  & Son,  and  the  emanations  of  his  skill  and  knowledge  of  his  calling  may  be 
seen  in  all  parts  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  where  his  home  has  so  long  been.  He  was  born 
in  Southj)ort.  Marion  Gounty,  Ind.,  October  20,  1842,  his  parents  being  Abram  and  Gathar 
ine  (Smock)  Brewer,  both  of  whom  were  born  in  Mercer  Gounty,  Ky.  The  father  was  a son 
of  John  ,'\.  Brewer,  also  a native  of  Kentuckv,  and  with  him  moved  to  the  then  wilds  of 
Ma  rion  Gounty.  Ind.  in  1825  and  located  in  Perry  Township  where  they  cleared  up  and  juit 
under  cultivation  a timber  farm.  Gatharine  Smock,  the  mother,  was  a daughter  of  Peter 
Smock,  a Mercer  Gounty  Kentuckian,  who  also  became  a resident  of  Marion  Gounty  in  1825 
and  located  cm  a farm  just  south  of  Pleasant  Run.  Abram  Brewer  and  his  wife  jx'ssessed 
decided  religious  tendencies  and  for  many  years  were  members  of  the  I’r(>sbyterian  ('hurch. 
but  during  the  latter  part  of  their  lives  were  connected  with  the  Bajjtist  (Jiuroh,  which  they 
helped  to  organize  in  their  neighborhood,  and  they  gave  their  lilawal  assistance  to  the  erec- 


214 


MEMOIRS  OE  INDIANAPOLIS 


tioii  of  one  of  the  first  churches  in  their  section  of  the  country.  To  them  a family  of  seven 
children  were  given,  four  sons  and  two  daughters  of  whom  are  living  at  the  present  time. 
Abram  Brewer  died  in  1860  at  the  age  of  forty-five  years,  having  been  a tiller  of  the  soil  all 
his  life  and  a reasonably  successful  farmer.  The  grandfather  died  when  the  subject  of  this 
sketch  was  a small  boy.  Alfred  Brewer  was  the  third  child  born  to  his  parents  and  in  the 
district  schools  of  his  neighborhood  he  acquired  a good  practical  education  and  on  the  home 
farm  stout  muscles  and  an  independent  and  energetic  spirit.  In  1860  he  began  learning  the 
trade  of  a carpenter  and  after  following  this  occupation  for  about  six  years  in  various  por- 
tions of  the  county  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  for  two  years  thereafter  was  in  the  employ 
of  various  contractors,  after  which  he  moved  to  Newton,  Kan.,  where  he,  himself,  engaged 
in  contracting  and  continuerl  four  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  returned  to  Indian- 
apolis and  in  1877  lie  became  a contractor  here,  since  which  time  he  has  erected  some  of  the 
handsomest  and  most  substantial  residences  in  the  city,  several  of  them  being  among  the 
most  beautiful  on  Woodruff  Place.  He  fhoroughly  understands  every  detail  of  his  work,  is 
to  be  relied  upon  at  all  times,  and  his  services  are  therefore  in  demand.  In  1862  he  was 
united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Mary  A.  Anderson,  a Kentuckian  by  birth,  and  their  union 
has  resulted  in  the  birth  of  live  children:  Calvin  L.  who  is  his  father's  able  assistant  and 
partner  in  business,  and  Etta  (Cumingor)  who  is  a resident  of  Louisville  being  the  only  ones 
living.  Ida  died  at  the  age  of  seventeen  years,  Carrie  also  died  at  that  age  and  Maggie 
passed  from  life  in  infancy.  Mr.  Brewer  is  a member  of  the  Contractors  and  Builders’  Asso- 
ciation and  is  one  of  the  most  substantial  citizens  of  the  city. 

(teorge  ^\^  Vernon,  M.  D.,  V.  S.  Recognized  as  a specialist  of  ability  and  success  in 
the  treatment  of  diseases  of  children  and  as  a dermatologist.  Dr.  George  W.  Vernon,  before 
devoting  himself  to  these  specialties  had  attained  an  enviable  reputation  as  a general 
medical  practitioner,  and  is  regarded  by  his  professional  brethren  as  a physician  of  wide 
information  and  the  highest  order  of  trained  jiTdgment.  Dr.  Vernon  was  born  in 
Muskingum  County,  Ohio,  April  20,  1857,  a son  of  Noah  and  Mary  (Morgan)  Vernon,  the 
former  a native  of  Ohio  and  of  Scotch-Euglish  descent,  the  latter  a native  of  Virginia  and  of 
German  parentage.  The  family  of  Vernon  were  among  the  pioneers  of  Ohio,  and  Noah 
Vernon  was  a farmer  of  enterprise  and  success.  After  his  death,  which  occurred  January  1, 
1864,  the  old  homestead  in  Ohio  was  sold  and  the  family  removed  to  Champaign  County, 
111.,  where  Dr.  Vernon  was  reared  and  educated  in  the  common  schools,  which  he  attended 
winters,  being  obliged  to  assist  in  carrying  on  the  work  on  the  farm  during  the  spring, 
summer  and  fall;  and,  being  the  eldest  of  the  children,  many  of  the  resj)onsibilities  of 
caring  for  the  family  rested  upon  him.  At  the  age  of  seventeen  he  began  teaching  school, 
and  was  thus  employed  with  considerable  success  for  about  six  years.  In  1880  he  began  to 
deal  in  drugs,  in  a small  way,  near  his  home,  and  later  removed  to  Champaign,  111.,  where  he 
served  as  a prescription  clerk  in  one  of  the  leading  drug  stores.  In  the  fall  of  1883  he  took 
up  his  residence  in  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  and  began  the  study  of  medicine  with  Dr.  Joseph 
Eastman,  and  in  due  time  became  a student  in  the  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Sur- 
geons, from  which  he  was  graduated  in  February,  1886,  by  competitive  examination  securing 
the  position  of  interne  to  the  Indianapolis  City  Disf)ensary,  which  he  tilled  with  credit  for  a 
year.  During  the  autumn  preceding  his  examination  he  was  made  assistant  to  the  chair  of 
physiology  in  the  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons.  In  the  fall  of  1888  he 
became  lecturer  on  physiology  and  assistant  to  the  chair  of  diseases  of  children,  in  the 
same  institution,  and  in  the  spring  of  1889  he  was  made  professor  of  diseases  of  children 
and  dermatology,  and  still  occupies  that  chair.  Immediately  after  his  graduation  he 
entered  upon  general  practice,  which  he  continued  with  increasing  success  until  July,  1892, 
since  when  he  has  limited  his  practice  to  diseases  of  children  and  dermatology,  and  in  his 
chosen  held  his  success  has  been  most  creditable  and  flattering.  Dr.  Vernon  is  a member 
and  has  been  for  three  years  treasurer  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society  and  a member 
of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society,  of  the  Mississijipi  Valley  Medical  Society  and  of  the 
American  Medical  Association.  He  has  been  physician  to  the  Indianapolis  Orphans’  Hoine 
since  M ay,  1888,  and  consulting  physician  on  diseases  of  children  at  the  city  hospital  and 
the  city  dispensary.  In  the  spring  of  1893  he  had  conferred  upon  him  the  degree  of  V.  S. 
by  the  Indiana  Veterinary  College,  and  is  professor  of  physiology  and  secretary  of  that 


215 


AND  MAHIOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

institution.  Politically  Dr.  Vernon  is  a Republican,  and  be  takes  an  intelligent  and  active 
interest  in  public  affairs,  municipal,  county,  State  and  national.  He  is  a Mason  and  a K.  of 
P.  and  is  identified  with  other  prominent  secret  and  l)eneficial  orders  and  associations.  As  a 
citizen  be  is  public  spirited  and  helpful  to  every  measure  and  movement  tending  to  the 
benefit  of  the  people  at  large. 

John  Guedelhoefer.  Astonishing  has  been  the  progress  from  the  great  luml)ering 
coaches  of  George  I.,  of  England,  to  the  artistic,  graceful  and  light  vehicles  of  to-day.  In 
this  age  of  elegance,  refinement  and  polish,  not  only  must  artistic  touch  be  upon  the  car- 
riage, the  ph:eton  and  the  surrey,  but  the  necessary  strength  must  be  concealed,  as  it  were, 
in  bars,  braces,  bolts  and  springs  of  light  and  almost  airy  proportions,  the  whole  combining 
to  form  a beautiful  effect.  The  enormous  increase  in  the  demand  for  carriages  and  wagons 
of  all  grades  has  rendered  their  manufacture  a prominent  industry  in  all  parts  of  the  United 
States.  Indianapolis  has  long  been  regarded  as  a leading  source  of  supply  in  this  line,  and 
one  of  the  oldest,  best-known  and  most  reliable  houses  engaged  in  it  is  that  of  John  Guedel- 
hoefer, who  is  a native  of  Germany,  and  has  been  a resident  of  Indianapolis  since  1801).  He 
was  born  December  20,  1882,  to  John  and  Anna  (Gross)  Guedelhoefer,  who  were  also  na- 
tives of  Germany,  in  which  country  they  resided  all  their  lives,  the  father  being  engaged  in 
mining.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  about  six  months  old  when  his  mother  died  and 
after  reaching  a suitable  age  he  was  placed  in  the  public  schools  which  he  attended  until  he 
was  about  twelve  years  of  age,  according  to  the  law  of  that  country.  He  was  trained  in  the 
art  of  carriage  making  from  the  time  he  was  about  seventeen  years  of  age  and  possesses  an 
intimate  knowledge  of  all  the  details  of  the  business  and  the  recpiirements  of  the  ]>ublic  in 
the  direction  of  trade.  In  1809  he  decided  to  come  to  this  country,  and  upon  his  arrival  in 
Indianapolis  he  had  but  5 cents  in  money.  He  immediately  set  about  securing  employment 
and  after  working  at  his  trade  for  three  years  he  had  saved  enough  money  to  engage  in  busi- 
ness for  himself,  founding  his  present  concern  on  a very  small  scale  in  1878,  his  shop  on 
South  Street  being  birt  twelve  feet  square.  In  {uirsuing  this  calling  he  showed  the  utmost 
diligence,  and  the  superior  e.xcellence  of  his  work  soon  attracted  the  attention  of  the  trade, 
and  his  business  develo|>ed  at  a very  rapid  rate.  In  1886  he  became  the  owner  of  a trian- 
gular piece  of  ground  at  the  corner  of  West  Georgia  Street  and  Kentucky  Avenue,  and  heat 
once  proceeded  to  erect  tliereon  the  commodious  buildings  in  w'hich  he  is  now  doing  busi- 
ness. These  I)uildings  consist  of  a blacksmith  shoj)  50x60  feet,  a wagon  factory  20x80 
feet,  and  a paint  and  finish  shop  10x100  feet  in  dimensions.  His  business  is  continually 
and  rapidly  on  the  increase  and  such  proportions  did  it  reach  in  the  early  part  of  1898,  that 
he  was  obliged  to  erect  another  building  60x100  feet.  Steam  jiower  is  used  in  his  shops 
and  constant  employment  is  given  to  about  twenty-five  men,  all  of  whom  are  skilled  in  their 
departments.  All  the  operations  of  the  house  are  conducted  under  the  personal  supervision 
of  .Mr.  Guedelhoefer;  thus  he  secured  such  products  as  will  withstand  the  most  critical  tests, 
both  in  regard  to  materials  used  in  their  construction  and  the  workmanship  emjiloyed.  All 
the  work  is  done  by  hand,  and  the  vehicles  turned  out  are  unsurpassed  by  any  in  the  mar- 
ket for  stren  gth.  1 ightness,  ease  of  draft  and  thorough  liability,  and  in  regard  to  their  price 
Mr.  Guedelhoefer  defies  competition.  Repairing  and  general  jobbing  receive  his  prompt 
attention  and  as  a consetpience  his  estal)lishnient  has  a deserved  1}' large  patronage.  In  his 
native  land,  in  1855,  Mr.  Guedelhoefer  was  united  in  marriage  to  Magdalina  Schmidt,  also 
of  that  country,  and  of  the  ten  children  born  to  them,  only  the  following  are  living:  Will 
iam.  Julius,  /Viigust.  Mary,  I’aulina,  Otto  and  Ren,  the  last  two  mentioni'd  having  l)een  born 
in  Indianapolis.  Mr.  Guedelhoefer  is  one  of  the  substantial  business  men  of  the  city,  is  a 
promifient  member  of  the  Oarriage  Builders’ /Vssociat ion  and  he  has  long  been  a member  of 
the  Gei'man  (Jatholic  Ohurch. 

Gf.oroe  W.  Si'Aiin.  'I’lie  world  was  mwer  pre.sont(“d  l)ut  once  with  the  s|)(!ctncle  of  a 
great  army  com|)Osed  of  nearly  8,0())),on0  of  men,  who,  after  a war  of  unprecedent(>d 
severity,  were  (piietly  muster<*d  out  and  returned  to  the  j)eaceful  |)ur.suits  which  had  lieen 
interrupted  by  battle  and  the  great  struggle  for  the  ju'esei  vation  of  the  T'nion.  N('ver  befoie, 
as  in  this  late  war,  was  there  such  spontaneous  and  geix'ral  rallying  to  the  su|)])ort  of  the 
frovernment.  and  never  before  was  there  witnessed  so  many  spectacles  of  men  who  had 
known  absolutely  nothing  of  military  affairs,  dev(‘loping  itito  strategic  and  brilliant  com 


216 


MEMOIRS  OE  INDIANAPOLIS 


luaiulers,  and  never  before  was  there  shown  so  many  instances  of  individual  braveiy  and 
patient  endurance  of  the  hardships  and  privations  incident  to  and  inseparable  from  war.  No 
wonder  that  the  Union  soldiers  perpetuate  the  memory  of  those  days  that  tried  the  souls  of 
men,  by  maintaining  organizations  composed  exclusively  of  those  heroes.  The  subject  of 
our  sketch  was  one  of  this  grand  army  of  brave  men  whose  heroic  deeds  will  never  die  but 
will  be  per[)etuated  in  song  and  history  and  be  perpetuated  in  enduring  bronze  and  stone. 
He  is  also  the  colonel  commander  of  Encampment  No.  80  of  that  well  known  and  popular 
organization,  the  Union  Veteran  Legion  and  past  commander  of  George  H.  Thomas  Post, 
G.  A.  K.,  in  which  are  enrolled  so  many  hundreds  of  thousands  of  names  of  the  soldiers  of 
1861  1865.  George  W.  S])ahr  is  a well  known,  able  and  very  popular  member  of  the  In- 
dianapolis l)ar.  Mr.  Spahr  was  born  near  Reading,  Penn.,  IMarch  21,  1839,  being  the  son  of 
.lacol)  and  Maria  (Miller)  Spahr,  the  father  a native  of  Switzerland  and  the  mother  of  Lan- 
caster County,  Penn.  The  father  came  to  America  when  a lad  of  nine  years  of  age  with  his 
parents  and  grew  to  manhood  in  Lancaster  County,  Pa.,  following,  after  attaining  his 
majority,  the  construction  of  public  works,  and  became  a very  prominent  contractor,  having 
erected,  among  other  notable  structures,  a number  of  public  buildings  at  Lancaster,  the 
afpieduct  at  Reading,  and  the  bridge  across  tlie  Rappahannock  River  at  Fredericksburg,  Va.,  at 
tlie  head  of  tidewater.  He  was  a money  making  man,  but  spent  it  freely,  being  possessed 
of  a very  generous  nature  and  giving  lil)erally.  In  politics  he  was  a Democrat,  and  took  a 
keen  interest  in  the  great  contests  in  which  the  whole  country  engaged  every  general  elec- 
tion. The  father  of  our  subject  was  killed  September  24,  1873,  l)y  a collision  with  a pas- 
senger train  on  the  Peru  & Indianapolis  Railroad.  This  active  and  energetic  man  came  to 
Indianapolis  in  1845  and  then  settled  at  Millersville,  six  miles  north  of  the  city,  where  he 
carried  on  an  extensive  flour  and  saw  mill  and  a distillery  and  where  he  owned,  from  flrst  to 
last,  700  to  800  acres  of  land.  He  shipped  his  products  to  Lawrenceburg  by  wagon,  before 
there  were  any  markets  for  them  at  Indianapolis.  The  mother  of  our  subject  is  living  in  the 
eighty-fourth  year  of  her  age.  She  bore  her  husl)and  three  children,  two  of  whom  are  liv- 
ing: George  W.  and  William  H.  ; John  M. , deceased,  served  a short  time  in  the  late  war, 
being  discharged  on  the  account  of  disabilities.  Our  subject  was  but  six  years  of  age  when 
he  came  with  his  parents  to  Indianapolis,  reaching  here  by  the  canal  packet  boat.  He  was 
educated  in  the  common  schools  of  the  country,  completing  his  course  at  the  Northwestern 
Ghristian  University,  now  Butler  University,  graduating  July  1,  1861,  and  thirteen  days 
later,  July  14,  1861,  he  entered  the  army,  thus  literally  stepping  out  of  the  school  into  the 
arena  of  battle.  Mr.  Spahr  enlisted  in  Company  F,  Third  Indiana  Cavalry,  and  served 
three  years  and  three  months  as  a private  soldier  and  took  part  in  every  battle  fought  by  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac  during  that  time,  including  South  Mountain,  Antietam,  Fredericks- 
burg. Chancellorsville  and  Gettysbiirg,  and  every  engagement  or  skirmish  iri  which  his  regi- 
ment took  part,  except  one,  that  of  Beverley  Ford,  at  which  time  Mr.  Spahr  was  absent  at 
Washington.  He  had  a horse  shot  under  him  in  Virginia  in  a cavalry  engagement  under 
Gen.  Wilson.  He  took  part  in  what  was  called  the  great  Wilson  raid,  the  latter  jaart  of 
June,  1864,  when  Gen.  Wilson,  with  his  division  of  cavalry,  and  Gen.  Kautzes’  brigade  of 
cavalry  went  in  to  the  rear  of  Gen.  Lee’s  army  and  cut  off  his  supplies  and  destroyed  his 
railroads  from  Richmond  to  the  Roanoke  River.  This  was  undoubtedly  the  hardest  and 
greatest  raid  of  the  war.  In  this  raid  Gen.  Wilson  was  hotly  pursued  by  the  cavalry  of  Gen. 
Lee’s  army,  and  also  by  a large  force  of  infantry,  for  fourteen  days  and  nights.  Mr.  Spahr 
was  mu.stered  out  in  September,  1864,  at  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  receiving  an  honorable  dis- 
charge after  thirty  eight  months  of  active,  continuous  service  in  the  field.  He  came  home 
very  much  impaired  in  health  by  reason  of  the  excessive  hard  service  which  he  had  seen,  and 
went  to  his  old  home  on  the  farm  where  he  spent  three  years  trying  to  regain  his  health, 
after  which  he  entered  the  law  school  at  Indianapolis,  and  graduated  therefrom  in  1869, 
when  he  began  the  practice  of  law  in  said  city  and  has  pursued  it  diligently  ever  since. 
Mr.  Spahr  has  always  taken  an  interest  in  military  affairs.  He  was  commissioned  major 
and  chief  of  cavalry  in  the  State  militia  under  Gov.  Porter.  The  army  organizations  grow- 
ing out  of  the  war,  are  very  near  and  dear  to  him.  He  earnestly  believes  in  caring  for  the 
needy  comrades,  and  the  wid<ws  and  orphans  of  those  who  fell  in  defense  of  our  country. 
In  jiolitics  he  is  a Republican,  jirouounced  and  positive,  believing  firmly  in  the  principles. 


217 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

teachings  and  patriotism  of  his  party,  and  has  worked  earnestly  for  the  success  of  his  party 
in  numerous  campaigns  since  the  war.  As  a lawyer  he  has  won  a well  deserved  reputation, 
having  had  a number  of  very  important  cases,  one  of  which  began  in  1858,  three  years 
before  the  war,  and  which  had  been  pending  twenty  years  before  he  went  into  the  case,  and 
which  was  appealed  four  times  to  the  Supreme  Court  of  the  State  of  Illinois.  He  gives  the 
cause  of  his  clients  close  attention,  and  vigorous  and  determined  effort.  Our  subject  was 
married  in  1866  to  Miss  Lizzie  V.  Root,  of  Rush  County.  lud.,  who  has  borne  him  two  chil- 
dren, Mary  and  Florence,  both  graduates  of  the  Indianapolis  High  School.  Mr.  Spahr  was 
commissioned  by  Grov.  Grey,  of  Indiana,  a member  of  the  committee  authorized  by  act  of 
the  General  Assembly  of  Indiana,  to  mark  the  places  on  the  battle-field  of  Gettys- 
burg, occupied  by  the  several  regiments  from  Indiana  in  that  great  battle  and  to  erect 
suitable  monuments  on  the  places  thus  marked,  commemorating  the  part  taken  by  Indi- 
ana troops  in  that  engagement.  When  the  committee  was  called  together  Mr.  Spahr  was 
elected  chairman,  and  in  his  report  to  the  Governor  he  designated  Getty'sburg  as  the 
turning  point  in  the  war,  the  battle  marking  the  high  tide  of  the  slave  holder’s  rebell 
ion.  Mr.  Spahr  believes  that  the  influence  and  presence  of  religious  societies,  checks 
and  restrains  the  evil  tendencies  of  the  people,  gives  us  better  society,  better  laws,  and 
better  government,  lifts  the  people  up  in  to  a higher  and  better  life,  and  to  that  end 
he  has  worked  and  contributed  of  his  means.  Thus  he  has  lived  and  is  living  a life  of 
usefulness,  with  the  motto  ever  in  view  that  the  purpose  of  the  life  of  man  is  to  be 
good,  and  to  help  one  another. 

Lewis  C.  Cline,  of  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  was  born  near  Cloverdale,  Pntnam  County,  that 
State,  October  16,  1851.  ■ He  is  the  sixth  son  of  Nicholas  Cline  and  is  of  German  and 
English  descent.  His  early  life  was  divided  lietween  labor  on  a farm  during  the  ‘‘ croj)  ” 
seasons  and  the  attendance  of  short  terms  of  school  in  the  winter.  At  the  age  of  sixteen 
v'oung  Cline,  by  the  consent  of  his  mother  and  older  brothers  (his  father  having. died  three 
years  previous),  resolved  to  leave  the  farm  and  begin  the  battle  of  life  by  a reliance  upon  his 
own  resources.  Ho  soon  found  employment,  and  by  careful  (ilanning  and  economy  accumu- 
lated means  to  continue  his  education  and  eventually  to  take  a course  of  study  in  Asbury 
(now  DePauw)  University,  after  which  he  was  engaged  for  two  years  in  teaching  public 
schools.  In  1876  he  began  the  study  of  medicine  under  the  {ireceptorahip  of  Dr.  E.  B. 
Evans,  of  Greencastle,  Ind.  On  completing  the  required  period  of  study  he  attended  the 
Jefferson  Medical  College, Philadeljihia,  Penn., from  whence  he  received  his  medical  degree  in 
1879.  He  then  returned  to  his  native  county  and  began  the  practice  of  medicine  at  Piitnam- 
ville,  where  he  at  once  acquired  the  respect  and  jiatronage  of  the  best  people  of  that  vicinity 
and  in  November  of  the  same  year  was  married  to  Ioanna  C.  Stevenson,  a daughter  of  the 
late  Dr.  A.  C.  Stevenson,  of  Greencastle,  one  of  Indiana’s  greatest  pioneer  physicians  and 
surgeons.  In  the  spring  of  1880  Dr.  Cline  entered  into  a partnership  with  Dr.  R.  F. 
Stone,  at  Bainliridge.  a tlourishing  town  in  the  northern  part  of  his  county.  This  pleasant 
association  continued  until  tlie  following  autumn,  when,  after  an  extensive  acquaintance  and 
a thorough  introduction  into  the  ])ractice  of  the  community,  assisted  by  the  good  will  and 
courtesy  of  Dr.  Stone,  this  partnership  was  by  mutual  consent  dissolved  and  the  latter  ()hy 
sician  I’emoved  t(j  Indianajiolis.  After  six  years  of  active  professional  work  at  Bainbridge 
tlie  subject  of  this  sketch  also  removed  to  the  city  of  his  present  residence,  where  he  con 
tinned  in  general  practice  until  he  had  by  a course  of  study  fitted  himself  for  that  line  of 
work  which  he  intended  to  adopt  as  his  future  specialty.  During  the  winter  and  sjuing  of 
1887  -88  he  attended  the  post-graduate  school  and  hosjiitals  of  New  York,  where  he  took  a 
course  of  study  with  special  reference  to  diseases  of  the  thioat,  nose  and  ear.  He  supple- 
mentf-d  his  studies  during  the  following  year  by  taking  a course  in  the  Mackenzie  Throat 
Hospital,  fjondon,  and  also  attended,  the  cliniques  in  the  hospitals  of  Vienna.  Since  his 
return  from  Enro|)e  to  Indianapolis  lie  has  limited  his  jiractiee  to  the  medical  and  surgical 
treatment  of  dismises  of  the  tliroat,  nose  and  ear,  in  which  brancli  of  practice  he  is  recog- 
nized as  one  of  tlie  most  po[)ulai'  and  successful  jiractitioners  of  Indiana.  In  1889  he  was 
apjiointed  to  deliver  a course  of  lectures  on  his  specialty  in  th<>  Medical  (College  of  Indiana, 
and  in  1890  he  was  elected  professoi'  of  laryngology  and  rhinology  in  the  same  institution, 
which  chair  he  still  holds,  having  lilleil  the  position  with  credit  to  himself  and  the  school. 


218 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Dr.  (Mine  is  a member  of  the  staff  of  the  Indianapolis  City  Hospital  and  City  Dispensary 
and  has  performed  the  work  a))pertaining  to  rhinology  and  laryngology  in  the  latter  institu- 
tion for  the  last  three  years.  He  is  also  a member  of  the  Indianapolis  Surgical  Society,  the 
Mi  irion  County  Medical  Society,  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society,  the  Mississippi  Valley 
IMeilical  Society,  the  American  Ilhinological  Association  and  the  American  Medical  Associa- 
tion. He  has  contributed  papers,  on  various  occasions,  to  all  these  societies,  and  has  read 
pa|)ers  before  many  of  the  county  societies  throughout  the  State. 

OscAii  H.  Hoiin  was  born  in  Mason  County,  Ky.,  August  31,  1829,  and  died  at  Indian- 
apolis, Ind.,  January  15,  1888.  He  was  the  eldest  sou  of  Hon.  Francis  T.  Hord,  for  many 
years  judge  of  the  Circuit  Court  of  that  county.  He  l)egan  the  study  of  law  at  an  early 
ag(‘  in  his  fatlu'r’s  otlice,  and  at  the  age  of  twenty  years  he  came  to  Indiana  and  formed  a 
paitnership  with  James  Cavin,  at  Greensburg.  In  1852,  being  tlien  only  twenty-three 
years  of  age,  he  was  eh'cled  prosecuting  attorney  of  the  circuit  in  which  he  lived,  and 
discliarged  the  duties  of  that  office  with  zeal  and  efficiency.  On  November  1,  1859,  he 
married  Mary  J.  Pei  kiiis,  of  Indianapolis,  the  daughter  of  the  late  Samuel  E.  Perkins,  for 
many  years  judge  of  the  Supreme  Court  of  Indiana.  The  fruits  of  this  marriage  were  five 
cliildren;  Samuel  E , Emma,  Henry  E.,  Francis  T.,  and  Kicketts,  of  whom  only  Henry  E. 
and  Francis  T.  survive.  He  was  the  Democratic  candidate  for  attorney-general  in  1860, 
and  shared  the  defeat  of  the  ticket  on  which  he  was  placed.  In  1862  he  was  again  a can- 
didate for  the  same  office,  on  the  Democratic  ticket  and  was  elected.  Shortly  after  his 
election  he  removed  to  IndianajxJis,  and  at  the  close  of  his  official  term  he  entered  into 
partnership  with  the  late  Thomas  A.  Hendricks.  Into  this  firm  Samuel  E.  Perkins  was 
received,  and  remained  in  it  for  a brief  period.  It  was  afterward  enlarged  by  the  admis- 
sion of  Abram  W.  Hendricks  and  Conrad  Baker.  Mr.  Hord  was  not  only  the  partner  of 
these  men,  but  he  was  their  trusted  personal  friend  and  ally.  Their  firm  was  more  than  an 
ordinary  business  arrangement,  it  was  a brotherhood  of  wise  and  good  men,  and  the  rela- 
tions of  its  members  to  one  another  were  close  and  affectionate.  The  bar  of  Indiana  was 
greatly  indebted  to  Mr.  Hord  for  the  compilation  of  the  statutes,  which  was  only  superseded 
by  the  late  revision  of  them  under  the  authority  of  the  Legislature,  and  is  yet  a monu- 
ment to  his  careful  indust  ry.  For  more  than  a quarter  of  a century  Oscar  B.  Hord  was 
known  to  the  bench  and  bar  of  Indiana.  He  was  eminent  among  his  brethren  at  the  bar 
for  the  accuracy  and  amplitude  of  his  professional  knowledge,  and  for  his  untiring  indus- 
try in  the  practice  of  the  law.  Early  in  his  career  he  mastered  the  statutes  of  this  State, 
and  it  may  be  said  he  held  them  in  his  memory.  He  was  acquainted  with  the  history  of 
almost  every  legislative  act.  No  one  was  so  entirely  conversant  with  the  course  of  judicial 
decisions  from  the  days  of  Blackford  and  Dewey  to  the  time  of  his  death.  He  was  recog- 
nized by  his  brethren  thioughout  the  State  as  the  most  eminent  authority  on  State  juris- 
prudence. Judges  advised  with  him,  and  lawyers  from  every  cjuarter  sought  aid  of  his 
profound  accpiirements.  Of  the  many  illustrious  names  enrolled  upon  the  record  of  the 
Supreme  Court  of  Indiana,  none  will  be  found  recurring  so  often  or  leading  in  so  great  a 
number  of  important  cases  as  his  own.  His  profound  knowledge  and  remarkable  acquire- 
ments as  to  the  rights  of  men  were  not  limited  to  the  State  and  nation;  he  was  not  less 
familiar  with  the  laws  of  other  States  and  England.  His  capacity  and  power  of  research 
were  unequaled.  Hardly  any  man  of  his  time  had  a wider  or  more  accurate  knowledge  of 
the  laws  of  English  s{)eaking  peoples.  His  investigation  of  cases  was  patient  and  thorough, 
and  its  results  were  exact.  He  valued  only  those  opinions  of  law  or  facts  that  are  baaed 
upon  intelligent  and  j)ainstaking  inquiry,  and  he  professed  none  other  for  himself.  He 
made  the  cause  of  his  clients  his  own,  and  deemed  no  labor  too  .arduous  or  severe  which 
was  necessary  to  protect  their  rights.  He  loved  his  friends  and  freely  gave  liimself  for 
them.  The  ties  which  bound  him  to  them  were  only  strengthened  by  their  misfortunes, 
for  he  was  doubly  a friend  in  need.  He  was  grieved  even  more  by  their  afflictions  than 
by  his  own,  and  he  had  many  sorrows.  Under  every  stress  of  his  personal  fortunes  he 
manifested  to  tlie  world  a serene  fortitude,  which  was  ecpially  remote  from  passion  or  stoic- 
ism and  was  suyrerior  to  either.  His  demeanor  was  marked  by  a geniality  which  never 
succumbed  to  private  grief  or  disapf)ointment,  and  always  imparted  some  degree  of  itself 
to  every  one  with  whom  he  came  in  contact.  He  had  a wide  accjuaintance  with  general 


219 


AND  MAEIOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

literature,  and  sought  and  found  an  agreeal)le  respite  from  his  labors  in  the  courts  and  at 
his  office  in  the  companionship  of  books.  His  literary  culture  and  his  powers  of  conver- 
sation made  an  acquaintance  with  him  a liberal  education.  He  was  a man  of  scrupulous 
integrity,  and  his  integrity  was  not  of  that  sort  which  is  the  mere  creature  of  favorable 
circumstances,  but  was  of  that  indomitable  kind  which  withstands  the  shock  and  strain  of 
adversity.  At  the  meeting  of  the  Bar  Association,  called  to  take  action  on  his  death, 
ex- President  Benjamin  Harrison,  among  other  things,  said  of  Mr.  Hord:  “As  a lawyer,  he 
was  not  only  his  client’s  counsellor  but  his  faithful  friend  as  well.  He  laid  l)are  all  the 
facts  in  the  case.  He  did  more  work  than  almost  any  other  lawyei'  at  the  bar,  of  his  stand- 
ing. I think  his  desk  will  reveal  more  memorandums  of  more  citations  than  that  of  any 
other  lawyer  in  the  State.  Mr.  Hord  tried  his  cases  laboriously,  and  I cannot  conceive  how 
a lawyer  can  tiy  a case  well  otherwise.  The  fact  that  with  the  death  of  Mr.  Hord  one  of 
the  greatest  law  hrms  that  ever  existed  here  is  extinct,  is  certainly  a sad  one.  I knew  and 
loved  O.scar  B.  Hord.  He  was  always  a courteous  adversary  and  a true  friend.”  To  his 
boys  he  was  a loved  father  and  comrade. 

George  W.  Sloan,  Phar.  D.  , M.  D.  One  of  Indianapolis’  most  prominent  ilruggists  is 
Dr.  George  W.  Sloan,  who  was  boin  at  Harrisburg,  Pa.,  June  28,  1885,  a son  of  John  and 
Mary  (White)  Sloan.  His  father  was  a native  of  New  York  city,  his  mother  of  Philadelphia. 
His  paternal  ancestors  were  of  that  stanch  Pennsylvanian  stock  which  has  stamped  the 
impress  of  its  thrift  and  enterprise  upon  nearly  all  sections  of  our  country,  and  his  maternal 
relatives  were  Quakers,  better  known  around  Philadelphia  as  members  of  the  Society  of 
Friends.  His  father,  who  was  a cabinet  maker,  moved  to  Indianapolis  in  the  spring  of  1887, 
and  became  an  active  and  well-known  Imsiness  man  of  the  city  where  he  resided  until  his 
death  in  1878.  Dr.  Sloan  was  reared  in  Indianapolis  from  tlie  time  he  was  two  years  old, 
and  here  obtained  his  primary  education  in  the  public  schools.  At  the  early  age  of  thirteen 
years  he  found  employment  in  a drug  store,  and  there  remained  until  1856,  when  he  entered 
the  Philadeli)hia  College  of  Pharmacy,  and  there  took  the  course  of  that  institution.  The 
panic  of  1857  made  it  impossible  for  him  to  continue  his  studies,  and  he  returned  to  Indian- 
apolis and  resumed  work  as  a drug  clerk.  In  1862  he  became  a member  of  the  drug  tirm 
of  Browning  A Sloan,  and  so  continued  until  1887,  since  when  he  has  condircted  a drug 
business  of  which  he  has  been  the  sole  proprietor.  Meantime  (IMay  16.  1864)  he  enlisted  in 
Company  B,  'rhirty-second  Regiment  Indiana  Infantry,  and  was  made  first  lieutenant.  His 
regiment  saw  four  months’  service  doing  guard  duty  between  Louisville,  Ky.,  and  Chatta 
nooga.  Term.,  keeping  railway  communication  open  during  Sherman’s  famous  ” March  to 
the  Sea.”  As  a druggist.  Dr.  Sloan  ranks  with  the  best  [rharrnacists  in  the  city  or  State, 
carr'ying  a stock  averaging  from  $12,009  to  $15,000  in  value,  and  doing  an  extensive  artd 
jrrofitable  trade.  He  is  otte  of  the  oldest  active  members  of  the  American  Pharmaceutical 
Society,  his  cormection  with  that  body  dating  from  1857,  atrd  was  its  jrresident  in  1879-80. 
He  was  otre  of  the  charier  irrernbers  artd  or’ganizers  of  the  Irrdiana  State  Pharmaceutical  Society 
and  has  served  on  sever  al  of  its  most  importantcornmittees.  The  degree  of  doctor  of  iiharmacw 
was  conferred  upon  Dr.  Sloan  by  Purdue  University,  and  the  degree  of  doctor  of  medicine 
by  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana,  and  he  is  an  horrorrrry  member  of  the  IMarion  Courrty 
Medical  Society,  and  of  the  Irrdiarra  State  Medical  Society.  In  IMasonr)’  Di'.  Sloan  has 
been  sfrecially  prorrrinent,  havirrg  been  treasurer  of  his  lodge  of  Free  and  Acce|)ted  IMasons 
for  more  than  twenty  year’s.  He  is  a thirty-third  degree  Scottish  Rite  Mason,  and  also  a 
Krtight  Ternjrlar  of  tire  York  Rite,  anil  is  a member  of  the  Chosen  Friends.  Dr.  Sloan  has 
Ireen  a member  of  the  board  of  trade  since  its  orgarrization,  and  has,  during  all  the  time 
that  has  since  ela|)sed,  been  a mernlrer  of  the  board  of  governors, and  is  at  present  vice  jiresi 
dent.  Ho  is  also  |)rominently  iihuititred  with  the  Commercial  Club,  and  is  a member  of 
George  H.  Thomas  post,  G.  A.  R.,and  Indiana  Cornrtrandery,  Ij.  L.  In  1866  Dr’.  Sloan 
married  Miss  Caroline,  darrghter  of  Hiram  and  Mary  A.  (Blair)  Bacon,  her  jrarents 
being  rrativos  of  Massachirsetts,  and  among  the  early  settlers  of  -Marion  Coirnty,  Ind.  Three 
children  have  Ireetr  Ixu’ii  to  their  union,  named:  George  B.,  .Mary  A.  and  Frank The 
tir.st  named,  who  is  a graduate  of  pharmacy  from  Purdue  College,  his  fathiu’s  alma  mater 
in  the  same  science,  has  been  for  some  yiuirs  connected  with  his  father’s  business.  Dr.  and 
Mrs,  Sloan  are  membersof  the  Protestrint  Fjriscojral  Church  and  the  former’  has  been  a mem- 


220 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


her  of  its  vestry  for  more  tlian  a score  t)f  years.  The  Doctor  is  a Kepohlicaii  in  his  polit- 
ical affiliations,  but  has  always  been  too  busy  with,  and  too  entirely  devoted  to  his  business, 
to  lake  any  prominent  or  more  than  oidinary  active  part  in  politics. 

John  B.  Long,  M.  D.  One  of  the  best  known  physicians  and  professors  of  medicine 
and  surgery  in  Indianajaffis  is  Dr.  John  B.  Long,  who  was  born  near  Clermont,  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  August  20,  1854.  His  father,  William  P.  Long,  is  a native  of  Hamilton 
County,  Oliio,  and  is  a prominent  farmer  of  Pike  Township.  Dr.  Long  was  reared  on  the 
home  farm  and  received  his  primary  education  in  the  common  schools.  Later  he  was  a 
student  fer  two  years  at  the  Northwestern  Christian  University  (now  Butler  University)  for 
a year  at  the  Normal  School  at  Valparaiso,  and  for  a year  (1878)  at  the  Butler  University, 
fn  the  meanliine  he  had  read  considerably  upon  medical  subjects  and  having  fully  deter- 
mined to  ado})t  the  profession  of  physician  and  surgeon,  he,  in  1878,  took  up  the  study  of 
those  sciences  systematically,  and  entering  the  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  at 
Jndianapolis  in  1880,  lie  graduated  therefrom  with  the  degree  of  M.  D.  in  1882.  He  lost 
no  time  in  beginning  the  practice  of  his  profession  and  located  in  Indianapolis,  where  he 
has  since  continued  with  increasing  success.  He  was  made  assistant  demonstrator  of 
anatomy,  at  the  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  in  1882,  and  in  1885  was 
called  to  the  chair  of  demonstrator  of  anatomy,  which  office  he  held  until  the  fall  of  1893, 
also  professor  of  descriptive  and  surgical  anatomy.  He  is  a memlier  of  the  Marion 
County  Medical  Society  and  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society.  He  was  a member 
of  the  board  of  health  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis  for  two  years  (1887-88)  and  was  for 
six  years  a member  of  the  staff  of  the  city  disfiensary.  He  has  acted  as  medical  examiner 
for  lodges  of  K.  of  P.  and  Uniformed  Bank,  Chosen  Uriends,  and  Golden  Chain,  etc., 
of  which  he  is  a member.  August  20,  1879,  Dr.  Long  married  Margaret  L.  Hunt,  a 
native  of  Bush  County  and  a daughter  of  A.  W.  and  Margaret  (Stephens)  Hunt,  natives 
of  Ohio,  who  were  among  the  early  settlers  of  Bush  County.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Long  are 
the  ])arents  of  children  named  in  the  order  of  their  birth:  Lulu  E.,  William  A.,  Frank 
E.  and  Maliel  C.  The  family  are  members  of  and  attendants  upon  the  services  of  the 
Central  Christian  Church.  In  politics  the  Doctor  is  an  active  and  inflirential  Republican, 
but  he  seeks  no  political  jueferment  and  is  not  a politician  for  gain  or  for  personal 
ambition. 

Peter  Roller  is  a prominent  painter  and  contractor  who  has  been  established  in  busi- 
ness in  Indianapolis  for  the  past  twenty-tive  years.  In  his  line  of  work  he  possesses  no 
ordinary  ability  and  during  his  long  residence  here  he  has  attained  a popularity  not  sur- 
passed by  any  of  his  craft  and  a reputation  which  might  well  be  envied  by  those  less  fortu- 
nate than  himself.  His  perscmal  supervision  is  given  all  work  done  by  his  employes  and 
everything  is  guaranteed  to  be  satisfactory.  He  owes  his  nativity  to  that  country  which  has 
produced  some  of  the  liest  citizens  of  which  this  country  can  boast — Germany — his  birth 
occurring  in  Hessen  Darmstadt  in  1838,  his  father  being  John  Boiler,  who  was  a reasonably 
successful  tiller  of  the  soil  and  died  in  the  old  country  when  the  snl)ject  of  this  sketch  was  a 
child.  Peter  was  given  the  advantages  of  the  common  schools  of  his  country  up  to  the 
required  age.  but  at  the  age  of  sixteen  years,  with  characteristic  energy  and  enteiprise,  he 
crossed  the  Atlantic  Ocean  to  the  United  States  and  for  some  time  thereafter  resided  in  the 
city  of  New  York  where  he  learned  the  trade  of  a painter  with  John  Hagner.  Twenty-eight 
years  ago  he  commenced  working  at  his  trade  for  John  B.  Osgood,  of  Indianapolis,  and  was 
later  with  Frank  Fertig,  of  the  same  city,  and  at  a still  later  period  became  a contracting 
painter  on  his  own  resjionsibility,  and  has  thus  continued  up  to  the  present  time  with  the 
best  success.  Since  coming  to  the  United  States  a })enniles8  l)oy  and  by  hard  work,  business 
ability,  and  a wise  and  jnudent  economy,  he  has  accumulated  a comfortable  competence  and 
has  made  a name  for  himself  in  his  line  of  work.  He  gives  almost  constant  employment  to 
ten  or  twelve  men  and  has  done  the  work  on  the  female  prison,  the  board  of  trade  building, 
and  many  other  notable  pieces  of  work,  of  which  he  has  every  reason  to  be  jnoud.  He  is  a 
member  of  the  Builders’  Exchange,  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  and  the  K.  of  P.  He  was  married  in  the 
State  of  New  A'ork  to  Miss  Mary  Friedrich,  a native  of  Germany,  and  to  their  union  three 
sons  and  five  daughters  were  given.  He  and  his  wife  are  liberal  patrons  of  the  Zion  Evan- 
gelical Church  and  he  is  also  interested  in  the  prosjierity  of  the  German  Orphan  Asylum 


221 


ANT)  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

aod  in  all  charitable  anil  lautlable  enterpribes,  whether  edncalional,  social  or  religions.  He 
is  a useful  citizen  and  his  social  and  genial  disposition  predisposes  every  one  in  his  favor. 

E.  B.  IM.\rtind.\le  is  a native  of  Indiana.  He  was  born  in  Wayne  County,  August  22, 
1828.  His  father,  Elder  Elijah,  was  a native  of  South  Carolina,  and  moved  to  Wayne  County 
in  1809.  His  mother  was  Elizabeth  Boyd,  a daughter  of  Samuel  Boyd,  a revolutionary 
soldier,  who  was  wounded,  losing  his  left  eye  in  the  battle  of  Lexington.  He  was  a native 
of  Virginia  and  moved  to  Kentucky,  and  Elizabeth  Boyd  was  born  in  Mason  County,  Ky. 
In  1832  Elder  Elijah  moved  from  Martindale’s  Creek  and  the  Walnut  level  to  a farm  on  Flat 
Rock,  four  miles  east  of  Newcastle  in  Henry  County,  on  which  farm  Judge  Martindale  lived 
with  his  parents  until  he  was  sixteen,  learning  the  details  of  a calling  which  received  the 
attention  of  many  of  the  most  eminent  jirofessional  men  of  the  country  in  their  youthful 
days.  He  was  then  apprenticed  to  learn  the  saddlery  business,  but  he  fortunately  was  permit- 
ted to  attend  school  during  the  winter  months,  for  he  worked  at  his  trade  at  night  and  on 
Saturdays,  and  in  this  way  at  the  age  of  twenty  he  had  obtained  a good  English  education  and 
was  also  a good  mechanic.  He  then  began  the  study  of  law,  and  in  1850,  on  examination, 
was  admitted  to  the  bar  of  the  Supreme  Court  and  began  ])racticing  his  profession  in  the 
county  of  his  adoption.  During  the  twelve  years  that  he  resided  in  Henry  County  he  held 
the  offices  of  district  attorney  and  prosecuting  attorney  for  the  counties  of  Henry,  Randolph, 
Delaware  and  Wayne;  and  he  was  also  appointed  common  pleas  judge  of  the  district  composed 
of  the  counties  of  Rush,  Heniy,  Decatur  and  Madison.  In  1862  he  took  up  his  residence  in 
the  city  of  Indianapolis  and  at  once  entered  actively  upon  the  practice  of  his  profession, 
since  which  time  he  has  taken  an  active  part  in  nearly  all  the  enterprises  calculated  to  redound 
to  the  city's  interests.  Not  only  is  Judge  Martindale  possessed  of  sound  judgment  and  good 
practical  common  sense,  reasons  from  cause  and  effect,  but  he  is  one  of  the  best  read  mem- 
bers of  the  bar  and  by  close  application  and  loyalty  to  his  client’s  interests  has  won  his  way 
to  the  front  rank  of  his  calling.  He  is  an  excellent  reader  of  human  nature,  a good  judge  of 
men  and  motives,  and  no  man  was  l^etter  fitted  to  wear  the  judicial  ermine  than  was  he.  He 
has  been  a very  public-spirited  citizen  of  Indianapolis,  has  added  largely  to  its  growth  and 
prosperity,  and  has  been  ready,  although  his  life  has  ever  been  a busy  one,  to  respond  to  the 
calls  made  upon  him  in  the  cause  of  humanity.  He  purchased  the  Roberts  Chapel  at  the 
northeast  corner  of  Market  and  Pennsylvania  Streets  and  converted  it  into  a tine  business 
block,  also  the  lot  east  of  it  on  which  stood  the  first  brick  house  ever  erected  in  the  cit}^ 
This  house  he  removed  and  in  its  place  put  up  an  elegant  block  of  business  houses,  and  in 
numerous  othei'  ways  has  added  greatly  to  the  city’s  prosperity.  He  has  a palatial  residence 
on  North  Meridian  Street,  in  which  he  and  his  family  reside,  and  where  a refined  yet  gener 
ous  hospitality  is  extended  to  all  who  enter  its  portals.  Thei'e  are  many  private  enter{)rises 
in  which  he  has  been  engaged,  which  have  remained  unknown  to  the  })ublic,  and  the  citizens 
of  Indianapolis  have  every  reason  to  be  proud  to  number  him  among  their  number.  He  was 
fora  time  the  proprietoi’  and  publisher  of  the  Indianapolis  Journal,  the  leading  Republican 
f)aper  of  the  State,  Ijut  it  has  been  iti  the  hands  of  others  for  a nund)er  of  years  past.  Jmlge 
Martindale's  father  was  one  of  the  pioneer  Christian  ministers  of  Indiana, and  in  that  church 
the  Judge  was  bi’ought  up,  but  since  he  attained  maidiood  he  has  been  connected  with  the 
Presbyterian  Church,  is  a member  of  the  First  Church  of  that  denomination  in  the  city. 

John  A.  L.vmbeut,  M.  D.  Among  the  popular,  successful  and  rising  young  physicians 
and  surgeons  of  Indianapolis  Dr.  John  A.  Lambert  is  one  of  the  most  prominent.  Born  at 
Rockville,  Parke  County,  Ind.,  .March  4,  18<)(),  he  is  a son  of  James  R.  and  Minerva  (Creen) 
Laml)ert.  He  remained  in  his  native  town  until  he  was  eleven  years  old  and  their  received 
his  early  schooling.  In  1871  the  family  removed  to  Indiana|)olis,  where  his  father  enteri'd 
the  drug  trade,  and  there  he  was  a student  in  the  jmblic  schools  ami  graduated  from  the 
high  school  in  1875.  During  tin;  intervals  in  Ids  school  life  he  spent  his  time  in  his  father’s 
drug  store  learning  jiharmacy  and  gaining  a practical  knowledge  of  the  drug  business,  and 
after  leaving  school  he  continued  in  his  father’s  etnjiloy  and  as  his  father’s  partiiiu’  until 
1886.  .Meantime  (in  1880)  he  had  imtered  the  i’hiladelphia  College  of  Pharmacy,  gradu 
ating  from  that  institution  in  1882.  In  188t)  he  severed  his  business  partnershij)  with  his 
father  and  o|)ened  ati  independent  drug  store,  which  he  managed  with  considf'rable  success 
until  1889,  when  he  dis|)OHed  of  it  in  order  to  conijilete  his  studies  in  medicine  and  surgery. 


222 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


which,  in  his  spare  time,  he  had  carried  forward  to  such  a stage  that  he  was  ready  to  take 
lectures.  Entering  the  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons,  he  was  graduated  there- 
from in  the  class  of  1891,  with  the  degree  of  M.  D.,  and  immediately  entered  upon  the  prac- 
tice of  his  profession  in  the  northern  part  of  the  city.  His  success  has  been  most  substan- 
tial financially  and  most  flattering  professionally,  and  he  has  attracted  a large,  influential 
and  constantly-increasing  patronage.  Indeed,  he  at  once  took  a position  in  the  medical  pro- 
fession of  Indianapolis  that  of  itself  demonstrated  the  degree  of  faith  reposed  in  him  by  his 
older  profes-sional  brethren.  In  the  very  year  of  his  graduation  from  the  Central  College 
of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  he  was  elected  to  the  lectureship  on  pharmacy,  a position  in  the 
faculty  of  that  institution  which  he  still  holds,  and  he  has  also  been  assistant  demonstrator 
of  anatomy  in  that  college.  He  is  a member  of  the  American  Pharmaceutical  Association, 
of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society,  and  of  the 
American  Medical  Association.  When  the  Indiana  State  Pharmaceutical  Association  came 
into  existence,  in  1882,  Dr.  Lambert  was  one  of  its  organizers  and  charter  members.  He 
has  always  taken  an  active  and  helpful  interest  in  each  of  these  several  societies  and  is 
esteemed  as  a prominent  and  u.seful  member  by  his  associates  in  them.  Great  as  are  the 
profitable  demands  upon  the  Doctor’s  time  he  has  never  yet  refused  his  professional  services 
to  the  deserving  poor  who  have  needed  them  and  yet  been  unable  to  pay  for  them,  and  the 
instances  when  he  has  thus  donated  the  benefits  of  his  knowledge  and  skill  in  behalf  of  suf- 
fering humanity  have  been  so  numerous  as  to  give  him  a warm  place  in  the  hearts  of  many 
grateful  people.  Dr.  Lambert  was  married  October  17,  1888,  to  Miss  Sarah  E.  Brundage, 
a native  of  New  York  and  daughter  of  Reuben  N.  and  Ann  (Sullivan)  Brundage,  and  they 
have  one  child,  a son,  named  Frank  B. , who  was  born  September  0,  1884.  In  politics  the 
Doctor  is  a stanch  Republican. 

Chaeles  L.  Wollenweber.  The  city  of  Indianapolis  is  peculiarly  fortunate  in  her 
builders  and  contractors  who  are  among  her  most  prosperous,  energetic  and  enterprising 
citizens.  A gentleman  successfully  engaged  in  this  line  of  work  since  1871  is  Charles  L. 
Wollenweber,  who  is  a product  of  the  city  of  Cincinnati,  where  he  was  born  May  7,  1848,  a 
son  of  William  Wollenweber,  who  was  born  in  Germany  and  there  learned  and  followed  the 
calling  of  a car))enter  and  cabinet  maker.  He  came  to  the  United  States  with  his  father 
when  a young  man  of  eighteen  y'ears,  but  after  remaining  here  a very"  short  time  they  returned 
to  their  native  land.  William,  however,  did  not  remain  there  long  but  returned  to  this  country 
and  up  to  1849  resided  in  Cincinnati,  at  which  time  he  moved  to  Hamilton,  Butler  County,  Ohio, 
where  he  was  called  from  life  April  19,  1898,  at  the  age  of  sixty-eight  years  two  months  and 
twenty-five  days.  He  was  a successful  man  of  affairs,  and  at  the  time  of  his  death  was  in 
good  circumstances  financially.  He  was  a Republican  politically,  and  during  the  great 
Civil  War  of  this  country  served  the  Government  whose  flag  protected  him,  in  the  One  Hun 
dred  and  Sixty-seventh  Ohio  Volunteers,  and  was  a faithful  and  fearless  soldier.  Charles  L. 
Wollenweber  was  educated  in  the  public  schools  of  Hamilton,  and  may  be  said  to  have 
grown  up  in  his  father’s  shop,  of  whom  he  learned  his  trade.  August  19,  1863,  he  joined 
Company  D,  Second  Ohio  Heavy  Artillery  and  remained  in  the  service  until  September  1, 
1865,  when  he  received  his  discharge  at  Camp  Chase,  Ohio,  having  been  mustered  out  at 
Nashville,  Tenn.  At  the  close  of  the  war  he  began  working  at  his  trade  with  his  father,  con- 
tinuing until  1867,  when  he  began  doing  for  himself.  He  came  to  Indianapolis  in  1871, 
and  three  years  later  formed  a partnership  with  Joseph  Hoy,  and  the  firm  of  Hoy  & Wollen- 
weber was  in  existence  for  about  nine  years,  during  which  time  they  tilled  some  large  con 
tracts  and  made  a name  for  themselves  as  reliable  and  trustworthy  contractors  and  builders. 
After  continuing  business  by  himself  for  a time,  he  formed  a partnership  with  George  W. 
McClure,  with  whom  he  remained  associated  for  three  years.  Since  that  time  he  has  con- 
ducted his  business  alone  and  has  erected  some  very  fine  buildings  which  are  greatly" 
to  his  credit.  He  erected  the  school-house  on  Twelfh  and  Illinois  Streets  and  the  residence  of 
Thomas  H.  Spann,  one  for  Evan  Lilly,  the  Marlow  block  and  numerous  other  business 
blocks,  resideuces,  etc.  The  political  questions  of  the  day  have  always  had  great  interest 
for  him  and  the  Democratic  party  has  always  received  his  support,  but  he  has  never  been  an 
asjjirant  for  office.  He  is  a member  of  the  German- American  Democratic  Club,  the  Con- 
tractors’ Association,  and  the  secret  organization,  the  K.  of  P. , and  has  held  official  posi- 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  22B 

tion  in  Capital  City  Lodge,  No.  97.  He  has  been  married  since  1S81  to  IVIiss  Minnie 
Gramse,  a native  of  Germany. 

James  M.  Watts.  Physicians  of  eminence  testify  that  the  existence  of  a well  conducted 
drug  shop  is  as  necessary  in  the  medical  world  as  the  advice  and  prescriptions  of  doctors. 
In  fact  it  would  be  difficnlt  to  name  a branch  of  business  more  important  to  the  welfare  of 
the  community  than  that  devoted  to  the  sale  and  im[)ortation  of  drugs  and  chemicals,  or  one 
demanding  more  ability  and  scientific  knowledge  on  the  part  of  those  engaged.  A promi- 
nent druggist  of  Broad  Hippie,  Ind.,  is  James  M.  Watts,  who  has  been  engaged  in  that 
Imsiness  in  this  thriving  town  for  the  past  six  years,  and  has  won  an  enviable  reputation  as 
a reliable  and  trustworthy  business  man.  He  was  born  September  9,  1847,  in  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  and  is  a son  of  Aaron  and  Frances  (Bunnell)  Watts,  natives  of  Ohio,  the 
former  born  IMarch  2B,  1809,  and  the  latter  Sejitember  10,  1815.  Both  parents  were  early 
settlers  of  the  Hoosier  State,  coming  here  about  1823,  and  in  Marion  County  they  celebrated 
their  nuptials  in  1832.  The  father  is  now  deceased,  his  death  occurring  April  20,  1885,  but 
the  mother,  who  is  well  advanced  in  years,  still  lives  and  finds  a comforfal)le  home  with  her 
children.  To  this  estimable  couple  were  born  ten  children,  as  follows:  Elias,  born  May  30, 
1833,  married  Mary  Irwin  and  resides  in  Indianapolis;  Elizabeth,  born  in  1835,  married 
Oakley  Pursel  (now  deceased)  and  resides  in  Hamilton  County,  Ind.;  Eliza  A.,  born  in 
1836,  mariied  William  M.  Lanham  and  is  living  in  Carmel,  Ind.;  Ezra,  born  December  7, 
1838,  married  Amelia  Heaton  and  makes  his  home  in  Madison  County,  Ind.;  John  E.,  born 
December  6,  1840,  married  Mary  A.  Heaton  and  lives  in  Indianapolis;  Martha,  born  in 
1843  and  died  in  infancy;  James  M.,  our  subject;  Frances  married  John  H.  Thompson  and 
died  in  July,  1887,  when  thirty-eight  years  of  age;  Aaron  J.,  born  July  15,  1852,  died  when 
nine  years  of  age,  and  Cyrus,  born  August  20,  1854,  married  Nancy  Morris  and  is  now 
living  on  the  home  farm  in  this  county.  The  old  home  farm  was  purchased  by  the  father, 
Aaron  Watts,  in  1846,  and  is  still  held  by  the  Watts  family.  The  early  life  of  our  subject 
was  passed  in  his  native  county  and  liis  scholastic  training  was  received  in  the  common 
schools.  On  September  7,  1867,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Lucinda  Heaton,  daughter  of  Boss 
and  Hannah  Heaton  now  living  in  Marion  County,  who  died  April  9,  1871,  leaving  three 
children,  two  of  whom  are  still  living;  Edgar  E. , aged  twenty-live  years,  resides  in  Chicago, 
is  postal  clerk  on  the  Monon  route,  and  is  married  to  Miss  Catherine  L.  Wheatsell,  daughter  of 
Jacob  Wheatsell,  of  Marion  County,  and  Aaron  W.,  who  is  now  twenty-two  years  of  age,  is 
single  and  resides  in  the  State  of  Washington,  engaged  in  teaching  school,  dealing  in  real 
estate  and  .studying  law.  The  other  child,  a twiti  to  Aaron,  died  in  infancy.  James  M. 
Watts  was  married  again,  SejJember  17,  1873,  to  Miss  Isabelle  Ferguson,  a daughter  of 
Thomas  and  Sarah  Ferguson,  who  were  natives  of  Kentucky.  To  this  union  five  children 
were  born,  two  sons  and  a daughter  living:  Thomas  A.,  born  in  November,  1874,  and  died 
October,  1889;  Frank  E..  born  July  5,  1876,  is  at  home  attending  high  .school;  the  third 
died  at  birtli;  Lula,  born  Doceml)er  27,  1889,  is  at  home  attending  school,  and  James  A., 
born  November  28,  1884,  is  also  at  home  attending  school.  Since  1887  James  M.  Watts 
has  been  engaged  in  the  drug  business  in  Jiroad  Hippie,  and  during  that  time  he  has  met 
with  the  best  of  succass.  In  1888  he  was  elected  trxistee  of  Washington  Township  and 
served  two  years.  He  has  the  entire  contidence  and  esteem  of  the  community  and  is  a 
po[)u!ar  member  of  society.  During  the  Hel)ellion  he  enlisted  in  the  Fourth  Indiana 
Battery,  Octolnw,  1864,  and  served  until  the  close  of  the  war,  ])articipating  in  the  tight  at 
Nashville.  4’wo  of  his  brothers,  Ezra  and  •John  E.,  were  in  Company  F,  4'enlh  Indiaiui 
Infaiitry,  enlisting  in  1861,  and  the  former  served  three  years.  The  latter  was  shot  through 
the  right  lung  in  the  battle  of  Chickamaiiga  and  was  discharged  for  disability.  'I’his  wound 
still  troubles  him  and  has  to  be  dressed  everyday.  Mr.  Watts  is  a public  spirited  citizen 
and  gives  his  hearty  8upj)ort  to  all  laudable  enterprises. 

Hev.  IjUKE  G.  Butteukield,  for  many  years  a popular  minister  in  the  Chistian  Church, 
is  a native  of  the  ]‘ltnpir(!  State,  born  August  39,  1817,  and  the  son  of  Hev.  John  and 
Johanna  (.Atwood)  Butterfield,  who  were  married  in  the  Green  .Mountain  regions  of  Au-rmont 
about  1893.  'I'lie  parents  made  their  home  in  that  Stat(‘  until  1812  and  then  moved  to  tlu“ 
State  of  New  York  wheie  our  subject  was  born.  John  Butterfield  was  one  of  the  soldiers  of 
the  War  of  1812  and  from  him  his  sons  iidierited  the  |)atriotism  and  self  reliance  which  have 


224 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


ever  characterized  them.  Eleven  children  were  born  to  this  worthy  couple,  eight  sons  and 
three  daughters,  nine  of  whom,  seven  sons  and  two  daughters,  reached  mature  years.  These 
children  were:  Valorns,  born  in  1805,  is  now  living  in  Brooklyn,  Ind.,  married  Clarissa 
Badgely  and  by  her  had  fourteen  children;  Merameo,  born  1807,  married  Louisa  Badgely 
and  by  her  had  fourteen  children,  and  is  no\^  deceased;  John  H.,  born  1809,  married  Frances 
Badgely,  became  the  father  of  ten  children  and  is  now  deceased;  Silvia,  born  in  1811,  died 
in  infancy;  William  Sanders,  born  in  1812,  grew  to  mature  years  but  was  never  married, 
was  a miller  by  trade  and  died  from  the  effects  of  a fall  in  1838;  George  Skinner,  born  in 
1814,  died  in  infancy;  Freelove,  born  in  1815,  now  resides  in  Johnson  County,  Ind.,  and  is 
the  wife  of  James  A.  McAllister,  by  whom  she  has  had  a large  family;  Luke  G. , our  sub- 
ject, and  Seymour  Atwood,  born  1819,  was  a well  known  physician  of  Indianapolis  for  many 
years,  died  about  1891,  was  a man  of  more  than  ordinary  ability  and  was  recognized  as  one 
of  the  most  successful  physicians  of  his  county,  and  his  son,  also  a physician,  resides  in 
Indianapolis;  John  Butterfield,  the  father  of  these  children,  left  New  York  and  came  to 
Indiana  in  1819  and  in  this  State  two  more  children  were  born,  Oliver  H.  P.  and  Johanna. 
'I’he  former  was  born  al)Out  1832  and  was  drowned  while  returning  from  a visit  to  his 
intended  wife,  and  Johanna,  l)orn  in  1834,  reached  mature  years  and  married  Thomas 
Breedlove  and  made  her  home  in  Indianapolis  until  her  death.  The  father  of  the  above 
mentioned  children  was  a popular  and  prominent  minister  in  the  Christian  Church  and  was 
a man  who  had  many  warm  friends.  His  son,  our  subject,  came  to  the  Hoosier  State  with 
his  parents  in  1819,  and  here  received  his  scholastic  training.  On  June  13,  1839,  he  was 
married  to  Miss  Pennelope  A.  Conduitt,  daughter  of  Willis  Conduitt,  his  parents  having 
been  married  in  Kentucky  and  moved  from  there  to  Indiana  at  an  early  date.  No  children 
were  born  to  Mr.  Butterfield’s  marriage  and  his  wife  died  at  Mooresville,  Ind.,  in  1855.  On 
May  19,  1855,  Mr.  Butterfield  was  married  to  Miss  Elizabeth  A.  Speers,  whose  parents  were 
Ohio  people.  To  this  union  were  born  two  children,  Amos  Atwood  and  Mary  L.  The  for- 
mer was  born  February  24,  1856,  and  is  now  living  in  this  county,  married  Julia  Johnson 
by  whom  he  had  four  children,  only  one  of  whom,  Lelia,  is  now  living.  Amos  selected  his 
second  wife  in  the  person  of  Miss  Mattie  McLaughlin;  they  were  married  in  February,  1888, 
and  three  children  have  blessed  this  union  : Lourain,  Albert  G.  and  Paul.  Mr.  Butterfield’s 
second  child,  Mary  L.,  born  in  Ohio  in  1857,  is  now  living  in  Indianapolis,  was  married  to 
Bufus  Barr  by  whom  she  had  one  child,  Walter  Barr,  now  a young  man,  and  is  now  a 
widow.  Our  subject’s  second  wife  died  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  on  May  10,  1871,  he 
was  married  to  Miss  Phrebe  J.  Haffield,  daughter  of  John  and  Phoebe  (Godfrey)  Hatfield 
who  were  originally  from  the  Buckeye  State.  By  his  third  marriage  Mr.  Butterfield  became 
the  father  of  one  child.  Birdie,  whose  birth  occurred  May  16.  1872,  and  is  now  the  wife  of 
Dr.  J.  W.  Bates,  of  Broad  Ripple,  Ind.,  to  whom  she  was  married  April  22,  1890.  Dr. 
Bates  is  the  son  of  Ozro  and  Mary  (Hartman)  Bates,  and  the  youngest  of  several  children,  as 
follows:  Nathan  S.,  Smith  L.,  David,  William  M.  and  Susanna  Katherine.  Of  these  chil 
dren.  Smith  L.  is  a very  prominent  physician  and  is  now  practicing  in  Missouri.  Dr.  J.  W. 
Bates  has  almost  the  entire  practice  of  the  north  part  of  Marion  County  and  is  a very  suc- 
cessful practitioner.  Dr.  Bates  and  wife  have  two  children,  Modessa  Lenore,  born  March 
28,  1891,  and  Geneva,  born  July  13,  1893.  In  1848  the  subject  of  this  sketch  became  a 
minister  of  the  Christian  Church  and  continued  to  minister  to  the  spiritual  wants  of  his  fel- 
low man  until  old  age  compelled  him  to  retire.  He  has  been  a church  member  since  twenty 
one  years  of  age. 

CoNST.vNTiNE  R.  ScHAEFER,  M.  D.  One  of  the  young,  well  read  and  progressive  physicians 
and  surgeons  of  Indianapolis  is  Dr.  Constantine  R.  Schaefer,  who  was  born  in  Worms-on-the- 
Rhine,  Germany,  November  9,  1869,  a son  of  Constantine  and  Anna  (Thomas)  Schaefer. 
H is  father  was  an  editor  of  influence  in  Germany  for  many  years  and  on  coming  to  America, 
in  1881,  connected  himself  with  the  German  press  of  the  United  States  and  is  at  present  an 
attache  of  the  German  Telegraph,  of  Indianapolis.  Dr.  Schaefer  was  reared  in  Germany 
and  received  his  primary  education  in  the  public  schools.  Later  he  spent  four  years  in  the 
preparatory  school  and  in  1879  he  entered  the  gymnasium  where  he  took  a thorough  course 
in  classical  lore  and  continued  during  a period  of  three  and  a half  years,  after  completing 
which  he  came  to  America  in  October,  1883,  and,  locating  in  Indianapolis,  he  was  a student 


225 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

in  the  hiorh  school  until  May,  1884,  when  he  secured  employment  in  a drug  store  where  he 
remained  until  September,  1891,  meantime  acquiring  a thorough  knowledge  of  pharmacy, 
and  entering  upon  the  study  of  medicine  under  the  direction  of  Dr.  H.  S.  Cunningham. 
He  became  a student  in  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana,  from  which  institution  he  was 
graduated  in  Mai’ch,  1890.  In  May  following  he  represented  the  Marion  County  Medical 
Society  as  delegate  to  the  American  Medical  Association  at  Nashville,  Tenn.,  and  in  so 
doing  became  a member  of  the  latter  body.  In  September,  1891,  he  went  to  New  York  to 
take  a post-graduate  course  in  the  medical  department  of  Columbia  College,  which  he  com- 
pleted in  June,  1892,  graduating  with  honor.  In  the  following  October,  he  entered  upon 
the  practice  of  his  profession  in  Indianapolis  and  at  once  met  with  most  gratifying  success, 
which  has  constantly  increased  until  at  this  time  he  ranks  among  the  leading  young  German 
physicians  of  the  city.  He  is  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  the  Indiana 
State  Medical  Society  and,  as  has  been  seen,  of  the  American  Medical  Association.  He  is  a 
member  of  the  order  of  K.  & L.  of  H.  and  medical  examiner  for  the  lodge  with  which 
he  is  identified.  The  Doctor  is  a self-made  man  and  has  made  his  way  to  his  present 
high  position  in  his  profession  by  his  own  individual  effort,  paying  the  expenses  of  his 
medical  education  and  those  incident  to  his  beginning  in  practice  out  of  money  he  earned 
as  a druggist’s  clerk.  Everything  that  he  has  done  has  been  done  thoroughly  with  an  eye 
single  to  doing  it  as  well  as  possible,  as  was  evidenced  by  his  standing  in  the  post  graduate 
class  at  New  York,  out  of  the  entire  twenty-one  members  of  which  only  six,  including  Dr. 
Schaefer,  had  conferred  upon  them  the  degree  of  M.  D.  In  politics  the  Doctor  is  independ- 
ent, ever  holding  himself  free  to  vote  for  any  men  or  measures  promising,  in  his  opinion,  to 
benefit  his  fellow  citizens  in  the  broadest  and  truest  sense,  without  regard  to  party  affiliations 
and  with  very  little  regard  to  political  prominence.  He  was  appointed  assistant  demonstra- 
tor of  anatomy  of  the  Medical  College  of  indiana  in  June,  1893. 

Christian  Dunmeyer  is  one  of  those  strictly  honorable  and  upright  German  citizens 
for  which  Indiana,  and  especially  Marion  County,  has  become  well  known,  and  possesses  all 
the  characteristics  for  which  those  of  his  nativity  have  become  well  known — unbounded 
energy,  sterling  honesty  and  much  public  .spirit.  He  is  one  of  the  most  prominent  farmers 
of  this  section  and  there  is  no  one  who  more  fully  illustrates  in  his  career  the  above  men- 
tioned characteristics  than  does  he.  Mr.  Dunmeyer  was  born  in  Germany  August  21,  1831, 
and  there  attained  his  growth,  attending  school  from  the  age  of  six  to  fourteen.  After  leav- 
ing school  he  herded  sheep  until  1851,  when  he  decided  that  he  could  better  his  condition, 
linancially  and  otherwise,  by  making  his  home  in  the  “land  of  the  free.”  He  sailed  from 
Bremen  with  his  married  sister,  Louisa,  and  her  husliand,  and  with  them  landed  in  New 
York  city  four  weeks  and  two  days  after  sailing.  From  there  they  went  to  Buffalo  and 
thence  to  Sandusky,  Ohio,  thence  to  Cincinnati,  from  thereto  Madison,  Ind.,  and  then  to 
Indianapolis.  In  the  latter  city  young  Dunmeyer  went  to  work  for  Austin  Morris  and  later 
worked  in  a grist-mill  for  Gen.  T.  A.  Morris’  father  for  about  a year.  After  this  he  drove  a 
dray  for  bis  brother,  Fred  Dunmeyer,  for  six  months,  and  then  began  driving  it  for  himself, 
continuing  this  for  two  years.  Later  he  entered  F.  P.  Bush’s  feed  store,  Avas  thus  employed 
for  two  years,  and  then  for  three  years  was  engaged  in  street  contracting  in  Indianapolis. 
After  this  he  worked  in  Phillips’ grist  mill  for  nine  months  and  there  lost  his  right  arm  in  the 
machinery.  On  recovering,  a year  later,  the  Civil  War  broke  out  and  he  took  a contract  to 
furnish  wood  to  the  Government  for  Camp  Morton.  This  he  did  for  eighteen  months.  On 
May  5,  1893,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Sarah  IMiller,  daughter  of  Jacob  Miller,  a native  of 
Pennsylvania.  After  marriage  this  ambitious  young  couple  began  keeping  boarding  house  in 
Indianai)olis  and  cariied  this  on  successfully  for  two  years..  Then  Mr.  Dunmeyer  embarked 
in  the  ice  luisiness  in  Indianapolis  with  Matthew  Garver  and  carried  that  on  until  1882,  when 
he  moved  on  his  farm  iti  Perry  Township,  and  on  this  he  now  resides.  In  his  political  views 
Mr.  Dunmeyer  afliliates  with  the  Democrats  and  has  ever  been  in  harmony  with  that  party. 
He  has  been  a member  of  the  Lutheran  Church,  but  does  not  now  belong  to  any,  although 
he  attends  the  fuitheran.  'I'hree  children  have  been  born  to  our  subject  and  wife:  Nettie, 
Harry,  and  Elsie,  who  died  at  the  ago  or  two  months.  Nettie,  who  married  Freeman 
\\  oolery,  of  Sidney,  Ohio,  is  the  mother  of  two  children  Harry  C.  and  Boland  A.,  and 
resides  in  liidianapolis;  Harry  D.,  who  married  .Miss  .Mary  Jones,  of  Indianapolis,  resides 


226 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


in  Perry  Township.  William  Dunmeyer,  father  of  our  subject,  was  a native  of  Germany 
and  there  passed  his  entire  life.  To  his  marriage  were  born  six  children,  live  of  whom  are 
now  living:  Henry,  who  resides  in  Germany;  Frederick,  of  Indianapolis;  Louisa,  who  mar- 
ried Louis  Poehler;  Charles  S.,  Christian,  and  Anthony,  who  is  deceased,  all  of  Indianapolis. 
The  mother  of  these  children  is  also  deceased.  Mrs.  Dunmeyer’ s parents,  Jacob  and  Maria 
(Seiner)  Miller,  had  born  to  their  marriage  seven  children,  the  following  now  living:  David 
Miller;  Elizabeth,  who  married  Samuel  Shafer,  and  they  live  Hamilton  County,  Ind. ; and 
Sarah,  now  Mrs.  Dunmeyer.  The  parents  of  these  children  ai'e  both  deceased.  Both  were 
natives  of  the  Keystone  State  and  the  father  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812,  receiving  a 
land  warrant  for  eighty  acres  for  his  services. 

James  A.  Houser,  M.  D.  The  inscription  on  the  old  Grecian  temples,  “know  thyself,” 
is  written  in  the  hearts  of  men  of  this  generation  who  devote  their  lives  to  the  healing  of  the 
sick  and  the  prevention  of  disease.  So  earnestly  and  so  persistently  and  so  scientifically 
have  they  pursued  their  investigations,  and  so  generously  have  they  imj^arted  their  knowl- 
edge each  to  the  other,  that  it  now  really  seems  as  though  the  power  of  life  and  death  were 
in  the  hands  of  the  live  and  {)rogressive  physicians  of  to-day.  Their  oj^erations  in  surgery 
their  discovery  of  inoculation  for  the  prevention  of  given  maladies  and  their  general  success 
in  practice  combine  to  give  to  the  jjrofession  the  distinction  of  greatest  among  the  great.  In 
the  number  of  those  who  have  labored  earnestly  and  patiently  for  this  knowledge  is  Dr. 
James  A.  Houser,  of  Indianapolis,  whose  life  is  a record  of  steady  seeking  after  that  which 
would  give  him  power  over  the  enemy  of  the  physical  man.  He  was  born  in  Ohio,  March 
22,  18J7,  being  the  son  of  George  H.  and  Ruannah  (Stanton)  Houser,  the  former  a native  of 
Ohio,  and  the  latter  of  Maryland.  The  father  was  a miller  by  occupation  at  an  early  period 
of  h’slife,  and  also  devoted  many  years  to  preaching.  He  now  lives  retired  from  active 
work.  Our  subject  was  reared  in  his  native  State  until  he  was  about  twenty  years  of  age, 
receiving  his  education  in  the  public  schools.  At  that  time  his  parents  moved  to  Indiana. 
In  1867  our  subject  began  the  study  of  medicine,  a few  years  after  taking  his  first 
course  of  lectures  in  the  Indiana  Medical  College  at  Indianapolis.  Continuing  his  studies 
along  with  the  practice,  later  graduating  from  l)oth  the  old  and  new  schools  of  medicine. 
Believing  there  was  much  good  in  both,  availed  himself  of  this  advantage  to  be  better  pre- 
pared to  aid  the  afflicted.  After  thoroughly  preparing  himself  for  his  work.  Dr.  Hauser 
made  a special  study  of  diseases  of  the  lungs  and  kindred  ailments  and  soon  found  many 
patients  in  his  wide  field  of  acquaintance  gained  while  lecturing  upon  subjects  pertaining  to 
human  life.  To  meet  the  demands  of  the  numbers  that  visited  him  at  Arcadia,  Ind.,  a small 
town  where  he  first  located,  the  Doctor  soon  found  it  necessai  y to  procure  larger  buildings 
for  their  accommodation.  To  meet  this  demaud  he  purchased  the  largest  building  in  the 
town,  built  additions,  refitted  and  arranged  it  for  his  patients,  where  he  continued  his  prac- 
tice until  in  1889,  when  his  ever  increasing  practice,  with  the  augmented  number  coming  to 
see  him  made  it  necessary  to  seek  a larger  place  where  hotel  accommodations  could  always 
be  had,  so  in  that  year  he  moved  to  Indianapolis,  where  he  continues  his  practice  which, 
perhaps,  is  as  large  as  that  enjoyed  by  any  physician  in  the  State.  Dr.  Houser’s  success  in 
his  chosen  held  of  lung  disease  is  second  to  that  of  no  man  on  either  continent.  His  case 
books  show  that  over  100,000  patients  have  consulted  him.  His  patients  come  from 
every  part  of  the  United  States,  and  in  a few  instances  the  Doctor  has  had  the  rare 
honor  of  having  patients  consult  him  from  England,  Scotland,  Germany,  Mexico  and  South 
America.  Our  subject  has  always  been  a hard  worker  both  as  a student  and  physician. 
Amid  his  very  busy  life  he  has  found  time  to  till  many  lecture  engagements  and  do  a great 
deal  of  literary  work.  As  a lecturer.  Dr.  Houser  has  visited  many  States  of  the  Union  and 
everywhere  created  a profound  impression  for  both  learning  and  eloquence,  often  receiving 
ovations  that  have  but  few  parallels.  A leading  journal  says  of  the  Doctor’s  lectures:  “Dr 
Houser  is  the  Demosthenes  of  human  science.  He  is  doubtless  the  most  eloquent,  charm- 
ing and  delightful  talker  this  age  has  given  to  the  cause  of  humanity.  Arising  from  poverty 
and  daily  toil  in  digging  ditches,  he  has  made  himself  one  of  the  most  learned  in  the  field 
of  human  nature  our  country  ever  produced.  Receiving  the  degree  of  Doctor  of  Medicine 
from  both  the  old  and  new  schools,  is  what  few  poor  boys  have  ever  done.”  In  the  last  fif- 
teen years  our  subject  has  given  the  public  a number  of  pamphlets  on  social  and  political 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  227 

subjects,  and  each  has  had  a very  large  circulation,  reaching  a total  of  over  1,000,000 
copies.  His  last  and  most  pretentious,  is  a work  of  fiction,  a novel,  first  published  in  the 
Indianapolis  Sunday  Sentinel  as  a serial,  under  the  title  of  “Out  of  Darkness  into  Light,’’ 
and  has  enjoyed  a wider  reading  than  any  of  his  previous  publications.  It  is  characterized 
by  bold,  fearless  originality,  a beauty  of  description,  a charm  in  its  delicate  touch  of  human 
passion  that  give  it  a high  place  in  the  brain  work  of  the  country.  As  a writer  of  verses  the 
Doctor  has  produced  some  gems  of  pathos  and  beauty.  The  masterpiece  in  this  line  is, 
likely  his  poem,  “Immortality”  that  tirst  appeared  in  the  Western  Christian  Adrocafe.  View- 
ing our  subject’s  varied  work  that  has  given  him  success  as  a physician,  lecturer  and  writer 
in  a held  whose  limits  are  not  bounded  by  his  own  country,  and  all  the  outgrowth  of  his  own 
energy,  patience  and  perseverance,  it  may  justly  be  said  that  few  men  have  worked  harder 
or  had  le.ss  idle  days.  Though  interested  in  politics  the  Doctor  never  aspired  to  office.  He 
was  nominated  by  the  People’s  party  in  1892  for  lieutenant-governor,  but  declined  to  make 
the  race.  The  Doctor  was  married  May  80,  1873,  to  Miss  Juliet  Pettijohn,  a native  of  Ham 
ilton  County,  Ind.,  a daughter  of  Dr.  Amos  and  Nancy  A.  Pettijohn,  natives  of  Ohio.  Dr. 
and  Mrs.  Houser  are  the  parents  of  hve  children,  namely:  Lula  \V.,  Fred,  Bert.,  Annie  and 
BenH. , all  living  and  with  their  parents  in  their  lovely  city  home.  The  Doctor  and  his 
family  are  members  of  the  Methodist  Episco])al  Church,  in  which  body  they  are  earnest,  de- 
vout and  helpful  workers.  Dr.  Houser  is  a member  of  the  American  Association  for  the 
Advancement  of  Science,  and  of  the  Western  Writers’  Association,  and  several  orders  and 
lodges,  including  the  Masonic;  but  at  lodge  time  can  usually  be  found  at  his  desk  writing  or 
busy  professionally.  He  has  a wide  acquaintance  in  Indianapolis  and  is  highly  esteemed  in 
this  city,  being  regarded  as  a very  skillful  physician,  an  eloquent  speaker,  a brilliant  and 
versatile  writer,  and  a kind  and  considerate  neighbor  and  friend. 

SoL,ON  K.  Houser,  M.  D.  Although  only  about  ten  years  since  he  began  his  career  as  a 
practitioner  of  the  “healing  art,”  Dr.  Houser  has  won  an  enviable  reputation,  second  to  but 
few  physicians  in  Indianapolis.  He  is  well  read  and  well  posted  on  all  matters  relating  to 
his  profession,  has  a ])aying  practice,  and  is  in  truth  a physician  of  thorough  learning  and 
experience.  The  Doctor  claims  Ohio  as  his  native  State  and  tirst  saw  the  light  of  day  at 
New  Salem  on  February  8,  1858.  His  parents.  George  H.  and  Ruannah  (Stanton)  Houser, 
were  for  many  years  residents  of  the  Buckeye  State,  but  about  1808  they  moved  to  Indiana 
and  settled  near  Logansport  where  the  father  was  engaged  in  milling.  Our  subject  was 
educated  in  the  schools  of  that  town  and  later  learned  the  miller’s  trade  with  his  father. 
After  following  this  business  for  sixteen  years  at  Scipio,  Ind. , he  decided  that  a change  would 
l)e  l)eneticial  and  disposing  of  his  milling  interests  in  1888  he  began  the  study  of  medicine 
with  his  brother.  Dr.  J.  A.  Houser.  Later  he  entered  the  Kentucky  Scho(d  of  Medicine  and 
graduated  from  that  well  known  institution  in  June,  1802.  From  the  time  he  t)egan  the 
study  of  medicine,  1888,  he  has  been  associated  with  his  brother,  looking  after  his  general 
business  interests,  profe.'^sional  and  otherwise,  and  is  at  present  engaged  in  practice  with 
this  l)rother.  The  ha[)py  domestic  life  of  our  subject  l)egan  on  I’ebruary  0,  l880,  when  he 
led  to  the  altar  iirs.  Elizabeth  (Correll)  Bartholomew,  a native  of  Arcadia,  Ind.,  and  the 
daughter  of  John  S.  and  Leah  (Gosho)  Correll,  natives  of  the  Keystone  State.  Dr.  and 
Mrs.  Houser  are  meml)ers  of  the  Christian  Church,  and  he  is  a member  of  the  A.  O.  U.  W. 
In  politics  he  advocates  the  princij)les  and  policy  of  the  Re|)ublican  party. 

Jasper  W.  Scrimsiieu.  An  active  and  jirogressive  system  in  any  profession  or  line  of 
business,  when  i)ased  upon  i)rinciples  of  honor,  is  sure  to  luing  success,  and  an  illustration 
of  j)rominence  gained  through  these  means  is  seen  in  the  record  of  Jasper  W.  Scrimsher, 
builder  and  contractor,  who  has  followed  this  line  of  work  in  Indianajrolis  for  the  jjast  twelve 
years  and  is  considered  one  of  the  city’s  most  reliable  and  com|)etent  contractors.  He  was 
l)orn  in  Oldham  County,  Ivy.,  October  15,  1841),  a son  of  Tlnmias  J.  Scrimsher,  who  was  tirst 
a millwright  and  afterward  became  a farmer.  In  1858  he  came  to  Indiana  with  his  family 
and  located  in  Morgan  County,  l)ut  after  some  time  returned  to  his  native  State  where*  he 
remained  until  the  day  erf  his  death.  Jasper  \V.  Sciimsher  was  educated  in  tlm  jeublic 
scIkjoIs  of  Merrgan  County,  Ind.,  and  at  the  age  of  eighteen  y(*ars  comim*nced  to  learn  the' 
trade  of  a caipenter  at  which  ho  worked  for  a few  yeuirs,  then  etdereal  a drug  stoi’e  at  Hall, 
Ind.,  where  he  remained  for  ten  years  before*  coming  to  the  c-ity  of  Indianapolis.  Soon  after 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


2'IH 

his  arrival  here  he  once  more  turned  liis  attention  to  his  trade  and  since  that  time  he  has 
been  successfully  engaged  in  carpentering  and  contracting,  making  a specialty  of  residence 
work.  He  has  built  some  of  the  most  beautiful  homes  in  the  city,  and  his  services  are 
largely  in  demand  from  the  fact  that  he  is  thorough,  painstaking,  understands  eveiy  detail 
of  his  work,  is  prompt  and  lives  to  the  letter  of  his  contract.  He  has  under  his  employ  a 
large  force  of  men,  who  are  competent  and  skilled  workmen,  and  their  combined  efforts  may 
be  seen  in  many  portions  of  the  city.  Mr.  Scrimsher  was  married  in  Morgan  County,  Ind. 
in  1808  to  Miss  Martha  M.  Stierwalt,  by  whom  he  has  become  the  father  of  two  sons  and 
three  daughters.  He  and  his  wife  are  members  of  the  Christian  Church,  in  which  he  is  a 
deacon,  and  are  accounted  among  its  most  useful  and  active  members.  They  are  intelligent 
and  worthy  people  and  have  the  high  esteem  of  all  who  know  them.  As  a man  of  business 
Mr.  Scrimsher  is  highly  esteemed  and  to  illustrate  the  excellent  line  of  his  work  it  is  but 
necessary  to  mention  the  following  buildings  which  he  has  erected;  The  residence  of  George 
Van  Camp,  the  residence  of  Frank  Wood,  the  residence  of  John  Reagan,  that  of  Dr.  Kim- 
berlin  and  many  others. 

Guido  R.  Pkessler.  Of  the  many  things  which  contribute  to  make  ujithe  beauty  of  our 
homes  and  cities  that  of  paint  and  decoration  takes  no  inconsiderable  part.  How  much  of 
their  handsome  and  imposing  appearance  do  the  many  buildings  which  we  so  much  admire, 
both  as  to  exterior  and  interior,  owe  to  this  agent.  Strip  them  of  their  decorations  and  they 
look  bare  and  uninviting  indeed.  No  person  can  deny  that  the  asthetic  movement  started  in 
the  States  in  188d  by  0^car  Wilde,  and  now  being  continued  by  Edmund  Russell  under  the 
name  of  Delsartianism,  has  had  a vast  amount  to  do  with  the  refining  of  the  home  circle,and 
adding  another  feature  to  house  decorating.  Indianapolis  has  made  a marked  advance  in 
this  respect,  a fact  largely  due  to  Guido  R.  Pressler,  painter  and  decorator,  who  has  gained 
an  enviable  reputation  in  his  line  all  over  the  country.  He  was  born  in  Saxony,  Germany, 
July  20,  1853,  a sou  of  Franc  R.  Pressler,  who  was  a weaver  by  trade.  The  early  educa- 
tion of  Guido  R.  Pressler  was  conducted  in  the  laud  of  his  birth  according  to  the  laws  of  that 
country,  but  before  he  had  attained  the  age  of  fourteen  years  he  began  serving  an  appren- 
ticeship at  his  trade,  and  thoroughly  mastered  its  every  detail  before  his  three  years’  term 
was  ended,  although  he  was  to  have  remained  four  years.  He  immediately  came  to  the 
United  States,  and  soon  after  took  up  his  residence  in  Indianapolis,  and  although  this  place 
has  been  his  headquarters  uj)  to  the  present  time  his  services  have  been  in  demand  all  over 
the  United  States,  and  he  has  done  some  of  the  most  artistic  work  in  his  line  that  has  ever 
been  executed.  However  he  has  labored  principally  in  the  city  of  his  adoption,  and  his  work 
may  be  seen  on  the  court  house,  the  state  house,  the  Odd  Fellows  Hall,  the  First  Baptist 
Church,  St.  Joseph’s  Church,  St.  Mary’s  Church,  the  Second  Presbyterian  Zion  Church  and 
other  buildings  to  numerous  to  mention,  in  this  city.  He  has  made  many  designs,  among 
which  may  be  mentioned  the  beautiful  English  Opera  House,  a building  ideally  artistic  in 
every  sense  of  the  word.  In  recent  years  he  has  been  principally  engaged  in  church  work, 
and  his  services  have  been  called  into  requisition  in  Columbus,  Edinburg  and  Greensburg, 
Ind.,  the  State  Library  Building  in  Bloomington,  Ind.,  the  Opera  House  at  Hot  Springs, 
Ark.,  the  Muncie  (Ind.)  Court  House,  and  many  other  pieces  of  work  of  noteworthy  excel- 
lence. Upon  his  arrival  in  the  United  States  he  had  no  means  with  the  exception  of  a per- 
fect knowledge  of  his  trade,  and  although  he  was  unacquainted  with  the  English  language 
and  American  customs,  he  soon  adapted  himself  to  the  ways  of  this  country,  and  by  his  in- 
dustr}',  business  ability  and  push  has  made  a name  for  himself,  and  commands  the  respect 
and  confidence  of  all  with  whom  he  has  business  dealings.  In  November,  1883,  he  led  to  the 
altar  Miss  Agnes  Miller,  of  Louisville,  Ky.,  and  to  their  union  a son  and  daughter  have  been 
given, who  arepromising  and  intelligent  children.  Mr.  Pressler  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F. , 
is  a Scottish  Rite  Mason,  and  is  also  a member  of  the  A.  O.  U.  W. 

E.  Grove  Anthony,  M.  D.  Although  young  in  years.  Dr.  Grove  Anthony  has  made 
rapid  strides  in  his  profession  and  is  classed  among  the  popular  members  of  the  healing  art 
in  Indianapolis.  He  has  gained  a flattering  reputation  as  a physician  and  has  already  built 
up  a patronage  complimentary  to  his  ability  in  the  medical  profession.  He  owes  his  nativity 
to  Guysville,  Ohio,  born  May  12,  1868,  and  is  a son  of  Dr.  Emanuel  and  Elvira  M.  (Calvert) 
Anthony.  When  twelve  years  of  age  he  came  with  his  parents  to  Indianapolis  and  finished 


221) 


AND  MAJtilON  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

bis  literary  education  in  the  schools  of  that  city.  When  seventeen  years  of  age  he  began 
the  study  of  medicine  with  his  father,  and  later  entered  the  Physio- Medical  College  of 
Indiana,  from  which  he  was  graduated  in  March,  1881).  He  was  engaged  in  general  prac- 
tice for  one  year  after  this  and  was  then  appointed  to  the  chair  of  ophthalmology  and  otology 
in  the  above-mentioned  college,  a position  he  still  holds.  He  is  also  demonstrator  of  practi- 
cal anatomy  in  that  institution.  In  the  fall  of  1890  he  took  his  first  course  in  the  Philadel- 
phia Polyclinic  and  College  for  Graduates  in  Medicine,  and  the  following  year  took  a second 
course.  Since  the  spring  of  1890  the  Doctor  has  devoted  his  time  and  attention  to  the  eye, 
ear,  nose  and  throat,  and  as  a specialist  has  met  with  great  success.  He  is  a member  of  the 
American  Association  and  of  the  Indiana  State  Physio-Medical  Association  and  the  Indian- 
apolis Physio-Medical  Society,  having  been  chairman  and  secretary  of  the  latter.  Socially 
he  is  a member  of  the  Golden  Cross.  He  is  a member  of  the  Central  Avenue  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  and  in  politics  always  voted  the  Prohibition  ticket. 

WiLLi.\M  F.  Norris.  The  tuaterial  progress  manifest  throughout  the  United  States 
during  the  past  quarter  of  a century  has  never  had  its  counterpart  elsewhere,  and  has  in- 
cluded in  its  wide  field  of  activity  the  business  of  the  painter  and  contractor  as  one  of  the 
most  important  branches  of  industry.  In  this  connection  William  F.  Norris  may  be  referred 
to  for  he  has  followed  the  calling  of  a paint  contractor  for  seven  years  in  the  city  of  Indian- 
apolis and  has  made  a reputation  for  himself  in  this  branch  of  human  endeavor.  He  was 
born  in  Louisville,  Ky.,  October  18,  1848,  a son  of  Thomas  J.  Norris,  who  was  born  in  North 
Carolina,  but  who  removed  to  Tennessee  when  a young  man  and  settled  in  the  vicinity  of 
Knoxville  where  he  resided  for  some  time.  He  then  removed  to  Louisville,  at  which  time  it 
was  a small  and  unimportant  town,  where  he  for  some  time  followed  the  calling  of  a gar- 
dener and  afterward  that  of  a cabinet  maker.  Later  he  removed  to  Clarke  County,  Ind., 
where  he  followed  the  calling  of  a farmer  in  which  he  became  an  expert.  William  F.  Norris 
was  one  of  four  .sons  in  a family  of  ten  children  and  received  his  education  in  Louisville.  After 
serving  an  apprenticeship  of  three  years  at  the  painter’s  trade  in  Louisville  be  began  working 
at  his  trade  in  that  city,  afterward  in  Clarke  County,  Ind.,  and  at  a still  later  period  in  Indian- 
apolis. Having  come  to  this  city  in  March,  1875,  he  commenced  contracting  but  at  the  end  of 
two  years  turned  his  attention  to  other  matters.  About  seven  years  ago  he  resumed  the 
occupation  of  contracting  and  to  this  occujiation  his  attention  has  since  been  given  with  the 
best  results  tinancially  and  otherwise.  He  has  pursued  his  calling  in  connection  with  resi- 
dence work  principally  and  in  this  he  has  made  a name  for  himself.  He  had  but  little  money 
when  starting  out  for  himself  but  he  had  what  was  just  as  good — a perfect  knowledge  of  his 
calling  and  a good  constitution  as  well  as  unbounded  energy,  and  these  have  been  the  step- 
f)ing  stones  to  his  present  jirosperity.  On  the  April  1,  1872,  ho  was  united  in  marriage  with 
Miss  Nancy  E.  Beckett,  of  Clarke  County,  Ind.,  and  to  them  four. daughters  and  a son  have 
been  given.  l\Ir.  Norris  is  a member  of  Meridian  Lodge,  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  and  [lolitically 
is  a Democrat. 

Isaac  Montrkvii.i.e  Todd  is  a public  sjiirited  citizen  in  harmony  with  advanced  ideas, 
intelligent  jirogress  and  the  best  methods  of  improving  agricultural  pursuits,  and  the  good 
of  his  country  generally.  He  first  saw  the  light  of  day  in  Franklin  County,  Ind.,  Septem- 
ber .),  1828,  on  his  father's  farm,  and  when  about  four  years  of  age  moved  with  his  parents 
to  Marion  Countv.  Ind.  The  jiarents  settled  in  Wayne  township,  on  the  west  aide  of  the 
White  It  iver,  and  there  our  subject  remained  until  fifteen  years  of  age,  receiving  a limited 
education  in  the  early  schools  of  that  county.  He  then  came  to  Perry  townshi)),  this  county, 
and  made  his  home  with  an  elder  brother,  Henrv  P.  Todd,  for  about  five  years.  On  October 
2,  1848,  Mr.  Todd  was  married  to  Miss  Kachel  C.  Brewer,  daughter  of  Samuel  Brewer, 
deceased,  and  soon  after  his  marriage  he  returned  to  Wayne  township.  There  he  made  his 
home  on  a tract  givmi  him  by  his  father  for  aliout  eighteen  months,  after  which  he  returned 
to  Perry  township  and  bought  Ifil)  acres  of  the  executors  of  Daniel  Brewer,  jiayiiig^  $10  an 
acre.  At  that  time  there  was  about  sixty  acres  cleared  so  as  to  be  tillable,  but  the  farm  was 
in  bad  condition,  having  been  rented  for  yeais.  Mr.  ’I’odd  immediately  began  making 
improvements.  He  erected  a frame  house  in  1858  and  resided  in  that  until  ab(  nt  l87t)when 
he  ))uilt  a brick  house  which  was  subse(|uently  destroyed  by  fire.  A1  otd  1885  he  built  tin' 
handsome  brick  hottse  in  which  which  he  now  resides,  and  hasmad('  numerous  other  improve 


230 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


lueuts.  He  lias  cleared  al)out  eighty dive  acres  of  the  100  he  bought  and  aimually  raises 
wheat,  com  and  hay,  and  of  late  years  sweet  corn  and  tomatoes.  He  raises  on  an  average 
twenty  tive  to  thirty  bushels  of  wheat  to  the  acre,  and  about  the  same  in  corn.  His  marriage 
was  blessed  by  the  birth  of  eleven  children,  one  of  whom,  Elizabeth  C.,  died  in  infancy. 
The  remainder  are  named  as  follows:  Ella;  Clara  I.  ; John  E.;  Emma  D. ; Elmer  E.,  deceased; 
Harry  L.,  Eraidv  L.,  Samuel  B. , William  H.  and  Norah  H.  The  last  three  are  unmarried. 
Tlie  first  child  living,  Ella,  married  A.  J.  Snider  and  they  have  two  children  : Ada,  who 
Alva  Hamillon,  and  Charles  E.  Mr.  Todd’s  second  child,  Clara,  married  Calvin  Hanson  and 
they  have  one  daughter,  Biith.  John  E.  married  Emma  Herron,  and  they  have  four  chil- 
dren: Alma,  Omer,  Frank  and  Ralph.  Emma  D.  married  George  Porter  and  they  have  one 
child,  -James  A.  Harry  L.  married  Bertha  Lyons,  and  J’rank  L.  married  Kate  Rose.  In  his 
])olitical  views  Mr.  Todd  is  a Republican  and  his  first  vote  was  cast  in  1852.  He  is  a public- 
spirited  citizen  and  has  served  as  assessor  of  Perry  township  for  two  years.  During  the 
Civil  War  he  organized  a company  of  home  guards  at  the  time  of  the  Morgan  raid,  and  was 
elected  captain  and  commissioned  as  such  by  Gov.  IMorton.  This  company  was  kept  up  until 
the  war  closed.  For  many  years  Mr.  Todd  has  been  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  and  he  is  now  one  of  the  trustees  of  the  church  at  Southport.  Henry  Todd,  father 
of  our  subject,  was  born  in  Pennsylvania  -Inly  4,  1779,  and  after  reaching  mature  years  was 
married  there  to  Miss  Nancy  Martin.  Later  he  and  wife  removed  to  Indiana  and  located  in 
Franklin  County,  near  Brookville,  where  they  remained  until  1832.  Thev  then  came  to 
Ma  rion  County,  where  the  father’s  death  occurred  in  1842.  Thirteen  children  were  born  to 
this  worthy  couple,  eleven  of  whom  grew  up,  but  our  subject  is  the  only  one  now  living. 
After  the  mother’s  death  the  father  took  for  his  second  wife,  Sarah  Mcllvain,  and  they  had 
six  children,  two  now  surviving  : Amanda,  who  married  and  lives  in  Texas,  and  Marion,  who 
resides  in  Calhoun  County,  111.  The  latter  served  in  an  Ohio  regiment  during  the  war. 
Mr.  Todd’s  grandfather,  Henry  Todd,  was  a native  of  the  Keystone  State,  and  there  passed 
his  entire  life. 

-loHN  Lewis  McCokmick.  This  able  and  successful  contractor  has  been  a resident  of 
Indianapolis,  Ind.,  since  1849,  but  was  born  in  Rush  County,  of  this  State,  March  24,  1825, 
a son  of  -lames  .McCormick,  whose  birth  occurred  in  Hamilton,  Butler  County,  Ohio,  in 
1 797.  He  came  to  Indiana  many  years  ago  and  located  at  Connorsville,  where  his  son, 
John,  erected  the  first  house.  It  is  also  said  that  the  McCormick  family  built  the  first 
house  in  Indianajiolis,  the  site  being  between  the  old  wooden  bridge  across  White  River  and 
the  Washington  Street  bridge.  -Tames  McCormick  was  a millwright  and  put  up  many  of  the 
old-time  water  mills  in  Indiana.  He  built  a mill  on  what  is  now  known  as  the  Pitts  farm  on 
the  Michigan  road,  besides  numerous  others  in  all  jiortions  of  the  State.  He  died  in  Hen- 
dricks County  in  1858,  but  about  the  close  of  the  War  of  1812  the  family  lived  in  Fayette 
County.  The  wife  of  James  McCormick  was  born  in  South  Carolina  in  1812,  but  was 
brought  by  her  fiarents  to  Indiana  when  a child,  and  in  the  town  of  Frankfort  she  passed 
from  life  in  1880,  a member  of  the  Methodist  Church,  although  her  husband  had  always 
been  a Baptist.  The  McCormicks  originally  came  from  Scotland.  John  McCormick,  one 
of  the  early  members  of  the  family,  was  a soldier  in  Washington’s  army  during  the  Revolu- 
tion. He  died  in  Connorsville  when  very  aged.  -lohn  Lewis  McCormick  attended  the  pub- 
lic schools  of  Shelby  and  Marion  Counties,  and  when  still  a mere  lad  commenced  learning 
the  millwright’s  trade  of  his  father,  and  afterward  branched  out  into  general  carpentering, 
at  which  he  worked  for  some  time  in  connection  with  farming.  In  1849  he  commenced  con- 
tracting in  Indianapolis,  and,  although  he  has  followed  a general  line  of  work,  he  has  rather 
made  a specialty  of  building  ice  houses  for  large  ice  companies,  and  has  juirsued  this  occu- 
pation not  only  in  Indiana  but  also  in  Michigan.  In  1882  the  farm  where  Crown  Hill  Ceme- 
tery is  located  fell  into  the  hands  of  the  McCormick  family,  and  this  land  Mr.  McCormick 
tilled  for  several  years.  His  business  career  has  been  a successful  one,  for  when  he  started 
out  in  life  for  himself  he  had  a ca.sh  capital  of  $3  and  a team  of  horses.  On  August  9, 
1848,  he  led  to  the  altar  Miss  Julia  A.  Pitts,  who  was  born  in  Pendleton,  Ind.,  March  2, 
182(5,  and  a family  of  three  daughters  have  been  born  to  them. 

George  N.  Duz.vn,  M.  D.  The  calamities  of  the  late  war  have  never  been  adeipiately 
weighed,  for  there  was  scarcely  a home  in  all  the  broad  laud  in  which  there  failed  to  be  a 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

'i,\MVERSITY  OF  fLllNOI' 


231 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Rachel  mourning  for  her  child  that  did  not  return.  Still,  the  greatest  disaster  brings  its 
compensation  in  some  measure,  and  to  the  blessing  of  a Union  saved  there  was  afforded  the 
sublime  spectacle  of  patriotic  zeal  all  over  the  land,  men  freely  offering  their  lives  upon  the 
altars  of  their  country,  or  unmurmeringly  bearing  all  toil  and  privation.  Another  inestima- 
ble boon  was  the  impulse  that  was  given  to  advanced  medicine  and  surgery,  through  the 
innumerable  opportunities  for  practice  on  the  field  of  battle  and  in  the  hospital.  To-day 
all  over  the  land  are  physicians  and  surgeons  of  the  ripest  judgment  and  skill,  who  served 
their  country  in  its  hour  of  peril  and  who  gained  valuable  stores  of  practice,  which  has  been 
of  incalculable  value  to  them  ever  since.  One  of  this  number,  a man  loyal  to  the  core,  and 
a physician  of  eminence,  is  Dr.  George  N.  Duzan,  of  Indianapolis.  This  worthy  gentle- 
man was  born  in  Boone  County,  Ind.,  July  8.  1842,  being  the  son  of  John  Duzan,  a 
native  of  Tennessee,  who  carried  on  farming  in  that  State,  and  who  emigrated  to  Indiana  in 
1832,  settling  near  Zionsville,  in  Boone  County,  being  one  of  the  pioneers  of  that  county. 
He  was  married  in  Tennessee  to  Catherine  Cox,  a native  of  that  State,  and  daughter  of 
Jacob  Cox.  John  Duzan  represented  his  county — Boone — in  the  Legislature  of  Indiana, 
having  been  elected  in  1842,  on  the  Democratic  ticket,  and  was  one  of  the  first  representatives 
from  that  county.  He  resided  there  for  many  years,  was  a successful  farmer  and  accumu- 
lated considerable  property,  and  finally  died  in  1878,  his  wife  having  passed  away  in  1872. 
The  subject  of  our  sketch  was  reared  on  the  farm  in  his  native  county  until  he  was  sixteen 
years  old,  first  attending  the  common  schools  of  the  country  and  afterward  the  academy  at 
Zionsville,  and  then  he  began  the  study  of  medicine  with  his  uncle.  Dr.  W.  N.  Duzan,  who 
was  a pioneer  of  Boone  County  and  a physician  of  many  years’  successful  practice.  Our 
subject  studied  three  years,  in  compliance  with  the  rules  enforced  by  medical  colleges  at  that 
time,  and  then  entered  Jefferson  Medical  College,  at  Philadelphia,  attending  one  course  of 
lectures.  He  then  began  the  practice  of  medicine  at  Zionsville,  in  the  spring  of  1861,  which 
he  continued  until  the  month  of  July,  1864,  when  he  entered  the  army  as  acting  assistant 
surgeon  in  the  United  States  army,  being  with  the  Thirteenth  Regiment  of  regulars.  Most 
of  the  time  was  spent  on  detached  dirty,  in  Hospital  No.  8,  at  Nashville.  While  there  Dr. 
Duzan  attended  lectures  and  graduated  from  the  University  of  Nashville,  receiving  the 
degree  of  doctor  of  medicine  from  that  institution,  bearing  date  of  March  25,  1865.  Return- 
ing from  Nashville  he  located  at  Zionsville,  where  he  enjoyed  an  extensive  practice  which 
extended  over  a period  of  nearly  twenty-five  years.  He  was  there  recognized,  not  only  by 
the  people  of  the  county,  but  by  those  of  that  ]»ortion  of  the  State,  as  the  leading  j)hysician 
of  that  region  of  country.  In  the  fall  of  1888  the  Doctor  came  to  Indianapolis  and  here  he 
has  grown  into  a very  large  practice  and  ranks  among  the  leading  physicians  of  the  city. 
While  residing  at  Zionsville  Dr.  Duzan  held  the  chair  of  physiology  and  clinical  medicine 
in  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  for  a period  of  four  years,  resigning  the  same 
al  the  expiration  of  that  time.  He  has  been  a member  of  the  American  Medical  Association, 
of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society,  and  of  the  Boone  County  Medical  Society,  but  on 
account  of  poor  health  has  been  compelled  to  sever  his  connection  with  them.  Dr.  Duzan 
was  married  August  31,  1865,  to  Nellie  Crutchfield,  a native  of  Indianapolis,  and  a daughter 
of  Wesley  and  Nancy  (Brock)  Crutchfield.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Duzan  have  two  children:  George 
N.  and  Belva.  In  politics  Dr.  Duzan  is  a Democrat,  the  principles  of  that  party  being  in 
harmony  with  his  own  views  concerning  national  and  State  (jiiestions.  Dr.  Duzan  writes 
with  great  fluency  and  with  remarkably  clear  diction  and  has  been  a contributor  for  a 
great  many  years  to  medical  and  other  journals,  although  professional  (|ueslions  have 
engaged  him  most.  A number  of  medical  works  refer  in  most  flattering  terms  to  the  work, 
the  services  and  the  writings  of  Dr.  Duzan,  who  is  recognized  l)y  the  j)rofession  as  a physi- 
cian of  distinguished  ability.  Some  of  his  articles  in  medical  journals  a})peared  as  early  as 
1865  and  have  continued  until  (piite  recently,  moat  of  them  touching  subjects  of  interest  to 
the  profession.  He  has  also  read  a number  of  valuable  juipers  before  the  State  and  the 
Bf)ono  County  medical  societies.  His  health  has  been  somewhat  in}]>aired  of  late,  the  result 
of  great  stmly,  reading,  and  the  demand  made  upon  his  |)rofessional  services. 

lIoN.  Timothy  K.  Howard.  To  become  distinguished  at  the  bar  recjuires  not  only 
capacity,  but  also  sound  judgment  and  jiersevering  industiy.  These  (|ualificat ions  are  com- 
bined in  no  gentleman  at  the  St.  Joseph  County  bar  to  a greater  extent  than  in  Timothy  11. 


232 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Howard.  A careful  aud  accurate  adviser,  and  an  earnest  and  conscientious  advocate,  bis 
success,  at  the  bar  has  been  achieved  by  the  improvement  of  opportiinities,  by  untiring 
diligence,  and  by  close  study  and  correct  judgment  of  men  and  motives.  Like  so  many  of 
the  eminent  men  of  the  present  day  his  early  career  was  a humble  one,  for  he  was  reared  on 
his  native  farm  in  the  vicinity  of  Ann  Arbor,  Mich.,  where  he  was  born  January  27,  1837, 
and  there  he  soon  came  to  know  the  meaning  of  hard  work.  His  parents,  Martin  and  Julia 
(Beahan)  Howard,  were  both  natives  of  the  Isle  of  Erin,  and  came  to  this  country  in  their 
early  days,  the  former  first  setting  foot  on  American  soil  about  the  year  1832.  After  a short 
stay  in  the  Green  Mountain  State  he  came  to  Ann  Arbor,  Mich.,  a few  miles  from  where  he 
eventually  entered  some  Government  land,  then  in  a veiy  wild  state.  There,  in  the  midst  of 
the  forest,  and  far  from  any  other  human  habitation,  he  erected  a little  log  cabin,  where  he 
lived  until  his  means  jiermitted  better  improvements,  and  where  the  subject  of  this  sketch 
was  born.  The  elder  Howard  resided  on  this  farm  until  he  paid  the  last  debt  of  nature  in 
1851.  At  the  time  of  his  demise  he  was  township  clerk,  and  had  held  other  minor  township 
and  district  offices.  His  widow  si;rvived  him  imtil  March,  1892.  There  are  now  only  three 
surviving  members  of  their  family  of  seven  children;  Timothy  E.,  Michael  F.  and  Julia  A. 
Timothy  E.  Howard  was  the  eldest  of  the  family,  aud,  although  but  fourteen  years  of  age  at 
the  time  of  his  father’s  death,  he  took  upon  his  slender  and  youthful  shoulders  the  manage- 
ment of  the  home  farm,  and  with  the  intelligent  counsel  aud  advice  of  his  worthy  mother,  he 
made  a success  of  his  undertakings.  His  early  education  was  obtained  in  the  common  schools 
of  the  rural  districts,  but  he  was  later  fortunate  enough  to  be  sent  to  the  “Old  Seminary”  at 
Ypsilanti,  and  to  the  University  of  Michigan  at  Ann  Arbor,  enjoying  in  the  former  institu- 
tion the  instructions  of  that  model  teacher.  Prof.  Joseph  Estabrook,  aud  in  the  latter  that  of 
the  genial  scholar.  Dr.  Erastus  O.  Haven.  He  taught  in  the  district  schools  near  Ann 
Arbor  for  two  years.  About  this  time  he  secured  a chance  to  teach  aud  attend  school  in  the 
University  of  Notre  Dame,  Ind. , and  at  once  gladly  closed  with  the  offer,  and  from  that 
noted  institution  of  learning  he  graduated  in  1862.  In  February  of  that  year  he  forsook 
his  alma  mater  in  order  to  fight  his  country’s  battles,  and  enlisted  in  Company  I,  of  the 
Twelfth  Michigan  Infantry,  the  fortunes  of  which  he  followed  until  the  battle  of  Shiloh, 
where  he  received  a gunshot  wound  in  the  neck  and  left  shoulder,  and  was  sent  to  Evans- 
ville on  a hospital  boat  and  placed  in  the  Marine  Hospital,  where  he  remained  about  two 
mouths.  Upon  recovering  he  came  home  on  a furlough,  and  being  honorably  discharged  as 
untit  for  further  duty,  he  returned  to  teaching  at  Notre  Dame,  graduating  therefrom  that 
year.  He  held  his  position  of  instructor  in  that  institution  for  al)Out  twenty  years  altogether. 
In  1878  he  was  elected  to  the  position  of  county  clerk,  and  served  four  years,  during  which 
time  he  was  also  a member  of  the  city  council.  While  at  Notre  Dame  he  studied  law  and 
received  his  diploma,  but  did  not  practice  until  the  expiration  of  his  term  as  county  clerk. 
Since  then  he  has  been  an  active  ju’actitioner,  and  his  knowledge  of  law  and  his  intelligence 
in  all  matters  of  public  interest  were  recognized  by  his  being  elected  to  the  office  of  State 
senator  in  1886,  and  by  being  honored  with  a re-election  in  1890.  He  is  the  the  author  of 
the  Momence  bill  for  the  drainage  of  the  Kankakee  Valley,  and  was  chairman  of  the  special 
senate  committee  in  charge  of  the  school  text-book  law.  He  secured  the  extension  of  the 
new  election  law  to  township  aud  city  elections,  and  drafted  the  new  revenue  law.  He  also 
introduced  ami  pressed  to  passage  the  bill  for  the  establishment  of  the  Appellate  Court. 
He  had  charge  in  the  Senate  of  Indianapolis’  city  charter,  also  of  the  suburban  street  rail- 
way bill,  both  of  which  became  laws.  For  several  years  Mr.  Howard  served  as  city  attor- 
ney of  South  Bend,  and  also  as  county  attorney  of  St.  Joseph  County.  Since  1880  he  has 
been  an  active  member  of  the  G.  A.  K.  In  November,  1892,  he  was  elected  one  of  the 
judges  of  the  supreme  court  of  the  State,  and  took  his  seat  upon  the  bench  January  2,  1893. 
The  following  character  sketch  is  taken  from  the  Evansville  ,Tournal,  and  was  written  while 
the  present  supreme  judge  was  a member  of  the  Senate  in  1891:  “Senator  Timothy  E. 
Howard  of  St.  Joseph  County,  is  without  question  the  most  influential  member  of  the  upper 
house  of  the  Legislature.  He  is  tall,  spare,  with  a mild  and  rather  sad  mien.  His  strength 
lies  in  his  great  fairness  and  liberality,  cout)led  with  a keen  discernment  of  motives  behind 
actions.  He  himself  never  hesitates  to  explain  fully  his  reasons  for  any  line  of  action,  and 
when  he  has  explained  there  is  always  a large  following  of  senators  who  find  that  they  may 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

'J^'JIVER'^ITY  0!^  ILLINOIS 


*.5  . T 

» '.  • » , * 

- , 


'■  ti 

■ .. ‘-V 


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233 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

agree  with  him  exactly.  He  is  a Christian  gentleman,  mild,  courteous,  patient,  unresentful, 
a tine  illustration  of  the  oft-disputed  fact  that  a man  of  lofty  character  and  unyielding 
principle  can  succeed  in  2)olitical  life.  He  is  a Democrat,  hut  never  hesitates  to  oppose  his 
party  (associates)  when  principle  requires  it.” 

John  Fukr.  The  subject  of  this  biographical  notice  is  an  honorable  and  progressive 
farmer,  and  as  such  no  name  in  the  memorial  department  of  this  work  is  more  worthy  of 
mention.  He  is  a product  of  Missouri,  born  in  St.  Louis,  in  October.  1824,  a son  of  Samp- 
son and  Sarah  A.  (Cantwell)  Furr,  both  of  whom  were  born  in  the  Old  Dominion  but  were 
early  settlers  of  St.  Louis,  at  which  time  there  were  only  three  American  families  in  the 
jtiace.  Sampson  Furr  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812,  but  died  in  November,  1824,  when 
just  in  the  prime  of  life,  his  widow  surviving  him  until  April  24,  1871,  at  which  time  she 
died  at  Clarksville,  Tex.,  at  the  extreme  old  age  of  ninety-six  years.  At  the  early  age  of 
four  weeks  John  Furr,  the  immediate  subject  of  this  sketch  and  the  youngest  of  a family  of 
twelve  children,  was  left  fatherless,  and  as  his  mother's  means  were  limited  he  made  his 
home  with  a sister  in  Shelby  County.  111.,  and  was  compelled  to  begin  laboring  at  (piite  an 
early  age,  therefore  his  advantages  for  gaining  an  education  were  limited.  He  made  his 
home  in  Shelby  County,  111.,  for  some  years,  working  at  anything  honorable  he  could  tind  to 
do,  but  at  the  age  of  fifteen  years  he  engaged  as  a cabin  boy  on  a boat  plying  on  the  Missis- 
sippi River,  following  various  occupations  on  the  river  until  1845,  being  watchman  for  some 
time.  He  then  turned  his  attention  to  farming  in  Shelby  County,  111.,  and  in  1846  was 
married  to  Miss  Martha  A.  Huls.  Three  years  later  he  was  taken  with  the  ” gold  fever  ” 
and  made  his  way  to  California,  driving  an  ox  team  across  the  plains,  and  was  there  engaged 
in  mining  for  about  a year,  with  fair  success,  for  when  he  came  to  Indiana,  in  1851,  he  had 
about  •'?1,000,  with  which  he  purchased  a farm  in  Pike  Township,  Marion  County,  Ind.,  on 
which  he  has  resided  ever  since.  His  estate  comprises  tifty-three  acres,  which  is  well  and 
carefully  filled  and  yields  a laiger  income  than  many  more  {)reteiitious  places.  January  21. 
lS6t),  his  wife  died,  having  borne  him  five  children;  William  (deceased).  John,  Sarah 
(deceased),  David  F.  and  Lucia  A.  July  19.  1869,  Clarissa  Rodman  became  Mr.  Furr's  sec- 
ond wife,  and  their  children  are  named:  William  C.,  born  July  2,  1861;  Charles  A.,  born 
Septeml)er  8,  1863  (now  deceased),  and  Maggie  A.,  born  May  23,  1866.  The  mother  of 
these  children  died  August  29,  1868,  and  51r.  Furr’s  third  marriage  occurred  August  1 5, 
1869,  -Miss  Mary  E.  Snyder,  a native  of  Hendricks  County  and  a ilaughter  of  William  and 
Rachel  (Huls)  Snyder,  the  former  a native  of  Ohio  and  the  latter  of  Kentucky,  became  his 
wife.  Their  children  are  as  follows:  James  F.,  born  November  25,  1879;  Martha  J.,  born 
•July  7,  1872;  Omer  H.,  born  July  19,  1874;  Clara  V , born  October  19,  1877,  and  Daisy  A., 
born  .June  15,  1879.  At  his  country’s  call  for  troo))s  in  1864  IMr.  Furr  enlisted  in  the  Pinion 
service,  becoming  a member  of  Company  B,  Twenty-ninth  Indiana  Volunteers,  which  he 
joined  September  29,  1864,  and  served  until  the  close  of  the  war,  receiving  his  discharge 
July  2,  1865.  He  was  in  the  Army  of  the  Cund)erland  and  was  through  Tennessee, Georgia, 
Alal)ama  and  Mississip|)i,  his  regiment  being  engaged  in  guard  duty  the  most  of  the  time, 
although  it  f)articipated  in  a number  of  skirmishes.  Mr.  Furr  is  now  a member  of  the 
G.  A.  R..  Boone  Post,  No.  292,  at  Zionsville.  He  and  his  wife  are  associated  with  the 
Christian  Cliurch  and  politically  he  has  always  been  a faithful  and  enthusiastic  Republican, 
l•]t)WAKr)  Amks  Austin,  who  is  endowed  by  nature  with  such  gifts  as  characterize  true 
manhood  in  all  that  the  word  implies,  is  descended  from  an  honorable  ancestry,  and  his 
family  tree  first  took  root  on  American  soil,  in  New  York  City,  to  which  region  his  parents 
came  from  England  in  1838.  The  father,  Rev.  Dr.  Thomas  R.  Austin,  was  born  in 
England,  where  he  was  reared  and  educated,  and  he  was  there  married  to  Miss  Martha  Heg, 
also  a native  of  England.  In  1838  they  crossed  the  ocean  to  America  and  located  in  New 
York  city,  where  the  father  followed  the  profession  of  physician  and  surgeon  and  was  also 
engaged  in  the  drug  Imsiness  until  1842.  At  that  time  his  drug  stock  was  destroyed  by  fire 
and  he  removed  to  Indiana,  settling  in  Harrison  County.  There  he  practiced  his  profession 
until  1851,  wlnm  he  removed  to  New  Albany,  Jnd.,  and  engaged  in  the  drug  business  in  con- 
n«*ction  with  his  [iractice.  In  1861,  when  the  war  cloud  hung  darkly  over  the  nation,  he 
enlisted  as  surgeon  of  tin*  Twenty-third  Indiana  Iid'antry,  and  soon  after  was  promoted  to 
general  surgeon  of  the  United  States  Army  liy  Gen.  Grant,  at  Paducah,  Ky.,  in  which 


234 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


capacity  he  served  until  the  close  of  the  war.  Returning  to  New  Albany  he  shortly  after- 
ward established  an  Episcopal  Church  at  Jeffersonville,  and  was  ordained  as  rector  of  the 
same.  Previous  to  this,  however,  he  was  a prominent  minister  of  the  Methodist  Church  for 
a number  of  years  and,  about  the  year  1871,  he  removed  to  Terre  Haute,  where  he  became 
rector  of  the  Episcopal  Church,  continuing  in  that  capacity  for  about  four  years.  He  then 
took  charge  of  the  church  at  Vincennes  where  he  remained  until  his  death  in  1883,  at  the 
age  of  seventy  two  years.  He  passed  an  active  life,  was  well  known  throughout  Indiana, 
and  was  a j>rominent  figure  in  religious  affairs  and  all  enterprises  for  the  good  of  the  county. 
He  was  also  j)rominently  identified  with  the  Masonic  order,  and  at  the  time  of  entering  the 
army  was  grand  master.  He  had  taken  the  thirty-third  degree  at  the  time  of  his  death. 
His  wife  died  in  1S47.  The  subject  of  this  sketch,  who  was  born  in  Harrison  County,  Ind., 
April  It),  184(),  was  but  eighteen  months  old  at  the  time  of  his  mother’s  death,  and  in  1854 
the  family  removed  to  New  Albany,  where  young  Austin  grew  to  manhood.  He  secured  a 
fair  education  in  the  common  schools,  and  when  sixteen  years  of  age  entered  the  employ  of 
the  Louisville,  New  Albany  & Chicago  Railroad  as  trainboy.  In  1862  he  became  brakesman 
and  two  years  later  he  was  promoted  to  the  position  of  conductor,  in  which  capacity  he 
served  until  1865.  In  December  of  that  year  he  left  the  road  and  engaged  in  carpentering 
at  New  Albany,  continuing  there  until  1S69.  In  December  of  that  year  he  married  Miss 
Amanda  A.  Rough,  a native  of  the  Keystone  State,  but  reared  in  Floyd  County,  Ind.,  and 
soon  afterward  he  and  wife  settled  in  Jeffersonville,  where  Mr.  Austin  followed  carpentering 
until  1870,  when  he  entered  the  employ  of  the  Jeffersonville,  Madison  & Indianapolis  Rail- 
road. In  IMarch,  1876,  he  was  made  foreman  of  freight  car  repairing  and  in  1880  was 
promoted  to  master  car  builder.  When  three  divisions  of  the  Pennsylvania  system  consoli- 
dated, in  18S4.  Mr.  Austin  was  made  general  foreman  of  the  car  department  at  Indianapolis, 
in  which  capacity  he  has  since  remained.  Since  coming  to  Indianapolis  Mr.  Austin  has 
been  engaged  in  the  business  interests  of  the  city,  and  at  present  has  a grocery  and  meat 
market  on  East  Washington  Street.  He  carries  a stock  of  about  $4,000  and  does  a thriving 
business.  This  is  managed  by  his  son,  Thomas,  who  is  a member  of  the  firm.  Mr.  Austin 
is  progressive  and  enterprising  and  has  contributed  much  to  the  best  interests  of  the  city. 
In  tlie  fall  of  1889  he  was  elected  a member  of  the  city  council  from  the  nineteenth  ward, 
and  served  two  years,  during  which  time  the  ordinance  for  the  construction  of  the  viaduct 
was  passed  and  he  was  deeply  interested  in  that  work.  He  is  a member  of  the  Masonic 
fraternity  and  is  past-master  of  Jefferson  Lodge,  No.  340.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Austin  are  the 
parents  of  four  children:  J.  Thomas,  born  November  9,  1870;  Albert  A , born  May  23,  1873; 
Flora  B.,  born  August  6.  1875.  and  Edward  M..  born  April  13.  1882.  Mr.  Austin  is  an 
enthusiastic  Democrat  and  takes  a leading  and  active  interest  in  politics,  wielding  consider- 
able infiuence  in  his  ward. 

Isaac  Wright.  It  would  indeed  be  hard  to  find  a man  better  posted  in  everything  per 
taming  to  the  lumber  interests  than  Isaac  Wright,  the  very  efficient  and  energetic  manager 
for  the  fi  rm  of  Scatcherd  & Son,  who  are  wholesale  dealers  in  hardwood  lumber,  the  main 
office  of  which  firm  is  at  Buffalo,  N.  Y.  Mr.  Wright  is  the  manager  of  the  branch  office 
at  Indianapolis,  which  was  established  in  1875,  at  which  time  Mr.  Wright  was  placed  in 
charge.  This  firm  also  has  yards  at  various  points  throughout  Indiana,  Mississippi,  Ken- 
tucky, Tennessee  and  Alabama,  all  of  which  are  under  the  direct  supervision  of  Mr.  Wright, 
a fact  which  speaks  in  eloquent  terms  as  to  his  efficiency,  business  ability  and  the  trust 
which  is  reposed  in  him  by  his  employers.  An  enormous  amount  of  business  is  done 
throughout  the  States  under  Mr.  Wright’s  management,  his  orders  being  filled  principally  for 
eastern  markets  also  export,  in  all  amounting  to  about  50,000,000  feet  annually.  Mr. 
Wright  was  born  on  the  ocean,  of  English  and  Scotch  parents,  Isaac  and  Grace  (Glen) 
Wright,  the  former  of  whom  was  a merchant  and  trader  by  occupation,  and  eventually  died 
in  Scotland.  His  widow  and  child  upon  coming  to  America  with  her  parents  settled  in 
London,  Ontario,  and  afterward  in  Buffalo,  N.  Y’^.,  in  which  city  the  mother  paid  the  last 
debt  of  nature.  In  the  city  of  London,  Isaac  Wright,  the  immediate  subject  of  this  biogra- 
phy, received  a liberal  education,  being  an  attendant  of  a good  grammer  school  and  later  of 
an  academy  of  more  than  ordinary  merit.  Thus  fitted  for  the  practical  duties  of  life  he 
entered  the  office  of  Frank  E.  Cornish,  at  that  time  mayor  of  the  city  of  London,  and  began 


235 


AND  MAUI  ON  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

the  study  of  law,  which  he  continued  to  pursue  for  three  years,  at  the  end  of  which  time  he 
entered  the  office  of  Thomas  Scatcherd,  M.  P.,  with  whom  lie  spent  one  year  in  the  study 
of  law.  He  was  articled  for  five  years,  but  at  the  end  of  four  years  he  decided  to  turn  his 
attention  to  other  pursuits,  for  which  purpese  he  went  to  Buffalo,  N.  Y.,  in  May,  18(52,  and 
entered  the  employ  of  James  W.  Scatcherd,  an  extensive  and  exceptionally  prosperous  whole- 
sale lumber  dealer.  This  firm  afterward  became  Scatcherd  & Belton,  and  later  Scatcherd 
Son  which  title  it  retains  at  the  present  time.  Mr.  Wright  has  been  with  this  firm  continuously 
for  over  thirty  years  and  from  his  excellent  judgment,  keen  commercial  instincts  and  tine 
business  management,  the  utmost  contidence  is  reposed  in  him.  In  the  year  18(56  he  mar- 
ried Miss  Kate  E.  Warner,  of  Buffalo,  N.  Y.,  daughter  of  T.  H.  and  M.  L.  Warner  and 
remained  in  the  city  of  Buffalo  until  about  1871,  when  he  became  manager  and  buyer  at 
different  points  and  in  1875  established  a branch  yard  and  headquarters  in  Indianajmlis, 
where  he  has  since  resided  with  his  family.  Since  locating  in  this  city  he  has  taken  a deep 
interest  in  everything  for  the  advancemenPof  its  best  interests,  is  public  spirited  to  a degree 
and  is  liberal  in  the  use  of  his  means  in  the  furtherance  of  any  enterprise  which  has  for  its 
object  the  welfare  of  this  section.  He  is  a member  in  good  standing  of  the  Commercial 
Club,  and  in  politics  is  a stanch  Republican,  ever  taking  an  active  interest  in  the  affairs  of 
his  ward  in  particular. 

Joseph  Robert  Perry,  Ph.  D.,  M.  D.  The  time  has  never  been  when  the  prescrip 
tion  druggist  was  not  of  as  great  importance  to  the  community  as  a practicing  [)hysician. 
Indeed  it  would  be  difficult  to  name  a branch  of  business  that  is  more  indispensably  impor- 
tant than  that  devoted  to  the  sale  of  drugs  and  the  preparation  of  prescriptions.  One  of  the 
prominent  retail  houses  in  this  line  in  Indianapolis  is  that  owned  and  conducted  by  Joseph 
Robert  Perry  who  has  been  the  proprietor  of  his  present  establishment  since  1872.  He  car- 
ries a choice  stock  of  goods  valued  at  about  $5,600  and  has  a lucrative  trade,  the  sequent 
of  careful  attention  to  business  and  a sincere  love  for  his  calling.  Joseph  R.  Perry,  was 
brought  up  in  Wayne  County  and  received  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Indiana. 
When  a mere  lad  he  became  a clerk  in  a drug  store,  during  which  time  he  ac(juired  a liking 
for  the  calling  which  has  always  remained  with  him.  In  November,  1868,  he  came  to 
Indianajmlis  and  kept  the  books  of  several  firms  up  to  1872,  at  which  time  he  decided  to 
open  a drug  establishment  of  his  own  and  time  has  shown  the  wisdom  of  this  venture.  He 
was  the  originator  and  organizer  of  the  State  Pharmaceutical  Association  in  1882  and  for 
eight  consecutive  years  he  was  .secretary  of  the  same.  He  is  also  a member  of  the  Marion 
County  Druggists’  Association  and  has  been  officially  connected  in  various  capacities,  and  is 
a member  of  the  American  Pharmaceutical  Association.  The  Doctor  served  throughout  the 
Rebellion,  enlisting  in  Company  C,  Twenty  tirst  Ohio  Volunteers,  April  16,  1861,  serving 
for  four  months  in  West  Virginia,  and  being  discharged  August  12.  1861,  by  reason  of 
expiration  of  term  of  .service.  He  re-enlisted  in  October  in  C<)m])any  F,  Fifty  seventh  Regi- 
ment Indiana  Infantry,  the  majority  of  the  officers  of  which  were  ministers  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  and  it  was  known  at  that  time  as  the  “Preachers  Regiment.”  He  was 
an  active  participant  in  the  bloody  battle  of  Shiloh,  as  well  as  numerous  hotly  contested 
skirmishes,  and  at  Scary  Creek  in  July,  1862,  he  was  shot  just  below  the  knee  in  the  left 
leg,  which  so  disa))led  him  that  he  was  finally  comjielled  to  leave  his  regiment,  which  he 
was  very  loath  to  do,  receiving  his  discharge  in  July,  1863.  At  one  time  he  was  i)laced  on 
the  op(;rating  table  in  order  that  the  injured  member  might  bt^  amjmtated  but  so  vigorous 
were  his  protestations  against  this  measure  that  the  surgeons  yielded  to  his  wishes  and  thus 
the  limb  was  saved.  He  proved  himself  to  be  a faithful,  tried  and  time  soldier,  and  it  is 
owing  to  just  such  men  that  the  I’nion  was  preserved.  At  the  time  of  the  organization  of 
the  State  l^harmaceut ical  Association  in  1882,  Dr.  Perry  established  the  Indiana  iViarmoc/sf, 
a monthly  journal,  which  has  grown  in  favor  with  the  profession  and  has  now  a circulation  of 
over  f5,( )()().  'I’he  journal  was  first  started  as  an  experiment  and  to  advertise  the  State 
I’harmaceiitical  .Association,  with  no  thought  of  continuing  if,  but  it  met  with  such  encour- 
agement and  favor  that  it  has  lieen  regularly  issued  ever  since  and  is  now  considered  one  of 
the  leading  pharmaceutical  journals  of  the  country.  In  1872  he  was  married  to  Miss  Eliz 
abeth  Daugherty,  a native  of  Philadelphia  and  a (laughter  of  William  Daugherty.  Dr.  and 
Mrs.  I’erry  have  two  children : Prof.  St.  John  I’erry,  M.  D.,  of  Lincoln,  Neb.,  and  Ida  M. 


230 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Perry,  now  teaching  school  in  the  Indianapolis  public  schools.  Ur.  Perry  is  a man  of  great 
energy  and  indnstry,  jiossesses  a thorough  knowledge  of  the  requirements  of  his  business,  and 
the  well  established  rejiutation  of  his  house  assures  the  very  best  treatment  to  all  who  may 
become  its  customers.  The  ever  expanding  wealth  and  luxurious  tastes  of  the  country  tend  to  a 
demand  for  more  expensive  and  elegant  goods,  and  the  Doctor  always  keeps  in  full  step  with  the 
spirit  of  the  age  and  always  offers  the  best  and  latest  novelties  as  well  as  all  the  standard  articles 
usnally  found  in  his  line  of  trade.  He  is  public  s))irited  in  a more  than  ordinary  degree, 
contributes  to  the  best  interests  of  the  city,  and  he  and  his  wife  are  popular  in  social  circles. 
He  was  secretary  of  the  Mercantile  Association,  which  was  afterward  merged  into  the  board 
of  traele,  is  a Scottish  Kite  IMason,  takes  an  active  interest  in  the  G.  A.  R.,  the  S.  of  V.,  the 
Ik  Y.  L.,  and  is  the  surgeon  of  Anderson  Post,  No.  369,  of  which  he  is  also  past  com- 
mander. The  |)rinciples  of  the  Republican  party  have  always  recommended  themselves 
to  his  judgment  and  he  always  su[)ports  the  men  and  measures  of  his  party. 

John  E.  Foley.  The  self  made  man  is  entitled  to  respect  and  he  gets  it  in  America. 
He  represents  all  that  is  vigorous  and  substantial  in  our  American  Institutions.  Indian- 
apolis has  many  such,  but  none  more  deserving  of  notice  in  a work  like  this  than  John  E. 
Foley,  chief  (derk  in  the  office  of  the  United  States  Marshal.  Mr.  Foley  was  born  in  Madi- 
son, Ind.,  August  25,  1856,  a son  of  James  and  Bridget  (Murtaugh)  Foley.  His  father, 
who  came  to  Indianapolis  with  his  family  in  1865  and  remained  here  until  his  death,  which 
occurred  in  1886,  was  a ]irominent  contractor.  Mr.  Foley  was  educated  largely  in  the  city, 
but  for  three  years  was  a student  at  St.  Joseph’s  College  at  Teutopolis,  111.  He  acquired  a 
knowledge  of  telegraphy  and  for  some  time  devoted  himself  to  it  professionally.  In  due 
time  he  was  appointed  ticket  agent  and  telegraph  operator  at  Massachusetts  Avenue,  Indian- 
apolis, for  the  Indianajiolis,  Pittsburg  & Cleveland  Railroad  Company,  and  tilled  that 
position  with  much  fidelity  for  four  years.  He  then  accepted  a position  in  the  freight  de- 
partment on  the  “Bee  Line”  at  Brightwood,  and  was  thus  connected  for  thirteen  years. 
The  success  and  credit  with  which  he  acquitted  himself  here  may  be  inferred  when  the 
reader  is  informed  that  from  a clerk  he  rose  to  be  chief  clerk  of  the  Indianapolis  division 
and  su}>erintended  the  work  of  clerks  who  were  ])laced  under  him.  He  resigned  that  position 
M ay  1,  1892,  to  accept  the  chief  clerkshi])  in  the  United  States  Marshall’s  office.  Mr.  Foley 
has  taken  an  active  part  in  politics  for  more  than  ten  years,  and  was  one  of  the  organizers 
of  the  Gray  Club,  of  which  he  was  for  two  years  vice-president  and  is  now  president.  This 
body  has  a membership  of  400,  and  is  considered  the  leading  Democratic  club  of  the  State. 
Mr.  Foley  was  especially  active  in  the  organization  of  the  Democratic  Railway  Club,  and 
his  success  as  a recruiter  and  organizer  is  attested  by  the  fact  that  in  five  weeks  the  member- 
shij)  was  brought  up  to  2, 137.  He  was  unanimously  chosen  its  ])resident  in  recognition  of 
this  service.  He  was  not  an  applicant  for  his  present  honorable  and  res])onsible  position, 
but  it  was  conferred  upon  him  because  of  his  fitness  for  it  and  his  deserts  as  an  unswerving 
and’ always  effective  worker  in  the  interests  of  his  party.  He  is  genial  to  a degree  and  has 
as  many  warm  personal  friends  as  any  man  in  the  city.  He  is  a prominent  member  of  the 
B.  & P.  O.  of  E. , and  of  the  Catholic  Knights  of  America,  and  identified  with  other  popular 
social  and  beneficent  organizations.  As  a citizen  he  is  ])ublic  spirited  and  most  liberally 
helpful  toward  any  movement  having  a tendency  to  benefit  any  considerable  class  of  his 
fellow- townsmen. 

Mrs.  Eliza  A.  Blaker.  Among  prominent  eastern  women  of  to-day,  few,  if  any,  take  a 
higher  rank  than  Mrs.  Eliza  A.  Blaker,  the  well-known  superintendent  of  Indianapolis  Free 
Kindergartens  and  Domestic  Training  Schools,  as  well  as  principal  of  the  Normal  School  for 
the  training  of  teachers.  This  lady  has  gained  prominence  and  a national  reputation  through 
her  remarkable  and  rare  executive  ability.  So  certain  is  success  to  follow  all  her  efforts  that 
her  name  in  connection  with  any  undertaking  is  regarded  almost  as  a talisman  of  success. 
She  is  one  of  those  in  whom  action  becomes  unconsciously  a synonym  of  leadership,  and  by 
intuition  and  by  choice  her  attention  has  been  turned  largely  to  ))ublic  matters,  in  which  the 
interests  of  numbers  are  involved.  This  has  made  her  a marked  figure  in  public  movements 
in  her  home,  city  and  State.  A’et  the  time  she  gives  to  these  matters  is  what,  for  another 
woman,  would  be  leisure  hours.  Mrs.  Blaker  is  by  birth  and  by  her  most  not  ii'eable  charac- 
teristics and  special  symj)athies,  an  eastern  lady,  born  in  the  city  of  Brotherly  Love,  Penn. 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


237 


March  5,  1854.  She  comes  of  English  Quaker  descent,  so  noted  for  sterling  qualities,  and 
has  inherited  the  best  of  these  qualities.  Her  grandfather  was  a German  and  the  family 
settled  in  Philadelphia  at  a very  early  date,  being  among  the  pioneers  of  thatcity.  This  family 
is  also  related  to  the  old  and  well-known  historic  family  of  Coopers.  Mrs.  Blaker’s  father, 
Jacob  L.,  was  a man  of  self  education  and  was  noted  for  his  conversational  powers.  He 
married  Miss  Mary  Core,  and  to  them  were  lK)rn  three  children,  two  besides  our  subject.  Dr. 
John  L.  and  Mary  T.  The  former  is  a resident  of  Albany,  N.  Y.,  and  the  latter  a teacher 
in  the  kindergartens  of  this  city.  Early  in  her  youth  Mrs.  Blaker  had  high  aspirations  and 
with  a view  of  becoming  an  educator  studied  most  diligently  early  and  late,  and  as  a result 
while  yet  quite  young,  graduated  from  both  the  High  School  and  Normal  Training  School  for 
teachers,  also  the  Centennial  Training  School  for  Kindergartens.  She  has  always  been  a close 
student.  After  graduating  she  was  employed  as  a teacher  in  the  pulilic  schools  in  Philadel 
phia,  which  position  she  tilled  with  highest  honors  for  several  years.  Inspired  with  the  love 
for  kindergarten  work  she  took  up  the  study  of  this  art  in  the  Centennial  Training  School, 
and  after  a thorough  course  she  entered  ardently  upon  her  labors  in  its  cause.  In  1882  she 
was  called  to  Indianapolis  for  the  jmrpose  of  organizing  a training  school  for  kindergartners 
and  primary  teachers,  out  of  which  has  grown  one  of  the  largest, best  and  noted  free  kindergar- 
ten systems  in  the  United  States,  largely  due  to  the  untiring  energies  of  Mrs.  Blaker.  There 
is  probably  no  other  woman  in  the  country  better  known  in  kindergarten  work  than  she.  She 
is  devoted  to  her  work  in  all  its  branches,  is  a noble  woman  in  every  sense  of  the  term,  and 
is  loved  by  all  her  teachers  as  well  as  her  pupils,  from  the  little  ragged  “black”  urchin  to 
the  ones  of  the  wealthiest  parents.  A well  known  writer  says  of  her;  “The  saying  that  one 
must  go  from  home  to  hear  the  news  was  well  illustrated  during  the  National  Educa- 
tional Convention  at  St.  Paul  last  July,  in  regard  to  our  Normal  School — for  while  I will 
venture  to  say  that  many  of  our  membership  do  not  even  know  that  we  have  such  a school  - 
those  who  attended  that  convention  or  read  the  St.  Paul  dailies  during  its  sessions,  learned 
that  the  Indiana  KindergarteTi  Normal  School  had  distanced  all  competitors,  and  by  its  dis 
play  of  work  conferred  honor  on  the  State  whose  name  it  bears.  Its  principal,  our  own  Mrs. 
Blaker,  was  made  secretary  and  treasurer  of  tiie  kindergarten  department  of  the  National 
Educational  Association.  She  is,  therefore,  secretary  of  that  dej)artment  for  the  Interna- 
tional Convention,  to  be  held  this  summer  in  Toronto,  Canada,  commencing  July  14.  In 
addition  to  her  regular  work  as  superintendent  of  eight  kindergartens,  six  kitchen  gardens, 
and  two  domestic  training  schools,  two  Slojd  schools,  the  Boy’s  Educational  and  Industrial 
Union,  for  which  she  plans  and  directs  all  the  work,  the  instruction  of  the  eight  classes  in 
the  Normal,  to  which  her  afternoons  are  devoted,  and  a large  correspondence  in  reference  to 
tlie  work  here,  and  advice  to  its  establishment  elsewhere,  scholarship  in  the  Normal  School, 
and  positions  for  former  graduates  in  different  schools  and  institutions;  has  charge  of  all  the 
correspondence  in  reference  to  kindergarten  work  with  all  the  nations  of  the  globe  who  con 
template  sending  re|)re8entatives  to  the  International  Convention.  I think  we,  as  a society, 
may  well  feel  proud  of  having  such  a superintendent  for  our  kindergartens  and  kitchen 
gardens,  and  such  a ])rincipal  for  our  Normal  School.  The  work  this  Normal  School  is  doing 
is  far-reaching  in  its  results,  for  the  young  women  thoroughly  trained  in  it  for  kindergarten, 
domestic  science,  kitchen  garden,  primary  and  normal  work,  are  called  to  positions  in  the 
east  and  we.st,  north  and  south,  and  are  thus  sowing  the  good  seed  throughout  the  land. 
Summing  np  the  result  of  the  last  year’s  work  (18*J2-b3),  we  point  to  4,182  inqn'Is  hel|)ed 
and  taught  in  a way  that  tells  now  in  its  immediate  influence  on  the  parents  and  the  lionies, 
and  that  will  tell  m(jre  and  more  as  the  years  go  by,  and  these  children  become  in  their  turn 
parents  and  makers  of  homes,  and  so  on  through  the  generations,  l)oth  for  time  and  for 
eternity,  such  work,  such  teaching,  will  tell  the  whole  world  of  her  success.”  Mrs.  Blakm- 
was  chosen  one  of  the  speakers  of  the  Woman’s  Congress,  held  at  Memorial  Art  Palace  at 
Chicago,  from  May  in  to  22,  181)3.  She  was  also  appointed  on  the  Board  of  Jurors  on  Ele- 
mentary Education  in  Liberal  Arts  Hall  at  the  World’s  Colnndjian  Exposition.  She  was 
married  iti  1880  to  ^^r.  Louis  J.  Blaker,  of  Philadelphia,  and  who  is  now  agent  for  tlie 
White  Line  Central  'I’ransit  Company,  Indianapolis.  They  reside  on  North  Meridian  St  la'et, 
in  a beantifnl  home  away  from  the  noise  and  bustle  of  city  life.  From  hei-  infancy  M rs.  Blaker 
was  trained  to  a strong  belief  in  the  rights  of  women  to  widen  opportunities  for  eilucation 


238 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


and  to  a fuller  share  in  the  honors  and  the  profits  of  business,  professional  and  industrial 
activity  than  they  have  hitherto  enjoyed.  She  has  always  labored  with  a bioad  view.  Her 
work  is  all  done  above  the  plane  of  personalities,  and  she  cares  little  for  the  honors  that  it 
brings  her,  in  comparison  with  the  good  of  the  cause.  She  has  worked  steadily  for  harmony 
and  consolidation  among  conflicting  interests,  and  with  an  eye  single  to  the  permanent  good. 

William  H.  Smythe,  now  a prominent  figure  in  the  affairs  of  American  Freemasonry, 
is  a Hoosier  by  birth,  born  in  Putnam  County,  near  the  city  of  Creencastle,  July  2,  1846. 
His  grandparents  were  born  in  Virginia,  and  were  industrious  and  enterprising  citizens  of 
that  grand  old  mother  of  States.  One  branch  of  the  family,  however,  at  a later  day  emi- 
grated to  Kentucky,  in  which  State  the  father  of  our  subject  was  born.  The  mother  was  a 
native  of  Indiana.  When  William  was  about  nine  years  of  age  he  was  left  fatherless,  and 
when  twelve  years  of  age  he  received  an  injury  to  the  knee  that  threatened  to  and  did 
make  him  a cripple  for  life.  Kealizing  that  he  must  learn  a trade  for  his  own  subsistence, 
as  well  as  to  aid  his  mother  support  her  large  family,  he  entered  a shoemaker’s  shop  at  the 
age  of  si.xteen.  From  the  age  of  twelve  until  he  had  reached  his  sixteenth  birthday  he  saw 
but  few  idle  moments,  devoting  the  time  spent  by  other  boys  in  amusement  to  sawing  w’ood 
and  in  other  occupations  suitable  to  his  age  and  strength.  In  this  way  he  earned  sufficient 
means  to  supiiort  himself  and  to  obtain  the  learning  he  so  much  coveted.  From  the  time  he 
commenced  his  trade  he  labored  at  it  for  sixteen  years,  but  to  a mind  like  his  the  work  of  the 
bench  was  not  sufficient,  though  it  brought  him  a comfortable  maintenance.  The  desire  for  a 
better  education  was  strong  in  this  Hoosier  youth  and  followed  him  into  manhood.  Many 
times  the  midnight  oil  was  consumed  while  he  struggled  with  subjects  that  would  benetit 
him  in  coming  years,  and  the  very  best  books  were  eagerly  devoured  by  him.  Some  time 
after  attaining  his  majority  he  became  interested  in  the  Masonic  fraternity  and  received  the 
degree  of  Master  Mason  in  Applegate  Lodge,  No.  155,  at  Fillmore,  Ind.,  June  I,  1869, 
serving  as  master  of  the  lodge  in  1878  and  1879.  The  year  1871  he  was  made  a Royal  Arch 
Mason  and  served  as  high  priest  of  his  chapter  for  four  years.  In  1874  he  became  a royal 
and  select  master  and  presided  over  his  council  for  six  years.  He  was  made  a Knight 
Templar  in  1876,  and  two  years  later  was  made  eminent  commander.  His  marked  promi- 
nence in  the  craft  at  this  writing  consists  in  the  fact  that  he  occupies  the  positions  of 
grand  recording  officer  of  all  the  grand  bodies  of  the  Ancient  York  rite  in  Indiana.  He 
was  elected  grand  secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  in  May, 
1878,  and  re-elected  at  each  succeeding  annual  meeting;  was  appointed  grand  secretary  of 
the  Grand  Chapter  of  Royal  Arch  Masons,  grand  recorder  of  the  Grand  Council  of  Royal 
and  select  Masters,  and  grand  recorder  of  the  Grand  Commandery  of  Knights  Templar, 
respectively,  on  November  10,  1888,  and  has  been  elected  to  these  several  positions  at  each 
succeeding  annual  meeting  since  held  by  them.  He  has  also  served  as  grand  secretary  of 
the  Grand  Chapter  of  the  O.  E.  S.,  of  Indiana,  the  system  of  Adoptive  Masonry  in  Amer- 
ica, continuously  from  1876  to  1893,  and  has  been  treasurer  of  the  Masonic  Mutual  Benefit 
Society  of  Indiana  for  a period  of  five  years.  The  discharge  of  the  duties  thus  confided  to 
him  necessitated  his  removal  to  Indianapolis,  wliere  he  has  long  resided.  These  positions 
are  a part  of  what  is  known  as  the  York  Rite  of  Masonry,  but  his  affection  for  and  interest 
in  every  branch  of  Free  Masonry  led  him  to  seek  and  attain  the  mysteries  of  the  Ancient 
Accepted  Scottish  Rite,  and  he  received  its  degrees  up  to  and  including  the  thirty-second 
degree,  at  Indianapolis,  in  1881  and  1884.  He  was  honored  by  the  Supreme  Council  for 
the  Northern  Masonic  Jurisdiction  with  the  degree  of  sovereign  grand  inspector  general, 
thirty-third  degree,  the  last  degree  of  the  rite  at  Chicago,  in  September,  1886.  Mr.  Smythe 
is  a man  of  spotless  reputation  and  absolute  integrity.  The  hra’d  training  of  his  early  life 
was  the  thorough  school  in  which  he  learned  the  importance  of  punctuality  in  all  engage- 
ments and  fidelity  to  every  trust;  and  also  mental  discipline  and  self  reliance.  These  at 
once  mark  his  success  in  life,  his  high  standing  in  his  community,  and  universal  respect 
and  esteem  of  all  who  know  him.  His  ever  thoughtful  and  constant  care  of  his  family,  as 
a husband  and  father;  his  prompt  and  most  efficient  discharge  of  the  duties  of  the  high 
stations  he  is  occupying;  his  undeviating  courtesy  toward  all  who  approach  him  in  business 
relations;  his  kindness,  consideration  and  accommodation  to  those  who  seek  his  counsel  or 
assistance,  by  private  request  of  every  character;  have  made  him  innumerable  admirers 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  239 

aud  friends  in  all  portions  of  the  State,  and  indeed  in  numerous  localities  throughout  the 
country. 

William  H.  Kendrick,  M.  D.  The  physician  is  a man  who  inspires  confidence  because 
he  is  worthy  of  it.  His  humanity  is  expressed  in  the  interest  he  takes  in  his  patient’s  wel- 
fare as  well  as  for  the  experience  he  may  gain  while  pursuing  the  paths  of  this  arduous 
profession,  in  order  to  benefit  future  sufferers.  Dr.  Kendrick  is  a pliysician  who  has  always 
loved  knowledge  and  as  a physician  is  devoted  to  his  profession,  careful  in  his  investigations 
and  gives  all  the  time  he  can  find  in  hisimsy  life  to  books  and  periodicals  devoted  to  medicine 
and  surgery.  He  is  built  upon  a broad  gauge  and  he  has  always  labored  under  the  belief 
that  it  was  his  duty  to  gain  knowledge  from  whatever  source  it  came,  so  that  it  was  reliable 
aud  valuable.  He  has  always  desjiised  charlatanry  aud  deceit  in  all  its  forms  and  believes 
in  deserving  the  confidence  of  patients  by  pursuing  strictly  open  and  honorable  methods. 
His  range  of  information  is  broad  and  during  the  many  years  that  he  has  pursued  the  calling 
of  Esculapius  he  has  won  a wide  reputation  and  a large  practice.  The  Doctor  is  now  in  his 
eightieth  year,  for  he  was  born  in  Knox  County,  Tenu.,  near  Wrights  Ferry  on  the  Holsten 
River  on  December  21.  1814,  and  there  resided  until  he  was  five  years  old.  He  was  then 
taken  to  the  State  of  Ohio  and  until  he  attained  manhood  he  gave  his  father  his  assistance  on 
the  home  farm  in  Preble  County.  He  was  an  attendant  of  the  common  schools  during  his 
youth,  and  in  early  life  was  converted  to  the  Christian  religion  and  soon  after  began  speaking 
in  the  cause  of  Christ.  Some  time  after  he  was  ordained  to  preach  in  the  United  Brethren 
Church,  the  Laying  on  Hands  being  performed  by  Senior  H.  Coombs,  presiding  bishop, 
after  which  Dr.  Kendrick  became  a traveling  minister  and  thus  labored  in  his  Master’s 
vineyard  for  several  years.  Owing  to  his  health  giving  way  he  gave  up  this  work  and  turned 
his  attention  to  the  study  of  medicine  in  the  office  ofDrs.  Myers  & Hammond,  of  Richmond, 
Ind. , and  upon  leaving  them  he  went  to  Washington,  Wayne  County,  where  he  practiced  his 
profession  for  two  or  three  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  went  to  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  aud 
graduated  from  the  Eclectic  Medical  College,  after  which  he  returned  to  Washington  and 
resumed  his  practice.  After  a short  time  spent  in  Pendleton,  he  came  to  Indianapolis  in 
1851,  and  in  this  city  has  made  his  home  ever  since.  During  the  great  Civil  War  he  was 
made  assistant  surgeon  of  the  Nineteenth  Indiana  Regiment  but  after  a time  was  taken  from 
the  field  and  placed  in  charge  of  the  jiatent  office  hospital,  which  position  he  retained  until 
he  was  taken  with  a severe  spell  of  tyj)hoid  fever,  which  so  undermined  his  health  that  he 
resigned  his  position  aud  returned  home.  He  was  very  shortly  after  made  jirofessor  in  the 
Medical  Eclectic  College,  of  Chicago,  where  he  delivered  lectures  until  the  great  fire  of  1871 
swept  the  college  away.  He  then  returned  to  his  home  in  Indianapolis  where  he  has  remained 
ever  since  and  assisted  in  establishing  the  Eclectic  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  and 
was  made  Dean  of  the  Faculty,  continuing  as  such  three  years.  Although  he  is  now  much 
liroken  in  health,  and  is  (piite  advanced  in  years,  yet  he  is  possessed  of  a wonderful  const! 
tution  and  his  mind  is  as  clear  and  active  as  in  the  days  of  his  youth.  He  is  a member  of 
the  Indiana  Eclectic  Medical  Association  of  Marion  County  and  was  chosen  a delegate  to 
the  Eclectic  Medical  Congress  held  at  Chicago  during  the  Columbian  Exposition,  but  ill 
health  prevented  him  from  attending.  In  the  field  of  politics  Dr.  Kendrick  has  been  honored 
by  his  party  and  in  1891  he  was  elected  to  the  State  Legislature  and  after  his  return  from 
the  war  was  re-elected,  serving  in  all  three  terms.  He  introduced  several  bills  whch  after 
ward  became  law,  and  during  his  first  term  when  an  objectionnl  bill  was  introduced  relative 
to  the  secession  of  Indiana  from  the  Union  the  Doctor  was  one  of  the  majority  of  Republic.ans 
who  left  the  legislative  hall  to  prevent  the  passage  of  the  same.  He  was  married  on  March 
19,  1842,  to  Jeannette  Meredith,  a native  of  North  Carolina,  and  a cousin  of  (Jen.  Meredith. 
To  them  two  children  were  born:  Robert  and  Minerva  J.  Originally  he  was  a Jacksonian 
Democrat  in  his  |)olitical  views  but  assisted  in  the  formation  of  the  Republican  jiarty  and  has 
ever  since  been  a stanch  8U[)porter  of  the  same. 

Hiram  .Moorhouh.  This  successful  farmer  was  born  in  Warren  Township,  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  July  4,  1834,  on  the  farm  belonging  to  his  father,  Andrew  Moorhous,  who 
was  born  in  'J’ornpkins  County,  N.  Y.,  in  1799,  and  came  to  Indiana  in  1824,  entering,  soon 
after,  229  acres  of  land  in  Warren  4'ownship  of  the  county  in  which  his  son  now  resides. 
Before  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1894,  he  had  cleared  109  acres  and  made  many  improve- 


240 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


meiits  iu  the  way  of  Iniildiiigs.  He  was  married  in  March,  1825,  to  Miss  Theresa  M’hite, 
and  to  them  were  horn  eight  children,  as  follows:  Louisa  (wife  of  Capt.  John  A.  McLaugh- 
lin, who  served  throughout  the  Civil  War  as  a member  of  Company  A,  Forty-seventh 
Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry,  became  lieutenant-colonel,  commanding  that  regiment,  and  by 
his  wife  the  father  of  five  children — Mary  (wife  of  J.  L.  Fenny),  Ida  (deceased),  Emma 
(Mrs.  Fverett),  James  A.  and  John  Gr.);  Albert  (who  died  May  10,  1890,  was  a corporal  in 
Company  D,  Fourth  Indiana,  during  the  Mexican  War  and  was  captain  of  Company  L, 
Ninth  Indiana  Cavalry,  during  the  Civil  War;  was  badly  wounded  at  Nashville  and  his 
death  resulted  from  these  wounds);  Clarissa;  Indiana  (married  Isaac  H.  Shriner,  by  whom 
she  has  one  child);  Thomas;  Hiram  (the  subject  of  this  sketch);  Sarah  (who  died  unmarried), 
and  Kobert  (who  served  as  sej-geant  in  Company  L,  Ninth  Indiana  Cavalry,  was  captured  in 
northern  Alabama  and  lost  his  life  in  the  terrible  explosion  of  the  steamer  “Sultana  ”).  J’he 
father  of  these  children  was  a Democrat  {)olitically,  and  a luember  of  the  Baptist  Church,  as 
was  his  wife.  He  was  a private  in  Capt.  Bedding’s  company,  organized  in  Indiana  for  the 
Black  Hawk  War.  and  went  from  Indianapolis  to  Chicago  on  horseback,  but  the  war  was 
over  when  he  arrived.  His  wife  died  in  1889  at  the  age  of  ninety-one  years.  The  paternal 
grandfather,  Nathaniel  Moorhous,  was  born,  lived  and  died  in  the  State  of  New  York,  and 
was  a farmer  all  his  life.  He  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  the  Revolution,  being  a member 
of  Capt.  Bell’s  company  of  scouts.  His  children  were  Andrew,  Silas,  Sylvanus,  Mary  and 
Wilbur.  The  immediate  subject  of  this  sketch  was  broirght  up  on  a farm  of  260  acres, 
belonging  to  his  father,  one  of  the  patents  for  which  l)ears  the  signature  of  John  Q.  Adams, 
another  having  the  signature  of  Cen.  Andrew  Jackson.  In  the  subscription  schools  of  his 
boyhood  days  Hiram  Moorhous  was  educated,  but  he  attended  only  about  two  months  out  of 
the  year  up  to  the  age  of  fourteen  years.  He  remained  on  his  father’s  farm  until  about 
twenty-eight  years  of  age,  and  in  the  spring  of  1861  enlisted  in  Comjiany  K,  Eleventh 
Indiana  Regiment  Zouaves,  of  which  Col.  Lew  Wallace  was  the  commander.  He  entered 
as  a private  and  served  as  such  for  three  months;  then,  having  served  his  term  of  enlistment, 
he  became  a member  of  Company  A,  Forty-seventh  Indiana,  and  was  made  first  duty  ser- 
geant and  six  months  later  was  promoted  to  second  lieutenant,  which  rank  he  held  up  to  the 
time  of  his  discharge,  which  occurred  at  Helena,  Ark.,  in  November,  1863.  He  was  in  the 
following  battles;  Romney,  Va. ; Island  No.  10;  a gunboat  fight  at  Riddle’s  Point,  below 
Island  No.  10;  New  Madrid,  Mo.;  Brown’s  Plantation,  Miss.,  where  his  company  lost  thir- 
teen out  of  twenty-one  men.  Although  Mr.  Moorhous’  health  was  always  poor  dirring  his 
service,  with  the  exceptioir  of  the  first  six  months,  he  remained  faithfully  with  his  company 
and  was  always  ready  to  report  for  duty.  Upon  receiving  his  discharge  he  returned  home, 
and  for  a year  thereafter  was  an  invalid.  He  remained  at  home  until  1868,  then  bought  160 
acres  of  land  in  Warren  Township,  Marion  County,  Ind.  December  3,  1868,  he  was  mar- 
ried to  Elizabeth,  daughter  of  John  Ellenberger,  and  they  settled  on  the  tract  of  land  men- 
tioned. Since  then  he  has  increased  his  holding  to  260  acres,  of  which  220  acres  are  cleared. 
He  raises  the  usual  farm  jrroducts  and  about  fifty  head  of  hogs  yearly,  in  fact  is  a thrifty 
and  industrious  farmer.  To  himself  and  wife  five  children  have  been  given,  of  whom  one, 
John  A.,  died  in  infancy.  Those  living  are:  Ella  E.,  Charles  H., Frank  F.  and  Theresa  A. 
Mr.  Moorhous  was  a Democrat  in  his  political  views  until  the  firing  on  Fort  Sumter,  since 
which  time  he  has  been  an  ardent  Republican. 

Thomas  M.  McKee.  In  the  early  stages  of  American  history  necessity  goaded  the  wits 
of  the  handful  of  individuals  from  which  the  people  of  the  United  States  sprung,  and 
its  imprint  has  been  left  upon  their  descendants  in  the  shape  of  great  mental  activity  and 
ingenuity,  which  characterizes  them  as  a race.  Among  those  who  are  known  as  representa- 
tive American  citizens  the  name  of  Thomas  M.  McKee,  an  inventor  of  considerable  note, 
takes  a prominent  place.  He  was  born  in  Shelby  County,  Ind.,  in  1858,  and  is  a son  of 
Felix  L.  and  Melissa  (Jones)  McKee.  The  father  was  also  a product  of  Shelby  County, 
Ind.,  born  in  the  year  1822,  and  is  to  day  the  oldest  white  man  living  who  was  born  in  that 
county.  The  mother  was  a native  of  the  Blue-Grass  State  and  was  born  in  the  year  1833. 
She  died  in  March,  1893  but  the  father  is  still  living  and  finds  a comfortable  home  with  his 
son,  our  subject.  He  and  wife  were  the  parents  of  four  children,  two  sons  and  two  daugh- 
ters. The  daughters  died  in  infancy  and  the  son,  Jasper  N.,  now  resides  in  Brightwood, 


241 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

lud.  T.  M.  McKee  came  to  this  coimty  in  the  fall  of  1887,  from  Shelby  County  where  he 
was  reared  aud  educated,  and  he  first  engaged  in  the  work  of  contracting  and  biiilding.  He 
is  a cabinet  maker  by  trade  and  a man  of  remarkable  genius  in  the  way  of  inventing  new 
machinery.  Finding  the  building  and  contracting  business  overdone  he  began  inventing  a 
churn  which  he  has  recently  patented  and  put  on  the  market.  His  churn  is  made  to  run 
like  a clock  and  when  the  drum  is  wound  up  it  will  run  for  one  hour  and  will  churn  a batch 
of  butter  every  few  minutes.  A company  has  been  organized  and  the  new  churns  are  to  be 
put  on  the  market  in  large  numbers  for  the  next  season’s  trade.  In  matrimony,  as  in  other 
ventures,  he  has  been  very  successful.  He  was  married  to  Miss  Alfaretta  Johnson,  at  Greens- 
burg,  Ind.,  in  1880,  and  by  her  has  one  child,  a bright  little  girl  named  Elsie  May,  whose 
birth  occurred  July  31,  1881.  Mrs.  McKee’s  parents,  David  L.  aud  Sarah  (Tucker)  John- 
son, were  Indiana  people  and  are  both  dead.  Mr.  McKee  is  a gentleman  of  kind  disposition 
aud  pleasant  manners  and  has  a host  of  warm  friends. 

Jacob  B.  Caskey,  the  most  efficient  engineer  on  the  Bee  Line  division  of  the  Big  Four 
Railroad  is  a native  of  the  Buckeye  State,  born  in  Wayne  County,  September  22,  1845,  to 
the  union  of  John  and  Mary  (A^oung)  Caskey.  The  parents  were  married  in  Ohio  about  1844 
and  still  live  in  Bellefontaine,  that  State.  To  their  union  were  born  five  children,  three  sons 
and  two  daughters,  the  subject  of  this  sketch  being  the  eldest.  The  other  children  were 
named  in  the  order  of  their  births  as  follows;  James  married  Miss  Alice  Hindi  aud  became  a 
railroad  engineer,  aud  was  killed  in  Kansas  while  acting  in  that  capacity,  and  his  widow  now 
resides  in  Brightwood,  Ind.  ; John,  married  Miss  Mattie  Merrick  and  resides  in  Bellefontaine, 
Ohio;  Maggie,  married  Edward  Slone,  aud  is  also  a resident  of  Bellefontaine,  Ohio,  and 
Laura,  married  James  Powers  and  makes  her  home  in  Findlay,  Ohio.  Jacob  B.  Caskey,  the 
subject  of  this  sketch,  passed  his  youthful  days  in  his  native  county,  and  there  received  a 
fair  education.  In  1861  he  enlisted  in  the  Forty-second  Ohio  Regiment  under  Col.  James 
A.  Garfield,  and  served  until  cessation  of  hostilities.  He  participated  in  twenty-seven 
battles  and  was  slightly  wounded  at  Vicksburg  on  May  22.  At  the  close  of  the  war  ho 
returned  to  his  native  State  and  engaged  in  former  duties  of  engineer  on  the  railroad  and 
still  pulls  the  throttle  on  the  Bee  Line  division  of  the  Big  Four.  In  the  year  1868  he  was 
married  to  Miss  Emma  Bramwell,  daughter  of  John  M.  and  Mary  (Dorsey)  Bramwell,  who 
were  among  the  earliest  settlers  of  Indianapolis.  This  union  has  been  blessed  by  the  birth 
of  six  children,  three  sons  and  three  daughters:  Albert,  is  now  living  in  Watertown,  S.  D., 
aud  like  his  father  is  a railroad  engineer,  aud  is  married  to  Miss  Laura  Wilson,  of  Nichols, 
Iowa;  Grade,  married  James  Ackworth  and  resides  in  Brightwood;  Walter,  single,  makes 
his  home  with  his  parents  and  carries  on  a large  drug  store  for  his  father,  is  an  e.\j)ert 
druggist,  and  is  blessed  with  excellent  business  qualifications;  Effie,  is  at  home  with  her 
parents;  John  is  also  at  home,  as  is  the  youngest  child,  Stella.  Mr.  Caskey  became  a 
resident  of  Indiana  in  1866,  and  has  ever  since  made  it  his  home.  For  two  years  he  was 
trustee  of  Brightwood  and  for  the  sanje  length  of  time  was  j)resident  of  the  board  of 
trustees  of  this  place.  He  is  a member  in  good  standing  in  the  G.  A.  R.,  the  Brotherluxal 
of  Locomotive  Engineers  and  of  the  K.  of  P.  He  has  always  lieen  one  of  the  foremost, 
citizens  in  all  matters  of  public  improvement,  and  is  in  every  way  a most  worthy  and 
respected  citizen. 

Edoak  M.  Outlanij,  M.  D.  Health  is  the  most  precious  gift  of  nature,  and  how  to 
retain  it  aud  how  to  regain  it  when  lost  are  matters  of  vital  moment.  Some  obtain  health 
in  travel,  others  in  physicid  recreation  and  both  are  beneficial  but  they  do  not  always 
accomplish  the  object  in  view.  Medical  science  must  be  resorted  to  and  a good  physician 
employed.  Indianapolis  is  especially  favored  in  this  respect,  for  she  numbers  many  excellent 
physicians  among  her  professional  men.  Prominent  among  those  who  have  won  golden 
laurels  in  this  respect  stands  the  name  of  Dr.  Edgar  M.  Out. land.  He  is  a product  of  t he 
State,  born  in  Parke  County  October  12,  18t)l,  and  although  young  in  years  has  already  a 
knowledge  of  medicine  that  many  older  men  might  envy.  Ilis  father,  JtJin  T.  Oiitland,  is  a 
nativeof  North  Carolina  and  came  to  Parke  County.  Ind.,  with  his  parents  when  ten  years  of 
age.  He  has  been  a resident  of  that  county  ever  since  and  is  one  of  its  most  substantial 
farmers.  He  married  Miss  Mary  Newsom,  a nativ<»  of  Bartholomew  County,  Ind.,  and  they 
n(;w  reside  on  the  homest(>ad  in  I’arke  County.  Dr.  Ivigar  M.  Outland,  the  oidy  child  born 

Hi 


242 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


to  this  worthy  couple,  pussed  liis  youthful  days  in  assisting  his  father  on  the  farm  and  in 
attending  the  common  schools  where  he  secured  a good  practical  education.  Later  he 
entered  Earlham  College  at  Kichmond  and  in  1888  began  the  study  of  medicine  with  Dr. 
Woodard,  of  Indianapolis.  Later  he  entered  the  Physio- Medical  College  of  Indiana  from 
which  he  was  graduated  in  1890,  and  he  immediately  began  general  practice.  Shortly  after- 
ward he  was  appointed  to  the  chair  of  physical  diagnosis  in  the  college,  and  held  this  until 
the  fall  of  1892  when  he  was  promoted  to  the  chair  of  general  and  descriptive  anatomy. 
This  position  he  tills  at  the  present  time  with  credit  to  himself  and  to  the  evident  satisfaction 
of  the  college.  He  is  a member  of  the  American  Medical  Association,  also  the  Indiana  State 
Association,  and  has  been  president  of  both.  He  is  also  a member  of  the  Indianapolis  Med- 
ical Society  and  has  been  presiding  officer  of  the  same.  On  October  23,  1884,  he  was  mar- 
ried to  Miss  Tacy  J.  Allen,  a native  of  Parke  County,  Ind.,  and  the  daughter  of  Joseph  and 
Mahala  (Stalker)  Allen,  natives  of  Indiana  and  Ohio  respectively.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Outland  are 
the  parents  of  two  children;  Louverne  and  Raymond.  He  and  wife  are  members  of  the 
Friend’s  Church,  and  in  politics  he  adheres  to  the  principles  of  the  Republican  party. 

Henry  Dollman.  Ability,  when  backed  by  enterprising  business  measures  and  progress- 
ive ideas,  will  acomplish  more  than  any  other  professional  or  commercial  requirement. 
An  illustration  of  this  may  be  seen  in  the  career  of  Henry  Dollman,  who  is  one  of  the  most 
successful,  and  busy  contractors  and  builders  of  ludiauajmlis.  He  was  born  in  Napoleon, 
Ripley  County,  Ind.,  December,  1800,  a son  of  Gottleib  Dollman,  who  came  from  his  native 
land  of  Germany  to  this  country  when  a young  man.  He  tirst  made  his  home  in  the  city 
of  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  and  having  learned  the  carpenter’s  trade  in  the  old  country  he  worked 
at  it  as  a contractor  after  locating  in  Cincinnati.  He  afterward  moved  to  Ripley  County, 
Ind.,  where  he  became  a contractor  and  in  1873  became  a resident  of  Indianapolis.  Henry 
Dollman  was  placed  in  school  immediately  after  his  parents  arrival  in  this  city,  and  here  he 
obtained  a practical  education  which  well  fitted  him  for  the  busy  life  he  has  led.  While 
growing  to  manhood  Henry  learned  all  the  details  of  his  father’s  business,  and  afterward 
worked  under  his  competent  and  painstaking  instruction,  thus  obtaining  a knowledge  of  the 
trade  which  he  could  have  secured  in  no  other  manner.  Gottleib  Dollman  and  his  son 
Charles  were  for  some  time  in  partnership  as  contractors  and  builders,  during  which  time 
they  built  the  S[)encer  house,  the  St.  Charles  block,  did  the  work  on  the  Insane  hospital  and 
also  on  many  other  buildings  of  note  in  the  city  and  also  the  county.  Finally  Charles  Doll- 
man went  south  to  Memphis,  Tenn.,  and  Henry  Dollman  accompanied  him  and  while  in 
that  section  acted  in  the  capacity  of  superintendent  for  his  brother  who  was  doing  an  excep- 
tionally extensive  contracting  business.  In  1890  Henry  returned  to  Indianapolis  and  com- 
menced contracting  on  his  own  account  and  being  a thoroughly  good  business  man,  as  well 
as  being  up  in  his  trade  he  has  prospered  both  financially  and  in  reputation.  He  is  a mem- 
ber of  the  Contractors  and  Builders  Association,  and  politically  has  ever  been  in  sympathy 
with  the  Republican  part}".  His  father  is  still  residing  in  Indianapolis,  an  honored  citizen. 

Richard  Senour.  This  intelligent  and  substantial  citizen  was  born  in  Warren  Town- 
ship, Marion  County,  Ind.,  October  12,  1837,  on  the  old  homo  place  of  eighty  acres  belong- 
ing to  his  father,  Edward  Senour,  who  entered  it  in  1825.  Here  Richard  was  brought  up 
and  received  the  principal  part  of  his  education  in  the  subscription  schools  which  were  in 
vogue  at  that  time,  only  attending  the  public  schools  for  a year  or  two.  He  quit  attending 
school  when  about  twenty  years  of  age  but  remained  with  his  father  and  assisted  him  on  the 
home  farm  until  he  was  twenty-four  years  old,  then  began  working  at  the  carpenter’s  trade 
with  his  brother,  William  P.  Senour,  and  for  about  two  years  was  engaged  in  contracting. 
He  then  purchased  forty  acres  of  land  and  went  to  farming,  and  has  followed  this 
honorable  employment  ever  since,  being  now  the  owner  of  100  acres  of  land.  Since  about 
1873  he  has  been  raising,  buying  and  selling  live  stock,  which  he  has  found  to  be  quite  a 
profitable  source  of  revenue.  His  land  is  exceptionally  productive,  and  usually  yields  about 
twenty  bushels  of  wheat  to  the  acre,  and  other  grains  in  proportion.  Politically  he  is  a 
Democrat,  and  his  fir.st  vote  was  cast  for  Stephen  A.  Douglas.  He  and  his  wife  have  had  seven 
children,  two  of  whom  are  dead,  and  the  others  are  named  as  follows;  Mary,  Edward,  Laura, 
Helen  and  Elizabeth.  The  maiden  name  of  the  mother  of  these  children  was  Eunice  Bar- 
nard, daughter  of  Reuben  Barnard,  her  marriage  with  Mr.  Senour  being  celebrated  in  1869. 


‘243 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

The  father  of  Richard  Senour  was  Edward  Senour,  who  was  born  in  Boone  County,  Ky.,  in 
1802  and  was  married  there  to  Cassandra,  daughter  of  Richard  Wells,  and  about  1827  they 
came  to  Indiana,  entering  eighty  acres  in  Warren  Township  in  1825,  and  the  year  after  he 
walked  to  this  section  from  his  native  State,  carrying  his  axe  on  his  shoulder,  and  here  dead- 
ened a large  amount  of  timber  on  his  entry,  then  walked  back  to  his  native  State,  and  the 
following  fall  moved  thither  with  his  family.  He  soon  afterward  entered  100  acres  in  Boone 
County,  lud.,  which  he  held  until  1860,  then  sold.  He  lived  on  his  eighty-acre  tract  until 
his  death,  in  1873,  and  there  reared  eight  of  the  eleven  children  born  to  him:  Joseph,  who 
lives  in  Texas,  married  a Miss  Powell,  and  by  her  has  two  children,  Ira  and  Charlie;  Rich- 
ard, the  subject  of  this  sketch;  William  P.,  who  married  Louisa  Parrish,  by  whom  he  has  one 
son,  Frank;  Mary,  who  married  Luther  Easterday,  died,  leaving  three  children,  Gertrude, 
Walter,  and  Cozy;  Nancy,  who  first  married  Leland  Smith,  by  whom  she  had  one  child,  de- 
ceased, and  by  her  second  husband,  David  Brumley,  became  the  mother  of  two  children, 
Frank  and  Jessie;  Robert  married  a Miss  Robinson  and  resides  in  Indianapolis,  and  James, 
who  lives  on  the  old  home  place  in  Marion  County,  is  married  to  Allie  Murphy,  and  has  one 
daughter.  The  father  of  these  children  was  always  a Democrat  and  belonged  to  the  Christ- 
ian Church,  as  did  his  wife,  who  now  resides  with  her  son-in-law,  Mr.  Brumley.  The 
paternal  grandfather,  Philip  Senour,  was  a Virginian,  and  at  an  early  day  emigrated  to  Ken- 
tucky. He  married  a Miss  Glower,  and  to  them  ten  children  were  born  as  follows:  Edward, 
Adam,  Timothy,  Clara,  and  Sarah,  and  five  other  daughters  whose  names  are  unknown.  The 
grandfather  died  about  187)2,  at  about  the  age  of  seventy  years. 

Noah  Wright  was  born  in  Randolph  County,  N.  C.,  August  30,  1784,  and  in  1808 
became  a resident  of  Indiana,  at  which  time  there  were  only  three  counties  organized  in  the 
State.  He  first  located  at  Jeffersonville,  where  he  manufactured  brick  the  first  year  of  his 
residence,  then  farmed  awhile  for  a man  named  Holman,  and  then  served  one  year  on  the 
frontier  against  the  Indians,  for  which  service  he  received  a land  warrant  for  160  acres, 
which,  however,  he  did  not  receive  until  nearly  forty  years  later — a short  time  prior  to  his 
death.  After  the  close  of  the  Indian  war  he  returned  to  his  former  home  in  North  Carolina,  but 
only  remained  one  year,  then  returned  to  Indiana.  He  located  in  Washington  County,  Ind., 
where  he  was  employed  in  clearing  land,  and  here  he  was  married  July  28,  1814,  to  Susanna, 
daughter  of  Arthur  Parr,  a native  of  Rowan  County,  N.  C.  He  remained  in  that  county 
until  1831,  then  came  to  Marion  County,  where  he  purchased  at  different  times  640  acres  of 
land,  and  at  that  time  also  owned  in  Hamilton  County  420  acres.  He  settled  on  a tract  of 
160  acres  in  Perry  Township,  not  an  acre  of  which  had  been  cleared  and  there  he  lived  until 
his  death  July  11.  1863.  Seven  children  were  born  to  his  marriage:  Betsey  A.,  who  died  in 
1860,  was  the  wife  of  James  J.  Rooker,  and  left  one  son,  Hiram  W. ; David,  died  July  2, 
1883,  at  the  age  of  twenty  years;  Hiram,  born  June  18,  1819,  and  died  December  19,  1888, 
having  married  Ann  Hoover  who  bore  him  three  children,  Wintield  T.,  Missouri  and  Noah; 
Isaac,  born  January  7,  1824,  died  January  9,  1870,  having  married  Helen  Martin  who  boro 
him  two  children,  Alfaretta  and  Hattie;  Polly,  born  June  22.  1827,  died  December  21, 
1882,  the  wife  of  John  JI.  Wise;  Susanna,  born  March  17,  1831,  died  November  29,  1862, 
the  wife  of  Eli  Haverstick  (deceased),  by  whom  she  had  two  children,  Mary  E.  and  Chris- 
tina, and  Jasper  N.,  whose  name  follows  this  sketch.  The  father  of  these  children  was  an 
old  lino  Whig  and  afterward  a Republican.  He  was  a member  of  the  first  Legislature  con- 
vened in  Indiana  and  was  sheriff  of  Washington  County  some  five  or  six  terms.  He  was  not 
a church  member  but  gave  liberally  to  all  denominations.  His  wife  died  October  9,  1842. 
His  father,  Philburd  Wright,  was  born  in  Maryland  in  177)0  and  became  a settler  of  Indi- 
ana about  1813,  taking  u[)  his  residence  in  Union  County,  near  Brownsville,  where  lie  died 
in  1833.  He  was  a soldier  of  the  Revolution,  and  was  afterward  a justice  of  the  peace  for 
about  forty  years  in  Ilandol[)h  County,  N.  C.  Ho  was  married  to  Elizabeth  Reagan  and  to 
them  children  were  born  as  follows:  Joshua,  who  disappeared  at  New  Orleans  in  1815  and 
was  never  afterward  heard  from;  Delilah,  who  married  John  Summey;  Joel,  who  mairied  !i 
Miss  Bii'ely  and  became  the  father  of  two  children,  Ensley  and  Elizal)eth;  Sarah,  who  mar- 
rierl  John  Fontz;  Noah,  the  father  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch;  Levi,  married  a IMiss  Wright 
by  whom  he  had  three  daughters  and  four  sons;  EIizal)eth;  Eli,  resides  in  Wayne  County, 
Ind.,  is  married  and  has  a son.  Elmer;  J<^sse,  married  Mary  Brown  and  has  four  children. 


244 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Sarah,  Mary,  Eli  and  Noah;  Mary,  married  John  Beard  and  has  three  c-hildren,  Isaac,  Mary 
and  Malinda;  Elizabetli,  married  James  Rains  and  has  three  children,  Hiram,  Levi  and 
Martin;  Aaron,  married  Rnhama  Sellers  and  has  five  children,  Isaac,  Jesse,  Philbnrd,  Nancy 
and  Elizabeth, 

Jasper  Newton  Wright.  Among  the  thrifty  farmers  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  may  be 
mentioned  Jasper  Newton  Wright,  who  was  born  m the  township  in  which  he  now  resides 
December  5,  1884,  on  the  farm  lielonging  to  his  father,  Noah  Wright.  There  he  lived  until 
the  age  of  twenty-seven,  his  education  being  obtained  in  the  subscription  schools  of  that 
period,  continuing  about  five  sessions,  then  his  father  gave  him  a farm  of  U)0  acres,  sixty 
acres  of  which  were  cleared  and  on  which  had  been  erected  a house.  He  at  once  settled  on 
this  farm  and  made  his  home  with  the  family  of  John  Findley,  to  whom  he  rented  it  for 
three  years.  During  this  time  he  gave  his  attention  to  hauling  wood  off  the  farm  to  town. 
In  18<)b  he  was  married  to  Annie,  daughter  of  Muse  G.  and  Jane  Sanford,  natives  of  Vir- 
ginia, and  at  that  time  residents  of  Hancock  County,  Ind.,  and  to  their  union  five  children 
were  given  as  follows:  Elmer  (who  married  Christina  Gennaman),  Susanna  (who  married 
George  Kelgrice,  by  whom  she  has  one  son,  Ira),  Newton,  Harrison  and  Jane.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Wright  are  members  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  and  iiolitically  he  has  always  been  a 
Republican,  his  first  vote  having  been  cast  for  John  C.  Fremont.  Owing  to  physical  disa- 
bility he  was  not  in  the  service  of  his  country  during  the  Civil  War,  but  he  was  a strong 
Union  sympathizer. 

Dr.  David  H.  Harold.  There  is  always  in  the  medical  profession  some  individuals  who 
become  eminent  and  command  a large  patronage,  and  among  those  deserving  special  recog- 
nition is  Dr.  David  H.  Harold,  whose  face  is  a familiar  one  in  the  home  of  the  sick  and 
afflicted.  He  is  a native  of  Hamilton  County,  Ind.,  born  February  5,  1844,  and  the  son  of 
Nathan  Harold  who  was  born  in  the  old  North  State.  The  latter  came  to  Indiana  when 
eighteen  years  of  age,  settled  in  Wayne  County,  and  was  there  wedded  to  Miss  Betsey  Haw- 
kins, a native  of  that  county.  Nathan  Harold  was  a self-made,  self  educated  man.  In 
1883  he  moved  to  Hamilton  County,  Ind.,  and  was  one  of  the  pioneer  physicians  of  that 
county,  and  carried  on  an  active  and  general  practice  for  nearly  thirty  years.  Although 
the  advantages  for  an  education,  medical  and  otherwise,  were  poor  during  his  time,  he  was 
recognized  as  one  of  the  most  eminent  physicians  of  that  part  of  the  State  and  had  the  rec- 
ord of  never  losing  a patient  stricken  with  typhoid  fever.  His  death  occurred  April  1,  1885. 
His  widow  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  in  Hamilton  County.  Dr.  David  H.  Harold 
was  reared  in  Hamilton  County  and  educated  in  the  schools  of  the  same.  The  early  years 
of  his  life  were  spent  in  working  on  his  father’s  farm  and  in  1872  he  took  up  Evangelistic 
work  and  for  a long  time  was  recognized  as  the  “young  evangelist.”  He  was  an  arduous 
worker  and  for  about  twelve  years  devoted  his  entire  energy  and  time  to  this  work,  which 
extended  over  the  States  of  Indiana,  Ohio  and  Illinois.  During  a period  of  about  ten  years 
he  averaged  about  200  converts  per  year.  The  best  part  of  his  life  was  spent  in  this 
good  work  but  the  intense  strain  on  the  system  was  too  much  for  him  and  he  was  com- 
pelled to  abandon  it.  The  study  of  medicine  then  attracted  his  attention  but  as  he  had 
studied  and  read  medicine  more  or  less  all  his  life  and  as  it  seemed  to  be  second  nature  to 
him,  he  graduated  from  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana  at  Indianapolis  in  1889,  two  years 
after  entering.  He  immediately  began  a general  practice  and  this  he  still  continues  success- 
fully. He  has  steadily  risen  in  the  channels  of  medical  life  and  is  a physician  of  established 
reputation.  He  is  a member  of  the  State  Medical  Association  and  the  Indianapolis  Medical 
Society.  Dr.  Harold  was  married  in  1865  to  Miss  Sarah  J.  Carey,  a native  of  Hamilton 
County,  Ind.  Her  death  occurred  in  the  spring  of  1874,  and  in  September,  1875,  he  was 
wedded  to  Miss  Tacy  Brown,  a native  of  Boone  County,  Ind.,  and  the  daughter  of  Isaac  and 
Phoebe  (Childre)  Brown,  natives  respectively  of  North  Carolina  and  Belmont  County,  Ohio. 
Dr.  and  Mrs.  Harold  became  the  parents  of  four  children,  as  follows:  Roscoe  C.,  died  Janu- 
ary 23,  1893;  Albert  H.,  Anna  W.  and  Clifford  B.  By  his  first  marriage  the  Doctor  became 
the  father  of  three  children:  Frank  A..  Ora  J.  and  Rosetta.  Ora  J.,  who  married  Dr.  A.  T. 
Hunt,  and  now  resides  at  Charlotteville,  Ind.,  is  the  only  one  now  living.  Dr.  Harold 
is  a prohibitionist  in  principle  and  has  been  a candidate  for  mayor  of  Indianapolis  on  that 
ticket.  He  and  Mrs.  Harold  are  members  of  the  Friend’s  Church. 


245 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Joseph  K.  English.  There  is  no  class  of  business  men  who  more  surely  rear  up 
visible  monuments  to  their  industry  and  their  enterprise  than  the  painters  of  the  sightly 
structures  which  become  a landmark  not  only  locally  but  in  the  historical  sense  in  all  our 
great  cities.  Among  those  who  have  for  years  devoted  their  attention  to  this  line  of  work 
may  be  mentioned  Joseph  K.  English,  who  was  born  in  Frederick  County,  Md.,  in  1824, 
his  father  being  King  English,  a native  of  the  district  of  Columbia.  The  latter  was  reared 
in  his  native  place  and  in  Maryland  and  after  reaching  the  age  of  sixteen  years  he  made 
a permanent  location  in  Maryland  and  turned  his  attention  to  tilling  the  soil,  in  pursuing 
which  he  met  with  reasonable  success.  He  was  a member  of  the  militia  and  assisted  in 
the  defense  of  Baltimore  when  it  was  attacked  by  the  British  during  the  War  of  1812.  In 
1830  he  came  west  and  located  on  an  eighty-acre  tract  of  land  now  bounded  on  the  south  by 
Seventh  Street,  and  on  the  west  by  the  Lake  Erie  & Western  Railroad,  and  all  of  which 
forms  a part  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  and  which  at  that  time  was  covered  with  quite  a 
heavy  growth  of  timber.  In  the  city  of  Indianapolis  he  died  in  1804,  when  seventy-four 
years  of  age,  having  been  a successful  pioneer  farmer.  He  was  married  in  Frederick 
County,  Md. , to  Miss  Mary  Brown  who  also  died  in  Indianapolis  in  1861,  at  the  age  of 
sixty-seven  years.  They  were  members  of  the  English  Lutheran  Church  and  for  many 
years  the  father  was  an  elder  in  the  same.  He  was  first  a Whig  and  then  became  a 
Republican  in  politics,  but  never  aspired  to  public  position,  being  content  to  pursue  the 
e%'en  tenor  of  his  way  independent  of  the  strife  and  turmoil  of  political  life.  Of  tlie 
children  born  to  himself  and  wife,  the  subject  of  this  sketch  is  the  only  one  now  living, 
two  members  of  the  family  having  died  in  infancy.  Joseph  K.  English  received  his  edu- 
cation in  the  Old  Seminary  and  from  the  early  days  of  his  youth  until  he  reached  the 
age  of  twenty-four  years  worked  on  a farm.  He  learned  his  trade  under  (4.  D.  Statts  who 
was  probably  the  oldest  painter  in  the  place,  and  after  becoming  familiar  with  every 
detail  of  the  business  he  worked  at  it  alone  until  1852  when  he  formed  a partnership  with 
his  old  instructor  and  the  firm  of  Statts  & English  continued  until  1860.  He  was  elected 
city  treasurer  in  1861,  a position  he  held  for  four  years  during  the  war.  At  the  end  of 
that  time  he  purchased  a farm  in  Center  township  on  Fall  creek,  on  which  he  remained 
until  1871,  when  he  returned  to  the  city  and  engaged  in  the  foundry  and  machine  busi- 
ness as  a member  of  the  firm  of  Berner,  English  A Over  and  was  associated  with  the 
last  named  gentleman  until  1876  at  which  time  he  once  more  turned  his  attention  to  paint- 
ing, in  which  business  he  was  associated  with  his  son,  H.  K.  English.  Mr.  English  was 
married  in  1852  to  Elvira,  daughter  of  Henry  Colestock,  an  old  pioneer  of  the  section  and 
a stair  builder  by  trade,  some  of  his  most  imi)oi  tant  work  being  done  on  the  Deaf  and  Dumb, 
the  Blind  and  the  Insane  Asylums.  Mrs  English  was  l)orn  in  Harrisburg,  Penn.,  in  1831, 
and  has  borne  her  husband  five  cdiildren:  H.  King  and  Frank  C.,  who  are  painters  by 
trade,  and  their  daughters  are  Mrs.  Frank  Keegan,  the  wife  of  the  druggist;  Julia,  a teacher 
in  the  public  schools  of  the  county,  and  Josie,  who  is  still  at  home  with  her  parents.  Mr. 
English  and  his  family  are  members  of  the  Lutheran  Church,  and  he  has  been  an  officer  in 
and  is  now  a charter  memlier  of  Capitol  Lodge  of  the  I.  ().  O.  F.,  in  which  lie  passed  all 
the  chairs  many  years  ago,  and  also  belongs  to  th*'  R.  A.  Politically  he  has,  like  his  father, 
affiliated  with  the  Republican  party.  While  residing  in  the  county  in  1866  he  was  a mem- 
ber of  the  Board  of  County  Commissioners,  in  which  he  held  the  position  of  president  at 
the  time  the  court-house  jilans  were  made  and  built.  He  was  an  active  member  of  that 
body  and  was  a moving  spirit  in  the  building  of  the  Iron  bridges  in  Marion  County 
across  the  White  River.  In  1858  and  1856  he  was  a member  of  the  city  council,  in  fact, 
he  has  been  a wide  awake  and  jmshing  man  of  affairs,  and  is  with  reason  ranked  among  the 
upright  and  useful  citizens  of  the  county  in  which  he  has  so  long  made  his  home.  For 
many  years,  in  the  earliest  history  of  Indianapolis,  Mr.  English  was  a member  of  the  volun- 
teer fire  department  and  president  of  the  Marion  Fire  Company  and  of  the  Fire  Associa- 
tion. While  a member  of  the  city  council  he  was  chairman  of  the  committee  on  fire 
de[)artment  which  disbanded  the  volunti'er  dejiartment,  and  draffiul  the  ordinance  replacing 
it  with  a paid  steam  department  which  has  become*  one  of  tin?  best  in  the  countr}'. 

Simeon  Fkazieh.  4’ho  gentlemen  whose  name  heads  this  sketch,  has  always  been  a po- 
tential element  in  the  civilization  and  development  of  Indiana,  and  in  his  veins  flow  sfurdy 


240 


MEMOUiS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


English  and  Scotch  blood  which  he  inherited  from  his  worthy  father  and  mother,  Absalom 
and  Clarissa  (Bnndy)  Frazier,  who  were  born  in  North  Carolina  and  New  York  respectively. 
The  paternal  grandfather  came  from  the  land  of  “thistles  and  oatmeal”  to  this  country  dur- 
ing colonial  days  and  identified  himself  heart  and  soul  with  the  interests  of  his  adopted 
country  and  became  one  of  its  most  substantial,  law  abiding  and  progressive  citizens.  His 
son,  the  father  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  a mechanic  by  trade  and  was  a maker  of  the 
old  fashioned  spinning  wheel,  which  was  extensively  used  at  that  time.  He  came  to  Indiana 
about  the  time  it  was  admitted  into  the  Union  as  a State  but  died  in  the  State  of  Illinois  in 
1805,  leaving  a large  family  of  children. 

Simeon  Frazier,  his  son,  was  born  in  Clarke  county,  Ind.,  May  20,  fS32  and  there  he 
received  such  education  as  could  be  obtained  in  the  schools  then  in  vogue  and  obtained  a 
thorough  and  practical  knowledge  of  the  common  branches.  His  vacations  were  spent  in 
assisting  in  the  tedious  and  laborious  work  incident  to  pioneer  life  and  under  the.se  condi- 
tions he  grew  to  honorable  manhood,  and  during  his  long  residence  here  has  seen  a great 
deal  of  the  development  of  the  country,  and  witnessed  its  transformation  from  a sparsely 
populated  region,  rudely  cultivated,  into  a thickly  peopled  section,  dotted  with  magnificent 
and  highly  cultivated  farms.  He  was  brought  up  as  a miller  and  lumberman  but  in  1852  he 
al)andoned  this  occupation  to  become  a clerk  in  a general  store  but  finding  his  education  some- 
what deficient,  he  decided  to  take  a commercial  course  in  1854  and  for  this  purpose  entered 
an  institution  of  Louisville,  Ky.,  from  which  ho  graduated.  Immediately  thereafter  he  be- 
gan keeping  books  in  a wholesale  establishment  but  in  1850  took  the  agency  for  the  Madison 
and  Indianapolis  Railroad  which  position  he  continued  to  hold  until  186-4,  when  he  gave  up  the 
position  to  become  first  lieutenant  of  Company  G. , of  the  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-second  Regi- 
ment and  was  in  the  lOO-days  service,  guarding  Gen.  Sherman’s  lines  of  transportation.  After 
his  term  of  enlistment  had  expired  he  returned  to  his  former  occupation  at  Columbus,  Ind.,  and 
at  the  end  of  eighteen  months  was  transferred  to  Madison,  Ind.,  whei'e  he  continued  to  act  as 
agent  for  seven  years,  or  until  the  fall  of  1878,  when  he  was  transferred  toludianapolis, continu- 
ing in  their  employ  until  1882.  His  next  move  was  to  Louisville,  Ky.,  but  after  residing  there 
for  five  yeai's  he  resigned  to  go  to  Jacksonville,  Fla.,  for  the  benefit  of  his  wife’s  health,  and  while 
a resident  of  that  Stateacted  in  the  capacity  of  agent  for  the  Florida  Railway  and  Navigation 
Company  for  one  year.  Upon  his  return  to  the  city  of  Indianapolis  in  the  summer  of  1888 
lie  was  elected  secretary  and  director  of  Butler  University  which  position  he  has  since  re- 
tained, and  in  the  discharge  of  which  he  has  been  remarkably  successful,  and  has  vvon  the 
respect  and  confidence  of  all  interested.  He  was  first  elected  a director  of  this  institution 
in  1870,  and  served  until  1885,  with  the  exception  of  three  years  when  he  was  absent  from 
the  city.  He  is  a member  of  the  George  H.  Thomas  Post  of  the  G.  A.  R..  and  has  been  an 
Odd  Fellow  since  1858.  In  1862  be  was  elected  junior  warden  of  the  Grand  Encampment 
of  Indiana,  and  senior  warden  in  1808.  He  was  married  in  1850,  leading  to  the  altar  Miss 
Lucy  C.  Vaughan,  by  whom  he  has  five  children:  Mrs.  Dill,  Ella,  Harry  E.,  Charles  L.  and 
Alvin  H.  Ml'.  Frazier  and  his  wife  have  long  been  members  of  the  Christian  Church,  and 
his  record  as  an  honorable  man  of  affairs  has  remained  untarnished,  and  as  a citizen  he  has 
always  been  public  spirited  and  law  aliiding.  They  have  reared  their  children  to  be  an  honor 
to  them,  and  in  the  good  graces  of  their  acquaintances  hold  a prominent  place,  as  they  fully 
deserve  to  do. 

William  H.  Fulton.  Insurance  has  come  to  be  a necessity  of  modern  times.  One  of 
the  most  destructive  elements  to  life  and  property  since  the  world  began  has  been  fire.  By 
the  match  of  the  incendiary  or  the  lack  of  care  on  the  part  of  people  in  charge,  millions  of 
dollars  are  sacrificed  annually.  It  is  therefore  essential  that  every  precaution  should  be 
taken  for  the  protection  of  both  life  and  projierty.  Insurance  is  the  most  effective  means 
that  has  ever  been  devised  to  afford  such  protection,  but  it  is  a well  established  fact  that  all 
insurance  does  not  insure;  and  in  placing  insurance  not  only  the  financial  condition  and  rep- 
utation of  insurance  companies  is  to  be  considered,  but  the  standing  and  character  of  those 
controlling  the  local  agencies.  The  thoroughly  reliable  insurance  agent  is  as  necessary  to  a 
community  as  any  one  of  his  fellow  citizens  can  possibly  be,  and  Indianapolis  has  been 
especially  fortunate  in  the  character  and  integrity  of  its  local  insurance  agents,  and  none  of 
these  are  more  ]iopular  than  William  H.  Fidton,  who  is  the  State  agent  of  the  Fireman’s 


247 


AM)  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Fund  Insurance  Company  of  California  in  the  city  of  Indianapolis  and  the  State  of  Indiana, 
where  it  has  been  established  for  many  years.  Mr.  Fulton  was  born  near  West  Liberty, 
Logan  County,  Ohio,  November  5,  1842,  a son  of  Henry  and  Catherine  (McBeth)  Fulton, 
both  of  whom  were  born  in  Pennsylvania  and  of  Scotch-Irish  descent,  and  grandson  of  Joseph 
Fulton,  who  was  born  in  the  north  of  Ireland,  and  came  to  America  in  1768,  settling  in 
Pennsylvania.  He  was  accompanied  by  two  brothers,  who  were  soldiers  in  the  Revolution, 
serving  almost  continuously  from  its  commencement  until  its  close.  He  was  also  closely 
related  to  Robert  Fulton,  who  invented  the  steamboat.  He  was  a farmer  throughout  life, 
and  followed  this  occupation  in  Licking  and  Logan  Counties,  Ohio,  his  death  occurring  in 
the  last  named  county  at  the  extreme  old  age  of  ninety-three  years.  Henry  Fulton  was  quite 
small  when  his  parents  settled  in  Ohio,  but  there  he  was  reared,  educated  and  became  a 
farmer.  His  eldest  brother,  Thomas  Fulton,  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812.  After  resid- 
ing in  Ohio  for  many  years,  Henry  Fulton  removed  with  his  family  to  Branch  County,  Mich., 
in  1854,  where  he  made  his  home  until  his  death,  in  1863,  his  widow  surviving  him  two  years. 
William  H.  Fulton  resided  in  Ohio  until  he  was  twelve  years  old,  attending  the  common  schools 
there  and  in  Michigan,  and  the  high  school  of  Fremont,  Ind.  After  leaving  school  he  engaged  in 
contracting  and  building  in  Branch  County,  Mich. , which  occupation  he  carried  on  success- 
fully for  about  four  years,  after  which,  in  June,  1865,  he  came  to  Indianapolis,  continuing  in 
that  business  eighteen  years  longer  in  this  city,  during  which  time  he  gave  almost  constant 
employment  to  from  five  to  fifty  men,  and  many  of  the  city’s  finest  residences  and  business 
blocks  were  erected  by  him.  In  1882  he  became  a fire  insurance  agent,  and  for  two  years 
was  an  independent  adjuster  of  losses  for  various  companies.  He  then  received  a flattering 
offer  from  the  Franklin  Fire  Insurance  Company  of  Indianapolis,  and  for  three  and  a half 
years  was  State  agent  and  adjuster  for  this  company,  after  which  he  spent  one  year  in  the 
same  capacity  with  the  Lancashire  of  England,  having  the  agencies  for  four  States.  This 
work  he  found  to  be  very  laborious,  and  receiving  an  excellent  offer  from  the  Fireman’s  Fund 
Insurance  Company  he  took  service  with  the  same,  with  which  he  has  since  been  connected. 
Ho  has  been  a member  of  the  Indianapolis  Association  of  Underwriters  for  the  past  nine 
years,  has  been  its  vice-president  and  at  present  is  chairman  of  the  executive  board.  In 
1869  Mr.  Fulton  led  to  the  altar  Miss  Isabella  Wallace,  a native  of  the  north  of  Ireland,  and 
a daughter  of  James  and  Elizabeth  (Walker)  Wallace,  and  their  union  has  resulted  in  the 
birth  of  five  children:  Bessie  and  Peat  rice,  deceased,  and  William  W.,  Edwin  J.  and  Bella 
D.  Mr.  Fulton  is  a member  of  the  R.  A.,  the  K.  of  P.  and  the  Repul)lican  party,  and  he  and 
his  wife  are  members  of  the  Tabernacle  Presbyterian  Church. 

Thomas  Moran.  Brightwood,  the  thriving  suburban  town  of  Indianapolis,  can  well  l)e 
))roud  of  the  amount  of  brains  and  energy  possessed  by  her  representative  business  men, 
among  whom  is  Thomas  IMoran.  who  has  one  of  the  most  popular  meat  markets  of  that  place. 
In  all  matters  relating  to  his  Imsiness  Mr.  Moran  is  thoroughly  familiar,  and  being  honest 
and  reliable,  fully  merits  the  confidence  that  has  b'een  bestowed  ujion  him.  He  was  l)orn  in 
Brooklyn,  N.  Y. , January  4,  1843,  and  no  doubt  inherits  his  push  and  energy  from  his  Irish 
ancestors,  his  father  and  mother,  Owen  and  Maj'garet  (Curley)  IVIoran,  having  been  born  on 
the  Emerald  Isle.  In  their  native  country  the  parents  grew  to  mature  years  and  were 
there  married  in  1837.  Shortly  afterward  they  crossed  the  ocean  to  America  and  located  in 
the  city  of  New  York.  There  all  their  children,  four  in  numl)er,  two  daughters  and  two  sons, 
were  born.  They  were  named  as  follows:  Mary  Ann  is  single  and  resides  in  Brooklyn,  N. 
Y. ; Thomas,  our  subject;  Elizal)eth  married  James  McCrary  and  makes  her  home  in  Troy, 
N.  Y.,  and  Michael  died  at  the  age  of  twenty  years.  The  mother  of  these  childi'en  died 
in  1854  and  the  father  survived  lier  until  1890.  The  youthful  days  of  oiir  subject  were 
passed  in  Ids  native  State  and  he  there  learned  the  trade  of  sf)inner  which  he  worlmd  at  in 
Seneca  Falls,  N.  Y. , for  several  years  and  at  other  places  until  1875  when  lie  embarked  in 
business  for  himself.  For  the  past  twelve  years  he  has  been  engaged  in  the  meat  business 
in  Brightwood  and  gives  tliis  large  enterjirise  his  personal  attention.  During  the  Civil  War 
he  enlisted  in  the  Fifteenth  New  Yoi’k  Volunteer  Engineers  foi’  the  last  year  of  the  war,  and 
served  until  cessation  of  liostilities.  He  served  with  the  army  of  the  Potomac.  Mr.  Moi’an 
is  one  of  tin*  enterprising  men  who  have  liuilt  up  the  lieautiful  suburlian  town  of  Brightwood 
and  made  if  one  of  the  finest  residence  places  around  Indianapolis.  Mr.  Moran  was  married 


248 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


ill  1871  to  Miss  Mary  Ellen  Watkins,  daughter  of  Joel  and  Barbara  (Burke)  Watkins,  who 
are  natives  of  the  Hoosier  State  and  now  residents  of  Martinville,  Ind.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Moran 
are  tlie  parents  of  three  children,  two  sons  and  a daughter,  as  follows:  Thomas  Eugene, 
Joel  and  Mary  Agnes,  all  at  home.  Mr.  Moran’s  history  is  an  example  of  what  industry, 
frugality  and  integrity  will  accomplish.  The  building  in  which  he  carries  on  his  business  is 
large,  neatly  fitted  up,  and  well  stocked  with  the  choicest  meats,  poultry,  game,  fish,  oysters, 
etc.,  and  he  enjoys  a large  trade. 

Philip  Reichwein.  This  gentleman  is  not  only  one  of  the  leading  real  estate  men  of 
Indianapolis,  but  he  is  one  of  the  most  prosperous  and  successful  German  citizens  as  well, 
and  it  is  worthy  to  note  in  the  beginning  of  this  all  too  brief  account  of  his  life  that  he  is 
essentially  a self-made  man,  having  carved  and  worked  out  his  own  fortune.  He  was  born 
January  12,  1841,  in  Mezingen,  Urach,  Kingdom  of  Wurtemberg,  Germany,  a son  of  John 
P.  and  Maria  A.  (Wetzel)  Reichwein,  also  natives  of  Germany.  He  came  to  America  with 
his  parents,  landing  in  New  York  city  July  25,  1852.  Thence  he  went  to  Ellensville,  Ulster 
County,  N.  Y.,  where  he  remained  until  March,  1858,  at  which  time  he  came  to  Indianapolis. 
He  fir.'-t  obtained  employment  here  with  General  Elliott,  at  the  American  hotel,  opposite  the 
Union  depot  on  Louisiana  Street,  and  remained  with  him  until  1857.  He  was  then  employed 
at  the  German  Turner  Hall,  at  the  corner  of  Kentucky  Avenue  and  Tennessee  Street.  In 
1859  he  went  to  St.  Louis,  and  after  remaining  one  year  returned  to  Indianapolis,  where,  in 
1864,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Antonette  Emmenegger.  In  1868  he  started  in  business  on 
his  own  account,  on  the  northwest  corner  of  Market  and  Noble  Streets.  Here  he  remained 
until  1876.  In  the  meantime  he  built  the  tine  block  on  the  southwest  corner  of  Market  and 
Noble  Streets,  known  as  “Reichwein  Hall.”  Mr.  Reichwein  was  elected  M.  N.  G.  A.  of 
the  U.  A.  O.  of  D.  at  Cincinnati  in  1875,  and  installed  in  Philadelphia  in  1876,  and  served  with 
distinction.  In  1882  he  was  elected  supreme  treasurer  of  the  same  order  at  Richmond  and 
still  serves  in  that  capacity,  it  now  being  his  sixth  term.  He  is  a Scottish  Rite  Mason,  a 
member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  became  a member  of  K.  of  P.  in  October,  1869,  of  which  he  has 
served  as  district  deputy  for  several  years,  and  is  now  president  of  the  permanent  board  of 
trustees  of  the  K.  of  P.  Castle  Hall  Association.  From  1855  to  I860  he  was  a member  of 
the  Indianapolis  Turner  Society.  He  became  a member  of  the  city  council  in  1881  and 
served  until  January,  1884.  He  was  also  elected  as  one  of  the  commissioners  of  the  tire 
department  of  Indianapolis,  and  served  as  secretary  of  that  body.  In  September,  1890,  he 
engaged  in  the  real  estate  and  loan  business  with  Thomas  J’.  Quill,  under  the  firm  name  of 
Reichwein  & Quill,  and  has  done  an  extensive  business.  He  is  a member  of  the  Commercial 
Club,  and  has  been  closely  identified  with  the  business  enterprises  of  the  city  for  many  years 
and  deservedly  ranks  among  the  substantial  business  men.  He  is  a Republican  and  has 
taken  an  active  part  in  politics  for  years.  Mr.  Reichwein’ s father,  John  P.  Reichwein,  made 
his  home  with  his  son  in  this  city  until  his  death  May  22,  1893,  his  wife  having  died 
December  26,  1 870.  Mr.  Reichwein  possesses  social  and  agreeable  qualities  calculated  to 
make  him  popular  with  all  with  whom  he  has  intercourse,  and  these  have  had  much  to  do  with 
his  great  prosperity  and  success  in  business.  He  is  a public  spirited  citizen  who  has  the 
best  interests  of  Indianapolis  at  heart,  and  is  ever  ready  to  do  all  in  his  power  to  aid  in  their 
advancement.  As  a real  estate  man  he  is  exceptionally  well  informed  on  values  and  upon 
all  conditions  affecting  them  either  to  advance  or  depress.  He  is  a careful  investor,  and 
those  who  invest  in  real  estate  under  his  advice  usually  invest  to  gain.. 

George  H.  Carter.  There  is  nothing  more  beneficent  than  an  example  of  American 
citizenship  and  the  possibilities  which  surround  it  under  our  American  institutions.  The 
gentleman  above  named  belongs  to  a most  honorable  class  which  he  adorns  by  his  member- 
ship, the  class  familiar  to  us  as  self-made  men.  We  often  read  of  such.  They  are  pointed 
out  to  us  in  every  assemblage  and  on  the  streets  of  every  large  city.  If  we  trace  their  his- 
tory we  find  that  many  of  them  are  entitled  to  be  so  called,  and  that  very  many  of  them 
are  in  one  or  several  ways  indebted  to  others,  or  to  fortuitous  circumstances  for  the  success 
which  has  come  to  them  but  which  they  have  not  achieved  in  a strict  sense.  But  if  there  is 
in  Indiana  a man  who  has  been  truly,  in  all  things  and  under  all  circumstances  and  condi- 
tions, the  architect  of  his  own  fortune,  that  man  is  George  H Carter.  No  legacies  have 
descended  to  him;  no  accidents  have  befi'iended  him.  His  watchword  from  the  first  has  been 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


249 


that  which  is  the  secret  of  all  the  successes  the  world  has  witnessed — work.  It  is  a short 
word,  but  it  stauds  for  a long  road,  and  one  hard  to  travel,  and  upon  which  the  weak  and 
inefficient  hesitate  and  fall.  From  his  boyhood  Mr.  Carter  has  traveled  it  boldly  and  per- 
severingly,  never  faltering  and  never  turning  into  any  by  paths  of  ease  or  unprofitable 
pleasure.  The  life  of  such  a man  is  not  interesting  simply — it  leaches  truth.  It  serves  as 
an  encouragement  to  others  who  hear  its  story  and  who,  in  hours  of  darkness  and  doubt, 
have  need  of  just  such  an  example  to  make  them  hopeful  and  brave.  The  life  of  Mr.  Carter 
has  been  an  exemplification  of  sterling  character  and  steadfast  but  unassuming  devotion  to 
the  highest  principles  of  manhood.  Born  in  Kentucky  in  1831 , before  that  country  had 
scarcely  emerged  from  its  pioneer  period,  he  came  to  Indianapolis  from  Fleming  County, 
that  State,  in  1846,  at  the  age  of  fifteen.  The  thtee  years  succeeding  his  coming  were  s])ent 
by  him  in  acquiring  a knowledge  of  the  blacksmith’s  trade  in  an  old  and  well  remembered 
sho])  at  the  corner  of  Mississippi  and  "Washington  Streets.  Young  Carter  can  scarcely  be 
said  to  have  been  seeking  an  “easy  job.”  In  those  days,  before  the  introduction  of  machin- 
ery in  the  manufacture  of  so  many  articles,  the  work  of  the  blacksmith  was  heavier  and  more 
lal)orious  than  it  is  now.  Everything  was  made  by  hand  and  by  the  hardest  labor,  horse- 
shoes, horseshoe  nails,  everything  that  is  now  made  in  factories  as  well  as  all  that  is  now 
made  by  hand.  Those  were  years  of  weary  toil  for  one  so  young,  but  they  hardened  his 
muscles  and  made  him  brave  and  self  reliant.  In  1849,  at  the  age  of  eighteen,  he  went  to 
Cincinnati  and  accepted  a position  as  blacksmith  on  a steamer  plying  on  the  Ohio  and  Mis- 
sissippi Rivers.  The  youth  showed  his  (pralities  so  decidedly  that  within  a year  he  was  made 
engineer  of  the  same  l)oat.  He  had  often  to  repair  portions  of  the  engine  and  had  made  a 
careful  study  of  its  parts,  and  that  he  should  have  felt  himself  equal  to  the  task  of  oper- 
ating it  is  not  strange,  especially  in  view  of  the  fact  that  he  did  operate  it  safely  and  suc- 
cessfully for  two  years.  In  1852  he  fell  a victim  to  the  craze  known  in  history  as  “ the  Cal- 
ifornia fever.”  For  three  or  four  years,  glorious  stories  of  marvelous  “ tinds  ” of  gold 
among  the  foothills  and  along  the  streams  of  that  then  far  away  and  mysterious  country,  had 
followed  one  after  another  to  the  East  and  tilled  a large  ju'oportion  of  the  enterprising  and 
venturesome  ones  with  a desire  to  j)ut  their  fortunes  to  the  test  beyond  the  Rockies.  In  com- 
pany with  nine  congenial  spirits,  he  started  for  California  from  Cincinnati  in  May.  The 
trip  is  now  made  in  100  hours.  It  took  Mr.  Carter  and  his  companions  144  days.  In  was 
late  in  September  when  they  reached  their  destination,  d’hose  were  the  days  of  crude 
things.  Their  roadway  was  not  leveled  and  iron  railed.  It  had  no  bridges.  Road  wagons 
without  springs  were  the  only  suggestion  of  Pullman  slee])ers.  Ox  teams  took  the  place  of 
engines.  Their  eating  stations  were  their  camp-tires  and  they  were  their  own  cooks.  They 
got  no  morning  pa{)ers.  s[)ent  no  money  on  barbers  or  boot  blacks  and  none  in  stores.  Mr. 
Carter  has  stated  that  on  their  line  of  travel  churches  were  about  1,500  miles  apart,  from 
which  it  may  be  inferred  that  they  did  not  stop  by  the  way  to  listen  to  many  i)opular  divines. 
From  the  time  they  started  tliey  did  not  sleep  in  a house  for  six  months.  Yet  it  was  not  an 
uiq)leasant  journey, and  Mr. Carter  has  frequently  stated  that  he  would  be  willingto  undertake 
it  again  in  the  same  corn[)any.  They  were  a bold  and  jolly  lot,  who  made  the  best  out  of 
what  seemed  worst  and  Avere  determined  to  stand  together  through  all  dangers.  Occasion- 
ally some  adventure  would  lend  zest  to  the  excursion.  For  instance,  in  crossing  Oreen 
river,  Wyoming,  the  oxen  became  contrary  and,  wheeling  this  way  and  that,  upset  the 
wagon,  spilling  everything  in  it  into  the  water.  They  had  a brisk  time  of  it  rescuing  the 
different  articles  as  they  began  to  float  away.  The  saw  Indians  frecpieutly,  but  none 
molested  them.  At  times  antelope  and  buffalo  were  browsing  within  rifle  shot,  and  now 
and  tl  len  the  j)arty  breakfasted  on  antelope  and  Buffalo  steak.  More  than  once  night  was 
made  hideous  by  the  serenailes  of  large  packs  of  coyotes.  Reliance  on  a more  or  less 
untrustworthy  guide-book  which  they  purchased  in  St.  Joseph,  Afo. , which  purported  to  tell 
just  where  overland  travelers  could  fill  their  bairels  at  springs  and  streams  befoi'e  crossing 
the  desert  stretches,  stwei'al  times  occasioned  a scarcity  of  water  among  them,  and  on  one 
occasion  they  were  conif)elled  to  |)lod  through  a long,  hot  <lay.  without  a diop  fur  themselves 
or  tlnur  cattle.  It  had  laam  agreed  that  no  man  should  lide  in  the  wagon  and  thus  add 
to  the  biirihui  of  the  cattle  except  in  eas('  of  absolute  sickness.  'I’h((  pool'  lieasts  suffered  If 
possilile,  more  than  the  men.  To  slop  without  wat(*r  was  to  court  sickness  and  the  loss  of 


250 


MEMOIRS  OF  1M)IANAP0L1S 


the  oxen,  and  they  kept  going  until  11  o’clock  at  night  hoping  to  find  what  they  sought 
ever  a little  ahead.  At  that  time  they  crossed  a trail.  Mr.  Carter  followed  it  to  the  right, 
and  after  traveling  it  two  miles  found  himself  close  to  an  Indian  camp.  Only  insupport- 
able thirst  could  have  made  him  risk  going  further.  He  crawled  on  his  hands  and  knees 
past  the  camp  and  reached  a Hi)ring  of  pure  bubbling  water  which  he  remembers  gratefully 
to  this  day  as  a means  of  assisting  the  whole  i)arty.  When  they  reached  Carson  Valley, 
at  the  eastern  {)art  of  the  Sierras,  they  sold  their  oxen  and  wagons  and  all  equipment 
except  a blanket  for  each  man,  a cotfee  pot  and  a skillet,  chosing  to  go  on  foot  160  miles 
over  Sublette’s  cut  off,  rather  than  to ‘“wagon”  a longer  distance  around  to  the  south. 
They  paid  $1  a poirnd  for  potatoes  and  onions  which  were  packed  for  their  fare  by  the 
way.  It  was  a wearisome  walk,  up,  and  still  up,  then  down,  for  days  and  days;  but  they 
reached  the  foothills  on  the  California  side  and  found  themselves  snugly  ensconced  in  a 
mining  camp.  Mr.  Carter’s  first  work  was  in  the  “ Long  Tom  ” mines.  The  rest  of  the 
party  went  further  and  it  is  believed  that  not  one  of  them  is  now  living,  leaving  Mr.  Carter 
the  sole  survivor.  Every  minor  had  need  of  a partner,  and  Mr.  Carter  found  a good  one 
in  a man  named  Sbannon.  They  lived  together,  doing  their  own  cooking,  worked  together 
and  divided  exj)enses  and  ])rofits.  After  a year  of  gold-digging  in  company  with  Shannon 
and  a millwright  named  Ludwig,  he  bought  the  remains  of  a burned  saw  mill  and  about 
1,000  acres  of  land  which  belonged  with  it.  The  mill  was  reconstructed  and  Mr.  Carter 
and  Ludwig  became  partners  in  its  ownersnip  and  operation.  Shannon  choosing  to  continue 
mining.  Mr.  Carter  continued  in  this  business  and  made  money,  meantime  adding  three 
saw  mills  to  this  one.  Hut  the  country  did  not  improve.  He  loved  Indianapolis  and  yearned 
for  its  civilization,  and  in  1868  he  disposed  of  his  California  interests,  and  with  the  proceeds 
returned  by  a Pacific  mail  steamship  and  in  due  time  arrived  in  Indianapolis.  He  had  by  this 
time  become  so  accustomed  to  the  lumber  business  that  he  naturally  sought  an  opening  in 
it.  On  his  return  he  bought  a partnership  interest  in  a saw  mill.  Isaac  Long  and  another 
wei'e  interested  with  him.  After  a year  he  purchased  the  interests  of  his  two  partners  and 
after  managing  the  enterprise  alone  for  about  another  year  associated  with  him  S.  A.  Lee. 
The  firm  of  Carter  & Lee  existed  until  1876,  when  the  tnill  was  sold,  Mr.  Lee  going  into  a 
boot  and  shoe  business  and  Mr.  Carter  temporarily  into  a stock  auction  trade  in  partnership 
with  A.  (i.  Jackson,  which  he  abandoned  in  about  another  twelve  months  to  return  to  the 
manufacture  of  lumber.  In  1877  he  selected  a site  west  of  the  river,  on  the  belt  road,  and 
there  erected  another  mill.  In  1878  Mr.  Carter  and  Mr.  Lee  again  became  partners,  and 
the  firm  of  Garter  & Lee  has  existed  to  the  present  time.  Mr.  Carter  has  also  a fine  farm 
near  the  city  which  is  the  residence  of  his  family.  He  has,  during  his  long  and  busy  careei', 
made  so  much  money  that  were  it  not  for  his  open-handed  generosity  he  would  now  be  quite 
wealthy.  All  his  life  long,  Mr.  Carter  has  been  a stanch  and  consistent  Democrat,  and  he 
never  sought  office  until,  in  1884,  he  consented  to  be  the  nominee  of  his  party  supported  by 
a large  contingent  from  other  parties  to  the  office  of  Sheriff  of  Marion  County.  He  was 
triumphantly  elected  and  served  to  the  end  of  his  term  with  the  greatest  credit,  declining 
a renoiuination  in  the  interests  of  his  private  business.  The  affairs  of  the  county  were  safe 
in  his  keeping  and  the  people  without  party  distinction  were  [fieased  with  him  as  their 
executive  officer.  Ho  is  a Mason  of  forty-years  standing,  having  joined  the  order  while  liv- 
ing in  California,  and  is  a member  of  Raper  Commandery  of  Indianapolis.  In  all  the 
relations  of  life  he  is  I'espected.  His  per.sonal  friends  are  almost  as  numerous  as  his  per- 
sonal acquaintances.  His  manners  are  affable  and  he  is  at  all  times  most  companionable. 
His  face  and  speech  indicate  that  he  is  a man  of  earnest  purpose.  He  is  most  decided  in 
his  views,  yet  very  liberal-minded.  “ His  word  is  as  good  as  his  bond,”  and  it  has  been 
said  of  him:  “There  are  probably  as  good  men  in  Indiana,  but  there  are  none  better.” 

Dr.  Ben.tamin  A.  Brown  is  an  exceptionally  popular  and  successful  physician  of  Bright- 
wood.  He  is  scholarly  and  well  informed  in  every  branch  of  his  profession,  is  intelligent 
and  well  posted  on  all  matteis  of  public  interest  and  stands  well  in  the  community,  both  as 
a citizen  and  as  a professional  man.  Although  still  in  the  dawn  of  the  success  which  has 
attended  his  efforts  in  a professional  way,  our  subject  has  already  given  abundant  evidence 
of  the  ability  which  qualifies  him  for  a high  ])lace  in  the  medical  profession.  He  is  a native 
of  the  Hoosier  State,  born  in  Hancock  County  April  11,  1866,  and  is  a son  of  David  and 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


251 


Rachel  (Yaii  Zanclt)  Brown,  natives  of  Ohio,  but  early  settlers  of  Hancock  County,  Ind. 
Young  Brown  was  reared  in  that  county  and  educated  in  the  public  schools  of  Greenfield  and 
Indianapolis.  After  finishing  his  education  there  he  began  teaching  school  and  after  fol- 
lowing that  pi'ofession  for  two  years,  began  the  study  of  medicine  under  Dr.  J.  A.  Comingor, 
of  Indianapolis.  This  Avas  in  1886,  and  in  the  fall  of  that  year  he  entered  the  Medical  Col 
lege  of  Indiana,  from  w'hich  he  graduated  in  the  spring  of  1888.  Immediately  afterward 
he  located  at  Brightwood  and  engaged  in  a general  practice  which  has  increased  in  an  unusual 
degree  since.  He  has  been  county  physician  for  this  section,  has  served  and  still  is  health 
officer  of  the  town,  and  is  secretary  of  the  school  board,  recently  established.  Truly  ambi- 
tious, and  with  an  ambition  whose  aim  is  pure  and  unsullied,  there  seems  no  reason  why  his 
unquestioned  ability  should  not  find  full  scope  in  relieving  the  pains  to  which  a suffering 
world  is  heir.  On  June  16,  1886,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Minnie  Humphries,  a native  of 
Michigan,  but  who  was  reared  and  educated  in  Hancock  County,  Ind.  Her  parents,  John 
and  Linnie  (Taylor)  Humphries,  died  when  she  was  but  a child.  To  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Brown 
have  been  born  one  child,  Lester,  whose  birth  occurred  March  28,  1887.  The  Doctor  is  a 
member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  the  K.  of  P.  the  K.  of  H.  & C.  F.,  and  has  been  officially  con- 
nected with  one  and  all.  At  j)resent  he  is  treasurer  of  the  C.  F.  He  and  wife  are 
members  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  the  Doctor  being  one  of  the  trustees  of  the 
same  and  superintendent  of  the  Sunday  school  for  three  years.  In  politics  he  is  a Re{)ublican. 

George  Coble,  Jr.  Pre  eminence  is  a goal  most  men  strive  to  attain.  No  matter  in 
what  field,  whether  it  be  literature,  art,  science  or  commerce,  the  ambition  of  the  true  man 
will  push  him  to  such  endeavor  that  his  success  shall  stand  out  with  glaring  distinctness  and 
his  position  shall  be  above  all  others.  To  reach  a high  mark  of  success  in  almost  any  calling 
is  in  these  days  of  rush  and  activity  no  easy  matter,  and  when  a man  reaches  a high  degree 
of  success  not  only  in  one  calling  but  in  several,  as  has  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  he  is 
regarded  with  respect  and  admiration  by  all.  Mr.  Coble  is  a Hoosier  by  birth,  born  in 
Marion  County,  near  the  present  site  of  the  county  poor  farm,  June  20,  1852,  and  the  son 
of  David  and  Margaret  (Linconfetter)  Coble,  natives  of  Indiana.  In  that  State  the  parents 
grew  to  mature  years  and  were  there  married  about  1850.  Grandfather  Coble  was  the  first 
man  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  who  engaged  in  the  lumber  business.  He  also  built  and 
operated  the  first  saw  mill  in  the  county,  on  Crooked  Creek,  northwest  of  the  city.  Grand- 
father Linconfetter  Avas  also  an  early  settler  of  the  county  and  helped  plaster  the  old  Irish 
State  House  when  it  was  first  erected.  David  Coble,  the  father  of  our  subject,  came  to 
Marion  County,  Ind.,  Avith  his  parents  in  1818,  and  has  been  a resident  of  this  county  ever 
since.  His  parents  located  about  three  and  a half  miles  northwest  of  Indianapolis,  and  here 
he  Avas  reared  and  educated.  He  is  one  of  the  old  and  highly  respected  citizens  of  the  county 
and  one  of  the  old  landmarks  noAV  so  rapidly  passing  away.  By  his  marriage  he  became  the 
father  of  three  children  of  whom  our  subject  is  the  eldest.  Sarah,  Avho  Avas  born  in  1857, 
married  John  E.  Kerr  and  resided  with  her  hu.sband  in  Indianapolis  until  her  death  Avhen 
thirty-one  years  of  age.  She  left  one  child.  Oakley,  Avho  noAV  makes  his  home  Avith  his 
grandmother  in  Indianapolis.  William,  the  youngest  child,  born  in  1861,  married  Miss  Irene 
Stevens  and  now  resides  in  Indianapolis.  George  Coble,  Jr. , our  subject,  has  passed  the 
most  of  his  time  right  in  the  county  where  he  first  saw  the  light  of  day  and  as  he  was  the 
eldest  son  of  a very  busy  man,  he  Avas  j)ut  to  Avork  as  a cash  boy  Avhen  but  ten  years  of  age. 
After  reaching  his  sixteenth  year  he  started  out  in  business  for  himself  and  his  early  business 
training  fitted  him  in  an  admirable  manner  for  his  subsecpront  prosjierous  career.  He  came 
to  BrightAvood  about  1886  and  opened  a grocery  and  meat  market.  This  he  still  carries  on 
but  he  also  of)erate8  a saloon,  a barber  shoj),  a livery  stable  and  a bakery  and  restaurant.  He 
also  owns  the  real  estate  and  buildings  Avherehe  carries  on  his  various  enterprises,  and  these 
buildings  are  all  in  good  condition  and  well  611(^1  Avith  a select  stock  of  goods.  ' He  gives  his 
f)erHonal  attention  t(j  these  various  enter[)rises  and  his  business  is  constantly  increasing.  He 
has  an  unlimited  amount  of  i)U8h  and  energy  and  with  the  start  he  has  noAV  made,  his  future 
|)roHi)ects  are  bright  indeed.  The  credit  f(jr  a large  share  of  the  enterprise  which  helps  to 
make  Brightwood  the  flourishing  suburb  it  noAV  is,  is  due  to  the  energy  and  perseverance  of 
such  men  as  Mr.  Col)le.  Much  of  his  success  in  life  is  dui'  to  his  OAvn  industry  and  good 
management  and  he  fully  merits  his  good  fortune.  He  has  been  twice  nuirried,  first,  sixteen 


252 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


years  ago  he  wedded  Miss  Emma  Trucks,  daughter  of  John  and  Emma  Trucks,  natives  of 
Indiana.  No  children  were  born  to  this  union  and  after  the  death  of  his  first  wife  he  was 
married  in  August,  1SS6,  to  Miss  Sarah  Blum,  who  was  born  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  as  were  her 
parents,  John  and  Martha  Blum.  Mr.  and  Mr.s.  Coble  have  no  children.  They  are  very 
popular  in  social  as  well  as  business  circles  and  are  surrounded  by  many  warm  friends. 

J.  W.  \Vharton.  One  of  the  most  prominent  and  successful  real  estate  and  loan  agents 
at  Indianapolis  is  J.  W.  Wharton,  who  is  also  widely  known  as  a politician  and  enterprising 
citizen.  Mr.  Wharton  was  born  at  Eelicity,  Ohio,  January  13,  1841),  a sou  of  Rev.  Joseph 
and  Susan  (McKenzie)  tVharton.  When  he  was  three  years  old  his  parents  removed  to  Indi- 
ana, his  father  having  been  transferred  to  this  field,  and,  owing  to  the  exigencies  of  his 
father’s  itinei  ant  position  as  a minister  of  the  Methodist  Church,  he  had  by  the  time  he  was 
grown  up,  lived  in  many  of  the  towns  of  southern  Indiana  and  in  towns  in  other  parts  of 
the  State  besides.  He  was  graduated  in  1870  from  Asbury  (now  DePauw)  University  and 
located  at  Terre  Haute,  where  he  engaged  in  the  life  and  tii'e  insurance  business.  About  a 
year  later  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  soon  became  a student  at  the  law  school  at  Blooming- 
ton, Ind.,  remaining  at  that  institution  about  a year.  Late  in  1872  he  was  admitted  to  the 
bar  of  Marion  County.  Immediately  thereafter  he  engaged  in  the  real  estate  business,  in 
which  he  has  been  increasingly  successful  to  the  [)re8ent  time.  He  buys  and  sells  property 
on  his  own  account  and  on  commission,  negotiates  loans  on  bond  and  mortgage,  manages 
e.states,  collects  rents,  appraises  houses  and  lands  and  attends  to  repairs,  taxes  and  insurance, 
and  transacts  such  other  business  as  may  come  properly  within  his  line.  His  superior  knowl- 
edge of  real  estate  values  and  the  conditions  which  affect  them,  is  everywhere  recognized, 
and  his  business  methods  have  always  been  such  as  to  secure  the  fullest  confidence  of  all 
with  whom  he  has  had  dealings.  There  has  been  only  one  break  of  about  a year  and  a half 
in  Mr.  Wharton’s  active,  personal  devotion  to  this  business,  and  that  was  caused  by  his 
acceptance  of  the  duties  of  car  accountant  for  the  Union  Railway  Company.  In  1874  he 
was  appointed  deputy  city  clerk,  and  afterward,  in  turn,  deputy  county  clerk,  deputy 
county  treasurer,  dejiuty  county  auditor  and  deputy  State  auditor  under  Col.  Wolf.  In 
1884-85  he  served  as  councilman  from  the  third  ward  in  the  city  council.  In  all  these  po- 
sitions he  has  demonstrated  that  he  possesses  rare  ability  for  public  business,  and  he  has  per- 
formed their  honorable  and  responsible  duties  with  a faithfulness  and  courtesy  which  have 
caused  him  to  be  regarded  as  a model  official.  He  has  been  closely  identitied  with  the  poli- 
tics of  the  city  and  State  for  many  years.  He  is  a stanch  and  unswerving  Repidilican  and 
was  assistant  secretary  of  the  state  central  committee  mider  Hon.  John  C.  New.  He  is  a 
l)opular  member  of  the  K.  of  P.  and  of  the  Beta  Theta  Phi  society.  He  was  married  in 
1874  to  Eloise  M.  Taylor,  a native  of  Worthington,  Ind.,  and  daughter  of  George  R.  Tay- 
lor. Mr.  and  Mrs.  Wharton  are  members  of  the  Methodist  Episco}>al  Church. 

Christian  A.  Hiloenbekg.  This  well  known  real  estate,  loan  and  insurance  agent, 
whose  office  is  at  27^  West  Ohio  Street,  has  made  such  a success  in  his  enterprise  and  has 
become  so  jiopiilar  personally  that  he  must  be  included  in  any  list  of  the  prominent  business 
men  of  Indianapolis,  and  for  the  same  reason  any  work  of  the  character  and  scope  of  this 
that  did  not  include  proper  biogra])hical  mention  of  such  a citizen  would  be  incomplete. 
This  business  was  established  in  1882  by  Christoph  Hilgenberg,  father  of  the  immediate 
subject  of  this  sketch.  Mr.  Hilgenberg  was  born  in  Melsungen,  Germany,  and  came  to 
Indianapolis  in  1859.  Upon  his  arrival  in  this  country  he  was  without  means,  but  he  was 
honest,  industrious  and  persevering,  and  when  he  came  to  Indianapolis  was  enabled  to 
engage  in  the  meat  trade,  in  which  he  continued  successfully  for  about  twenty  years,  includ- 
ing the  period  from  1869  to  1874,  when  he  lived  at  Richmond,  Ind.  By  careful  invest- 
ments in  business  and  farm  property,  he  in  time  accumulated  considerable  means,  and  he 
came  to  be  regarded  as  one  of  the  wealthy  and  substantial  citizens  of  Indianapolis.  His 
business  judgment  was  good,  and  though  enter])rising  he  was  at  the  same  time  quite 
conservative,  and  he  was  truly  a self-made  man  in  the  best  sense  of  that  much  abused 
term.  He  was  a member  of  the  Commercial  Club,  and  in  all  things  had  the  beat  interests 
of  the  city  at  heart.  He  died  December  23,  1891.  Christian  A.  Hilgenberg  was  born  in 
Ripley  County.  Ind.,  March  10,  1862.  He  was  reared  and  educated  princi])ally  in  Indianap- 
olis, though  he  spent  much  of  his  early  life  on  a suburban  farm.  After  completing  his  English 


\ 


* 

tf:-: 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

J.\MVER,SITY=OF  ILLINOIS 


M;'* 


’• 


AND  MARTON  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  253 

and  classical  education  he  was  for  a time  a student  in  a law  scliool.  He  early  imbibetl  the 
careful  and  conservative  spirit  of  his  father,  and  learned  to  apply  to  all  his  business  trans- 
actions those  principles  of  integrity,  promptness  and  fair  dealing  which  made  his  father 
popular,  and  he  was  almost  from  boyhood  closely  identified  with  his  father  in  the  latter’s 
important  operations.  During  the  latter  years  of  his  father’s  life  he  had  entire  charge  of 
all  his  affairs,  and,  having  grown  up  in  the  business  and  managed  it  under  his  father’s 
advice,  he  was  well  fitted  by  experience  as  well  as  by  natural  and  highly  developed  busi- 
ness ability  to  carry  it  on  successfully  after  his  father’s  death.  He  has  large  property  inter- 
ests in  different  parts  of  the  city,  and  buys  and  sells  city  and  outside  property  extensively 
on  his  own  account,  while  at  the  same  time  doing  a commission  business  handling  and 
settling  estates,  negotiating  loans,  collecting  rents  and  doing  a general  real  estate  business 
in  connection  with  a large  and  growing  insurance  business,  in  which  department  he  repre- 
sents some  of  the  most  substantial  companies  in  the  country.  Mr.  Hilgenberg  is  a mem- 
ber of  the  Marion  CUub  and  is  po{)ular  in  all  business  and  social  circles.  He  is  an  enthusi- 
astic cyclist  and  is  identified  with  the  League  of  American  Wheelmen.  In  his  business 
trips  he  prefers  the  wheel  to  the  buggy,  and  he  is  a familiar  figure  on  the  street  in  his 
daily  “spins”  about  the  city.  In  politics  he  is  strongly  a Republican,  devoted  to  the  prin- 
ciples and  interests  of  his  party.  He  is  a member  of  the  Catholic  Church,  though  at  the 
same  time  very  liberal  in  his  sectarian  views  and  very  tolerant  of  the  opinions  of  others. 

George  A.  Johnson.  There  is  hardly  a community  in  the  civilized  world  but  that  recog- 
nizes the  superior  advantages  to  be  derived  from  and  the  importance  of  neatly  and  substantially 
built  houses,  and  to  bring  about  this  most  desirable  state  of  affairs  it  is  necessary  that  an 
experienced  and  competent  contractor  and  builder  be  employed,  and  that  George  A.  Johnson 
is  recognized  as  such  is  at  once  seen  when  the  nature  of  and  the  large  number  of  houses  he 
has  erected  are  taken  into  consideration.  This  intelligent  and  wide-awake  business  man  was 
born  near  Jacksonville,  111.,  May  23,  1840,  his  father  being  Merritt  Johnson,  a Kentuckian 
by  birth  and  a farmer  l)y  occupation,  and  a soldier  of  the  Confederate  army  during  the  great 
Civil  War.  In  the  schools  of  his  native  State  George  A.  Johnson  was  educated  and  when 
still  a boy  he  learned  the  carpenter’s  trade  under  his  uncle,  Wilson  Welboru,  who  was  a 
native  of  the  Old  North  State,  and  with  whom  he  made  his  home  after  he  had  reached  the 
age  of  four  years.  In  his  uncle’s  shop  much  of  his  time  was  spent  and  he  also  labored  on 
the  latter’s  farm,  learning  lessons  of  industry  and  honesty  which  were  his  stepping  stones  to 
his  pi-eseut  succe.ss.  Upon  attaining  his  majority,  he  began  contracting  which  ho  continued 
for  eighteen  years,  at  the  end  of  which  time  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  since  that  time  has 
continued  here  in  the  same  occupation,  with  the  exception  of  a few  years  which  he  spent  with 
Nordyke  & Marmon,  as  a master  workman  in  their  woodshop.  Four  years  since  he  com- 
menced contracting  on  his  own  account,  princij)ally  as  a residence  Iniilder,  and  owing  to  the 
admirable  character  of  his  work  and  the  dispatch  with  which  he  executes  all  orders,  he  has  a 
wide  and  constantly  increasing  patronage.  Mr.  Johnson  is  strictly  independent  of  all  social 
orders  and  pursues  the  even  tenor  of  this  way,  swayed  by  no  jwlitical  or  social  faction,  so  far 
as  his  work  is  concerned. 

Hugo  Otto  Pantzek,  M.  D.  This  is  decidedly  the  day  of  the  specialist  in  medicine  and 
surgery  as  in  about  every  other  department  of  human  endeavor.  The  most  successful  and 
reliable  medical  specialists  are  such  as  have  had  their  attention  directed  to  their  specialties 
in  the  course  of  a general  practice.  A natural  adaptation  for  certain  lines  of  work,  com 
bined  with  the  knowledge  growing  from  the  fatniliarity'  with  it,  engenders  success  and  repu 
tation  in  it,  and  eventually  the  demand  for  this  sjiecial  service  grows  to  make  necessary  the 
limitation  of  practice  to  special  lines.  Such  is  the  manner  in  which  Dr.  Hugo  ().  Fantzer 
and  numerous  other  specialists  became  such.  Their  knowledge  of  their  specialties  is  supple- 
mented atid  enhanced  by  the  extensive  general  knowledge  of  medicine  and  sui'gery  accjuired 
through  the  valuable  exj)erience  of  a large  general  practice  of  many  years  duration.  Dr. 
Fantzer,  as  a general  practitioner,  enjoyed  a rare  degree  of  success  and  patronage,  and  to 
his  numerous  friends  it  will  be  a gratification  to  have  placed  in  permanent  form  some  account 
of  his  life  and  woiks.  Hugo  Otto  Pantzer  was  born  at  Sheboygan,  Wis..  June  3,  1858,  the 
eldest  child  of  John  George  and  Willa  ( Koehler)  Fantzer,  natives  of  Sulzbach,  Oberpfalz, 
and  liiolefeld,  Westphalia,  Germany,  respectively,  whence  they  emigrated  to  America  owing 


254 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


to  the  political  troubles  of  the  years  1848-411.  Sheboygan  at  this  time  was  virtually  a 
colony  of  German  political  fugitives  and  their  sympathizers.  It  was  marked  for  its  intellect- 
ual and  musical  accomplishments.  John  G.  Pantzer  here  pursued  the  life  of  a tradesman 
with  the  success  ordinary  of  a man  with  marked  musical  talent  and  propensity.  He  died  in 
1882  leaving  a widow  and  live  sons  and  two  daughters  who  still  survive  him.  Three  of 
these,  namely,  F.  Will  Pantzer,  proprietor  of  the  Bates  House  Pharmacy;  John  G.  Pantzer, 
Jr. , a commercial  collector,  and  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  being  located  at  Indianapolis, 
the  others  continuing  at  their  native  town.  Hugo  O.  Pantzer  was  reared  at  Sheboygan, 
where  he  attended  a German  (Lutheran)  school  two  years,  and  then  the  public  schools.  He 
left  high  school  at  the  age  of  fourteen  before  graduation,  and  went  to  Davenport,  Iowa, 
where  he  spent  one  year  as  a draughtsman,  and  attache  to  the  United  States  Government 
Survey  Office  at  Rock  Island  and  as  a pupil  of  the  Bryant  & Stratton’s  Business  College  of 
Davenport,  from  which  he  graduated  with  honois  in  l874.  Enticing  positions  in  mercantile 
pursuits  at  Davenport  were  rejected.  He  resumed  his  literary  education  at  the  German- 
English  Academy  (at  present  the  North  American  German  Normal  School)  at  Milwaukee. 
Later,  at  the  same  place,  he  engaged  as  a shipping  clerk  and  bookkeeper,  utilizing  his 
evenings  for  the  attendance  at  the  Normal  School  for  teachers  in  gymnastics,  an  institution 
supported  by  the  North  American  Turnerbund.  The  practice  of  gymnastics  equipped  him 
with  improved  physical  health,  and  the  calling  served  to  be  the  stepping-stone  to  his  medical 
career.  He  graduated  as  a teacher  of  gymnastics  in  the  year  1876,  and  pursued  this  calling 
during  five  years,  serving  as  instructor  at  Sheboygan  and  Plymouth,  Wis.,  as  private  tutor  in 
the  family  of  a mining  superintendent  at  Frisco,  Beaver  County,  Utah  Ter.,  and  as  instructor 
of  the  social  Turnverein  at  Indianapolis.  Meanwhile  he  utilized  his  leisure  hours  to  improve 
his  education  by  home  study  and  private  lessons.  In  1878  his  plans  to  Attend  Cornell  Uni- 
versity were  frustrated  by  the  entire  loss  of  his  savings.  He  felt  himself  forced  to  take  up 
the  study  of  his  choice,  namely,  medicine,  without  a complete  humanitarian  education.  He 
read  medicine  at  Sheboygan  in  1878  under  doctors  Carl  Muth  and  Almond  Clarke.  While 
instructor  in  gymnastics  at  Indianapolis  during  1879-81,  he  attended  the  lectures  at  the 
Medical  College  of  Indiana,  and  was  the  student  of  Drs.  Wm.  B.  Fletcher  and  E.  F. 
Hodges.  During  this  time  he  served  as  census- enumerator,  and  twice  as  deputy  assessor. 
He  graduated  from  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana  in  the  spring  of  1881.  While  teacher 
of  gymnastics  Mr.  Pantzer  had  various  honorary  appointments  within  the  gift  of  the  North 
American  Turnerbund,  and  was  a frequent  contributor  to  its  official  organ.  He  proposed 
the  organization  of  the  teachei's  of  the  North  American  Turnerbund,  which  organized  at 
Indianapolis,  in  the  year  1881.  His  essay  on  the  prize  subject  of  the  year  of  his  graduation 
received  meritorious  distinction,  and  his  examination  papers  in  the  competition  for  dispensary 
and  hospital  positions  placed  him  at  the  head  of  the  list  of  competitors.  He  served  one  year 
as  resident  physician  to  the  city  dispensary.  Since  then  he  has  been  engaged  in  private  prac- 
tice at  Indianapolis,  excepting  three  years  and  one-half,  which  were  spent  in  study  and  travel 
in  Europe  in  1884  to  1886,  1890  and  1891.  He  has  attended  lectures  and  clinics  under  many 
of  the  most  distinguished  men  of  this  day,  notably  at  Strasburg,  Munich,  Berlin,  Wurzburg 
and  Vienna.  He  was  assistant  at  the  surgical  clinic  at  Munich  under  the  direction  of  Prof. 
Von  Nussbaum;  has  participated  in  the  bacteriological  courses  at  the  Imperial  Sani- 
tary Office  at  Berlin,  under  the  renowned  Prof.  Koch;  was  five  months  hospitant  at  the  lying- 
in  wards  and  women’s  division  of  the  great  “Allgemeine  Frankenhaus”  of  Vienna,  and  was 
assistant  at  the  surgical  clinic  under  Prof.  Witzel  at  Bonn,  besides  taking  many  special 
courses  in  all  of  the  different  branches  of  the  medical  science.  His  travels  extended  over 
Germany,  Austria,  Hungary,  France,  Switzerland,  England  and  Italy,  and  included  a pro- 
tracted stay  each  at  Paris  and  London.  While  at  Munich  he  prepared  himself  for  acquiring 
the  German  degrees  of  doctor  of  medicine  and  practische  arzt,  but  his  application  was 
refused  on  account  of  having  no  certificate  of  his  humanitarian  education.  He  is  president 
of  the  Indianapolis  Surgical  Society,  and  a member  of  the  judicial  council  of  the  Marion 
County  Medical  Society.  He  is  a member  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society,  the  Ameri- 
can Medical  Association,  and  the  International  Medical  congress,  and  consulting  gynecologist 
to  the  Indianapolis  City  Dispensary  and  the  city  hospital.  He  has  pre])ared  and  read 
numerous  papers  before  various  societies,  some  of  which,  read  before  the  Marion  County 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


255 


Medical  Society,  were  referred  to  the  Iiidiaiia  State  Medical  Society,  aud  have  been  ordered 
published  in  the  transactions  of  this  body.  In  1891,  while  Dr.  Pantzer  was  preparing  his 
change  from  general  to  special  practice,  he  found  it  necessary,  owing  to  his  extensive  prac- 
tice, to  procure  the  aid  of  an  assistant.  He  was  happy  in  procuring  the  services  of  Di-.  H. 
Haeberlin,  of  Zurich,  Switzerland,  at  that  time  the  first  assistant  to  the  chair  of  obstetrics 
and  gynecology  at  the  universitj' of  that  city,  who  remained  with  him  until  the  spring  of 
1892.  About  this  time  Dr.  Pantzer  purchased  the  large  and  beautiful  estate  on  the  north- 
west corner  of  Michigan  and  New  Jersey  Streets  (commonly  known  as  the  Beaty  Home- 
stead) which  he  had  remodeled  and  enlarged,  and  which  was  arranged  and  equipped  with  all 
the  necessities  and  comforts  of  a first-class  surgical  and  medical  sanitarium.  The  energy  of 
its  founder  has  already  made  it  one  of  the  most  successful  private  institutions  of  its  kind  in 
the  State.  Since  the  spring  of  1892  Dr.  Pantzer  has  devoted  himself  exclusively  to  the  cure 
of  medical  and  surgical  diseases  of  women  and  all  kinds  of  surgical  diseases.  The  Doctor’s 
operations  in  surgery  have  included  many  successes  in  difficult  cases.  Among  these  is 
notable  the  first  successful  case  of  laminectomy  (spinal  surgery)  performed  in  this  State.  It 
was  reported  to  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society  and  referred  to  the  State  Medical 
Society.  It  was  published  in  the  New  York  Medical  Journal  for  August,  1893,  and  it  has 
appeared  in  extract  in  many  home  and  foreign  medical  journals.  Dr.  Pantzer  was  married 
June  23,  1891,  to  Miss  Emmy  Schmidt,  a native  of  Hagen,  Westphalia,  Germany,  the 
daughter  of  a physician.  Mrs.  Pantzer  is  a lady  of  exceptionally  sweet  disposition  and 
is  possessed  of  many  talents  and  accomplishments.  She  is  a pupil  of  the  Frankfort  Ciui- 
servatory  of  Music,  where  she  enjoyed  the  distinction  of  being  elected  to  the  class  member- 
ship of  Mrs.  Clara  Schumann.  She  has  borne  him  one  child,  a sou,  named  Kurt  Frederick 
Pantzer.  The  Doctor  is  a thirty-second  degree  Scottish  Rite  Mason.  He  belongs  to  no 
church.  In  politics  he  is  a Republican,  but  is  not  a strong  partisan,  owing  greatly  to  the 
exacting  demands  made  upon  him  of  his  professional  duties. 

James  Whitcomb  Riley,  the  famous  Hoosier  dialect  poet  whose  verses  have  so  pleased 
the  public  during  the  past  decade,  was  born  at  Greenfield,  Hancock  County,  Ind.,  about 
the  year  1852.  His  .scholastic  training  was  not  of  the  highest  order  as  his  youthful  proclivity 
seemed  to  be  of  the  Bohemian  order.  His  father,  a lawyer  of  large  practice,  induced  him  to 
become  a disciple  of  Blackstone,  but  his  career  as  such  was  of  short  duration  as  he  ran  away 
and  shortly  thereafter  was  discovered  as  an  adjunct  of  a patent  medicine  concert  wagon.  For 
a number  of  years  he  traveled  around  the  country  following  various  callings,  such  as  sign 
painter,  actor,  revising  and  recasting  plays,  songs,  etc.  Of  keen  observation  he  readily  ab- 
sorbed all  that  was  worthy  being  seen,  and  hearing  all  that  worthy  being  said.  Undoubtedly, 
during  this  time,  he  acquired  his  extensive  knowledge  of  the  Hoosier  people,  their  ways  and 
their  peculiar  idiom.  When  about  twenty-three  years  old  he  began  contributing  dialect 
verses  for  the  press.  The  poet,  the  author  and  the  artist  who  have  attained  distinction  and 
won  the  plaudits  of  the  world,  have  usually  obtained  renown  by  selecting  their  theme  from 
the  common  walks  of  life.  Mr.  Riley,  in  selecting  the  homely  back  woods  Hoosier  as  his 
subject,  with  his  (juaint  ways  and  odd  characteristics,  and  surrounding  his  theme  with  a 
pathos  for  which  his  jien  is  noted,  has  became  a national  character.  Some  of  his  best  known 
{)roduction8  are:  “Neighborly  Poems;’”  “Sketches  in  Prose  and  Occasional  Verse;”  “After- 
whiles;” “Pipes  o’  Pan;”  “Rhymes  of  Ohildhood  Days;”  “Old  Fashioned  Roses”;  and  ‘‘An 
Old  Sweetheart  of  Mine.”  His  [)roduction  “Little  Orphant  Annie”  has  become  almost  world- 
known  as  a beautiful  nursery  rhyme.  Mi-.  Riley  is  gifted  as  a public  reader,  and  the  popu- 
larity of  his  verses  has  increasecl  because  off  his  public  rendition  of  them.  His  home  is  in 
the  city  of  Indianapolis. 

Jacob  Fkankel.  Life  insurance,  as  a business,  has,  in  the  hands  of  shrewd  and  original 
men,  developed  into  a juofession  and  has  attracted  to  it  during  recent  years  talent  that 
would  have  made  itself  known  in  any  of  the  higher  walks  of  life.  One  of  the  most  aecom 
plished  life  insurance  rruui  of  Indianapolis  and  one  [lerhaps  as  well  known  as  any  other 
throughout  the  State,  is  Jacob  Fraukel,  the  State  agent  of  the  Michigan  IMutual  Life 
Insurance  Oompany,  of  Detroit.  Mr.  Fraukel  was  born  in  Germany,  aud  came  to  the 
Uniteil  States  when  a child  and  located  in  old  Virginia.  (Jircumstances  favored  his  acipiisi 
tion  of  a fair  education  and  he  was  enabled  to  return  to  his  native  land,  where  he  gradu- 


250 


MEMOll^S  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


ated  from  one  of  the  best  educational  institutions.  His  home,  however,  was  in  America, 
and  lie  came  back  and  located  at  Cincinnati,  and  while  still  very  young  located  at  Union 
County,  lud.  He  taught  school  for  a while  and  then  engaged  in  the  insurance  business, 
with  which  he  has  been  connected  up  to  the  present  time  with  increasing  success.  For  sev- 
eral years  Mr.  Frankel  represented  the  Michigan  Mutual  Life  Insurance  Company  at  Rich- 
mond, Ind.,  and  met  with  such  success  that  when  a vacancy  occurred  the  State  agency  was 
offered  him.  He  took  charge  in  1880,  when  he  removed  to  Indianapolis.  He  found  the 
business  of  the  company  in  this  State  small  and  very  much  disorganized,  but  took  hold  with 
such  vigor  that  now  Indiana  ranks  fourth  in  the  list.  He  had,  of  course,  the  advantage  of 
representing  a corporation  that  had  made  friends  wherever  known  and  whose  manner  of 
doing  business  is  especially  suitable  for  western  people.  Mr.  Frankel  is  very  active  in 
other  entei'firises  and  is  very  thoroughly  devoted  to  the  Imilding  up  of  Indianapolis  and  all 
its  important  interests.  He  was  one  of  the  incorporators  and  vice-president  of  the  Key- 
stone Land  Comjiany,  one  of  the  largest  and  most  wide-awake  concerns  of  its  kind  in  the 
city,  which  has  laid  out  and  built  up  some  of  the  finest  additions.  Mr.  Frankel  is  a veteran 
of  Company  B,  First  Regiment  Ohio  National  Guards  (Lytle  Grays),  which  in  its  halcyon 
days  won  the  prize  for  drill  and  appearance  wherever  it  went.  He  is  a Mason  and  member 
of  other  j)opular  organizations.  In  ))olitics  he  is  enthusiastically  Republican.  Social  and 
hospitable  in  an  eminent  degree,  his  elegant  home  is  always  o])ento  a large  circle  of  friends. 
He  was  married  in  October,  1881,  to  Miss  Emma  Pretzfelder,  a native  of  Mississippi,  who 
has  borne  him  three  children : Emilie,  Albert  Lincoln  and  Columbia.  There  is  probably 
not  in  Indianapolis  a more  conspicuous  example  of  the  results  which  follow  application  of 
tine  capacity  with  a determination  to  succeed  in  spite  of  all  obstacles  than  is  furnished  by 
the  achievements  of  Mr.  Frankel,  and  he  is  regarded  by  the  German  American  element  of 
the  city’s  po])ulation  as  in  some  sense  its  representative  and  as  manifesting  to  the  public 
that  sturdy  character  which  makes  these  people  successful  in  ail  walks  of  life. 

Capt.  J.  Stitt  Neal.  As  early  as  the  year  1840  Capt.  J.  Stut  Neal’s  counectiou  with 
river  navigation  began,  at  which  time  he  acted  in  the  capacity  of  engineer  on  the  vessel 
“Iris.”  He  was  born  in  Pittsburgh,  Penn.,  in  1820,  a son  of  Zenas  Neal,  a native  of  Conn., 
and  his  youth  was  spent  in  learning  the  trade  of  a machini,st,  after  which  he  became  an  expert 
engine  builder,  which  knowledge  admirably  fitted  him  for  the  occupation  he  afterwai’d  pur- 
sued. In  1841  he  became  part  owner  and  engineer  of  the  “Arcade”  and  afterward  built 
and  was  part  owner  of  the  “Revenue,’’  which  vessel  he  sold  to  a sea  captain  and  shipped  as 
engineer  on  the  “South  America.”  After  this  he  and  Capt.  Fulton  built  and  owned  the 
“Andrew  Fulton,”  which  sunk  near  St.  Louis,  and  then  built  the  “Hungarian,”  which  he 
commanded  in  the  Cincinnati  and  New  Orleans  trade  for  some  time.  He  and  his  brother, 
Capt.  Reub.  E.  Neal,  afterward  bought  the  “Falcon”  and  changed  her  name  to  “Queen 
City,”  l>lying  between  Cincinnati  and  New  Orleans.  He  next  built  the  “Grace  Darling,’’  at 
Madison,  Ind.,  and  ran  her  as  a packet  between  New  Orleans  and  Montgomery,  Ala.  The  two 
brothers  J.  S.  and  R.  E.  Neal  then  for  some  time  operated  the  largest  engine  shop  and  foundry 
in  Indiana,  at  Madison,  during  which  time  they  built  the  steamer  “City  of  Madison’’  which 
was  lost  at  Vicksburg,  August,  1803,  by  the  explosion  of  ordnance  stores  with  which  she  was 
loaded  by  the  Government,  there  being  at  the  time  400  barrels  of  powder  on  board.  They 
made  the  machinery  for  some  of  the  largest  and  best  steamers  plying  on  western  waters, 
among  which  was  the  famous  '‘David  White,”  “Edward  Walsh,”  “John  C.  Cline,”  “Em- 
press,” and  many  others,  and  during  the  war  they  owned  the  “Hazel  Dell,”  “Sallie  List,” 
“Sam  Young”  and  “Universe,”  all  of  which  were  in  the  Government  employ  most  of  the 
time  during  the  war,  and  without  doubt  transported  more  soldiers  than  most  of  the  steamers 
in  service.  In  1865  they  built  and  owned  the  famous  “Indiana,”  at  Madison,  which  was  a 
very  jirofitable  source  of  revenue  to  him,  but  which  he  finally  sold.  In  1867  they  built  and 
owned  the  noted  low  pressure  “Richmond,”  at  Madison,  Ind.,  which  was  345  feet  long  and 
was  probably  the  fastest  boat  on  the  river.  It  cost  him  |240,000,  and  plied  principally 
between  Louisville  and  New  Orleans,  making  the  trip  every  two  weeks.  She  had  a capacity 
of  2,000  tons,  had  an  elegant  full  length  cabin,  with  accommodations  for  200  passengers. 
Capt.  Neal  began  his  career  on  the  river  as  engineer  and  finally  became  commander  of  his 
own  boats.  He  is  a practical  machinist,  has  had  an  extensive  experience  in  boat  building  and 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  '257 

in  the  construction  of  all  kinds  of  machinery.  To  these  two  gentlemen  is  due  the  introduc- 
tion of  the  steamboat  whistle,  and  in  1877  the  services  of  Capt.  J.  Stut  Neal  were  engaged 
as  assistant  superintendent  of  construction  of  the  building  of  the  Insane  Hospital  at  Indian- 
apolis, to  which  city  he  had  moved  in  1875,  to  take  charge  of  the  work.  He  was  also 
superintendent  of  construction  of  the  Federal  building  at  New  Albany,  Ind. , and  has 
recently  received  the  appointment  from  President  Cleveland  as  special  inspector  of  customs 
at  Indianapolis,  subject  to  orders  of  the  department.  When  a lad,  like  Mark  Twain,  he  was 
ambitious  to  go  on  the  river  as  an  engineer  and  to  this  position  he  linally  attained.  He 
navigated  nearly  every  tributary  of  the  Mississijipi  River,  and  during  his  long  career  as 
engineer,  captain  and  clerk,  of  thirty  years,  he  had  many  thrilling  experiences,  especially  on 
the  Upper  Red  River  in  the  Indian  Territory,  before  the  annexation  of  Texas.  In  the  business 
of  building  and  navigating  boats  Capt.  Neal  has  made  and  lost  fortunes,  but  has  accumulated 
a sufficiency  of  this  world’s  goods  to  keej)  him  from  want  and  piovide  him  with  many  of  the 
luxuries  of  life.  He  is  now  residing  in  Indianapolis  where  he  has  a host  of  warm  friends 
and  is  highly  esteemed.  Politically  he  is  a Democrat  and  socially  he  is  a member  of  the 
Hendricks  Club. 

Henry  W.  L.vut.  The  subject  of  our  sketch,  Henry  W.  Laut,  is  a councilman-at-large, 
a contractor  on  a large  scale  and  a widely  known  and  popular  citizen  of  Indianapolis,  who 
has  worked  his  way  up  to  prominence  and  the  respect  and  the  regard  of  his  neighbors  by 
the  sheer  force  of  his  own  character  and  by  his  generous  and  sociable  fellowship.  His  jdace 
of  business  is  at  No.  f350  East  South  Street,  and  his  business  is  that  of  a contractor  in  tin, 
galvanized  iron  and  slate,  many  of  his  contracts  being  of  considerable  magnitude,  and  his 
operations  aggregate  a very  large  sum  every  season.  Our  subject  was  born  at  Indianapolis, 
December  1,  1850,  being  the  son  of  Rhiuehart  and  Louise  (Nigael)  Laut,  natives  of  Germany, 
who  came  to  America  about  the  year  1848  and  located  in  this  city.  The  father  was  a farmer 
and  followed  that  pursuit  in  Marion  County,  bearing  the  reputation  of  a worthy  man  and  a 
good  husbandman.  He  and  his  wife,  who  are  now  dead,  j)a8sing  away  in  Marion  County, 
where  their  remains  are  buried,  were  the  parents  of  seven  children,  six  of  whom  are  living, 
namely:  Mrs.  Wamperner,  of  Marion  County;  Mrs.  Borneham,  Mrs.  Bierman,  Mrs.  Miller, 
of  St.  Louis;  Mrs.  Pope  and  our  subject,  Henry  W.,  who  is  the  youngest  of  the  family. 
He  spent  the  greater  part  of  his  youth  upon  the  farm,  attending  the  country  schools,  and  in 
his  seventeenth  year  came  to  Indianapolis  and  learned  the  trade  of  a cabinet-maker,  serving 
a term  of  four  years.  His  desire  for  an  education  that  was  practical  was  so  strong  that  he 
attended  a night  school,  suffering  nothing  to  interfere  with  this,  although  the  labors  of  the 
day  were  very  fatiguing.  Hence,  while  he  was  learning  a trade  thoroughly  he  was  filling 
his  mind  with  useful  knowledge,  and  when  he  had  completed  his  term  of  service  as  a cabinet 
maker,  he  had  the  proud  satisfaction  of  knowing  that  he  was  possessed  of  a good  business 
education.  It  is  this  kind  of  young  men  who  succeed  in  life;  for  while  many  other  young 
men  were  .spending  their  evenings  in  frivolity  or  worse,  he  was  fitting  himself  thoroughly  for 
the  important  duties  that  awaited  him;  and  the  idle  and  the  frivolous  and  the  dissipated 
stood  no  chance  with  him  in  the  great  arena  of  life.  At  the  age  of  twenty-one  he  engaged 
in  the  grocery  business,  and  continued  the  same  for  a ptwiod  of  nineteen  years,  bcung,  as 
should  be  supposed,  after  such  thorough  preparation,  very  successful,  indeed.  His  honest 
and  straightforward  methods,  his  enterprise,  energy,  ap])lication  and  good  management  com 
l)ining  to  build  up  a trade  that  was  enduring  and  one  that  assured  handsome  returns  to  him. 
A few  years  f)rior  to  closing  out  his  grocery  business,  he  began  his  present  enterj)rise  and 
carried  on  both  for  some  time,  or  until  1802,  when  the  large  interests  involved  in  his  affairs 
as  a contractor,  required  all  of  his  time,  and  he  closed  out  the  grocery  l)usiness.  Mr.  Junit 
emi)loys  from  ten  to  twenty  men  and  does  a very  e.xtensive  business.  Among  the  many  con- 
tracts he  has  tilled  is  the  tin,  galvanized  iron  and  slate  work  for  the  Marion  County  jail;  for 
the  handsome  and  im[)osing  Commercial  Club  building;  the  German  Lutheran  Orphans’ 
Home;  the  'I’utth-  House;  the  Grul)bs  House  and  a numl)er  of  otheis,  as  the  Sclireber  bnihl 
ing,  etc.  .Mr.  liant  is  a member  of  the  Builders’  Exchange  and  takes  a lively  interest  in  tin' 
affairs  of  this  most  imj)ortant  and  intluential  organization.  His  religious  convict  ions  are  v<*ry 
strong  and  he  is  a sincere  moml)er  of  the  Geiinan  Lutheran  Chnr<-h;  is  a iin'inber  of  the 
school  b(.)ar<i  of  that  church  and  was  for  eiglit,  years  a trustee  of  tliat  l)ody.  H(>  was  first 


258 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


elected  to  the  city  council  in  188(5  and  has  since  been  four  times  elected,  having  served  con- 
tinuously since  that  time.  His  pojmlarity  in  the  council  is  very  great,  and  he  served  at  one 
time  as  president  of  the  board  of  aldermen.  He  is  everywhere  recognized  as  one  of  the 
most  useful  members  of  the  body,  and  his  integrity  and  honesty,  united  with  his  experience 
and  his  decided  intelligence,  give  him  great  intluence.  Our  subject  was  married  in  1870  to 
Miss  Dora  Nienaber,  a native  of  this  city,  who  has  borne  him  six  children,  namely;  Anna, 
William,  Heniy,  Charles,  Bertie,  and  Flora.  IMr.  Laut  is  a self-made  man  and  began  to 
earn  his  own  living  when  (jnite  a youth,  working  his  way  up  to  his  present  distinguished 
place  by  tireless  energy  and  by  an  intelligent  and  honorable  use  of  his  gifts  and  talents, 
which  he  has  never  lost  an  occasion  to  improve.  The  fruits  of  his  labors  are  many,  being 
blessed  with  much  of  this  world’s  goods,  a happy  home  with  a most  interesting  family — a 
wife  and  children  whom  he  dearly  loves  and  in  whom  he  very  properly  takes  {rride,  and  hav- 
ing the  esteem  and  the  confidence  of  all  who  know  him. 

William  H.  Bowseh.  The  gentleman  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  has  every  reason 
to  be  classed  among  the  successful  and  highly  respected  farmers  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  for 
he  not  only  owns  100  acres  of  land  in  Center  Township,  but  this  land  is  exceptionally  fer- 
tile, is  carefully  tilled,  has  a neat  and  well  kept  appearance,  and  is  finely  improved  with  an 
excellent  residence,  good  barn  and  other  buildings,  the  barn  being  40x58  feet  in  dimensions 
and  unicjue  as  well  as  very  convenient  in  its  interior  arrangement.  Mr.  Bowser  devotes  his 
attention  to  general  farming,  and  besides  raising  the  usual  grain  products,  raises  a good 
grade  of  horses,  cattle  and  hogs.  Mr.  Bowser  was  born  in  W’arren  Township,  this  county, 
October  18,  1848,  his  parents  being  Henry  and  Mary  Ann  (Moore)  Bowser,  the  former  of 
whom  was  born  in  Pennsylvania  in  March,  1810.  When  but  live  years  of  age  he  was  taken 
by  his  parents  to  Ohio,  where  he  remained  until  he  was  twenty-one  yeais  of  age,  but  as  there 
were  no  free  schools  in  that  day,  his  educational  ojiportunities  were  few  and  far  between. 
However,  what  he  lacked  in  book  lore  he  made  up  in  solid,  practical,  natural  business  quali 
hcations,  which  he  put  to  a good  use  during  his  struggles  to  obtain  a competency  for  him- 
self and  family.  He  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  in  1831,  and  settled  in  the  southwest 
jiortion  of  Warren  Township,  where  he  reared  his  family,  his  sons  being  brought  up  to  a 
thorough  and  jiractical  knowledge  of  farm  life.  The  advantages  of  an  educational  nature 
which  William  H.  Bowser  received  were  of  a very  meagie  kind,  but,  like  his  father,  pos- 
sessed sound,  common  sense  and  ideas  of  a very  practical  nature,  which  he  put  to  a good  use 
on  his  farm.  He  is  independent  in  financial  circumstances,  a fact  which  he  owes  mainly  to 
his  own  efforts,  and  in  his  section  his  opinion  is  regarded  as  authority  on  all  subjects  relat- 
ing to  agriculture.  October  13,  1880,  he  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Florence  L. , 
daughter  of  Asa  N.  and  Margaret  (Smart)  Shimer,  a sketch  of  whom  appears  in  this  work. 
Mrs.  Bowser  was  born  November  2,  1855,  in  Warren  Township,  where  she  was  reared  and 
educated.  She  is  a woman  of  excellent  traits  of  character,  endowed  with  a fine  intellect  and 
wholly  devoted  to  her  family  and  home  interests.  Their  children  are  four  in  number:  Harry 
O. , born  November  7,  1882;  Maggie  A.,  born  September  0,  1885;  Asa  E.,  born  July  19, 
1887,  and  Mary  Etta,  born  August  7,  1890,  all  of  whom  are  bright,  attractive  and  promising 
children.  Mrs.  Bjwser  is  a member  of  the  Christian  Church,  and  Mr.  Bowser  is  a stanch 
supporter  of  the  ])rinci|)les  of  the  Republican  party. 

Smiley  Newton  Chambers.  Prominent  in  the  ranks  of  the  foremost  of  the  brilliant  circle 
of  lawyers  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis  stands  the  name  of  Smiley  Newton  Chambers,  who  has 
a most  thorough  and  practical  knowledge  of  the  complications  of  law.  He  was  born  in 
Edwardsport,  Knox  County,  Ind.,  March  18,  1845,  in  which  section  the  Chambers  family 
has  been  known  ever  since  the  great-grandfather,  Alexander  Chambers,  emigrated  to  the 
country  shortly  after  the  close  of  the  Revolutionary  War,  bringing  with  him  a large  family 
of  sons  and  daughters.  A location  was  made  upon  Mariah  Creek  in  a very  fertile  section  of 
the  county,  and  in  the  development  of  this  section  of  the  State  the  grandfather,  Joseph 
Chambers,  who  was  a man  of  unusual  intelligence  and  force  of  character,  became  very 
influential  and  filled  a number  of  imjiortant  offices  with  credit  and  ability.  His  twelve 
children  settled  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  the  old  home,  and  there  Alexander,  the  father 
of  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  brought  up.  He  was  the  eldest  of  his  father’s  family  and 
being  of  an  enterprising  and  energetic  disposition  settled  at  the  town  of  Edwardsport,  in 


251) 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

the  early  forties,  and  eno^ai^ed  in  the  Inisiness  of  sa'wint^  Iniuber  hy  steam  power,  the  ])roduct 
of  the  mill  being  rafted  down  the  river  to  southern  markets.  Notwithstanding  his 
excellent  business  qualifications  this  enterprise  proved  unsuccessful,  and  in  1850  he  returned 
to  the  immediate  neighborhood  of  his  birth  and  spent  the  remainder  of  his  life  on  a farm, 
his  death  occurring  in  186t).  He  was  united  in  marriage  with  Rachel  Keith,  who  removed 
with  her  parents  to  Knox  County,  Ind.,  from  Kentucky  about  1880,  and  as  she  was  a woman 
who  possessed  in  an  eminent  degree  strong  and  humane  qualities  of  mind  and  heart,  she 
was  in  every  respect  a helpmate  to  her  husband,  and  her  death,  which  occurred  in  February, 
1806,  six  mouths  prior  to  the  death  of  her  husirand,  was  a severe  blow  to  him.  Two 
daughters  and  a son  survived  them.  Up  to  the  year  1868  Smiley  N.  Chambers  spent  his  life 
upon  his  father’s  farm  and  assisted  him  in  clearing  it  ready  for  the  plow.  In  that  year  he 
enlisted  in  the  One  Hundred  and  Fifteenth  Indiana  Regiment  and  remained  in  the  service  of 
his  country  until  August,  1865;  was  in  both  the  infantry  and  artillery  service  and  was  a 
participant  in  the  battle  of  Nashville,  Tenn.,  in  December,  1S()4.  After  the  death  of  his 
parents  he  entered  Shurtliff  College  at  Upper  Alton,  111.,  from  which  institution  he  gradu- 
ated with  the  honors  of  his  class  in  June,  1870.  The  following  year  he' read  law  at  St. 
Louis,  Mo.,  and  in  the  spring  of  1872  entered  upon  the  practice  of  his  profession  in  the 
city  of  Vincennes,  Ind.  In  that  year  he  was  nominated  by  the  Republicans  of  Knox  County 
as  candidate  for  the  Legislature  and  with  the  rest  of  the  ticket  was  defeated.  In  1878  he 
formed  a law  partnership  with  William  H.  De  Wolf,  a well  known  lawyer  of  that  city,  with 
whom  he  continued  associated  until  the  spring  of  1881),  when  he  received  the  appointment  of 
United  States  attorney  for  the  district  of  Indiana,  which  position  he  held  until  the  exj)iration 
of  President  Harrison’s  term  of  office.  His  practice  at  Vincennes  was  extensive  and  lucra- 
tive and  he  was  justly  considered  one  of  the  leading  attorneys  of  Indiana,  he  was  engaged 
in  many  widely  known  and  important  cases.  Although  he  has  never  been  an  asj)irant  for 
public  office  he  made  an  extensive  canva.ss  of  the  State  for  the  Republican  State  ticket  in 
1884  and  1888  and  has  ever  been  interested  in  public  affairs,  both  political  and  otherwise. 
After  receiving  his  appointment  as  United  States  attorney  he  made  his  home  in  the  city  of 
Indianapolis,  in  the  interests  of  which  he  has  manifested  a zeal  and  interest  calculated  to 
place  him  among  the  leading  men  of  the  city.  Socially  he  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F. , 
is  a thirty-second  degree  Mason,  is  a prominent  and  active  member  of  the  G.  A.  R. ; and 
for  many  years  was  secretary  of  the  board  of  trustees  of  the  Vincennes  University,  to  the 
development  of  which  institution  of  learning  he  gave  much  time  and  attention.  May  81. 
1876,  he  wedded  Isadora  McCord,  daughter  of  William  R.  McCord,  a prominent  and  intlu- 
ential  citizen  of  Vincennes,  and  to  their  union  a family  of  six  children  has  been  given.  Mr. 
Chambers  possesses  all  the  characteristics  which  go  to  make  up  a model  citizen  and  has  the 
unbounded  re.spect  of  all  who  know  him. 

Austin  Flint  Denny,  a son  of  Theodore  V.  and  Elizabeth  Denny,  early  residents  of  this 
county,  particulars  of  whose  lives  may  be  found  elsewhere  in  this  work,  was  born  July  6, 
1841.  At  the  age  of  seven  years,  as  the  result  of  an  accidental  in  jury,  lu'  lost  his  right  arm. 
.\fter  this  he  pursued  the  jireparatory  studies  and  took  the  regular  classical  course  in  Rutler 
University,  graduating  with  the  degree  A.  R.  July  8.  1862.  The  two  years  next  after  leav- 
ing college,  he  taught  with  J.  R.  Cameron  in  the  schools  of  Edinburg,  Ind.,  sharing  with 
that  gentleman  the  directorship  and  superintendency  of  those  schools.  Mr.  Denny  then  be- 
came the  sole  principal  and  superintendent  of  the  pulilic  schools  of  Franklin,  in  the  same 
{•ounty.  During  his  engagements  in  teaching  he  employed  his  leisure  time  in  the  study  of 
law.  and  in  1866  terminated  his  career  as  a teacher  that  lie  might  devote  his  whole  time  to 
legal  study.  He  entered  Harvard  University  and  took  the  regular  course  in  the  Dant'  Law 
School,  under  the  tutelage  of  those  distinguished  authors  and  jurists,  Emory  Washburn, 
'riieophilus  Parsons,  Joel  Parker  and  Richard  H.  Dana,  Jr.  He  received  from  Harvard 
I niversity  the  degree  of  LL.  R.  July  15,  1868.  A fter  completing  his  preparatory  course 
in  law,  .Mr.  Denny  engaged  in  the  active  jiractice  of  this  pi'ofession  at.  Indianapolis,  and  is 
yet  a member  of  the  bar  of  that  city,  and  in  the  poss(‘ssion  of  a respectalile  practice.  He  was 
never  engaged  in  the  trial  of  any  noted  criminal  cast's,  but  has  had  a fair  shart*  of  civil  liti 
gation,  and  has  conducted  to  successful  rt'sults  some  notable  cases  containing  interesting 
(luestions  of  both  law  and  fact.  He  tmjoys  the  reputation  of  a safe  and  valuable  counselor 


200 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


aud  makes  the  law  of  real  estate  a specialty.  Mr.  Denny  was  married  January  7,  1873,  to 
Miss  ]\Iary  Elizabeth  Kechn,  a descendant  of  an  old  and  respected  family  of  Reading,  Penn., 
and  an  efficient  instructor  in  the  public  schools  of  Indianapolis.  Mrs.  Denny  is  a lady  of 
rare  literary  taste  and  ability,  aud  has  an  unusually  wide  knowledge  of  English  literature. 
She  is  prominent  in  local  literary  clubs  aud  in  social  circles  of  a similar  bent. 

William  S.  McCormick.  It  is  said  that  “a  man’s  house  is  his  castle”  therefore  it 
behooves  one  to  see  that  his  “castle”  is  well  constructed,  and  if  pleasing  in  appearance  so 
much  the  better.  These  desirable  results  are  brought  about  in  a great  measure  by  the  con- 
tractor and  builder,  and  one  who  has  been  especially  successful  in  this  line  of  work  is  Will- 
iam S.  McCormick,  who  is  a representative  of  one  of  the  oldest  families  in  Indianapolis. 
His  granduncle,  John  McCormick,  it  is  said  built  the  first  house  in  the  city,  for  thither  his 
grandfather,  Samuel  McCormick,  a Baptist  minister,  came  in  1821  and  located  near  what  is 
now  the  Military  Park.  He  was  a worthy  tiller  of  the  soil  but  died  in  Hendricks  County, 
lud. , whither  he  had  moved  prior  to  the  birth  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  His  son,  Will- 
iam McCormick,  father  of  William  S.  McCormick,  was  born  in  Preble  County,  Ohio,  in  1813, 
and  died  in  Marion  County,  lud.,  at  what  is  now  Haughville,  at  which  time  he  was  the  old- 
est settler  in  the  county,  and  shortly  before  had  been  awarded  a suit  of  clothes  in  1888,  by 
the  okl  settlers  of  Marion  and  Hendricks  Counties,  at  their  meeting.  Like  his  father 
before  him,  he  tilled  the  soil,  but  lost  heavily  during  the  war.  He  removed  to  Hendricks 
County  when  a young  man  and  there  spent  many  years  of  his  life  in  useful  and  profitable 
labor.  He  was  a Republican  and  Abolitionist  and  for  many  years  was  a member  of  the 
Baptist  Church.  He  was  married  in  Hendricks  County  to  Miss  Nancy  Hardin,  a native  of 
Rockcastle  County,  Ky.,  lier  father,  William  Hardin,  having  been  a Baptist  minister  of  con- 
siderable note.  She  died  in  Hendricks  County,  in  1872,  at  the  age  of  tifty-six  years.  Her 
union  with  Mr.  McCormick  resulted  in  the  birth  of  nine  children,  six  sons  and  three  daugh- 
ters, of  whom  five  sons  and  two  daughters  survive.  Four  sons  were  soldiers  in  the  Federal 
Army  during  the  great  Civil  \Var,  members  of  Company  A,  of  the  Fifty-tirst  Indiana  Volun- 
teer Infantry,  and  served  throughout  the  entire  struggle.  Two  of  them  were  captured  near 
Rome,  Ca.,  and  were  taken  to  Belle  Island,  where  they  were  paroled.  William  S.  McCormick 
was  born  in  Hendricks  County,  Ind.,  December  14,  1846,  and  received  his  education  in  his 
native  county.  In  1863  he  left  home  to  enlist  in  the  Union  army,  joining  Company  A,  of 
the  Fifty-tirst  Indiana  Infantry,  receiving  honorable  discharge  in  November,  1865,  having 
been  a participant  in  the  battles  of  Nashville,  Franklin,  Dalton,  Ga.,  and  others.  The  latter 
part  of  his  service  he  was  on  detail  duty  in  the  jiay  department  and  at  the  post  headquarters  at 
Indianapolis.  He  returned  to  his  home  very  much  impaired  in  health  and  it  was  not  until 
1872  that  he  began  to  recover.  He  then  commenced  learning  the  carpenter’s  trade,  in  addi 
tion  to  farming,  and  to  that  occupation  has  given  his  attention  up  to  the  present  time.  He 
moved  to  Clermont,  Ind.,  about  sixteen  years  ago,  and  in  1881  came  to  Indianapolis.  After 
remaining  in  this  city  a short  time  he  went  back  to  Clermont  and  in  1888  took  up  his  resi- 
dence in  Haughville,  where  he  has  been  ever  since  especially  engaged  in  the  building  of 
residences.  He  has  always  been  actively  interested  in  the  political  affairs  of  the  day  and  has 
always  labored  for  the  success  of  the  Republican  jiarty,  of  which  he  is  an  influential  mem- 
ber. In  1868  he  was  married  to  Miss  Evelyn  Day,  of  Hendricks  County,  but  was  left  a 
widower  three  years  later  and  remained  so  until  October  21,  1877,  when  Miss  Savannah  Smith 
became  his  wife.  Of  eight  children  born  to  them,  four  sons  and  two  daughters  are  living. 
Mr.  aud  Mrs.  McCormick  are  members  of  the  Christian  Church,  in  which  he  is  a deacon,  and 
socially  Mr.  McCormick  belongs  to  the  G.  A.  R.,  the  K.  of  P.  and  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  in  which 
he  has  passed  all  the  chairs. 

Christian  Frederick  Schmidt,  deceased,  was  one  of  the  esteemed  and  substantial  busi- 
ness men  of  Marion  County,  Ind.  He  was  a native  of  Germany,  born  in  1831,  and  there 
made  his  home  until  1849,  when  he  braved  Neptune’s  tender  mercies  and  came  to  America, 
locating  first  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio.  He  moved  from  there  to  Indianapolis  in  1858,  and  soon 
after  formed  a })artnership  with  a Mr.  Jaeger  in  the  brewery  business.  Both  young  men 
were  poor  in  purse  but  rich  in  energy,  and  with  their  limited  capital  two  lots  were  purchased 
at  the  corner  of  High  and  Wyoming  Streets  for  $250,  on  which  a rough  building  was  erected 
for  the  purpose  of  a brew  house.  After  aliout  two  years  the  partnership  was  dissolved  by 


261 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

the  retirement  of  Mr.  Jaeger,  who  feared  the  active  measures  inaugurated  by  Mr.  Schmidt 
for  the  advaucement  of  the  business  would  eventually  ruin  the  firm.  Shortly  after  Mr. 
Schmidt  commenced  the  erection  of  his  famous  brewery  cellar,  which  was  completed  at  a 
cost  of  820,000.  He  also  entered  into  judicious  speculations  in  town  lots,  in  the  neighbor- 
hood of  his  brewery,  which  was  then  in  the  extreme  southern  limits  of  the  city,  but  is  now 
in  the  midst  of  a thickly  populated  and  improved  district.  These  lots  rapidly  rose  in  value 
and  aided  him  in  later  years  to  make  his  business  establishment  one  of  the  largest  and  most 
complete  in  the  West.  In  the  year  1805  Mr.  Schmidt  was  elected  on  the  Republican  ticket 
to  a seat  in  the  common  council  from  the  seventh  ward  and  served  four  years.  During  his 
term  of  office  he  was  a member  of  the  finance  committee  and  aided  materially  is  rescuing  the 
credit  of  the  city,  the  paper  of  which  then  rated  at  a ruinous  discount.  Mr.  Schmidt  was, 
until  within  tAvo  months  of  his  death,  which  occurred  February  3,  1872,  a member  of  the 
Guttenberg  Printing  & Publishing  Company,  and  for  several  years  a director  in  that  concern. 
In  all  his  business  relations  he  was  an  honest,  upright  man,  of  large  capabilities,  extraor- 
dinary energy  and  progressive  spirit.  In  his  social  relations  as  a citizen,  as  a neighbor  and 
as  the  head  of  a family,  he  was  alike  respected,  esteemed  and  loved.  He  was  a generous 
aider  of  religious  and  charitable  organizations  and  gave  freely  to  the  poor  and  destitute  who 
came  within  his  notice.  During  his  residence  in  Cincinnati  he  married  Miss  Caroline  Fieber, 
who  bore  him  three  sons,  as  follows:  John  W.,  Edward  and  Alfred. 

John  W.  Schmidt.  Generally  age  and  experience  are  essential  to  success  and  pro- 
motion. Prominent  men  seldom  rise  to  distinction  suddenly.  But  in  the  example  before  us, 
we  have  a man  without  any  special  fortuitions  circumstances,  rising  by  his  own  force  of 
character,  great  energy  and  good  judgment  to  the  front  ranks  as  a business  man.  John  W. 
Schmidt  is  a product  of  Ohio  soil,  born  in  Cincinnati,  in  1850.  He  was  brought  by  his 
parents  to  Indianapolis  in  1858,  and  later  attended  the  common  schools  where  he  received 
the  rudiments  of  an  education.  Following  that  he  entered  the  academy  at  Hoboken,  New 
Jer.sey,  remained  there  two  years,  and  then  returned  home  where  he  clerked  in  the  old  Citi- 
zen’s National  Bank  for  a year.  After  that  he  traveled  on  the  Continent  for  eighteen  months 
and  then  returning  home,  engaged  in  the  brewery  business.  After  the  death  of  the  father, 
which  occurred  in  1872,  our  subject  and  his  brother,  Edward,  carried  oti  the  brewery  until 
October,  1889,  when  they  sold  out  to  an  English  syndicate.  Since  that  time  our  subject  has 
simply  looked  after  his  large  interests.  He  is  a director  in  the  brewery  yet  and  is  a thorough- 
going, wide  awake  business  man.  In  religion  our  subject  is  a Protestant  and  in  politics  a 
Democrat.  He  selected  his  life  companion  in  the  person  of  Miss  Lily  Schudel,  a native  of 
Louisville,  Ky.,  who  had  been  adopted  by  his  mother  when  but  six  years  of  age,  and  their 
union  was  solemnized  in  the  year  1885.  Three  children  were  born  to  this  union  and  named 
in  the  order  of  tlieir  births  as  follows:  Christian  Frederick,  Edward  and  Marguerite,  all 
bright  little  children. 

Peter  Libber.  This  gentleman  is  regarded  as  one  of  the  most  influential  and  worthy 
citizens  of  IMarion  County,  and  it  is  a pleasure  to  chronicle  here  the  events  that  mark  his  life 
as  one  of  usefulness.  Material  wealth  must  not  exclude  the  riches  of  character  and  ability 
in  recounting  the  virtues  which  have  lieen  brought  to  this  country  by  its  citizens,  and  among 
its  most  precious  treasurer  must  be  estimated  the  lives  of  those  citizens  who  have  by  their 
intelligence  and  their  eminence  in  the  higher  walks  of  life,  assisted  in  raising  the  standard 
of  life  and  thought  in  the  communities  in  which  they  have  settled.  No  one  has  ju'obably 
done  more  in  this  line  than  Peter  Lieliei',  who  was  born  in  Duesseldorf,  Germany,  May  17, 
1832,  and  was  educated  in  Europe,  attending  the  University  at  Achen.  Later  he  learned  the 
trade  of  brush  maker  at  Achen.  and  when  eighteen  years  of  age  lie  came  to  America,  locating 
first  at  Cincinnati,  where  his  elder  brother,  Hermann  lueber,  had  jueceded  him  a year,  and 
wlmre  he  was  in  business  as  a book  binder.  Within  three  weeks  after  his  arrival  in  Cincin- 
nati our  subject  was  foreman  of  a brush  factory  iu  Cincinnati,  enifiloying  300  hands.  In 
this  factory  he  remained  several  years,  and  then  went  to  Hamilton.  Ohio,  where  he  was  in 
the  same  business.  Then  lie,  with  other  Germans  in  Cincinnati,  fornu'd  the  town  of  New 
I Irn,  Minn.,  and  there  Mr.  Lieber  located,  and  opened  a general  store.  He  also  traded  for 
furs  with  the  Indians.  In  this  town  he  was  marriial  in  I80()|o  Miss  Sophia  Andre,  daughter 
of  Carl  Andre,  and  here  he  resided  until  the  breaking  out  of  the  Civil  War,  when  he  enlisted 


262 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


ia  the  Twenty  second  Minnesota  Battery  as  a private,  serving  as  such  for  about  two  years. 
After  that  he  served  as  sutler  for  some  time,  and  then  came  to  Indianapolis,  where  he  acted 
as  one  of  Glen.  Morton’s  secretaries  until  the  war  closed.  About  that  time  the  brewery  of 
Gack  & Biser  at  Indianapolis  was  offered  for  sale,  and  our  subject  and  his  brother  Hermann 
and  Charles  F.  Myer  bought  it,  and  formed  the  firm  known  as  P.  Lieber  & Co.,  which  con- 
tinued brewing  beer  until  in  the  seventies,  when  Mr.  Myer  retired,  our  subject  buying  his 
interest.  In  1880  Hermann  Lieber  sold  his  interest  to  William  Schrever,  a stock  company 
was  organized,  and  Mr.  Lieber  was  made  jnesident.  In  1888  the  deal  was  consummated 
transferring  this  and  other  breweries  to  an  English  syndicate,  now  known  as  the  Indian- 
apolis Brewing  Company,  of  which  Mr.  A.  Liebei',  son  of  our  subject,  is  now  manager. 
Peter  Lieber  is  one  of  the  prime  movers  in  the  organization  of  the  Consumer’s  Gas  Trust 
Company,  of  Indianapolis.  He  has  been  one  of  the  most  prominent  Germans  in  the  State 
for  years.  In  politics  he  was  a Republican  up  to  1880,  when  the  Prohibition  plank  angered 
him,  and  since  then  he  has  voted  with  the  Democratic  party.  He  was  a delegate  to  the 
National  Democratic  Convention  in  1884.  In  1893  he  was  appointed  Consul  to  Duesseldorf, 
Germany,  by  President  Cleveland, and  that  position  he  now  holds.  By  his  marriage  he  became 
t he  father  of  six  children,  five  of  whom  are  now  living:  Carrie,  who  married  Frederick 
Francke;  Albert,  Laura,  Rudolph  and  Emma. 

A.  Lieber.  At  the  present  day  lager  beer  is  rapidly  becoming  the  national  beverage 
of  the  American  people.  When  pure,  manufactured  only  of  the  b.est  material,  and  by  the 
most  improved  processes,  beer  is  acknowledged  by  leading  physicians  and  medical  authori- 
ties to  have  excellent  tonic  and  strengthening  properties,  while  it  is  also  a well-known  fact, 
that  our  people  are  notably  less  intemperate  since  the  introduction  of  lager  beer.  In  this 
connection  we  wish  to  make  prominent  mention  of  A.  Lieber,  a prominent  brewer  of  Indian- 
apolis. Mr.  Lieber  was  born  in  this  city,  August,  1863,  and  here  he  has  passed  the  most 
of  his  days.  He  was  educated  in  the  public  schools  of  Indianaiiolis,  finished  in  the  high 
school,  and  then  attended  Indianapolis  Business  College.  He  also  studied  under  private 
tutors.  Immediately  after  completing  his  studies  Mr.  Lieber  entered  the  employ  of  P. 
Lieber  & Co.  (his  father),  as  an  office  boy  but  subsequently  was  made  bookkeeper.  When 
the  firm  was  changed  to  the  P.  Lieber  Brewing  Company,  our  subject  was  made. treasurer, 
and  held  that  place  until  1888,  when  the  firm  sold  out  to  an  English  syndicate.  He  was 
then  made  director,  treasurer  and  manager  of  the  Indianapolis  Brewing  Company,  composed 
of  the  P.  Lieber  Brewing  Company,  the  C.  F.  Schmidt  Brewing  Company,  and  C.  Mans 
Brewery.  In  1889  our  subject  was  made  manager  of  the  Schmidt  Brewery,  and  in  January, 
1893,  lie  was  made  manager  of  the  C.  Mans  brewery.  He  now  acts  as  manager  in  all  three 
breweries.  He  is  a director  in  the  Indianapolis  Chemical  Company,  of  the  Commercial 
Club,  and  on  the  finance  committee  of  the  latter.  He  is  a director  in  the  Indiana  Trust 
Company.  In  politics  Mr.  Lieber  affiliates  with  the  Democratic  party  and  was  the  messen- 
ger at  the  last  election,  taking  the  electoral  vote  to  Washington,  D.  C.  He  was  married  in 
1887  to  Miss  Alice  Barrus,  daughter  of  Prof.  Carl  Barms,  of  Indianapolis.  Three  children 
have  been  born  to  them:  Edith,  Peter,  Jr.,  and  Alberta. 

John  W.  McDonald.  There  are  few  men  who  show  as  much  fitness  for  their  avoca- 
tion in  that  they  are  wide-awake,  experienced,  reliable  and  energetic  as  John  W.  McDonald, 
who  is  baggage  master  on  the  railroad  that  runs  from  Brightwood  to  St.  Louis,  Mo.  He 
owes  his  nativity  to  Ohio,  born  in  Webster,  May  8,  1859,  and  is  the  son  of  Mark  and  Susanah 
(Hidey)  McDonald,  who  were  natives  also  of  Ohio,  in  which  State  their  nuptials  were  cele- 
brated in  the  year  1842.  Eight  children  were  the  fruits  of  this  union,  three  sons  and  five 
daughters.  Of  the  sons,  Joseph  was  an  attorney  and  lived  at  Greenville,  Ohio.  He  was 
twice  married,  first  to  Miss  Ann  Elliott,  and  afterward  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Lavy,  who  now 
survives  him.  Aaron  married  Miss  Sevilla  Gecting  and  now  resides  in  Galveston,  Ind.,  and 
John  W..  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  The  daughters  were  named  as  follows:  Margaret, 
born  in  Ohio,  became  the  wife  of  Jacob  Reck  and  now  resides  at  Horatio,  Ohio;  Tas  Martha 
became  the  wife  of  William  Carey  and  resides  at  Versailles,  Ohio;  Mary  resides  at  Douglas, 
Kas.,  and  is  the  wife  of  Lyman  Foutz,  and  Sarah  married  Fernando  Mitchel,  and  is  now  a 
widow  residing  at  Webster,  Ohio.  The  father  of  these  children  died  in  1866  and  the  mother 
j)ass.'d  a vay  in  1873.  They  were  worthy  and  much  esteemed  citizens.  The  youthful  days 


263 


AXD  ^fARIOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

of  our  subject  were  passed  in  his  native  State,  but  for  many  years  he  has  been  a resident  of 
this  county.  He  is  a man  of  good  habits,  is  well  versed  in  all  literary  matters,  and  is 
deeply  interested  in  all  public  enterprises.  He  was  married  August  12,  1882,  to  Miss  Celia 
S.  Hart,  daughter  of  Amos  and  Martha  (Cooper)  Hart.  The  prominent  physicians,  Drs. 
Cooper  & Cooper,  of  Kokomo,  Ind.,  and  Dr.  Cooper  of  Des  Moines,  Iowa,  are  uncles  of  Mrs. 
McDonald.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  McDonald  have  no  children.  Mrs.  McDonald  has  been  blessed 
with  a decided  taste  for  art.  and  as  a crayon  artist  stands  in  the  front  rank  with  any  in  the 
State.  Her  landscapes  are  above  criticism,  and  in  that  line  she  has  no  superiors  and  very 
few  equals  in  the  Northwest.  She  is  a natural  artist  and  in  her  beautiful  home  may  be 
found  some  fine  specimens  of  her  handiwork. 

Hiram  Harden  Hall.  The  older  members  of  a community  are  doubly  entitled  to  the 
respect  and  esteem  of  their  neighbors  when  their  long  lives  have  been  replete  with  acts  of 
kindness,  and  their  whole  career  marked  by  integrity  and  uprightness.  The  time  honored 
and  respected  gentleman  whose  name  appears  at  the  head  of  this  sketch,  came,  originally, 
from  the  Blue  Grass  State,  born  in  Bourbon  County,  near  Paris,  November  18,  1824,  and  until 
eight  years  of  age  remained  on  his  father’s  farm  in  that  State.  In  1832  the  father  moved 
with  his  family  to  the  “ Hoosier  State”  and  purchased  a tract  of  land  comprising  160  acres 
situated  in  Section  3,  Township  14,  Range  5 east,  in  Rush  County.  On  this  farm  the  subject 
of  this  sketch  remained  with  his  father,  whom  he  assisted  in  the  work  of  the  farm,  and 
attended  the  district  schools  in  the  vicinity  of  his  rural  home,  in  which  he  obtained  a fair 
knowledge  of  the  three  R’s.  The  old  log  school-house  he  first  attended  had  a puncheon 
floor,  greased  paper  for  window  lights,  a mud  and  stick  chimney,  slab  benches,  in  fact,  all 
the  paraphernalia  of  the  old  time  pioneer  school-house.  In  1846  he  attended  the  high  school 
at  Rushville,  where  the  higher  branches  were  taught  and  where  he  made  fair  progress  in  his 
studies.  March  25,  1852,  he  led  to  the  altar  Miss  Isabelle  Maze,  a native  of  Kentucky,  as 
was  also  her  father,  John  Maze,  who  subsequently  moved  to  Rush  County,  Ind.  This  union 
resulted  in  the  birth  of  two  children:  Isophine  and  Albert  Washington.  In  1860  Hiram  H. 
Hall  moved  to  Marion  County.  Ind.,  and  purchased  forty  acres  of  Section  5,  Township  14, 
Range  5 east.  In  1868  he  added  forty  acres  to  this  tract,  and  in  1887  eighty  acres  more, 
thus  making  a fine  farm  of  160  acres,  worth  at  least  $80  f)er  acre.  On  September  6,  1868, 
he  was  called  upon  to  mourn  the  death  of  his  faithful  wife,  who  left  to  his  care  their  two 
children.  On  April  17,  1878,  he  took  for  his  second  wife  Miss  Prudence  Gertrude  Hougham, 
of  Johnson  County,  Ind.,  and  to  their  union  two  children  were  born:  Pruira  Lenore,  who 
was  born  July  8.  1879,  and  Thurman  Thomiison.  who  was  born  March  4,  1882.  The  mother 
of  the  second  children  was  a graduate  of  Franklin  College  in  the  class  of  1877,  and  for  a 
number  of  years  had  been  an  earnest  and  consistent  member  of  the  Regular  Baptist  Church, 
in  which  faith  she  died  February  2,  1892.  at  the  age  of  forty  two  years.  Mr.  Hall’s  daugh- 
ter Isophine  was  united  in  marriage  to  John  Wilson  in  1882,  and  to  them  three  children 
weie  given:  Otto;  Lizzie;  and  Wilbeit  Harden,  who  died  IMarch  6,  1892,  at  the  age  of  six- 
teen months.  Albert  Washington  was  manied  to  iMiss  Ida  Morgan,  and  by  her  became  the 
father  of  three  children:  Ray.  Stella  and  Ida.  I’he  latter  died  at  the  age  of  two  weeks  and 
the  mother  died  when  her  little  daughter  was  born,  August  20,  1889.  I\Ir.  Hall  has  always 
been  a public-sfiirited  gentleman,  and  in  the  year  1S62  was  elected  assessor  of  Franklin 
Township  and  filled  that  position  capably  for  ten  years.  He  was  subsequently  elected  to 
the  position  of  trustee  of  Franklin  Townshij),  and  .succeeded  himself  to  this  position,  serving 
four  years.  He  is  an  excellent  citizen,  a man  of  practical  and  intelligent  views,  and  in  good 
financial  circumstances. 

Henry  AIathewh  Kemper.  It  is  a pleasure  to  chronicle  the  history  of  a man  whose  life 
has  l)een  one  of  honor  and  usidulness,  and  although  he  has  considerably  passed  the  zenith  of 
of  his  career,  Mr.  Kemper  has  accumulated  a fortune  that  enables  him  to  enjoy  to  the 
fullest  extent  the  comforts  of  a home  that  is  made  beautiful  by  the  swi'et  spirit  of  kindliness 
and  mutual  appreciation  among  the  members  of  the  family.  He  comes  of  good  old  Kentucky 
stock,  his  father,  Nimrod  Kemper,  liaving  been  l)orn  near  Lexington,  Fayette  C’ounly,  Ky.. 
in  tlie  latter  part  of  the  eighteenth  century.  In  1832,  with  the  ambition,  courage  ami  sturdy 
manhood  wliicli  have  always  been  distinguish<*d  characteristics  of  American  pioneers,  Nimrod 
Kemper  j)U8hed  into  Indiana  and  entered  16t>  acres  of  land  in  k’ranklin  'rownship,  Marion 


2t54 


MJ£M01I{S  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


County,  on  the  Shelbyville  Road.  This  tract  was  coverd  with  a dense  growth  of  green 
timber,  and  clearing  a few  acres  he  hired  men  to  build  a log  cabin,  18x2()  feet.  Previous 
to  coining  to  Indiana,  Mr.  Kemper  was  married  to  Miss  Polly  Mathews,  daughter  of  John 
Mathews,  and  in  the  log  cabin  in  Marion  County  this  worthy  couple  began  their  career  as 
))ioueers.  The  fall  they  moved  they  rented  a farm  in  the  same  township,  sowed  some  wheat  and 
later  put  in  a big  crop  of  corn.  The  same  fall  they  partially  cleared  twenty- one  acres  of  their 
farm,  cutting  out  trees  that  where  a foot  or  so  in  diameter  and  burning  them.  In  the  spring 
of  1838,  they  planted  twenty-one  acres  of  corn  and  raised  a big  crop.  The  mother  died  the 
fall  after  they  moved  to  Indiana.  She  was  the  mother  of  eleven  children  by  her  union  with 
]\Ir.  Kemper,  as  follows:  John,  deceased;  Nancy,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Daniel  Gror; 
Rebecca,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Peterson  Parr;  Peter,  deceased;  Jackson  A.,  deceased; 
Henry  M.,  our  subject;  Diana,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Walter  Wheatley;  Nimrod;  Polly  A., 
wife  of  Joseph  Wheatley;  Tilman,  deceased,  and  Ambrose,  deceased.  After  the  death  of  Mrs. 
Kemper  the  father  selected  his  second  wife  in  the  person  of  Miss  Lucy  Sercy,  who  bore  him 
two  children,  Susan,  wife  of  John  Sercy,  and  Jane,  wife  of  Thomas  Waller.  The  mother  of 
these  children  still  survives.  The  paternal  grandfather  of  our  subject,  Tilman  Kemper,  was 
born  and  reared  in  the  grand  old  mother  of  States,  Virginia.  He  was  a soldier  in  the  Revo- 
lutionary War,  and  afterward  settled  in  Kentucky,  where  he  passed  the  remainder  of  his  life 
on  the  land  allowed  him  in  Fayette  County.  The  father  of  our  subject  raised  a company 
for  the  War  of  1812,  but  peace  was  declared  before  it  was  mustered  in.  Henry  Mathews 
Kemper  was  born  in  Owen  County,  Ky.,  November  15,  1816,  and  remained  on  his  father’s 
farm  in  that  county  until  sixteen  years  of  age,  attending  school  only  during  the  winter 
seasons.  Sometimes  his  terms  were  limited  to  two  weeks.  On  September  9,  1832,  became 
with  his  parents  to  IVIarion  County,  Ind.,  and  assisted  in  giuibbing  and  clearing  the  home 
jilace.  By  the  time  he  was  twenty  years  of  age  he  hired  out  to  neighboring  farmers  and 
continued  this  for  two  years.  After  that  he  began  learning  the  carpenter  trade  and  for  about 
fourteen  years  worked  at  that,  most  of  his  patronage  being  in  Indianapolis.  For  over  five 
years  after  this  he  worked  in  the  peg  and  last  factory  in  Indianapolis,  owned  by  J.  R. 
Osgood.  In  1854  he  bought  eighty-six  acres  in  section  32,  Franklin  Township,  and  on  the 
sixteen  acres  already  cleared  was  a log  cabin  of  one  room  eighteen  feet  square.  Very  soon 
Mr.  Kenqier  made  additions  to  the  cabin  and  it  was  very  comfortable,  but  in  1883  he  erected 
!i  nice  frame  house  where  he  now  resides.  He  was  married  December  19,  1839,  to  Miss 
Mary  Chinn,  daughter  of  John  P.  and  Elizabeth  (Pegg)  Chinn,  the  father  a native  of  Ken- 
tucky and  the  mother  of  Virginia.  Nine  children  have  been  born  to  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kemper; 
Cliarles  W.,  born  October  27.  1840,  and  died  March,  15,  1847;  Martha  A.,  born  August  4. 
1842,  married  John  J.  Belles,  and  thev  have  three  children,  Julia,  Della  and  Harrv;  Samuel 
M.,  born  August  30,  1844,  married  Rachel  A.  Sweeney,  and  they  have  these  children, 
Henry  F.,  Martha  M.,  Lulu;  John  L. , born  December  28,  1846,  married  Miss  Julia 
-McMillen,  and  they  have  three  children,  Eldoras  B.,  Marion  B.,  and  Roy;  Mary  E.,  born 
June  26,  1849.  married  John  M.  Kelly  and  they  have  eleven  children  as  follows,  Edward, 
George,  Levi  P.,  Alfred  A.,  Lily,  Mary  A.,  William,  Robert,  Maude,  Clinton  and  Gertrude; 
Daniel  G.,  born  Se])tember  21,  1851,  died  August  23,  1852;  Mahala  B.,  born  June  5,  1853, 
married  Thomas  S.  Eaton  (see  sketch);  George  S.,  born  June  5,  1853,  is  unmarried,  and  Laura 
V.,  born  September  17,1861,  died  April  23,  1863.  Our  subject’s  son,  Samuel  enlisted  in  Com- 
pany D,  Sixty-third  Regiment,  Indiana  Infantry  in  August  1862,  and  served  with  that  regiment 
until  cessation  of  hostilities.  He  was  in  sixteen  of  the  most  prominent  engagements  of  the 
war.  as  follows:  Buzzard’s  Roost,  Resaca,  Burnt  Hickory,  Kenesaw  Mountain,  Chatta- 
hooche,  Atlanta,  Lost  Mountain.  Jonesboro,  Cassville,  Columbia,  Franklin,  Altoona,  Nash- 
ville, Fort  Anderson,  Toon  Creek  and  Willington.  In  his  political  views  Mr.  Kemper  was 
reared  a Democrat  but  later  became  a Whig  and  finally  a Republican,  which  ticket  he  votes 
at  the  present  time.  He  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  Fraternity,  Pleasant  Lodge,  No.  134, 
and  for  about  fifty  years  has  been  a member  of  the  Missionary  Baptist  Church,  in  which  he 
held  various  offices.  He  has  refused  numerous  recpiests  to  serve  as  justice  of  the  peace,  but 
has  served  as  supervisor  in  his  township.  John  P.  Chinn,  the  father  of  Mrs.  Kemper,  was  a 
s)ldier  in  the  War  of  1812,  and  after  cessation  of  hostilities  returned  to  Kentucky,  where 
he  married  Miss  Elizabeth  Pegg.  In  1826,  he  and  his  bride  came  to  Indiana,  settled  in 


Ax\D  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


26.-) 

Clarion  County  and  bought  forty  acres  of  timber  land.  There  they  made  their  home  until  about 
1848,  when  they  moved  to  Hendricks  County,  Ind.  and  there  the  father  died  of  cholera  in 
1851.  He  was  the  father  of  nine  children,  as  follows:  Nancy,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of 
Mathew  Smock;  Mary,  wife  of  H.  M.  Kemper;  Eliza  J.,  widow  of  John  P.  Childers;  Thomas, 
deceased;  Martha  A.,  wife  of  William  McFarland;  John  P. ; Elizabeth  A.,  deceased;  Lucy, 
deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Loring  Reynolds,  and  Zarelda,  wife  of  AV.  G.  Wright.  The 
mother  of  these  children  died  April  9,  1839,  aged  fifty  years.  The  father  was  a Democrat 
in  politics,  and  a Baptist  in  religion.  Mrs.  Kempers  grandfather,  Thomas  Chinn,  came  to 
Indiana  when  an  old  man  and  for  some  time  kept  tavern  on  the  site  of  the  Old  Little  Hotel, 
Indianapolis. 

Henry  Spielhoff.  Among  the  very  many  successful,  experienced  and  competent 
contractors  and  builders  of  Indianapolis  there  are  none  who  deserve  more  honorable  men- 
tion than  Henry  Spielhoff,  whose  place  of  business  is  at  189  Coburn  Street,  for  he  has 
been  actively  following  his  trade  in  this  city  since  1865,  and  has  pursued  it  with  more  than 
ordinary  success.  He  is  a native  of  Prussia,  in  which  country  his  birth  occurred  in  1829, 
his  father  being  William  Spielhoff,  who  lived  and  died  in  that  country.  He  was  a man  of 
much  intelligence,  was  highly  educated,  and  followed  the  calling  of  a school  teacher,  and 
it  was  under  his  able  instruction  that  young  Henry  obtained  his  knowledge  of  the  “world  of 
books.’’  He  finished  his  education  in  the  Polytechnic  Institute,  where  he  learned  the  theory 
of  the  carpenter’s  trade,  and  later  the  practice,  while  serving  a three  years’  a})prenticeship 
in  his  native  land.  He  showed  his  intelligence  in  1859  by  coming  to  the  United  States, 
and  almost  immediately  after  locating  in  Indiana})olis  he  commenced  working  at  his  trade 
and  has  followed  it  with  satisfactory  success  up  to  the  present  time.  While  in  the  old 
country  he  served  his  allotted  time  in  the  German  array,  from  1848  to  1851,  and  from  that 
time  until  his  removal  to  this  country  he  was  engaged  in  contracting,  so  that  upon  his 
arrival  in  this  country  he  was  enabled  to  continue  his  work  uninterruptedly.  He  continued 
it  alone  until  1865,  at  which  time  he  formed  a partnership  with  Fred  Prange,  of  this  city, 
l)ut  which  partnership  was  later  dissolved.  In  1869  he  removed  to  Tell  City,  Ind.,  where 
he  was  for  some  time  engaged  in  tlie  manufacture  of  furniture,  and  while  there  he  was 
also  j)resident  of  the  Cabinet  Makers  TTnion  of  that  place.  At  the  end  of  four  and  a half 
years,  or  in  1873,  he  returned  to  Indianapolis,  and  has  since  l)een  in  business  here,  a short 
time  l)eing  associated  with  Christian  Miller.  He  has  for  some  time  jiast  been  in  business 
alone,  and  during  this  time  he  has  erected  some  edifices  which  are  greatly  to  his  credit, 
among  which  may  be  mentioned  tlie  Loraine  Block,  Turners’  Hall  and  various  other  large 
luisiness  buildings  and  numerous  handsome  residences.  Mr.  Spielhoff  is  a member  of  the 
Builders’  Exchange,  was  ])residpnt  of  the  Liederkranz  three  terms,  and  is  now  an  honorary 
member  of  that  order,  and  socially  belongs  to  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  and  the  A.  F.  & A.  M.  Polit- 
ically he  has  been  associated  with  the  Repul)lican8,  but  for  the  last  eight  years  with  the 
Democrats.  He  was  married  in  1852  to  Miss  Fredericka  Helle,  a native  of  Prussia,  and  to 
their  union  ten  children  were  given,  of  whom  William  who  is  the  only  surviving  son  and  the 
eldest  member  of  the  family,  is  foreman  for  his  father. 

Prof.  Archibaed  M.  IIali,,  who  has  attained  considerable  prominence  in  his  chosen 
piofession  teaching  — is  a product  of  the  Keystone  State,  born  in  Laughlinlown,  Westmore- 
land County.  July  27,  1863.  His  early  scholastic  training  was  received  in  the  common 
schools,  ami  later  he  attended  the  normal  school,  then  taught  by  Prof.  I.  IM.  Graham.  After 
|)assing  a county  examination  he  commenced  teaching  at  the  age  of  seventeen  and  continued 
this  for  two  years  in  his  native  county.  During  the  year  1882  he  acted  as  principal  of  the 
school  in  Laughlintown,  bnt  in  the  s[)ring  of  the  following  \'eiir  he  came  to  Irvington,  Ind., 
and  graduated  from  Butler  University  in  1888,  with  the  degree  of  A.  B.  From  there  he 
went  to  Winchester,  Ind.,  as  jjastor  of  the  Christian  Churcli,  but  ])art  of  the  time  he  was 
juincipal  of  the  high  school  in  that  town.  Resigning  that  position  he  returned  to  his  alma 
mater  ami  look  a post  graduate  course.  During  this  time,  he,  with  others  of  the  alumni, 
crf‘at(*d  a theological  department,  with  Prof.  Garvin  as  the  head  and  moving  8j)irit.  Prof. 
Hall  b(*gan  teaching  in  Butler  University  in  the  session  of  1891,  his  department  being 
Hel)rew,  and  in  181(3  he  had  full  charge  of  that  department.  He  received  th<?  degree  of  A.  M. 
fn)m  Butler  I niversily  in  1889  and  Ph.  I),  from  that  institution  in  the  spring  of  1892,  this 


MEMOIR^i  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


20fi 

bein<f  the  lirst  degree  of  Ph.  D.  ever  given  by  the  university  on  work.  The  Professor  is  a 
member  of  tlie  Delta  Tan  Deltas,  and  of  Winchester  Lodge,  No.  91,  K.  of  P.  He  is  also  a 
minister  of  the  Christian  Church,  empowered  to  solemnize  marriages.  In  his  political 
views  the  Professor  affiliates  with  the  Republicans,  although  not  an  active  partisan.  His 
p.irents,  Robert  and  Catherine  (Funk)  Hall,  were  natives  of  Pennsylvania,  and  the  latter 
was  the  daughter  of  Rev.  Funk,  a Duukard  minister.  Ten  children  were  born  to  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Hall,  six  of  whom  are  now  living.  One  of  the  sons,  Henry,  served  all  through  the  » 
Civil  War.  Our  subject  has  proven  himself  worthy  of  the  trust  reposed  in  him  and  ranks 
among  Marion  County’s  ablest  educators. 

Thomas  J.  Morse.  The  difference  in  the  appearance  of  the  buildings  of  to-day  and 
I li  )se  of  twent'.  -live  years  ago  is  very  marked,  for  then  a three  or  four-story  building  was 
considered  a marvel  in  architecture,  while  to-day  in  all  large  cities  it  is  a common  occurrence 
to  see  a ten  or  twelve-story  building  while  those  of  even  greater  height  are  by  no  means  rare. 

In  proportion  to  the  advance  made  in  this  res|)ect,  the  knowledge  and  skill  of  contractors  and 
builders  has  increased  in  like  proportion  and  among  the  most  successful  of  these  in  the  city 
of  Indianapolis  is  Thomas  J.  Morse,  who  possesses  a thorough  knowledge  of  all  styles  of 
ancient  and  modern  architectni'e  and  has  applied  his  knowledge  in  a practical  way  as  can  at 
once  be  proven  when  any  of  the  many  buildings  he  has  erected  are  pointed  out.  He  is  a native 
of  the  State  of  Ohio,  born  in  1838,  a son  of  Learned  Morse,  who  was  born  in  New  Jer- 
sey but  who  died  in  Ohio  when  his  son,  Thomas  J.,  was  a child.  The  latter  continued  to 
make  his  home  with  his  widowed  mother  until  he  was  thirteen  years  of  age,  at  which  time 
he  began  learning  the  carpenter’s  trade  in  the  vicinity  of  Cincinnati,  Ohio.  A few  years  later 
he  went  to  that  city  and  finished  his  trade,  but  when  the  alarms  of  war  sounded  he  dropped 
his  saw  and  ])laneand  enlisted  in  his  country’s  service  in  the  United  States  navy,  after  which 
he  was  detailed  for  duty  on  the  gunboat  “Carondelet”  which  was  for  two  years  in  the  service 
of  the  Government  on  the  Mississijtpi  River  in  the  vicinity  of  Vicksburg  and  on  the  Yazoo 
River.  He  was  in  the  bombardment  of  Vicksburg.  Johnson’s  Landing,  Walnut  Ridge,  and 
others,  and  after  two  years  of  this  active  and  dangerous  service  he  returned  to  Cincinnati 
and  a few  years  later  came  to  Indianapolis.  Very  soon  after  this  he  engaged  in  contracting, 
since  which  he  has  been  one  of  the  most  extensive  and  successful  builders  of  Indianapolis,  a 
city  well  known  for  its  efficient  contracts.  He  erected  the  grand  stand  at  the  State  fair 
jirounds;  the  residence  of  William  Coffin  and  A.  H.  Gibson;  the  wholesale  drug  house  of 
Stewart  & Berry;  the  D.  L.  Ervin  Dry  Goods  House;  many  public  buildings  throughout  the 
State,  including  the  school-houses,  court-houses,  among  the  latter  the  court-house  at  Wash- 
ington, Ind.  ; besides  numerous  other  buildings  of  note  too  numerous  to  mention.  He  has 
given  employment,  on  an  average,  to  about  forty  men,  and  he  makes  a point  of  employing 
none  but  the  most  skillful  and  experienced  workmen,  therefore  his  work  is  at  all  times  satis- 
factory. Mr.  Morse  has  served  two  teims  in  the  city  council,  was  chairman  of  the  com- 
mittee on  bridges  and  has  served  one  teim  as  a member  of  the  ])olice  board,  and  has  always 
taken  an  active  part  in  supporting  the  principles  of  the  Republican  party.  He  is  a member 
of  the  Builders’  Exchange  and  is  one  of  the  directors  of  the  organization,  is  a member  of  the 
Contractors  Association,  and  has  ever  been  interested  in  and  an  active  worker  for  the  prog- 
ress of  his  calling.  During  the  extensive  strike  of  several  years  ago  he  arbitrated  with  the 
strikers  and  through  his  good  judgment,  fairness  and  honesty,  the  trouble  was  brought  to  a 
speedy  termination  and  the  matter  was  settled  in  a satisfactory  manner  to  both  the  strikers 
and  builders.  Mr.  Morse  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity,  belonging  to  Raper  Com- 
mandery.  No.  1.,  Knights  Templar,  is  also  a thirty-second  degree  member  of  the  Scottish 
Rite,  of  that  order,  is  a member  of  the  famous  drill  corps  of  this  city  that  has  captured  so 
many  prizes  in  the  different  conclaves  held  throughout  the  country,  and  is  thoroughly  posted 
on  all  matters  pertaining  to  his  order.  In  1865  he  was  married  to  Miss  May  E.  Pope,  a 
daughter  of  Henry  F.  Pope,  a native  German  and  a pioneer  of  Indianapolis,  and  to  their 
union  two  daughters  and  one  son  have  been  given;  Robert  P..  now  attending  the  State 
University  of  Illinois  and  is  preparing  himself  to  become  an  architect;  Carrie  R. , wife  of 
William  E.  Clifford,  of  this  city;  Ellie  J. . who  married  Albert  B.  Bowen,  of  Indianapolis. 

Joseph  B.  Mansfield.  The  calling  of  the  merchant  is  one  of  the  oldest  as  well  as  one 
of  the  most  honorable  of  all  lines  of  industry.  Exchange  and  barter  are  two  of  the  world’s 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

'JNIVERSITY  OP  iUJNOI' 


r - ■- 

'**  T* 


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AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

most  important  factors,  and  without  tt)ese  the  public  would  indeed  hud  themselves  in  a sad 
plight.  Above  all  it  is  necessary  that  the  line  of  goods  should  be  of  the  best  and  the  mer- 
chant reliable,  two  features  combined  in  the  mercantile  career  of  Joseph  B.  Mansheld,  who 
has  carried  on  this  business,  most  of  the  time  in  Brightwood,  since  the  war.  He  is  a native 
of  Darke  County,  Ohio,  born  October  12,  1837,  and  the  sou  of  Isaac  and  Elizabeth  (Payne) 
iMansheld,  who  were  married  in  that  county  about  1836.  Of  the  six  children  born  to  this 
estimable  couple,  our  subject  was  the  eldest.  The  others  were  named  as  follows:  Phrebe 
(married  Asa  Sockman  and  resides  on  the  old  home  farm  in  Darke  County,  Ohio),  George  (is 
now  living  in  the  same  county,  and  with  his  second  wife,  who  was  formerly  Miss  Emily 
Lambert;  his  first  wife  was  a Miss  Loven),  Mahala  (married  T.  I.  Sipe,  and  makes  her  home 
in  Union  City,  Ind. ),  and  John  (married  Ellen  Lambert,  and  resides  in  Glendower,  Va.). 
In  his  native  county  our  subject  spent  his  youthful  days,  and  in  1862  was  married  to  Miss 
Mary  Ann  Blizzard,  daughter  of  Jackson  and  Mary  Ann  Blizzard,  natives  of  Pennsylvania 
and  of  German  origin.  Seven  children  were  born  to  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Mansheld  and  named  as 
follows:  Elizal)eth  (born  in  1863,  married  Richard  Lyman,  and  resides  in  Chicago,  111.), 
Alice  (born  on  the  same  day  that  Al)raham  Lincoln  was  assassinated,  married  Edward  Griffith 
and  resides  at  home).  Gilbert  (two  years  younger  than  the  latter,  died  at  the  age  of  fourteen), 
Charles  (born  in  1866,  married  Miss  Rose  Smith  and  lives  at  home),  Edward  (born  about  1871, 
died  when  three  years  of  age),  iMollie  (born  in  1878,  is  a bright  young  Miss  of  hfteen),and  the 
bal)y,  Louise  (born  in  1881,  is  attending  the  home  school).  During  the  Civil  War  Mr.  Mans- 
held  donned  his  suit  of  blue,  shouldered  his  musket  and  enlisted  in  the  One  Hundred  and 
Eighty-seventh  Ohio  Infantry  and  served  until  the  close  of  the  war.  Returning  from  army 
life  he  moved  to  Union  City  and  was  employed  as  a bridge  carpenter  on  the  railroad,  now 
the  Pittsburg,  Cincinnati  & St.  Louis,  assisting  in  the  construction  of  that  road  from  Union 
(hty  to  Logansport.  After  three  years’ service  he  was  then  employed  on  the  “Bee  Line” 
road,  with  which  he  remained  fourteen  years  assisting  in  the  building  of  all  the  shoj)s  at 
Brightwood.  One  of  the  remarkable  features  of  Mr.  Mansfield’s  career,  and  which  speaks 
volumes  in  his  favor,  is  that  he  never  had  a disagreement  witli  his  emjiloyers  or  with  the 
employes.  He  (jnit  railroading  to  embark  in  mercantile  pursuits,  and  has  continued  this 
successfully  up  to  the  ])resent  time.  He  was  elected  marshall  of  Brightwood  and  served  two 
terms  in  that  capacity.  For  some  time  he  has  been  a member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity, 
and  was  made  Master  Mason  the  evening  James  A.  Garfield  died.  He  is  also  a member  of 
the  I.  O.  O.  E..  and  now  holds  the  office  of  district  deputy,  and  is  a member  of  Brightwood 
Lodge,  No.  615,  K.  of  H.  He  is  an  exem])lary  citizen  and  foremost  in  all  matters  which 
{)ertain  to  the  welfare  of  the  town  of  his  ado]>tion. 

John  Wocukk.  Among  the  most  enterprising  and  successful  of  the  representatives  of 
great  tire  insurance  companies  in  this  city.  Mr.  Jolin  Wocher  deserves  prominent  notice. 
He  represents  eight  of  the  largest  and  leading  insurance  companies,  and  it  is  obvious  that 
the  most  implicit  confidence  can  t)(>  placed  in  him,  for  his  experience  and  technical  knowledge 
of  the  l)usiness  reaches  that  of  ati  expeit.  This  business,  established  many  years  ago,  was 
one  of  the  original  insurance  agencies,  known  as  th(^  I'ranklin  Agency,  which  Mr.  Wocher 
succeeded  to  in  1888.  Since  that  time  the  business  has  increased  in  a wonderful  manner, 
and  is  among  the  leading  ones  of  the  city  at  the  jna'sent  time.  Mr.  Wocher  was  born  in 
(.'incinnati,  Ohio,  April  23.  1856,  and  he  is  a son  of  John  and  Rejina  (Feiner)  Wocher, 
natives  of  Wnrtemberg.  Germany.  'I’he  parents  came  to  the  United  States  about  the  year 
181. ).  and  in  the  yeai'  186.5  settled  in  Indianapolis  whei'e  the  father  followed  the  trade  of 
stone  contractor.  J'heia*  his  death  occurred  in  1886.  His  wife  survives  him.  The  original 
of  this  notice  was  about  nine  yeais  of  age  when  he  came  to  1 ndianaj)olis  and  he  was  reared 
and  educated  in  the  public  schools.  After  finishing  liis  education  he  entered  a baidv  as  mes- 
senger and  was  connected  with  the  same  ten  years,  being  teller  of  the  same  at  the  time  of 
leaving  to  engage  in  his  present  business.  Air.  \\'ocher  has  served  as  ])resident  of  the 
Franklin  I’ire  Insurance  (Company  for  thre(*  years.  He  is  also  engaged  ({iiite  extensively  in 
the  i-eal  estate  l)nsinesH,  and  having  a wide  ac(|uaintanc(Mmd  being  W('ll  known  to  capitalists 
and  owners  of  prof)et  ty,  has  built  up  an  excelletit  clientele  in  the  city  and  vicinity.  He  is  a 
man  of  mmdi  business  acuimm  and  is  well  and  favorablv  ktiown  in  finaticial  and  business 
circh's.  .Mr.  Wc^clnu- selecte<l  his  wife  in  the  person  of  Aliss  E.  Bertha  Bals,  a native  of 


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MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


ludiHiiiipolis,  IikL,  and  their  unjdials  were  celet)rated  June  7,  1878.  She  is  a daughter  of 
(lliarlesand  Christina  Bals.  natives  of  (Teriuany.  Mr.  and  Mr.  Wocher  have  one  child  living, 
(Jertrnde,  whose  birth  occurred  June  3,  1879.  Mr.  Wocher  has  shown  his  appreciation  of 
secret  organizations  by  becoming  a meiulier  of  the  Masonic  Fraternity,  having  attained  the 
thirty-second  degree  of  Scottish  Kite  Masonry  and  is  a member  of  the  Mystic  Shrine.  In 
politics  he  advocates  the  principles  of  the  Kepublican  party. 

J.\MEs  W.  Lanktkee.  Among  the  best  known  representatives  or  the  most  successful 
life  insurance  organizations,  James  W.  Lanktree,  manager  for  Indiana  for  the  United  States 
Life  Insurance  Company  of  New  York,  holds  a high  place.  He  was  made  manager  for 
Indiana  in  1886,  having  previously  been  manager  for  Missouri  and  Kansas,  with  headquar- 
ters at  Kansas  (’ity.  The  company  has  done  business  in  Indiana  for  many  years  and  is 
classed  among  the  leading  life  insurance  companies.  Through  the  energy  and  perseverance 
of  Mr.  Lanktree  the  business  has  largely  increased  since  he  has  been  in  charge  at  Indian- 
apolis. This  gentleman  is  a native  of  Huntingdon  County,  Quebec,  born  August  27.  1841, 
son  of  Barnabas  and  Sarah  (Willis)  Lanktree,  natives  of  Ireland,  who  immigrated  to  Canada, 
about  the  year  1819.  There  this  worthy  couple  passed  the  remainder  of  their  days.  The 
father  followed  the  occupation  of  a farmer  and  with  substantial  results,  acquiring  consider- 
able proi)erty.  At  the  time  of  the  McKenzie  trouble  in  1837,  he  was  a member  of  the 
militia  and  served  on  the  frontier.  He  was  among  the  pioneers  of  Quebec  and  settled  on  a 
farm  in  the  forest,  clearing  the  same  and  making  a home.  His  death  occurred  in  1854, 
when  sixty  four  years  of  age.  His  wife  survived  him  uidil  1871,  being  in  her  seventy-sec- 
ond year  at  the  time  of  her  death.  Thirteen  children  were  the  fruits  of  this  union,  nine  of 
whom  are  living,  scattered  from  Maine  to  California.  Our  subject  is  the  twelfth  in  order 
of  birth.  He  was  reared  in  his  native  country  and  educated  in  the  academy  at  Malone, 
New  York.  When  young  he  learned  the  carpenter’s  trade  at  Lowell,  Mass.,  and  for  four- 
teen years  was  a successful  contractor  and  builder  at  Ogdensburg,  N.  Y. , and  Chicago, 
four  years  of  the  time  being  spent  at  the  latter  place.  In  1876  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and 
two  yeais  later  mgaged  in  the  itisurance  bu.siness.  Mr.  Lanktree  was  married  in  the 
year  1862  to  IMiss  Augusta  A.  Dailey,  of  Lisbon,  N.  Y’.  After  the  death  of  his  wife  he  was 
married  in  1872  to  Miss  Maggie  A.  Dixon,  a native  of  Ogdensburg,  N.  Y.,  who  bore  him 
one  child,  Iju  Edna,  whose  birth  occurred  February  24,  l874,  and  who  died  January  29, 
1890.  Mr.  Lanktree  is  a imuuber  of  the  Masonic  order,  and  in  politics  is  an  ardent  Democrat, 
having  always  taken  a deep  interest  in  political  affairs.  He  owns  a handsome  residence 
property  at  1028  N.  Pennsylvania  Street,  and  is  one  of  the  city’s  most  stirring,  energetic 
business  men. 

As.v  N.  SniMEU.  Among  the  tnany  successful  farmers  of  Warren  Township,  Marion  County, 
Ind. , w'ho  is  as  cons})icuous  for  his  outspoken  views  in  sanctioning  that  which  is  just  and 
right  as  in  his  denunciation  of  that  which  he  considers  unjust  and  wrong,  is  he  whose  name 
heads  this  sketch.  He  is  an  intelligent,  able  and  progressive  farmer,  takes  great  pride  in 
the  cultivation  of  his  fine  farm  of  ICO  acres,  and  it  is  so  admirably  tilled  and  every  detail  so 
carefully  and  intelligently  looked  after  that  it  produces  much  more  than  many  more  preten- 
tious places.  Mr.  Shinier  was  ushered  into  existence  August  2,  1832,  on  the  old  homestead 
of  his  parents  in  Warren  Township,  Marion  County,  Ind.,  was  reared  on  that  farm  and 
became  inured  to  toil  and  hardships,  which  is  attendant  on  the  lives  of  the  early  pioneers  of 
any  country.  He  became  well  versed  in  all  the  intricacies  of  farm  life  from  the  date  of  the 
old  wooden  mold  board  plow  and  three  cornered  wood  tooth  drag  and  the  laborious  way  to 
both  man  and  beast  of  using  them,  up  to  the  present  day  of  easy  farming,  compared  with  sixty 
years  ago.  His  education  was  obtained  in  the  [irimary  schools  and  at  the  Northwestern 
University  (then  located  in  University  Square,  Indianapolis),  and  he  continued  to  make  his 
home  with  his  father,  Elias  N.  Shinier  (a  sketch  of  whom  appears  elsewhere  in  this  work), 
until  four  years  after  his  marriage,  and  assisted  him  in  the  duties  of  the  farm  which  by  this 
time  had  reached  proportions  of  considerable  magnitude,  for  their  landed  interests  had 
increased  many  acres  and  necessitated  much  more  labor  and  shrewd  management.  Mr. 
Shinier’s  marriage  to  Miss  Margaret  Smart  has  been  a hapjiy  one.  She  is  the  daughter  of 
Hezekiah  and  Margaret  Smart,  natives  of  Kentucky,  from  which  State  they  came  to  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  about  1823,  and  for  that  reason  are  classed  among  the  early  pioneers  of  the 


269 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

county.  Mrs.  SLimer  is  oiio  of  iLe  nine  cbildreu  born  to  her  parents,  all  of  whom  lived  to 
maturity.  Their  names  in  the  order  of  their  l)irths  are  as  follows:  Humphrey,  who  died  of 
cholera;  William,  who  died  of  typhoid  fever;  David,  a resident  of  California;  Martha  Ann, 
wife  of  Archibald  Glenn  of  Marion  County;  Elizabeth,  wife  of  William  Denny  of  Indianapolis; 
Margaret  (Mrs.  Shimer);  Hezekiah,  of  Lawrence  Township,  this  county;  Comfort,  wife  of 
Austin  M.  Glenn,  of  Perry  Township;  Caroline,  wife  of  James  Henry,  M.  D.,  of  Illinois. 
Mrs.  Shimer  is  a woman  of  unusual  intellect  and  talent,  extremely  sociable,  devoted  to  her 
friends,  her  husband  and  her  children,  of  whom  three  have  been  born  to  them,  the  eldest 
being  Elias  N.,  who  was  born  June  21,  1854;  Florence  L.,  born  November  2,  1855,  and 
Hezekiah,  born  December  14,  1857.  The  eldest  is  married  to  Dercie,  daughter  of  Rev. 
James  McYey.  of  Dakota.  Florence  L.  is  the  wife  of  William  H.  Bowser,  a sketch  of  whom 
appears  herein,  and  Hezekiah  is  married  to  Augusta  Tweedenborg,  by  whom  he  has  had 
three  children:  Asa  L.  (deceased),  Florence  M.  and  Frederick  Nelson.  Elias  N.  has  two 
sons:  Asa  N.  and  James  M.,  while  Florence  L.  has  two  sons  and  two  daughters.  Mr. 
Shimer  has  recently  erected  a frame  residence  which  is  a model  of  neatness  in  architecture 
as  well  as  of  convenience  in  its  interior.  He  is  member  of  the  K.  of  H. , as  is  his  son,  Elias 
N.,  the  latter  being  also  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  the  two  other  chil- 
dren being  connected  prominently  with  the  Christian  Church.  So  far  as  ])olitical  affairs 
interest  Mr.  Shimer  and  his  sons  they  are  active,  but  for  themselves  they  seek  no  political 
prominence  or  notoriely,  and  usually  support  Democratic  principles,  always  exercising  their 
right  to  exercise  their  own  judgment,  and  especially  so  in  local  and  municipal  elections. 
Hezekiah  Smart,  the  father  of  Mrs.  Shimer,  came  to  this  State  from  Kentucky  as  a single 
man  in  1823  and  entered  160  acres  of  land  in  Perry  Township,  Marion  County.  He  cleared 
a small  portion  and  then  planted  corn  and  made  a garden  and  built  a log  house.  In  1824  he  went 
back  to  Kentucky,  married  Miss  Margaret  Hinkston,  a daughter  of  Capt.  John  Hinkstou, 
who  won  his  title  in  the  War  of  1812,  their  marriage  being  celebrated  August  10,  1824.  He 
brought  his  bride  on  horseback  to  his  home  in  Indiana,  and  here  they  spent  twenty-nine 
years,  then  sold  the  farm  in  1853  and  moved  to  Missouri,  the  father  dying  on  Christmas 
Day,  1870,  and  the  mother  April  8,  1879,  her  birth  having  occurred  on  July  6,  1801.  The 
Great-grandfather  Smart,  was  born  in  London,  England,  while  the  grandfather  was  a native 
of  the  Key.stone  State.  Mrs.  Smart  was  a grand- daughter  of  Col.  John  Hinkston,  a soldier 
of  the  Kevolul ion. 

Thomas  H.  Nelson.  In  a young  and  rapidly  developing  city  like  Haughville,  situated 
as  it  is  in  the  best  grain  and  stock-raising  section  of  Indiana,  the  business  of  dealing  in  real 
estate  is  nece.«sarily,  a very  important  one,  and  especially  so,  because,  in  addition  to  town 
property,  there  is  a very  large  amount  of  farm  property  continually  changing  hands,  the 
greater  part  of  which  is  handled  by  iMr.  Thomas  H.  Nelson,  who  is  well  and  favorably  known 
throughout  the  county.  He  was  born  in  Illinois,  Bond  County,  August  25,  1845,  and  is  a son 
of  Thomas  and  Sarah  (Bates)  Nelson,  natives  of  Tennessee.  The  father  was  a school  teacher 
when  young  and  at  an  early  day  settled  in  Illinois  where  he  made  his  home  for  one  year. 
From  there  he  moved  to  Delaware  County,  Indiana,  thence  to  Huntington  County  and  there 
his  death  occurred  when  sixty-five  years  of  age.  The  original  of  this  notice  was  left  an  orphan 
when  (juite  small  and  he  was  reared  by  relatives,  in  Delaware  and  Huntington  Counties.  His 
opi)ortunities  for  getting  an  education  were  limited  for  as  soon  as  old  enough  he  was  obliged 
to  work  to  gain  a livelihood.  Until  about  twenty  years  of  age  he  continued  tilling  the  soil 
after  which  he  began  traveling,  selling  patent  right  territory  which  ho  continued  successfully 
for  two  years.  After  this  he  (uigaged  in  the  live  stock  business  in  Indiana  for  about  live 
years  and  at  the  time  gas  was  found  at  Muncie,  he  took  live  shares  in  (ho  lirst  well.  Later 
he  ernl)arked  in  the  real  estate  business  there  but  in  1888  came  to  Haughville  where  he  has 
since  l)een  engaged  in  the  same,  being  unusually  successful.  Mr.  Ntdson  is  a member  of  the 
Masonic  fraternity  and  U(‘d  men.  In  the  year  1874  he  was  married  to  Miss  ElizalxJh  -Jones, 
a native  of  Indianaj)oliH  and  the  daughter  of  -lohn  and  Julia  (Marvel)  -Jones.  I'lirf^e  childiim 
wen*  the  fruits  of  this  union,  Ada  C. , -Julia and  .Mata  1*1.  .Mr.  Nelson  and  family  are 
members  of  the  .Methodist  E[)iscof)al  Church  and  are  univei’sally  respect(‘d.  He  is  deeply 
interested  in  liis  business  and  is  an  instrument  for  the  building  up  of  the  country  and  making 
the  wilderness  to  blossom  as  the  rose,  figuratively  s|>eaking.  In  his  political  predilections  he 
is  a stanch  Republican. 


270 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Peter  C.  Hansen.  Among  the  numerous  firms  of  real  estate  dealers  whose  combined 
operations  have  given  such  a wonderful  imj)etus  to  the  realty  market  of  Haughville,  a prom- 
inent place  in  the  foremost  rank  is  due  that  of  Nelson  & Hansen.  Both  are  gentlemen  of 
excellent  Imsiness  training,  and  bring  to  bear  a perfect  knowledge  of  values,  present  and 
prospective,  of  real  estate  not  alone  in  Haughville  and  vicinity,  but  throughout  the  whole 
county.  They  carry  on  a general  real  estate  lousiness  in  all  its  branches,  selling,  exchanging, 
leasing  and  letting  all  kinds  of  property  for  business,  residential,  farming  or  purely  specula- 
tive purposes,  of  which  they  have  at  all  times  long  lists  on  their  books.  Mr.  Hansen  is  a 
native  of  Denmark,  born  ISeptember  10,  1850),  and  his  parents,  Hans  Peterson  and  Karen 
Cornelius,  were  natives  of  the  same  country  where  they  reside  at  the  present  time.  Peter  C. 
Hansen  grew  to  manhood  and  received  his  education  in  l)is  native  country.  When  twenty- 
five  years  of  age  he  came  to  America  and  direct  to  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  where  he  resided  for  a 
year.  He  then  came  to  Haughville  and  there  he  has  since  resided.  He  began  his  career  in 
the  latter  place  as  an  employe  in  the  Malleable  Iron  Works,  later  engaged  as  painter  and 
contractor.  After  this  he  owned  and  operated  a meat  market  for  four  years  when  he  sold  the 
same  and  embarked  in  his  present  business.  He  has  been  carful,  industrious  and  econom 
ical  and  owns  })roperty  in  North  Indianapolis  and  Haughville.  He  is  keen  and  shrewd  in 
business  and  is  well  and  favorably  known  in  the  town.  Mr.  Hansen  was  married  shortly 
after  coming  to  tliis  country  to  Miss  Christina  Gorgenson  who  died  four  years  later.  His 
second  marriage  was  to  Miss  Caroline  Huber,  a native  of  Ohio,  but  who  was  reared  and  edu- 
cated in  Indiana.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hansen  are  members  of  the  Danish  Lutheran  Church,  and 
in  politics  he  supports  the  principles  of  the  Ilepublican  party.  Mr.  Hansen  is  a self-made 
man  and  deserves  much  credit  for  his  perseverance  and  energy.  He  was  obliged  to  begin 
the  l)attle  of  life  for  himself  at  the  tender  age  of  thirteen,  and  before  he  came  to  America, 
worked  for  an  extensive  dairy  which  employed  several  hundred  hands.  Through  faithful 
performance  of  duty  he  became  an  overseer  of  this  extensive  enterprise  and  continued  in  that 
capacity  until  coming  to  America.  At  the  time  of  coming  to  this  country  he  was  unable  to 
speak  a word  of  English  and  when  he  landed  in  Haughville  his  entire  possessions  did  not 
exceed  more  than  $5.  The  industrious  and  energetic  qualities  were  inherent  in  him  and  he 
soon  secured  a good  situation  and  came  to  the  front,  educating  himself  in  the  English  lan- 
guage. He  has  been  unusually  successful  and  it  is  alone  due  to  his  persevering  and  indi- 
vidual efforts.  In  a comj)aratively  few  years  he  has  accumulated  property  valued  at  about 
18,000,  and  he  stands  well  in  the  community  in  which  he  lives. 

Samuel  Hanway  Teneyck.  The  exl'au  tless  pages  of  history  fail  to  disclose  an  older  or 
more  honorable  calling  than  that  of  the  druggist,  a j^rofession  variously  designated  under 
the  titles  of  chemist  and  apothecary.  The  science  of  preventing  and  curing  disease  is  a 
noble  one,  and  one  which  enlists  the  aid  of  the  druggist  to  a wide  degree.  A well  kept 
estal)lishment  of  the  kind  is  that  owned  and  operated  by  Samuel  H.  Teneyck,  at  the  corner 
of  Illinois  and  Thirtieth  Streets,  Mapleton,  Ind.  Mr.  Teneyck  is  a native  of  Indianapolis,  his 
birth  occurring  here  August  25,  1870,  his  parents  being  Edward  and  IMartha  (Hanway) 
Teneyck,  the  latter  of  whom  is  a daughter  of  Samuel  Hanway,  ex-county  treasurer  of  Marion 
County.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  the  eldest  of  his  parents’  two  children,  and  his 
brother  Edward  was  born  in  1877.  Almost  from  the  time  he  left  his  cradle  Samuel  H. 
Teneyck  was  trained  for  the  life  of  a business  man,  and  was  given  a practical  education  in 
the  public  schools  of  the  city.  After  reaching  manhood  he  was  for  many  years  a partner  in 
the  large  contracting  firm  of  Hanway  & Lancaster,  but  about  one  year  ago,  as  the  contracting 
business  was  light,  he  turned  his  attention  to  other  pursuits,  and  is  now  conducting  his  well 
stocked  and  artistically  arranged  drug  store  at  Mapleton.  He  was  married  January  1,  1887, 
to  Miss  Dovie  C.  Lancaster,  daughter  of  George  \V.  and  Hattie  (Blue)  Lancaster,  who  were 
among  the  early  settlers  of  Indiana,  their  parents  locating  here  when  the  State  was  in  its 
infancy.  They  at  once  took  and  held  a pi-ominent  position  in  the  State,  and  are  justly  con- 
sidered among  its  moat  honorable  and  eminent  citizens.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Teneyck  have  a 
pleasant  and  comfortable  residence  at  the  corner  of  Marion  and  Thirtieth  Streets,  where  they 
are  carefully  rearing  the  two  bright  little  children  that  have  been  given  them- — George  Lan- 
caster, born  July  28,  1888,  and  Clyde  Hanway,  born  February  18,  1890.  IMr.  Teneyck’ s 
father  came  from  Ohio  to  this  region,  and  his  grandfather  was  the  first  grocer  in  Indianap- 


271 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

olis.  Edward  learued  iLe  calliug  uf  a railroad  eugiueer  in  larly  life  and  has  followed  that 
calling  ever  since.  He  and  his  wife  reside  in  Indianapolis,  of  which  city  they  are  inHuential 
and  upright  inhabitants.  George  W.  Lancaster,  Mrs.  Teneyck’s  father,  has  always  been 
closely  identified  with  the  public  affairs  of  Marion  County,  and  for  two  teiius  w’as  trustee  of 
Washington  Township,  and  in  many  other  ways  has  helped  to  guide  the  public  affairs  of  his 
section  successfully.  When  the  great  Civil  War  broke  out  he  enlisted  as  captain  of  Com- 
pany K,  of  the  Forty-third  Indiana  Volunteers,  and  served  throughout  the  entire  war,  his 
position  as  a soldier  being  as  prominent  as  his  position  as  a citizen.  With  such  influences 
on  his  wife’s  side  and  all  his  business  training,  together  with  as  fine  a record  on  his  father’s 
side  as  any  young  man  ever  had  and  his  fixed  habits  of  sobriety  and  industry,  there  is  no 
reason  to  believe  that  such  an  enterprising  young  business  man  as  Samuel  H.  Teneyck  should 
be  left  in  the  race  for  wealth  and  fame. 

WiLL.\RD  G.  Gordon.  Few,  if  any,  among  those  engaged  in  the  real  estate  business  in 
Indianapolis  maintain  a higher  reputation  for  integrity  and  reliability^  than  Mr.  Willard 
G.  Gordon.  He  buys,  sells,  rents,  leases  and  exchanges  all  classes  of  impioved  and  unim- 
proved reality,  is  thoroughly  experienced  in  these  matters  and  has  quickly  established  him- 
self in  popular  favor  and  patronage,  numbering  among  his  clients  many  of  the  solid  and 
wealthy'  citizens  of  this  community.  He  possesses  an  intimate  knowledge  of  the  best  resi- 
dential and  business  properties  in  the  city  and  has  upon  his  books  some  of  the  choicest 
property'  to  be  found  anywhere  in  Indianapolis  and  vicinity.  He  is  notary  public,  and  in 
connection  with  his  immense  real-estate  business  is  engaged  in  insuring,  making  quite  as 
much  of  a success  in  that  as  in  the  real-estate  business.  Like  many  of  the  prominent  men 
of  the  county,  he  is  a native  of  the  “ Buckeye  ” State,  boin  in  Butler  County,  December  11, 
1857,  and  his  parents,  Riley  and  Elizabeth  (Jones)  Gordon,  Avere  natives  of  the  same 
county.  The  father  was  a lawyer  of  considerable  prominence  and  in  1809  he  moved  his 
family  to  Indiana,  settling  in  Morgantown,  Brown  County,  where  he  practiced  his  profes- 
sion for  many  years.  There  the  family  resides  at  the  present  time.  The  paternal  grand- 
parents of  our  subject  were  pioneers  of  Butler  County,  Ohio,  and  much  esteemed  citizens. 
The  maternal  grandparents  were  natives  of  Wales.  Our  subject  took  the  ordinary  public 
school  education  in  Brown  County,  and  after  engaging  in  varioirs  enterprises  began  the  study 
of  law,  being  admitted  to  the  bar  at  Martinsville  in  1884.  After  practicing  law  for  a num- 
ber of  years  he  came  to  Haughville,  Marion  County,  Ind.,  in  1899,  and  after  a residence 
of  about  ayear  at  Mount  Jackson  he  embarked  in  his  present  business,  which  he  has  siqce  carried 
on  successfully.  He  is  secretary  and  treasurer  of  the  local  board  of  the  German  American 
Building  & Loan  Association,  and  has  quite  an  extensive  business  in  this  line.  Aside  from 
this  he  is  also  president  of  the  Haughville  School  Board,  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F., 
being  treasurer  of  Puritan  Lodge,  No.  678,  and  is  also  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.  On 
September  9,  1891,  he  married  Miss  Leonora  Norris,  whose  birth  occurred  in  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  and  who  is  a daughter  of  Martin  V.  and  Sarah  J.  (Brown)  Norris.  One  child, 
Harry  V..  has  been  born  to  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Gordon,  his  birth  occurring  August  12,  1892. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Gordon  are  consistent  members  of  the  Presbyterian  Tabernacle  Church  of 
Indianapolis.  Mr.  Gordon  is  a Democrat  in  politics. 

Stanton  W.  Haw'key.  There  is  no  more  important  business  in  a community  or  one 
in  which  its  exponents  are  in  greater  demand  than  the  brick  contractor,  for  the  majority 
of  buildings  at  the  present  day  are  made  of  this  material,  and  it  recpiires  a man  of 
undoubted  intelligence,  as  well  as  experience,  to  make  a success  of  this  line  of  work. 
Such  a man  is  Stanton  W.  Hawkey,  who  has  been  a contractor  and  builder  of  prominence 
for  a number  of  years  past.  He  was  born  in  Sidney,  Ohio,  in  1848,  being  a sou  of  William 
Hawkey,  a native  of  the  Old  Dominion,  who,  after  his  removal  to  Ohio,  settled  in  Shelby 
County,  of  which  section  he  was  one  of  the  early  pioneers,  and  where  the  remainder  of 
his  days  were  spent.  He  was  quite  an  extensive  contractor  of  brick  and  erected  many 
iriifiosing  liuildings.  He  was  a man  of  keen  discernment  and  excellent  busim'ss  judgment, 
and  ho  succeeded  in  accumulating  a considerable  amount  of  this  world’s  goods.  Stanton 
W . Hawkey  received  his  education  in  the  schools  of  Sidney  and  his  native  county,  and 
when  still  a I)oy  commenced  working  at  his  trade,  at  whicli  he  finished  his  aiiprenticeship 
in  the  State  of  his  birth.  In  1871  ho  came  to  Indianapolis  and  worked  as  a journeyman 


272 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


until  1870,  wheTi  he  returned  to  Ohio  and  remained  two  years.  He  then  came  hack  to 
this  city  and  with  the  exception  of  two  years  wliich  he  spent  witlj  Henry  Cook  he  has 
been  in  business  by  himself.  He  erected  the  Indianapolis  Chair  Company  Works,  but  has 
devoted  most  of  his  attention  to  residence  work,  in  which  he  has  done  exceptionally  well. 
He  was  at  one  time  a director  of  the  Builders’  Exchange,  and  is  still  a member  of  th'at 
body  and  an  active  worker  for  its  success  and  welfare.  His  business  is  sufficiently  exten- 
sive to  necessitate  the  employment  of  about  twenty-live  men  throughout  the  year,  and  as 
he  employs  none  but  those  who  thoroughly  understand  their  business  and  himself  person- 
ally superintends  them,  his  work  is  strictly  first  class,  and  this  is  a fact  that  has  long 
since  come  to  be  recognized.  Mr.  Hawkey  was  married  in  Sidney,  Ohio,  in  1870,  to  Miss 
Clara  Lenox,  of  Shelby  County,  by  whom  he  has  one  daughter.  He  and  his  wife  are  mem- 
bers of  the  Seventh  Presbyterian  Church  and  move  in  the  most  refined  social  circles. 

Caleb  Johnson.  This  gentleman  is  one  of  the  oldest  settlers  of  Marion  County,  Ind., 
and  is  now  a resident  of  Decatur  Township.  He  was  born  in  Wayne  County,  Ind.,  April  8, 
1810,  in  which  county  he  was  brought  uj>  and  where  he  received  a somewhat  limited  educa- 
tion in  the  old  log  school-houses  of  that  day,  which  were  conducted  on  the  subscription  plan. 
He  attended  irregularly  for  about  three  monlhs  of  the  year  up  to  the  age  of  seventeen,  at 
which  time  his  schooling  ceased  and  his  time  was  then  given  to  assisting  his  father  on  the 
farm  and  in  aiding  the  various  farmers  in  the  vicinity.  His  seventeenth  year  was  spent  in 
laboring  in  a saw  mill  for  Nathan  Compton,  for  which  he  received  flOO,  and  the  following 
summer  he  assisted  his  father.  About  this  time  his  grandfather  loaned  him  $100,  and  with 
that  sum  and  with  what  he  had  saved  he  entered  eighty  acres  of  land  in  Randolph,  County, 
Ind.,  at  $1.25  [)er  acre.  In  September,  1888,  he  married  Miss  Lydia,  daughter  of  Willis 
and  Rebecca  Whitson,  natives  of  the  Carolinas,  and  for  one  year  after  his  marriage  he  lived 
in  Wayne  County,  and  farmed  on  rented  land.  In  the  fall  of  1839  he  came  to  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  his  wife  being  the  owner  of  eighty  acres  in  Decatur  Township,  which  land 
was  entered  by  tier  mother  in  the  name  of  her  daughter  (Mrs.  Johnson)  some  eight  or  ten 
years  prior.  On  this  tract  ten  acres  of  timber  had  been  deadened,  but  the  underbrush  had 
grown  up  very  rank  and  made  it  almost  as  difficult  to  clear  as  if  it  had  been  covered  with 
timber.  Here  Mr.  Johnson  settled  and  at  once  commenced  the  erection  of  a log  cabin.  He 
hired  two  or  three  men  and  he  put  up  what  was  then  considered  a good  hewed  log  house, 
18x20  feet.  It  was  a one-story  building,  with  a dirt  chimney  and  plank  door,  and  clap- 
boards covered  the  tloor  in  the  loft.  The  beds  he  made  him.self,  boring  holes  in  the  logs  for 
the  cross  pieces,  and  the  floor  was  of  loose  planks  and  the  roof  was  also  clap  boards.  When 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Johnson  moved  into  this  house  it  had  no  door,  but  this  he  soon  remedied,  and 
his  table  and  most  of  his  chairs  were  also  homemade.  That  winter  he  cleared  eight  acres  and 
the  following  spring  planted  it  to  corn.  Here  he  lived  about  seven  years,  and  then  he  put 
up  an  old  style  frame  18x40  feet,  one  story  in  height,  in  which  he  lived  until  1879,  when  he 
put  uj)  the  handsome  two-story  building  he  now  occui)ies.  In  1847  Mr.  Johnson  added 
twenty- five  acres  to  his  land,  and  in  1851  forty  acres  more.  In  1855  he  j)urchased  eighty 
acres,  for  which  he  paid  $25  per  acre.  In  1865  he  bought  eighty  acres  for  $45  per  acre,  and 
in  1871  added  forty  acres  more,  for  which  he  paid  $2,200.  To  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Johnspn  chil- 
dren have  been  born  as  follows;  Ann,  who  died  in  1881,  was  the  wife  of  Amos  Doan; 
Willis,  who  married  Sarah  J.  Edwards,  has  two  children,  William  A.  and  Ora  A.,  both  of 
whom  are  married;  Mary  died  in  infancy;  Silas  married  Martha  A.  Gossett  and  has  a 
daughter,  Ella  A.,  who  is  married;  Henry  died  in  infancy;  Rebecca,  who  married  William 
Jackson,  has  two  children,  Lydia  A.  and  Alida,  the  former  of  whom  is  married,  and  John  W., 
who  is  married  to  Dinah  Ferguson,  by  whom  he  has  one  daughter,  Sarah  L.  Mr.  Johnson 
has  given  each  of  his  children  real  estate  when  they  started  out  in  life  for  themselves,  Imt 
still  retains  a good  farm  of  160  acres,  the  income  from  which  is  amply  sufficient  for  his 
wants.  He  has  cleared  100  acres  of  land  in  Marion  County,  and  is  in  every  way  a practical 
and  thrifty  farmer.  He  is  a member  of  the  Friends’  Church,  in  politics  was  formerly  a 
Whig,  later  a Republican,  and  is  now  a stanch  supporter  of  the  Prohibition  party.  His 
father  was  Charles  Johnson,  who  was  born  in  Guilford  County,  N.  C.,  in  1797,  and  lived 
there  until  about  1812,  at  which  time  he  came  with  his  father,  James  Johnson,  to  Indiana, 
locating  in  Wayne  County,  near  Richmond.  There  he  spent  the  principal  part  of  his  life  as  a 


273 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

farmer.  He  died  in  1S72,  at  the  re.sideiice  of  liis  son,  Dr.  Abijah  Jolinsou,  in  Earlliani, 
Iowa.  He  was  a Quaker,  as  was  his  fatlier  before  him,  and  was  twice  married,  tirst  in  181H 
to  Mary,  daughter  of  Robert  and  Martha  Comer,  natives  of  North  Carolina,  and  to  their 
union  four  children  were  given : Caleb  (the  subject  of  this  sketch);  Martha,  who  married 
Ezra  Bishop  and  became  the  mother  of  three  children,  Angeline,  Phcebe  and  Rebecca;  Betsy 
A.,  widow  of  Enoch  Marhall,  resides  in  New  Paris,  Ohio,  .and  has  these  children : James  C., 
Mary,  Ethelinda  and  Samuel,  and  Mary  (deceased)  was  first  married  to  James  Smith,  by 
whom  she  has  one  child,  Albina  J.,  and  by  her  second  husband,  John  Jeffrey,  had  three 
children.  Job,  Alpheus  and  Martha.  For  his  second  wife  Charles  Johnson  took  Nancy 
Beeson,  and  eight  children  were  born  to  them : Charles  A. ; Isaac  K. ; Sarah  J.,  who  mar- 
ried Charles  Kennedy;  Jesse;  Eliza,  who  first  married  Harvey  Lyon  and  after  his  death  a 
Mr.  Hollingsworth;  Dr.  Abijah;  Eli,  and  Rhoda,  who  married  Wesley  Mendenhall.  The 
mother  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch  died  about  1827.  The  paternal  grandfather,  James 
Johnson,  was  born  in  1751  in  North  Carolina  and  came  to  Indiana  about  1812,  settling  in 
Wayne  County,  where  he  followed  the  calling  of  a farmer  and  died  in  1838.  He  was  also 
twice  married,  his  tirst  wife  being  Elizabeth  Mills  and  his  second  Miriam  Jones.  By  liis 
first  wife  his  children  were:  Elizabeth  (Morgan),  Sarah  ( Jones),  Judith  (Russell),  Josiah, 
Hannah  (Roberts),  Charles  and  Prudence  (Cook).  The  [)aternal  great-grandfather  was 
born  in  England  and  was  an  emigrant  to  this  country  early  in  the  sixteenth  century. 

Jesse  Wright,  well  and  favorably  known  throughout  Marion  County,  and  particularly 
in  Wayne  Township,  of  which  he  served  as  trustee  from  1876  to  1878,  is  a native  born  Marion 
County  Indianian,  his  birth  occurring  April  7,  1830.  He  was  reared  to  man’s  estate  in  the 
county  of  his  birth,  secured  such  schooling  as  the  limited  facilities  of  that  day  afforded  and 
his  general  employment  was  that  of  clearing, grubbing. planting,  reaping  and  the  usual  occui)a- 
tion  of  farming.  August  22,  1853,  occurred  his  marriage  with  Sophronia  C.  Sinks,  an  estimable 
lady,  and  to  their  union  seven  children  were  born  oidy  the  following  named  now  living: 
Belle;  Albert  A.,  who  married  Mariah  Hoover  and  is  the  father  of  three  daughters  and  two 
sons;  Owen  S. , married  Eva  Malone  who  has  borne  him  one  daughter,  and  Lillie  M. , who 
wedded  Charles  Shaffer  and  has  one  son.  Owen  and  Lillie  reside  in  Haughville,  and  Albert 
on  his  father’s  farm  west  of  Indianapolis.  Jesse  Wright  is  an  intelligent  and  progressive 
citizen,  was  a Democrat  until  the  foes  of  the  Union  tired  upon  Fort  Sumter,  when,  like 
thousands  of  others  of  our  best  people,  he  became  a Republican  and  has  ever  since  affiliated 
with  that  party.  He  is  a worthy  member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  His  eldest 
brother,  Isaac  N.,  was  l)orn  October  11,  1828,  served  in  the  Fifth  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry 
in  tlie  Mexican  War,  re-enlisted  in  the  United  States  IMounted  Riflemen,  was  orderly-ser 
geant,  served  over  four  and  a half  years  and  was  killed  by  Mexicans.  Philburd  S.,  youngest 
brother  of  Jesse  Wright,  was  born  July  PJ,  1831,  was  in  the  service  of  his  country  under 
three  enlistments  and  died  at  Baton  Rouge,  La.  The  two  sisters  of  Jesse  Wright  hit; 
Nancy,  born  December  26,  1833,  married  Jes.se  Smith  and  resides  in  Cidifornia,  and  Eliza- 
beth, l)orn  July  5,  1835.  married  John  Doty,  resides  at  Oreencastle,  Ind.,  and  is  the  mother 
of  one  son.  Isaac  A.  Doty,  who  is  a teacher  of  High  School  No.  1 of  Indianaj)olis. 

NicHonAs  IMoCaktv,  (deceased).  The  life  narrative  of  the  head  of  a fanuly  is  interesting, 
not  only  to  Ids  po.sterity,  but  also  to  the  citizens  of  the  section  in  which  he  has  resided,  and 
tliis  truth  is  doul)ly  true  when  such  a man  has  established  for  liiinself  and  his  children  a re]) 
utation  for  integrity,  character  and  ability,  and  has  been  of  value  in  the  develo|)ment  of  that 
portion  of  the  country  which  was  his  home.  Such  a narrative  do  we  have  in  tlie  sketch  of 
Nicholas  McCarty,  whose  active  life  has  ceased  on  earth  but  whose  intluence  extends 
still  and  will  continue  to  extend  among  all  who  knew  him.  H('  was  one  of  the  j)ioneers  of 
lndianH|)olis  and  contriludi'd  more  to  the  growth,  develoj)ment  and  l)est  interests  of  the  city 
than  almost  any  other  man.  He  was  a native  of  the  town  of  Moorefield,  Harding  County, 
W . Va.,  born  among  the  Alleghanies  September  26,  1795.  His  father  dying  when  he  was 
very  young,  his  mother  rtmioved  to  Pittsburgh,  Penn.,  where  he  remained  until  nearing  man- 
hood with  little  opportunity  for  obtaining  an  education.  While  still  under  twenty  he  left  for 
Newark,  Ohio,  where,  as  a l)oy,  he  won  the  favor  of  .Mr.  Buckingham  (at  that  time  a leading 
merchant  of  Ohio),  by  the  sterling  (pialities  that  in  later  years  won  him  tiie  lespect  of  (‘vmy 
hotiorable  man  to  whom  he  was  known.  He  speedilv  made  himscdf  master  of  the  mercantile 
18 


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MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


business,  so  far  as  it  was  develoj)ed  within  his  range,  and  his  employer  was  not  slow  in  recog- 
nizing his  ability,  making  him  superintendent  of  one  of  the  branch  houses  near  Newark. 
His  success  was  as  marked  and  conspicuous  here  as  in  a lower  position  and  in  a few  years 
he  had  acquired  both  the  experience  and  means  to  enter  into  business  for  himself.  His  trade 
was  large  and  ])rosperous  from  the  beginning.  Here  his  career  gave  the  keynote  to  his 
character — a sensitiveness  of  honor  that  felt  a reproach  like  a stab;  a strength  of  gratitude 
that  counted  no  sacrifice  a loss  in  returning  the  good  will  he  had  received.  Finding  that 
his  business  was  growing  at  the  expense  of  his  benefactor,  when  he  had  counted  confidently 
on  business  as  sufficient  for  both,  he  sold  out,  and  he  came  from  Newark  to  Indianapolis 
in  the  fall  of  1828,  when  twenty-eight  years  of  age.  He  established  himself  in  a building 
on  the  southwest  corner  of  Washington  and  Pennsylvania  Streets,  known  for  more  than  thirty 
years  as  “ McCarty’s  Corner,”  and  south  of  this  building  built  an  imposing  brick  residence 
a number  of  years  later,  the  home  of  the  family  for  many  years.  He  was  the  first  merchant 
in  Indianapolis  educated  to  business  and  who  conducted  it  systematically.  He  l)egan  on 
a more  extensive  scale,  too,  than  others,  and  his  success  was  proportionate.  He  established 
branch  stores  at  La  Porte,  Greentield,  Covington,  Cumberland  and  Waverly,  and  trained 
several  young  men  who  were  afterward  conspicuous  in  the  business  affairs  of  this  city  and 
State,  imbuing  them  all  with  his  scrupulous  and  resolute  integrity.  It  was  reserved  for  the 
great  crisis  of  his  life  to  exhibit  his  best  qualities  at  their  l)est.  W hen  the  tinancial  panic 
of  1887  and  the  sul)se([uant  hard  times  had  made  his  great  resources — largely  in  real  estate — 
unavailable,  he  became  involved  and  made  a settlement  with  his  creditors  rrpon  such  terms 
as  to  enable  them  to  realize  more  than  the  principal  and  interest  of  his  obligations.  James 
Blake  had  come  to  Indianapolis  in  1821,rrnder  the  advice  of  some  Philadelpliia  friends,  with 
an  eye  to  the  preparation  of  ginseng — a profuse  growth  of  woods  all  about  the  settlement  at  that 
time — for  shipping  the  prodrrct  from  Philadelphia  to  China,  where  it  sells  at  high  figures,  its 
use  being  as  universal  now  as  it  was  then.  He  established  a drying  and  2)urifying  apparatus 
in  a.  little  cabin  soutli  of  the  creek,  on  the  present  East  Delaware  Street,  and  here,  at  his 
branch  store  and  elsewhere,  by  agents,  collected  the  roots  from  farmers  and  their  families, 
who  frequently  helped  out  a short  corn  crop  with  what  they  called  “sang.”  A small  hoe 
was  used  for  that  purpose  called  the  “sang  hoe,”  obsolete  for  fifty  years  or  more.  The  extent 
of  his  business  in  a place  of  less  than  2,000  people,  may  be  judged  by  the  fact  that  the 
freezing  of  the  Ohio  River,  in  1829,  compelled  him  to  haul  in  wagons  his  entire  season’s 
stock  from  Philadelphia,  requiring  sixteen  six-horse  Conestoga  wagons  to  do  it.  The  freight 
of  ginseng  on  the  return  trip  made  the  audacious  enterprise  possible,  and  even  profitable, 
an  illustration  of  his  lousiness  perception  and  prompt  decision,  for  the  cold  weather  froze 
the  Ohio  River  just  as  his  goods  reached  Pittsl)urgh  to  take  steam  passage  to  Madison. 
Besides  his  ordinary  mercantile  business  he  took  large  contracts  for  Indian  supj)lies  and 
made  himself  (juite  familiar  with  the  dialects  of  two  or  three  of  the  tribes  on  the  Miami 
reservation.  His  enterprise  appeared  repeatedly  in  attempts  to  introduce  new  industries  or 
develop  new  resources.  He  was  largely  interested  in  an  effort  to  establish  silk  growing 
about  the  year  1885,  and  went  with  characteristic  energy  in  the  propagation  of  the  plant. 
A few  years  later,  about  1840,  he  began  one  of  the  most  important  enterprises  of  his  life, 
though  the  distress  of  the  country  was  too  great  and  general  to  permit  the  success  it 
probably  w-ould  have  achieved  a few  years  later.  This  was  the  cultivation  and  manufacture  of 
hemp  on  his  “ bayou  farm,”  now  West  Indianapolis,  a suburb  of  several  thousand  houses, 
where  is  also  located  the  union  stock  yards,  car  works  and  other  industries  of  equal  im])or- 
tance.  The  fiber  was  rotted,  broken  and  cleaned  in  vats  and  mills  on  the  bluff  bank  of 
the  creek,  just  below  the  present  line  of  Ray  Street,  at  Church,  Carloss  and  Wilkin  Streets. 
Proving  unprofitable  the  enterprise  was  abandoned  in  two  or  three  years.  Mr.  McCarty’s  per- 
sonal popularity  was  so  great  that  the  AVhigs,  who  had  been  j Jaced  under  the  cloud  of  hard 
times  from  1848  onward,  thought  it  possible  to  save  a seat  in  Congress  by  him,  and  nomi- 
nated him  against  Judge  AVick,  in  1847.  It  was  his  first  experience  as  a politician,  but 
his  native  shrewdness  served  him  better  than  many  an  older  politician’s  more  devious 
ways.  He  made  no  pretense  of  oratory  and  for  that  reason  made  a stronger  impression 
by  his  solid  sense  and  effective  humor  than  his  opponent,  who  was  really  a good  sjieaker 
when  he  chose  to  be.  However,  the  Whigs  were  not  strong  enough  to  win,  even  with  a 


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LIBRARY 
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JR’IVERSITY  OF  ILLiNO!' 


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AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


275 


man  stronger  than  the  party.  A few  years  later  he  was  a candidate  for  the  State  Senate,  in 
the  county,  and  was  elected,  serving  three  years,  the  last  three  under  the  old  constitution. 
In  1852,  much  against  his  inclination,  he  was  unanimously  nominated  by  the  dying  Whig 
party  for  the  first  gubernatorial  term,  under  the  new  constitution.  He  made  an  admirable 
canvass  against  Gov.  Joseph  A.  Wright,  considered  one  of  the  best  political  canvassers 
and  stump  speakers  of  the  country.  The  Democrats,  however,  were  greatly  in  the  majority, 
and  he  was  defeated.  Mr.  McCarty  was  married  in  Boone  County,  Ky.,  July  27,  1828,  to 
Miss  Margaret,  daughter  of  Rev.  Jameson  Hawkins,  one  of  the  earliest  of  the  Baptist 
preachers  of  the  county.  His  death  occurred  May  17,  1854.  Mrs.  McCarty  died  February 
18,  1873.  Mr.  McCarty  was  an  example  of  Christian  purity,  integrity  and  charity  during 
his  whole  life.  He  was  generous  to  a fault,  tolerant  of  offenses  that  affected  only  himself; 
peaceable,  frank  and  honorable.  No  man  that  ever  lived  in  Indianapolis  was  more  sincerely 
or  generally  loved  and  honored,  and  certainly  none  ever  deserved  the  affection  of  the  people 
more  than  he.  He  was  always  prompt  in  his  aid  of  benevolent  efforts  and  one  of  the 
most  active  in  urging  the  establishment  of  the  orphan’s  home.  These  children  survive 
him.  Margaret  Ruth  (now  Mrs.  John  C.  S.  Harrison),  Nicholas  and  Frances  Jane.  The 
eldest  daughter,  Susannah,  who  became  the  wife  of  Rev.  Henry  Day,  died  August  30,  1873. 

John'  Martin.  The  building  interests  of  Indianapolis  form  the  back- bone  of  her  great- 
est industrial  enterprises.  Not  alone  is  the  interest  of  the  contractor  directly  involved,  but 
all  branches  of  trade  incumbent  thereto  are  thus  goaded  into  active  success.  Trade  profits 
every  time  a building  is  devised,  and  the  avenues  of  enterprise  thus  opened  afford  vast 
opportunity  for  profit.  The  vast  amount  of  capital  invested  here  and  seeking  proper  field 
of  operations  at  this  point,  has  led  to  the  erection  of  magnificent  edifices  without  number, 
and  stimulated  all  the  other  branches  of  vocation  that  form  a part  thereof.  One  of  the  suc- 
cessful builders  and  contractors  of  the  city  is  John  Martin  who  has  without  doubt  built  more 
brick  buildings  in  Indianapolis  than  any  other  one  man  residing  there.  He  was  born  in 
Preston,  Lancashire,  England,  April  26,  1828,  a son  of  Thomas  Martin,  who  was  also  born 
there.  The  latter  came  with  his  family  to  the  United  States  in  1848  and  finally  settled  in 
Jennings  County,  Ind.,  where  he  died  in  18611,  having  for  some  time  been  a resident  of  Cin- 
cinnati after  coming  to  this  country.  He  first  followed  the  calling  of  a merchant  and  after- 
ward gave  his  attention  to  farming,  which  business  he  was  successfully  pursuing  at  the  time 
of  his  death.  The  rudiments  of  the  builder’s  art  were  learned  by  John  Martin  in  Lancashire 
before  coming  to  this  country  and  while  pursuing  the  paths  of  labor  learned  to  read  and 
write  in  a Imsiness  way,  that  is,  it  was  his  duty  in  the  factory  in  which  he  worked,  to  read 
the  names  of  cards  and  tags  to  a clerk,  and  thus  his  first  lessons  were  received.  He  was  a 
very  ambitious  youth  and  often  after  working  twelve  hours  a day  he  would  attend  night 
school,  his  tuition  being  paid  in  money  which  he,  himself,  had  earned.  During  this  time  he 
also  paid  his  parents  for  his  board,  according  to  the  wages  he  received  and  as  his  salary 
increased  he  jiaid  for  his  board  in  jiroportion,  not  because  his  father  or  mother  demanded  it, 
l)ut  because  he  was  original  and  independent  in  all  his  ideas  and  did  so  by  his  own  desite, 
from  the  time  he  was  ten  years  of  age  (at  which  time  he  began  working  for  himself)  until  his 
marriage.  During  the  three  years  that  he  lived  in  Cincinnati,  he  worked  at  his  trade  and 
upon  coming  to  Indianapolis  in  1849,  secured  the  contract  for  putting  on  the  slate  roof  on 
the  Deaf  and  Durnli  .Asylum,  John  Wilson  being  the  original  contractor  and  Mr.  Martin  the 
subcontractor,  having  learned  the  art  of  slating  in  England.  In  1854  he  began  making  his 
perinaiient  home  in  Indianapolis  and  soon  after  secured  employment  with  Mr.  Taylor,  the 
father  of  N.  B.  Taylor,  but  only  continued  as  a journeyman  for  ten  weeks.  His  first  work 
here  as  a laborer  was  on  the  building  now  occupied  by  tlie  Skii  newsjiajier  and  the  residence 
of  Mrs.  Hendricks,  the  widow  of  ex-Gov.  Hendricks.  Some  of  the  buildings  which 
stand  as  monunnmts  to  his  skill  are  the  new  Insane  Hospital;  tlu»  Reformatory  for  Women; 
the  Butler  University;  city  court  house;  the  new  jail;  the  new  Library  Building;  the 
cha[)el  at  Crown  Hill;  St.  Vincent  Hospital;  the  First  Presl)yterian  Church;  the  Tabernacle 
on  Central  Avenue,  the  Christian  Church  on  Fort  Wayne  Avenue;  the  Bank  of  Commerce; 
the  Grand  Ojiera  House,  the  Denison;  in  fact  he  has  Imilt  hundreds  of  buildings  in  the  city 
and  there  is  not  a spot  when*  he  cannot  point  out  some  of  his  handiwork.  He  has  also  don(> 
work  in  different  jiarts  of  the  State  and  every  year  for  many  years  jiast  has  liuilt  a chuich  of 


27G 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


some  deuomination.  He  gives  employment  to  from  200  to  250  men  during  the  busy  season, 
and  is  what  may  be  termed  an  artist  in  bis  litie  and  understands  the  business  details  of  his 
calling  in  every  particular.  He  came  to  the  city  with  the  determination  of  making  a suc- 
cess, the  extent  and  solidity  of  which  should  warrant  a permanency,  and  how  well  he  haspros- 
pered  may  be  plainly  seen  in  the  high  class  of  his  custom  and  the  excellent  character  of  his 
work.  In  employing  men  he  has  always  paid  them  what  they  earned  and  has  therefore 
always  had  men  who  were  skilled  mechanics  and  practical  and  experienced  workmen.  In 
the  building  of  the  Insane  Hospital  his  efforts  were  conspicuous  for  rapidity  and  efficiency, 
and  in  one  season  he  manufactured  the  brick  and  built  the  building  complete,  including  the 
smoke  stack  which  is  175  feet  high.  He  is  a Scottish  Hite  Mason,  is  a Knight  Templar  in 
Raper  Lodge,  No.  .1,  and  is  a member  of  the  famous  Indiaua])olis  Drill  Dorps  that  has  taken 
a prize  wherever  they  have  gone.  When  the  new  State  house  was  built  he  bought  the  ma- 
terial of  the  old  one  and  with  it  built  the  barn  owned  by  Mrs.  Hendricks.  He  has  long 
manufactured  his  own  brick  and  manufactured  that  which  was  used  in  the  Insane  Asylum. 
He  built  the  old  New  A^ork  store,  also  the  new  one,  and  the  (dd  glass  works.  He  is  in  every 
sense  of  the  word  a self made  man.  for  he  started  in  life  with  nothing  but  his  clothes  and  a 
small  amount  of  change,  and  although  he  has  never  been  rich,  he  might  have  been,  for  out 
of  the  kindness  of  his  heart  he  has  given  away  a fortune,  to  those  destitute  an  1 helpless 
beings  always  tt)  be  fo-und  in  large  cities.  John  Martin  has  never  had  trouble  with  striking 
workmen  for  he  always  ]>aid  his  men  promptly  and  gave  them  their  full  due,  and  has  had 
had  the  happy  faculty  of  winning  them  for  his  friends.  Among  some  of  the  other  buildings 
worthy  of  mention  which  he  has  erected  are  the  Fair  Block,  the  John  Smith  residence,  the 
market  house,  the  high  school  on  Pennsylvania  and  Michigan  streets,  besides  many  other 
school  buildings,  the  Malleable  Iron  Works  and  the  Brown  & Ketchain  Iron  Works.  In 
185(.)  he  was  rrnited  in  marriage  with  Mary  W.  Hudson,  a native  of  Marion  County,  Ind., 
by  whom  he  is  the  fe.ther  of  six  children,  two  sons  and  four  daughters.  Both  his  sons,  Rob- 
ert and  John,  are  connected  with  him  in  business  and  are  intelligent  and  promising  young 
men.  Mr.  Martin  is  the  only  man  in  the  State  who  has  owned  the  Sl  ate  house. 

Henry  W.  L.\ngenberg.  It  cannot  be  expected  in  a work  of  this  kind,  where  but  brief 
biographical  sketches  of  prominent  citizens  of  the  county  are  given,  that  justice  can  be  done 
to  this  much  esteemed  and  honored  citizen,  and  yet  he  has  been  identified  with  the  county 
from  his  birth,  and  his  name  is  so  familiar  to  all,  that  it  is  oidy  just  to  dwell  upon  his  career, 
not  as  empty  words  of  praise,  but  as  the  plain  statement  of  a stilt  plainer  truth.  He  was 
born  in  Indianapolis,  October  29,  1854.  His  father,  the  late  Henry  Langenberg,  was  an  old 
and  substantial  German  citizen  and  one  of  the  pioneers  of  that  nationality  in  this  section, 
for  he  took  up  his  residence  in  Indianapolis  in  1848.  He  was  born  in  Hanover,  Germany, 
was  reared,  educated  and  married  there,  his  union  being  with  Miss  Alinnie  Lindemeier,  who 
came  with  him  to  America  in  1846,  and  for  about  two  years  thereafter  they  resided  on  a farm 
in  Michigan.  Upon  the  arrival  of  the  family  in  Indianapolis  the  father  engaged  in  mercantile 
pursuits,  and  conducted  an  establishment  of  his  own  for  about  thirty  years,  winning  many 
friends  during  that  time  by  his  upright  and  business-like  conduct,  and  a large  and  paying 
patronage.  He  was  twice  honored  with  the  nomination  for  city  treasurer  by  his  party,  at  a 
time,  however,  when  it  was  in  the  minority — much  too  small  to  allow  even  his  popularity  to 
carry  him  through  at  the  polls.  His  death  occurred  March  17.  1880,  at  which  time  he  left 
a comfortable  property  to  his  widow,  who  resides  in  Indianapolis,  and  his  children.  Henry 
W.  Langenberg  was  educated  in  the  common  schools  of  the  city,  attending  until  he  attained 
his  twelfth  year  when  he  became  an  employe  of  Dury  & Hawk,  dealers  in  boots  and  shoes, 
with  which  firm  he  remained  for  over  six  years.  He  then  went  into  the  timber  business  on 
his  own  account,  and  bought,  cut  and  hauled  mill  timber  with  gratifying  financial  success 
until  1877,  when  he  became  an  extensive  live-stock  purchaser  throughout  the  country,  an 
occupation  which  received  a great  deal  of  his  attention  until  1884.  At  this  time  he  accepted 
the  appointment  of  deputy  under  sheriff  George  Carter,  his  duty  being  to  serve  warrants  and 
to  make  arrests  in  criminal  cases,  a position  not  only  requiring  considerable  nerve  but  also 
one  of  much  responsibility.  In  the  spring  of  1890  as  a reward  for  faithful  service,  he  was 
nominated  by  the  Democratic  party  for  sheriff.  There  were  three  strong  and  popular  candi- 
dates pitted  against  him  for  the  nomination,  yet  he  was  successful  on  the  first  ballot,  receiving 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

JNIVER'^ITY  OF  ILLINOIS 


277 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

447  votes,  357  being  necessary  for  a choice.  He  was  elected  by  over  3,160  votes,  the  largest 
majority  ever  received  by  any  sheriff  of  the  county.  He  is  one  of  the  youngest  men  that 
ever  tilled  this  responsible  position  but  his  administration  proved  to  be  one  of  the  best  in  the 
hikory  of  the  county,  which  was  in  a great  measure  owing  to  the  fact  that  he  was  an 
energetic,  tireless  and  conscientious  worker  and  in  all  respects  a man  of  the  people  and 
devoted  to  their  best  interests.  During  his  administration  he  had  some  noted  criminal  cases 
to  contend  with  and  at  one  time  successfully  repelled  a rpob  of  150  men  which  had  gathered 
about  the  jail  to  mob  a prisoner  u:»med  Bisso,  at  which  time  he  and  his  deputy  were  the  only 
ones  in  the  building.  He  retired  from  the  office  with  an  excellent  record  and  the  good  will 
and  esteem  of  all  concerned.  Since  then  he  has  been  extensively  engaged  in  the  buying  and 
selling  of  horses  and  in  conducting  this  business  as  well  as  in  his  official  life,  he  has  exercised 
great  prudence,  sound  judgment  and  undeviating  energy.  Socially  he  is  a member  of  the 
K.  of  P.,  of  all  the  city  Democratic  clubs,  the  Mauerchor  club  and  the  Indianapolis  Shooting 
Club.  He  has  been  married  since  March,  1878,  to  Miss  Lucy  Stille,  a native  of  Decatur 
County,  Ind. , and  a daughter  of  Ernest  and  Heuriette  Stille.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Langenberg 
have  one  child,  Bertha,  born  December,  1879.  In  1880  Mr.  Langenberg  became  a bonds- 
man for  a contractor  in  the  construction  of  the  Indianapolis  Shooting  Club  buildings  but  was 
unfortunate  in  being  obliged  to  carry  out  the  contract  for  an  absconded  contractor.  Although 
his  early  literary  advantages  were  limited,  he  received  a most  thorough,  if  severe  training, 
in  the  hard  school  of  experience,  and  his  enterprises  met  with  almost  universal  success,  a 
fact  which  speaks  eloquently  as  to  his  good  judgment  and  discernment. 

Hev.  M.vtthew  McClain  (deceased).  This  gentleman  was  born  on  February  15,  1806, 
in  a small,  rude  cabin  of  logs,  with  a floor  made  of  slabs  of  timber  and  the  door  of  claj)- 
boards.  This  cabin  stood  on  his  grandfather’s  farm,  located  on  ihe  waters  of  Beech  Creek, 
now  in  Spencer  County,  Ky.,  about  sixteen  miles  from  Shelby ville,  within  about  a half  mile 
of  where  now  stands  the  village  of  Mount  Eden.  His  paternal  great  grandfather  was  a 
native  of  Ireland,  having  emigrated  to  America  before  the  Revolutionary  War  and  settled 
in  the  State  of  Penn.sylvania.  He  afterward  moved  to  the  State  of  Kentucky  and  made  his 
home  with  his  son,  Alexander  McClain,  in  Shelby  County,  until  his  death,  at  which  time  he 
was  ninety-eight  years  of  age.  His  grandmother  came  from  (Termany,  out  of  the  work- 
house,  to  the  United  States,  and  was  sold  to  pay  her  })assage  across  the  ocean,  which  was 
the  law  then  for  those  too  poor  to  pay  their  fare  in  money.  She  departed  this  life  in  the 
year  1843,  at  the  age  of  eighty  four  years.  The  grandfather  was  born  in  America  and  died 
in  Pennsylvania,  leaving  three  children  — two  boys  and  one  girl — destitute  orphans,  the 
mother  having  died  previously.  The  little  girl  died  while  young  and  the  boys  were  bound 
out,  one  to  a tanner  and  the  other  to  a wheelwright.  The  last  mentioned  Avas  the  father  of 
the  subject  of  tliis  sketch.  At  the  age  of  twenty-one  he  left  Pennsylvania  and  went  to 
Kentucky,  where  he  tarried  awhile  with  his  uncle  and  finally  married  a Mi.ss  Spencer,  of 
Shelby  County,  about  a year  after  which  she  died,  leaving  him  with  a little  daughter  to  care 
for.  He  afterward  became  ac(juainted  with  and  married  Barbara  Miller,  who  was  born 
August  17,  1780,  after  which  he  built  the  cabin  on  her  father’s  farm,  in  which  the  subject 
of  this  sketch  was  born.  When  he  Avas  aliout  tAvo  years  of  age  they  removed  to  about  seven 
miles  south  of  Shelbyville,  on  the  waters  of  (iue.sses  Creek,  Avhere  they  made  their  home 
until  1820,  when  they  removed  to  Indiana  and  settled  on  a j)iece  of  land  which  his  father 
had  entered  of  the  Government,  located  in  Scott  County.  Here  the  father  died  in  1824, 
leaving  a family  with  Mattlunv  McClain  as  their  mainstay.  Here  they  toiled  for  years  and 
were  prosperous,  and  after  deliberating  Avhether  to  satisfy  Ihe  inclination  of  his  mind  to 
travel  over  the  Avorld  or  to  settle  down  in  life,  he  tinally  concluded  it  Avould  be  better  to 
have  a home  of  his  owti,  and  accordingly,  on  July  21,  1829,  he  married  Emily  A.  SAvincher, 
daughter  of  John  Swincher,  of  Jefferson  County,  Ind.,  and  went  to  housekeejiing  in  a cal)in 
near  the  old  home.  By  hard  work  early  and  late  and  by  strict  economy  they  had  at  the  end 
of  three  years  saved  enough  money  to  pay  for  their  eighty  acres  of  ground  on  Avhich  they 
were  living.  'I'his  land  was  bought  by  him  of  the  Government,  at  the  land  office,  -fetferson 
ville.  Early  in  life  .Mr.  McClain  began  his  mitiistorial  duties  and  many  and  varied  Averc' 
the  experiences  he  Aveiit  through.  I’he  Baptist  Church  at  Bethany,  in  Jelferson  County,  of 
which  he  was  a member,  at  their  meeting  of  business,  the  third  Saturday  in  INfarch,  1841,  by 


278 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


!i  nnaiiiinoiTS  vote  gave  him  license  to  sing,  pray  and  })reach  wherever  the  Lord  might  call 
him,  and  with  much  timidity,  embarrassment  and  fear  of  doing  an  injury  to  the  cause  of 
religion  he  embarked  in  the  great  ministerial  cause,  battling  with  many  discouragements  and 
oppositions,  preaching  sometimes  on  Sunday  and  working  hard  through  the  week  for  the 
support  of  his  family  and  for  the  advancement  and  education  of  his  children  and  also  those 
of  his  neighbors,  being  opposed  on  all  sides  in  every  attempt  to  increase  the  public  inter- 
est in  enlightenment,  education  and  Christianity.  He  was  determined,  however,  to  educate 
his  own  children,  and  in  the  face  of  every  opposition,  and  in  so  doing  made  enemies  for 
himself  and  family  and  was  much  envied  by  the  lower  class.  He  founded  and  almost  sup- 
j)orted  alone  the  tirst  .schools  that  were  taught  in  their  neighborhood  and  served  as  the  first 
treasurer  and  trustee  for  six  years  in  succession  and  after  a little  rest  served  again  for  a 
short  time.  He  has  gone  time  and  again  upon  his  crutches  and  upon  his  knees,  not  being 
able  to  walk  from  having  cut  his  foot,  to  get  wood  and  make  fires  for  the  school,  wearing 
leather  caps  on  his  knees  for  protection.  He  introduced  and  organized  the  first  Sabbath- 
school  in  the  neighborhood  with  considerable  interest  and  success  among  the  young  people 
and  great  opposition  by  some  of  the  older  ones.  Though  his  life  was  not  wholly  devoted  to 
the  ministry  it  was  as  much  so  as  domestic  duties  and  obligations  would  permit.  His 
family  was  supported  and  educated  and  started  on  the  broad  road  of  life  not  under  ptfr  by 
the  sweat  of  his  brow.  He  was  thrown  from  the  cars  in  May,  1808,  and  sustained  great 
in  juries,which  caused  him  extreme  pain  and  suffering,  and  had  so  far  recovered  that  he  was  able 
to  get  about  with  the  aid  of  a crutch,  when,  on  March  26,  1866,  came  a still  more  deplora- 
ble misfortune;  upon  entering  his  barn,  one  of  his  horses  being  loose  and  very  mischievous, 
rushed  past  him,  kicking  him  in  the  face  and  breaking  his  cheek  bone  and  upper  jaw  till 
the  broken  bones  grated  together.  His  nose  was  broken  and  the  bones  had  to  be  raised 
and  removed,  as  did  also  pieces  of  the  skull,  leaving  the  brain  bare  in  one  place.  His 
left  eyeball  burst  and  wasted  away,  while  the  right  one  was  turned.  The  optic  nerve 
was  totally  paralyzed,  and  consecprently  his  vision  was  destroyed,  and  from  that  time  until 
his  death  the  earth  was  a blank  to  him.  Though  it  seemed  to  be  a miraculous  power  that 
baffled  the  enemy  death,  yet  it  was  more  wonderfully  strange  that  his  rationality  was  pre- 
served, yet  it  was  so,  and  as  his  attention  could  no  more  be  attracted  by  vision  his  mind 
became  constantly  engaged  in  meditation  and  studying,  and  thus  his  mind  became  stronger 
and  memory  better,  perhaps,  than  it  had  ever  been,  and  continued  so  until  the  time  of  his 
death,  which  occurred  May  26,  1893.  After  his  great  affliction  he  dictated  the  story  of  his 
life  to  his  son,  W.  Thomas  McClain,  which  was  published  several  years  before  his  death  and 
is  a very  interesting  volume.  An  elaborate  obituary  was  published  by  several  Indianapolis 
papers  and  cojiied  by  others,  in  which  he  was  mentioned  as  “ The  blind  jireacher  and  pio- 
neer of  Indiana.”  The  loss  of  his  eyes  did  not  stop  his  ministerial  work;  he  preached  many 
impressive  sermons  while  blind,  until  old  age  and  general  debility  made  such  work  for  him 
impracticable.  His  sufferings  were  many,  his  faith  in  eternal  reward  steadfast.  His  last 
rejoicing  on  earth  was  when  told  of  his  granddaughter — child  of  \V.  T.  McClain — profess- 
ing Christ.  His  last  words  were  of  heaven  and  of  that  companion  who  had  been  the  closest 
and  dearest  to  him  in  life,  whose  meeting  smile  wooed  him  across  death’s  dark  river  into 
the  land  of  everlasting  bliss. 

William  T.  McClain.  A man’s  life  work  is  the  measure  of  his  success,  and  he  is  truly 
tlie  most  successful  man  who,  turning  his  powers  into  the  channel  of  an  honorable  purpose, 
accomplishes  the  object  of  his  endeavor.  He  who  weds  himself  to  a great  principle,  lays  the 
foundation  of  a successful  life.  ' In  the  study  of  every  man’s  life  we  find  some  mainspring  of 
action — something  that  he  lives  for.  In  William  T.  McClain  it  seems  to  be  an  ambition  to 
make  the  best  use  of  his  native  and  accpiired  powers,  and  to  develop  in  himself  a true  man- 
hood. A native  of  Scott  County,  Ind.,  he  was  born  on  May  31,  1845,  a son  and  youngest 
child  of  Rev.  Matthew  and  Emily  A.  (Swincher)  McClain,  and  his  early  life  was  passed  on 
his  father’s  farm.  Upon  attaining  a suitable  age  he  was  placed  in  school  and  was  kept  there, 
when  sessions  were  being  held,  by  his  wise  and  far-seeing  father,  until  he  was  about  seven- 
teen years  of  age  at  which  time  he  entered  an  academy  at  Madison,  where  his  school  days 
ended,  with  the  exception  of  a commercial  course  which  he  took  in  a business  college  of  In- 
ti iann[)olis.  He  remained  in  Scott  County  until  he  was  about  twenty-one  years  old  when  he 


279 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

came  with  his  parents  to  Marion  County,  and  in  1865  settled  on  a farm  in  Pike  Township 
where  he  has  since  lived  and  carried  on  farming  very  successfully.  Besides  some  valuable 
property  in  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  he  has  a magnificent  farm  of  eighty-six  acres,  so  care- 
fully and  skillfully  tilled  that  it  yields  a much  larger  income  than  does  many  more  pre- 
tentious places,  and  it  is  also  exceptionally  well  improved  with  buildings  of  all  descriptions, 
his  residence,  which  was  erected  in  1890,  being  exceptionally  handsome,  conveniently  arranged 
and  homelike  in  its  appointments.  A large  portion  of  this  farm  is  drained  and  tiled,  is 
devoted  to  general  farming  and  Mr.  McClain  is  proud  of  the  fact  that  he  has  one  of  the  most 
productive  farms  and  one  of  the  most  comfortable  homes  in  Pike  Township.  His  place  is 
known  far  and  wide  as  “Halcyon  Grange,”  and  it  is  an  appropriate  title.  His  industrious 
and  methodical  habits  and  personal  attention  to  details  enable  him  to  secure  desired 
results  where  others  fail,  and  he  is  in  every  respect  deserving  the  hospitality  which  has  attended 
his  footsteps.  He  was  the  editor  of  a volume  of  232  pages,  treating  of  the  life  of  his  father, 
Rev.  Matthew  McClain,  and  of  the  McClain  family,  which  manuscript  was  dictated  by  the 
father.  Mr.  McClain’s  religious  belief  is  not  sectarian  in  its  nature,  but  is  based  on  the 
principles  of  reverence  and  obedience  to  his  Maker,  justice  to  mankind,  one  to  another,  sub- 
ject to  the  behests  of  Christ  and  heaven’s  high  will.  Greater  proof  l)eing  required  to  sub- 
stantiate a written  identity  in  the  Lamb’s  Book  of  Life  than  merely  the  entry  of  his  name  in 
some  church  register.  Mr.  McClain  has  always  been  a Democrat  in  politics,  and  although 
by  no  means  an  active  politician  he  has  held  some  minor  positions  and  for  four  years  was 
deputy  county  and  city  treasurer,  two  years  under  Hiram  W.  Miller,  his  efficiency  being 
recognized  by  Mr.  Miller’s  successor.  Sample  Loftin,  with  whom  he  was  also  deputy.  Mr. 
McClain  was  married  February  6,  1867,  to  Miss  Frances  A.  Case,  a native  of  Pike  Township 
and  a daughter  of  Jonas  and  Mary  (Smock)  Case.  Their  children  are  Bernice  F.,  born 
July  10,  1872;  Edith  O. , born  March  21,  1879,  and  Royal  L.  W.,  born  January  3,  1883. 
Bernice  F.  is  an  accomplished  and  intelligent  young  lady  and  has  been  a teacher  for  three 
years  in  Pike  Township.  She  has  a decided  taste  for  literature,  is  well  posted  on  all  sub- 
jects, and  has  been  a successful  teacher  since  her  seventeenth  year.  She  is  now  married  but 
still  makea  her  home  with  her  parents. 

Winfield  Scott  Mann  was  born  in  Morgan  County,  Ind.,  November  1,  1847,  on  a farm 
occupied  by  his  grandfather.  Here  he  remained  until  fourteen  years  of  age,  receiving  his 
education  in  the  common  schools,  which  he  attended  during  the  winter  sessions.  In  1860 
he  went  to  Martimsville,  entered  the  lilacksmith  shop  of  R.  Elliott,  and  remained  there  two 
years,  when  he  went  to  Shelby ville.  While  there  he  was  in  the  employ  of  Judge 
Glessner,  his  uncle,  for  a year,  and  then  went  to  Morgan  County,  where  he  worked  for  Mrs. 
John  Cox,  on  a farm,  for  about  four  years.  From  there  he  came  to  Marion  County,  and 
for  two  years  after  this  worked  on  the  farm  of  Jackson  Landers,  in  Decatur  Township. 
Later  he  went  to  Indianajiolis  and  ran  a buzz  saw  in  tlie  Wheeler  & Wilson  sewing  machine 
factory,  thereby  losing  a fingei’,  and  then  located  in  West  Newton,  D.ecatui’  Township,  where 
he  remained  a year.  In  1873  he  celebrated  his  nuptials  with  Miss  Sallie  Wilson,  daugh- 
ter of  Elijah  and  Catherine  (Johnson)  Wilson,  and  for  the  first  year  after  his  marriage 
farmed  for  his  father-in-law  on  shares.  The  following  year  he  bought  thirty-three  and  a 
third  acres  of  Wesley  Brown,  and  move<l  on  the  tract,  where  he  lived  until  1884,  and  has 
added  more  to  it  from  time  to  time,  after  which  he  and  his  wife  moved  on  the  old  home 
place  of  Mr.  Wilson.  There  they  have  remained  ever  since.  Mr.  Mann  is  a member  of 
the  Baptist  Church.  In  politics  he  is  a Re[)ublicau,  though  inclined  to  be  independent. 
He  has  served  as  sujiervisor  of  Decatur  Township  and  has  held  other  local  positions,  dis- 
charging the  duties  of  all  in  a very  satisfactoiy  manner.  His  marriage  was  blessed  by  the 
birth  of  seven  children,  five  of  whom  survive  as  follows:  Frank,  Imcy,  Nettie,  Myrtle  and 
Charley.  Those  dead  are  Flora  and  Dollie,  aged  five  and  three  years.  William  Mann, 
father  of  our  subject,  was  a native  Ohioan,  but  came  to  Indiana  in  early  manhood,  locat- 
ing in  Morgan  (tounty.  He  was  a miller  all  his  life.  His  wife  was  Miss  Eliza  Glessner, 
and  to  them  were  born  two  children  as  follows:  Winfield  S.  (our  subject  ) and  .Morris,  who 
married  Miss  Elizabeth  McCreery,  and  they  have  four  chihlnm.  The  father  of  these  chil 
dren  served  in  the  Black  Hawk  War.  Ho  died  when  Winfield  was  but  a boy,  and  the  mother 
subseipiently  married  Asa  Cox,  by  whom  she  had  two  children:  Oliver,  who  married  .\da 


280 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Myers  (deceased),  who  bore  him  two  children,  Ethel,  and  Charley  (deceased),  and  Oscar 
(deceased),  married,  but  had  no  children.  The  mother  of  onr  subject  is  still  living.  Mrs. 
\A'.  H.  Mann’s  father,  Elijah  Wilson,  was  born  in  New  Jersey,  in  1811,  and  made  his  home 
there  until  1854.  He  was  married  in  1837  to  Miss  Catherine  Johnson,  and  in  1854  they 
came  to  the  Hoosier  State,  locating  in  Marion  County,  Where  Mr.  Wilson  l)ought  147  acres 
of  land.  To  this  he  added  from  time  to  time,  until  at  the  date  of  his  death,  which 
occurred  March  10,  1883,  he  was  the  owner  of  nearly  243  acres.  His  wife  passed  away 
two  years  later.  Of  the  eight  children  born  to  this  estimable  couple  four  died  young,  as 
follows:  Samuel,  Elizabeth,  Mary  A.  and  one  unnamed.  The  others  are  named  as  follows: 
Henry,  Rebecca  (died  at  the  age  of  nineteen),  John  and  Sallie.  The  eldest,  Henry,  first 
married  Nancy  J.  Sawyer,  liy  whom  he  had  five  children  as  follows:  Flora,  John,  Lida, 
William  and  Jesse.  His  second  marriage  was  with  Miss  Elizabeth  E.  Edwards;  and  John 
(deceased),  served  in  the  Civil  War,  in  Bracken’s  Independent  Company,  for  three  years, 
and  jiarticipated  in  many  juominent  engagements.  Sallie  married  our  subject.  Mrs. 
Mann’s  [laternal  grandparents  were  Samuel  Wilson  and  Rebecca  (Price)  M'ilson.  Mr. 
Wilson’s  grandfather  was  a soldier  of  the  Revolution.  Grandfather  Wilson  died  about 
1812.  He  was  of  English  descent. 

Joel  Mills.  A noble  class  of  men  have  built  up  the  agricultural  interests  of  Decatur 
J’ownship,  IMarion  County,  Ind. , and  have  made  it  a garden  spot  in  the  great  commonwealth 
of  the  State.  Among  those  who  have  been  active  and  efficient  in  the  work  is  he  whose  name 
stands  at  the  head  of  this  sketch.  He  has  been  identified  wifh  fhe  farming  interests  of  the 
comity  for  many  years,  and  in  every  walk  of  life  has  conducted  himself  in  an  honorable, 
upright  manner.  Mr.  Mills  was  born  in  Decatur  Township,  Marion  County,  August  23,  1835, 
on  a farm  of  160  acres  belonging  to  his  father,  Mark  Mills.  He  became  familiar  with  the 
duties  of  the  farm  at  an  early  age  and  received  a fair  education  in  the  schools  of  Decatur 
Township,  commencing  to  attend  when  seven  years  of  age  and  continuing  until  twenty. 
Until  twenty-two  years  of  age  he  remained  with  his  father,  and  on  October  7,  1857,  he 
was  married  to  Miss  Maria,  daughter  of  Joel  and  Mary  A.  (Reed)  George,  both  natives  of 
the  Old  Dominion.  One  son  was  born  to  our  subject  and  wife,  Levi  R.,  whose  birth  occurred 
July  28,  1858,  and  who  died  August  6,  1884,  unmarried.  In  his  political  views  Mr.  Mills 
is  a Re[)ublican,  and  his  first  vote  was  for  John  C.  Fremont.  That  ticket  he  has  voted  ever 
since.  He  is  a member  of  the  Friends’  Church  and  has  been  clerk  of  the  same.  Mark 
Mills,  the  father  of  our  subject,  was  a native  of  South  Carolina,  born  September  25,  1804, 
and  when  si.x  monthsold  he  was  taken  by  his  parents  to  Ohio.  Mark’s  parents  had  had  their 
property  destroyed  by  tire  and  they  thought  to  better  their  condition  by  removing  to  the 
Buckeye  State.  The  father  of  Mark  made  the  trip  on  foot,  but  the  wife  rode  a horse  and 
carried  her  two  children,  William  and  Mark,  in  her  arms.  Arriving  in  Ohio  they  located  in 
Warren  County,  where  the  lad,  Mark,  grew  to  manhood  on  the  farm  owned  by  his  father.  In 
1826  he  was  married  to  Miss  Charity  Sanders,  daughter  of  William  and  Amy  (Williams) 
Sanders,  and  in  1833  he  and  family  emigrated  to  Indiana,  locating  in  Decatur  Township, 
IMarion  County,  where  he  had  previously  entered  160  acres.  On  this  his  death  occurred  in 
1876.  He  added  eighty  acres  to  the  original  tract  and  had  a good  farm  of  240  acres.  He 
was  a hard-working,  industrious  man,  and  cleared  about  160  acres  from  the  green  timber, 
representing  an  immense  amount  of  labor.  He  received  a fair  education  for  his  time,  and 
was  a man  well  posted  on  all  the  current  topics  of  the  day.  In  politics  he  was  originally  a 
Whig,  but  upon  the  formation  of  the  Repulilican  party  he  affiliated  with  that.  In  religion 
he  was  a Quaker.  His  marriage  resulted  in  the  birth  of  seven  children,  as  follows;  Daniel, 
Amos,  Amy,  Joe  (our  subject),  Willis  and  Charity.  Daniel,  theeldest,  married  Eliza Epjier- 
son,  who  bore  him  nine  children:  Amanda,  William  A. , Mark.  Julia  A..  Lewis,  Charity, 
Cordelia,  Gurney  and  James  Oscar.  Amos  Mills  (deceased)  married  Miss  Mary  E.  Cook,  and 
they  have  two  living  children:  Samuel  C.  and  Edwin  S.  Amy  married  Alfred  Kellum,  and 
six  children  were  born  to  them:  Noah  M..  William  L.,Ella  J..  Ida,  Charles  E.  and  Annetta. 
Willis  married  Miss  IMary  Hawkins,  and  tive  children  were  born  to  them:  Rolena  A.,  Arthur 
L.,  Cora,  Chester  and  Lessie.  Charity  married  Dayton  R.  Hodson.  and  they  have  three 
children:  Or|)ha  L. , Elva  A.  and  Florence  A.  The  mother  of  our  subject  died  in  1841,  and 
the  father  married  for  his  second  wife  Mrs.  Jessup,  daughter  of  Noah  Kellum  and  widow  of 


281 


AND  MARIOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

William  L.  Jessup.  One  child  was  born  to  this  union,  Asenatli,  who  married  Keazin  Reagan. 
The  mother  of  this  child  died  December  81,  1891.  John  Mills,  the  paternal  grandfather  of 
our  subject,  was  a native  of  the  Palmetto  State,  born  in  1778,  and  he  resided  there  until 
1895,  when  he  moved  to  Ohio.  There  he  made  his  home  until  about  1835,  when  he  came  to 
Indiana  and  bouglit  100  acres  in  Decatur  Township.  There  he  died  in  1841.  He  was  a 
Quaker  in  his  religious  belief,  and  an  honorable,  upright  citizen.  He  married  Miss  Phcebe 
McDonald  in  South  Carolina,  and  they  liad  si.\  children  as  follows:  William,  Mark,  Mary, 
Rachel,  Amos  and  Lydia.  The  grandfather  died  in  1804,  aged  eighty  three  years,  Our 
subject’s  great-grandfather,  John  Mills,  was  the  son  of  John  Mills,  who  was  a Quaker,  and 
of  English  descent. 

Henry  Milhous.  Among  the  sons  of  Ohio  who  brought  with  them  to  the  Hoosier  State 
the  enterprise  and  thrift  which  have  ever  distinguished  the  native  Ohioan,  we  are  gratified  to 
be  able  to  name  Mr.  Milhous,  who  was  born  in  Clinton  County,  that  State,  February  19, 
1889.  The  Mdhous  family  came  originally  from  Ireland,  and  there  the  great  giand  fat  her 
of  our  subject,  Henry  ililhous,  was  born  May  1,  178(),  in  the  parish  of  Timahoe,  County 
Kildare.  The  latter  married  Miss  Rebecca,  daughter  of  Isaac  and  Mary  Cook,  and  they 
had  several  children,  among  whom  were  the  following;  Robert,  grandfather  of  subject; 
IMary,  who  married  David  Whitson;  Rebecca,  who  married  Amos  Compton;  Sarah,  who 
married  M.  Sfiray;  Ann,  who  married  Amos  Hawkins;  Henry,  died  unmarried,  and  Dinah, 
who  married  Stephen  Compton.  The  father  of  these  children  died  in  Ireland,  and  his  sons, 
Robert  and  Henry,  came  to  America  in  their  early  manhood.  Robert  landed  at  Charleston, 
S.  C.,  but  the  other  two  settled  in  Philadelphia,  where  all  trace  of  the  one  whose  name  is 
not  given  was  lost.  Henry,  one  of  the  brothers,  died  young,  and  it  is  supposed  that  he  was 
a single  man.  Robert,  the  grandfather  of  our  subject,  was  the  one  who  settled  in  the  Pal- 
metto State.  The  latter  came  to  Ohio  early  in  the  nineteenth  century  and  located  in  Clin- 
ton County.  About  1830  he  came  to  Indiana  and  located  in  Hendricks  County,  where  his 
death  occurred  in  1841.  He  married  iVIiss  Sallie  Compton,  and  seven  children  were  given 
them:  Henry,  Samuel,  John,  Rebecca,  Elizabeth,  Ann  and  Robert.  The  grandfather  was 
drafted  into  the  Revolutionary  War,  but  being  a Quaker  did  not  serve.  Samuel  Milhous, 
son  of  the  above  and  father  of  our  subject,  was  born  in  South  Caiolina,  January  28,  1790, 
and  early  in  life  came  with  his  jiarents  to  the  Buckeye  State.  He  was  married  in  Clinton 
County,  May  14,  1829,  to  Mrs.  Sarah  Scott,  widow  of  William  Scott  and  daughter  of  Will- 
iam and  Amy  Sanders.  Six  children  were  the  fruits  of  this  union:  Henry  and  Mary  (twins), 
the  latter  deceased;  Charity,  Amos  and  Robert,  deceased,  and  Elizabeth.  In  1835  Mr. 
Milhous  moved  to  Indiana  and  located  in  Decatur  Townshii).  where  he  bought  100  acres  of 
Jesse  Jones  and  live  acres  of  Joshua  Com|)ton.  'I’here  he  ])assed  the  remainder  of  his  days, 
dying  in  1818.  He  was  a Quaker  in  religious  belief.  His  wife  survived  until  1880.  Henry 
.■Nfilhous,  their  eldest  child  and  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  grew  to  mature  years  in  Decatur 
Townshif),  Clarion  County,  and  there  received  his  scholastic  training.  He  was  first  married 
to  Miss  Beulah,  daughter  of  Josiah  and  Hannah  (Jessup)  Carson,  in  1854.  One  daughter, 
.Maria  E.,  was  born  to  this  union.  She  married  Henry  Williams,  and  they  have  one  son 
named  Wayne.  Henry  Milhous  selected  his  second  wife  in  the  [lerson  of  Mrs.  Rachel  (Sum- 
ner) Ritter,  daughter  of  Caleb  and  Rebecca  (Harold)  Sumner  and  widow  of  John  Ritter. 
Tliree  children  were  I)orn  to  the  second  union,  one  of  whom  died  in  infancy.  Those  living 
are;  Charles  R.,  who  married  Ella  .Jones  and  became  the  father  of  oiu'  child,  Sibby. 
Charles’  second  marriage  was  with  Miss  Mary  4'..  sister  of  his  first  wif(‘,  and  they  ha\e  one 
daughter.  Cecily,  and  Amos  E , who  married  Miss  Addie  M.  Dickenson,  and  became  the 
father  of  two  cliildren.  4 huilow  and  (Ilada  D.  Henry  Milhaus  was  married  the  third  time 
in  1872  to  Mrs.  1‘lliza  .1.  (W’illiams)  Harvey,  daughter  of  Isaac  and  Sibby  (Carter)  Williams, 
and  widow  of  Elwood  Harvey,  by  whom  slie  has  one  child  living,  C.  D.,  who  marri(‘d  Laura 
Rariden. 

Herman  C.  Hoi.le,  It  is  a pleasure  to  recoi'd  (he  character  and  enterprise  of  men  of 
business,  who,  on  account  of  their  long  tenure  and  extensive  opeiations  comprise  almost 
a history  of  the  business  in  which  th(*y  are  engacjed.  Of  such  men  it  is  unnecessary 
to  speak  in  words  of  colored  praise.  44ieir  very  existence  is  em|)ha(ic  evidenct'  of  the  hon 
firable  position  that  they  occupy  and  the  long  course  of  just  dealings  that  they  have  pursued. 


28 


MEMOIliS  OF  INDIAXAFOLIS 


Sncb  a gentleman  is  Herman  C.  Holle,  stone  contractor,  who  is  a native  of  Germany,  in 
which  country  he  was  born  in  the  year  1840.  His  father,  G.  F.  Holle,  who  was  also  a stone 
mason,  came  to  the  United  States  in  1806  and  located  on  South  East  Street,  Indianapolis, 
where  he  died  when  about  eighty-three  years  of  age.  When  a lad  of  about  fourteen  years  of 
age  Herman  commenced  to  learn  the  stone  mason  and  stone  cutter’s  trade  and  when  fifteen 
years  of  age  came  to  the  United  States  and  at  once  settled  in  the  town  of  Indianapolis,  almost 
immediately  securing  employment  with  a Mr.  Duncan  and  later  with  Henry  Helm,  being 
employed  by  the  latter  as  journeyman,  then  as  a partner.  These  two  gentlemen  put  up  some 
of  the  most  imposing  edifices  of  the  city  among  which  was  the  Odd  Fellows’  Hall,  the  How- 
ard Block,  both  handsome  and  imposing  structures.  At  a later  period  Mr.  Holle  engaged  in 
business  for  himself  and  since  that  time  he  has  erected  a new  steel  rail  mill  and  some  of  the 
most  elegant  residences  in  the  city,  among  them  being  that  of  Col.  Downing  on  North  Mer- 
idian Stieet,  which  will  long  endure  as  a monument  to  his  skillful  workmanship.  Mr.  Holle 
came  to  this  country  laboring  under  the  disadvantages  of  extreme  youth,  a very  imperfect 
knowledge  of  the  English  language  and  a scarcity  of  friends,  but  being  a youth  of  much 
energy  and  ambition  he  continued  to  gradually  climb  higher  and  higher  on  the  ladder  of 
success  until  he  now  occupies  an  enviable  position  in  business  circles.  He  has  passed  all  the 
chairs  in  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  lodge  and  is  a member  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  He  is  a married  man, 
his  wife  having  been  a Cincinnati  lady. 

Jesse  Allen  Reynolds.  Many  of  the  farmers  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  lead  such  quiet, 
unobtrusive  lives  as  to  be  seldom  heard  of  outside  of  their  own  township.  They  are  doing 
tine  work  in  their  own  community,  but  do  not  care  to  mingle  in  the  more  public  matters  of 
])olitical  life,  and  devote  all  their  time  and  energies  to  the  cultivation  of  their  farms,  and  the 
develojiment  of  the  resources  of  their  vicinity.  Such  men  deserve  more  mention  than  they 
ordinarily  receive,  and  we  are  glad  to  here  present  one  of  them  in  the  person  of  Jesse  Allen 
Reynolds,  who  has  a good  home  in  Decatur  Township,  this  county.  He  was  born  in  Brown 
Township,  Morgan  County,  Ind.,  November  22,  1830,  on  his  father’s  farm  of  eighty  acres, 
and  theie  made  his  home  until  eighteen  years  of  age.  His  schooling  was  limited,  for  he 
attended  not  over  two  months  in  a year,  and  left  school  altogether  when  fifteen  years  of  age. 
W hen  in  his  seventeenth  year  he  weid  to  Guilford  Township,  Hendricks  County,  Ind.,  and 
there  entered  the  blacksmith  shop  of  Verlin  Jones,  his  brother-in-law,  with  whom  he  remained 
for  eighteen  months.  After  four  mouths’  work  on  a farm  in  Iowa,  our  subject  returned  to 
Jones’  shop,  and  remained  with  him  foi'  nine  months.  After  this  he  worked  for  a farmer 
named  Z.  L.  Jackson,  who  owned  a blacksmith  shoj).  for  about  two  years.  On  December  24, 
1853,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Purlina  Stone,  daughter  of  Gabriel  and  Isabel  (Long)  Stone, 
and  on  March  13,  1854,  he  located  in  West  Newton,  Decatur  Township,  Marion  County, 
Ind.,  and  o])ened  a blacksmith  shop  which  he  carried  on  for  nine  years.  After  this  he  bought 
100  acres  of  land,  and  made  his  home  on  the  same  from  1863  to  1874,  and  then  bought  100 
acres  of  David  George  on  which  he  resides  at  the  present  time.  Mr.  Reynolds  has  cleared 
1 18  acres  of  the  land  he  now  owns,  and  has  sixty  five  acres  in  timber.  He  raises  wheat,  corn, 
hay,  etc.,  and  is  a thrifty,  thorough  going  farmer.  In  1876  he  engaged  in  the  dairy  busi- 
ness, and  now  owns  54  head  of  cows,  and  six  months  of  the  year  he  sends  to  Indianapolis 
from  100  to  140  gallons  of  milk  pei’  day.  During  the  winter  he  shij)s  50  to  00  gallons  of 
milk.  He  makes  no  butter.  In  his  political  views  Mr.  Reynolds  is  a Democrat.  At  one 
time  he  was  a Mason,  and  he  also  belonged  to  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  a number  of 
years  ago.  To  his  marriage  was  born  thirteen  children,  eleven  of  whom  reached  mature 
years  as  follows:  Noah,  born  September  7,  1854,  and  died  September  19,  1883,  unmarried; 
Mary,  married  Aaron  Stanton,  and  they  have  two  children,  Oiqiha  and  Clarence;  George, 
who  married  Jane  Holman,  and  they  have  six  children,  Nona,  Mamie,  Jesse,  Pearl,  Edna  and 
; Charles  married  Susan  Horton,  and  they  have  three  children,  Orlando,  Ora  and 
Dora;  Eli  married  Emma  A’ager,  and  they  have  four  children  as  follows;  Levi,  Sophia, 
William  J.  and  Mary;  Elizabeth  married  Andrew  J.  Petty,  and  they  have  three  children: 
Wallace,  Nellie  and  Henrietta;  Martha  married  Lewis  Monday,  and  is  the  mother  of  three 

children,  Ethel,  Charles  and ; Eliza  J.,  single;  Emeline,  single;  Louie  married  Charles 

F.  Yager,  and  has  two  children,  Berty  and  Mamie,  and  Henry,  unmarried.  Mr.  Reynolds’ 
parents,  Henry  and  Mary  (Jones)  Reynolds,  were  natives  of  North  Carolina,  the  father  born 


283 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

in  Surry  County  in  1787.  He  was  reared  in  tliat  county,  and  there  married  to  Miss  Jones 
in  1812.  She  was  a daughter  of  Isaiah  and  Martha  (East)  Jones.  After  marriage  Henry 
Reynolds  and  family  emigrated  to  middle  Tennessee,  remained  there  for  a year  or  two,  and 
then  ill  1823  came  to  Indiana,  locating  first  in  Wayne  County,  where  he  remained  one  sea- 
son, and  then  settled  in  Hendricks  County,  where  he  made  his  home  for  about  two  years. 
From  there  he  moved  to  Morgan  County,  and  entered  eighty  acres  of  land  on  which  he  passed 
the  remainder  of  his  days,  his  death  occurring  in  1851.  He  had  nearly  all  of  his  landcleared 
up  at  the  time  of  his  death.  In  politics  he  was  a Whig,  and  in  religion  a Christian.  He  was 
the  father  of  fifteen  children:  Elizabeth,  died,  unmarried;  Mary,  deceased,  married  Jona- 
than Wilson;  Bethania,  deceased,  married  Joshua  Stokesliury ; Mahala,'  deceased,  married 
John  W.  Stokesbury;  James,  deceased,  married  Mary  Barnett;  Martha,  deceased,  married 
Jeremiah  Garrett;  Caleb  E.,  married  Eliza  J.  Garrett  ; Joseph  A.  married  Marian  McDaniel; 
Sarah,  died,  unmarried;  Isaac  married  Lovina  Castine;  Purlina  E.  married,  tirst  Berlin 
Jones,  and  afterward  John  Kellum;  Jesse  A.,  our  subject;  Adeline,  unmarried;  Ruth  A., 
deceased,  married  William  Jessup,  and  Henry,  deceased,  married  Barbara  A.  McCreery. 
The  mother  of  these  children  died  in  1844,  aged  forty-nine  years.  William  Reynolds,  grand- 
father of  our  subject,  was  a native  of  the  Old  North  State,  born  in  1705.  He  had  one  son 
killed  in  the  War  of  1812.  Our  subject’s  father-iu  law,  Gabriel  Stone,  was  a native  Ken- 
tuckian, born  in  1700,  and  he  was  married  in  that  State.  In  1834  he  came  to  Indiana,  and 
located  in  Morgan  County,  where  his  death  occurred  in  1841.  His  wife,  who  was  born  in 
1799,  died  in  1887.  They  were  the  parents  of  twelve  children;  Nancy,  deceased,  married 
John  Francis;  John  married  Fannie  Ray;  Amelia,  who  married  Alexander  Tansy;  James, 
who  married,  tirst  Mary  Scott,  and  afterward  Mary  Murray;  William,  who  died  unmarried; 
Albert,  who  married  Melinda  Muuford;  Sarah,  who  married  John  Stevenson;  Eli,  who  mar- 
ried Martha  Cox;  Purlina,  Avho  married  Jesse  A.  Reynolds;  Harvey,  who  married  Eliza 
Arnold;  Rebecca,  married  Esau  Kent,  and  Eliza,  who  died  unmarried.  Mrs.  Reynolds’ 
grandfather,  Nimrod  Stone,  was  born  in  Kentucky  about  1771,  and  served  in  the  War  of 
1812. 

Frank  B.  Dearingek.  This  gentleman,  who  is  one  of  the  wide-awake  business  men  of 
Indianapolis,  Ind.,  is  a member  of  the  firm  of  Dearinger  & Niemier,  artiticial  stone  contract- 
ors at  No.  313  East  Georgia  Street.  Theirs  is  one  of  the  most  extensive  concerns  of  the 
kind  in  the  city  and  has  l)een  established  for  a ])eriod  of  eight  years,  during  which  time  they 
have  made  both  reputation  and  fortune  for  themselves.  They  make  a specialty  of  lithogen 
floors  for  warehouses,  cellars,  machine  shops,  sidewalks,  curbing,  steps,  etc.,  also  cisterns, 
vats  and  concrete  foundations.  The  senior  member  of  this  well  known  tirm,  Mr.  Dearinger, 
was  born  on  March  24,  1855,  in  the  city  in  which  he  now  lives  and  is  doing  business,  his 
father  being  Simeon  Dearinger.  The  wife  of  Simeon  has  been  dead  quite  a number  of 
years.  There  were  born  to  their  marriage  two  children : Frank  B.,  and  Joseph,  who  is  a 
successful  Imsiness  man  engaged  in  the  sale  of  wall  paper  at  Evansville,  Ind.  Frank  B. 
Dearinger  was  educated  in  the  schools  of  Indiana{)olis.  He  gradually  worked  himself  up 
in  the  l)usiness  and  the  tirm  of  Dearinger  A Niemier  is  to-day  one  of  the  most  extensive  in 
the  city.  They  e.xecuted  the  work  on  the  Commercial  Club  Building,  the  new  jail,  and  have 
<lotie  a great  deal  of  important  street  work. 

James  W.  Hudson.  The  pi-oper  f)aviiig  of  the  streets  of  a large  city  is  of  the  greatest 
importance,  for  it  not  only  facilitates  labor  greatly  but  it  adds  much  to  the  enjoyment  of 
those  citizens  who  have  horses  and  carriages,  and  greatly  augments  the  appearance  of  a 
place.  The  business  of  street  contracting  has  been  that  of  James  W.  Hudson,  since  18<)7, 
and  he  is  one  of  the  most  extensive  and  trustworthy  in  the  city.  He  was  born  at  FI.  Hall, 
(now  Titlin),  Ohio,  in  182(5,  a son  of  George  IM.  Hudson,  a native  of  the  city  of  “ Brothei  ly 
liove.’’  'riie  latter  removed  to  Ohi(i  when  a young  man  and  worked  at  his  trade,  that,  of 
cooper,  in  Chillicothe,  until  1832  or  1833,  when  he  went  to  Cincinnati,  and  there  success 
fully  conducted  a l)akery,  tiuding  an  able  assistant  in  his  wife,  whom  he  had  married  in 
Chillicothe.  In  |)olitics  he  always  su|)port(Hl  the  Whig  party'.  .lames  W.  Hudson  was 
eiliicateil  in  the  schools  of  Cincinnati  but  when  he  had  reached  the  age  of  twelve  years  he 
went  on  the  idver  between  Cincinnati  and  New  Orleans  and  held  th('  position  of  steward 
until  his  marriage  when  he  tcjok  up  his  residence  in  Ciuciiiiiati,  and  turned  his  attention  to 


284 


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the  paving  of  streets  as  a contractor.  In  Angnst,  1862,  he  became  a member  of  Company 
J3,  Eighty-third  Ohio  Infantry,  with  the  rank  of  corporal,  and  was  present  at  the  first  attack 
on  Yicksbnrg.  Later  he  was  at  Arkansas  Post,  where  he  received  a very  severe  wound  by 
a gun  shot,  losing  his  ujtjier  jaw.  He  was  given  up  for  dead  but  after  a long  period 
recovered  although  he  was  also  for  a long  time  sick  with  typhoid  fever,  the  result  of  expo- 
sure, and  was  finally  honoratjly  discharged  from  the  service. 

John  Wackek.  All  tlie  successful  lousiness  men  of  the  W'est  are  self-made  men.  From 
[)overty  and  obscurity  they  have  fought  their  way  in  life’s  Ijattle  to  prominence  and  honor. 
Not  only  this;  they  have  stamped  upon  the  industries  and  institutions  of  their  section  their 
own  characteristics,  and  have  thus  given  permanency  to  every  enterprise.  In  their  lives  and 
success  is  found  demonstrated 

Tlie  rank  is  but  tlie  jjiiinca’s  stamp  - 

The  man's  the  man  for  a’  that. 

A volume  of  the  successful  business  men  of  Indianapolis  would  be  incomplete  unless 
mention  were  made  of  John  Wacker,  who  has  been  one  of  the  jtublic-spirited  citizens  of 
Haughville  since  about  188^.  He  is  a native  of  Germany — that  land  that  has  sent  to  this 
country  some  of  her  worthiest  citizens — born  May  16,  1851,  a son  of  Philip  and  Anna  (Hol- 
ley) Wacker,  also  Germans  by  birth,  where  they  lived  and  died.  The  father  was  the  owner 
of  an  e.xtensive  vineyard  and  manufactured  a great  deal  of  wine.  He  was  for  three  years  a 
member  of  the  German  Army  under  William  I.  and  died  in  his  native  land  in  February, 
1888.  To  him  and  his  wife  three  sons  and  two  daughters  were  born:  Carl,  August,  John, 
Nannie  (deceased),  and  Sophia  (deceased).  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  the  youngest 
son,  and  in  the  section  in  which  he  was  born  he  resided  until  he  was  fifteen  years  of  age, 
securing  in  the  meantime,  a good  practical  education  in  the  common  schools.  He  then 
began  learning  the  trade  of  a butcher,  and  followed  this  occupation  in  the  principal  cities  of 
Germany  until  he  was  twenty-two  years  of  age,  at  which  time  he  decided  to  come  to  America, 
and  shortly  after  his  arrival  in  this  country  in  April,  1873,  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and 
worked  at  his  trade  for  about  a year  and  a half  thereafter.  He  then  opened  a meat  market 
of  his  own  on  Kentucky  Avenue,  where  he  remained  about  six  months,  then  moved  the  same 
to  Davidson  Street  and  there  conducted  a successful  trade  for  about  two  years.  He  contin- 
ued this  occupation  at  different  points  in  Indianapolis  until  1885,  then  came  to  Haughville 
and  in  February  of  that  year  opened  the  first  meat  market  in  the  place  in  a small  temporary 
building  erected  on  property  which  he  had  purchased  there.  During  the  summer  of  1885 
he  erected  a handsome  two-story  brick  building,  the  first  building  of  the  kind  to  be  erected 
in  the  place,  it  being  86x48  feet  in  dimensions,  but  this  was  afterwaid  found  to  be  inade- 
((uate  for  his  purpose  and  he  j)ut  on  an  addition  of  twenty-five  feet  in  the  rear.  For  about  one 
year,  in  addition  to  his  meat  maiket,  he  kept  a stock  of  groceries  also,  then  sold  his  stock  of 
groceries  and  a short  time  after  his  meat  market,  as  well.  Since  then  he  has  devoted  much 
attention  to  the  building  up  and  improvement  of  Haughville  and  has  made  it  one  of  the  most 
tioui'ishing  j)laces  of  Marion  County.  He  has  been  an  extensive  dealer  in  real  estate,  a suc- 
cessful jmrehaser  of  acre  property,  and  has  recently  laid  out  an  addition  of  twenty-three 
acres  to  the  town,  which  he  has  himself  improved  in  the  way  of  trees,  the  grading  of  the 
streets,  the  laying  of  natural  gas  pipes,  etc.  Mr.  Wacker  universally  commands  the  respect 
of  his  fellow  men  even  though  he  has  attained  no  high  political  or  other  ])refermeut,  and  his 
whole  course  through  life  is  one  deserving  of  emulation  and  well  worthy  of  preservation. 
Besides  the  addition  refei  red  to  above  he  has  other  large  real  estate  interests  and  is  the 
owner  of  twelve  acresadjoining  the  town  which  is  not  yet  laid  out.  He  has'  built  fifteen  houses 
which  he  rents  to  twenty-one  tenants,  and  he  also  has  a tine  graded  spot  of  seven  and  a half, 
acres  which  is  finely  im|)roved  with  walks,  trees,  etc.  In  fact,  Mr.  Wacker  has  been  the 
leading  spirit  and  factor  in  the  development  of  Haughville,  for  when  he  tirst  purchased  the 
land  at  that  point  it  was  imthing  but  a corn  field  but  now  has  a population  of  about  3,500 
[jeople,  a state  of  afftiiis  largely  brought  about  through  his  efforts.  He  is  a stanch  Demo- 
crat, takes  an  active  interest  in  the  success  of  his  party,  in  the  interests  of  which  he  wields 
a wide  itifluence  throughout  his  section.  He  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.,  the  Butchers’ 
Protective  Association  and  the  Ancient  Order  of  Druids.  On  July  29,  1875,  he  was  united  in 


285 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

marriage  to  Miss  Emma  E.  Lahmau,  a native  of  Indianapolis,  and  a daughter  of  Frederick 
and  Elizabeth  (Dipple)  Lahman,  the  former  of  whom  was  born  in  Prussia  and  the  latter  in 
Hessian,  Germany.  They  were  brought  to  the  United  States  when  children,  were  reared  and 
married  in  this  country  and  became  early  settlers  of  Indianapolis,  at  which  time  it  was  but  a 
village.  Mr.  Lahman  was  a shoemaker  by  trade  and  during  the  Civil  War  in  this  country 
he  had  charge  of  a shoe  firm's  interest  at  Camp  Morton.  After  the  war  he  opened  a grocery 
store  and  for  many  years  pursued  the  calling  of  a merchant  in  Indianapolis.  He  died  in  1880  but 
is  survived  by  his  widow  who  is  a resident  of  Indianapolis.  The  union  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  \Y acker 
has  resulted  in  the  birth  of  the  following  children:  Emma,  Edward,  and  Florence.  The 
entire  family  are  members  of  the  Zion  German  Evangelical  Church  in  Indianapolis.  In 
1883  the  demand  for  a German  church  in  Haughville  was  met  with  and  Miss  Emma  Wacker 
has  proved  a potent  factor  in  its  organization  and  continuance.  Being  an  accomplished 
musician  she  has  served  as  organist  and  is  a member  of  the  choir.  She  also  lakes  an  active 
interest  in  the  reading  room  recently  established  in  Haughville,  in  fact,  is  an  intelligent  and 
indefatigable  worker  in  all  causes  in  which  women  are  usually  interested. 

John  P.  Le  Page.  The  business  in  which  Mr.  Le  Page  is  engaged  is  a most  important 
one  and  requires  a degree  of  proficiency  which  is  not  acquired  by  all  who  asjvire  to  success 
in  this  line  of  work.  Mr.  Le  Page  is  a remarkably  successful  marble  cutter  and  monument 
builder,  and  near  the  gates  of  Crown  Hill  Cemetery  he  has  carried  on  an  extensive  business 
for  the  past  sixteen  years,  and  during  this  time  has  erected  some  of  the  finest  monuments 
in  that  most  beautiful  resting  place  of  the  dead.  He  is,  with  reason,  considered  one  of  the 
finest  and  most  artistic  workers  in  marble  in  the  State,  and  his  services  have  been  called  into 
requisition  on  many  of  the  largest,  most  beautiful  and  elaborate  monuments  within  the 
borders  of  Indiana.  He  is  a native  of  Belgium,  where  he  was  born  on  March  29,  1849,  to 
Albert  and  Catherine  (Ballion)  Le  Page,  both  of  whom  were  l)orn  in  Belgium  and  were  there 
reared  and  married.  In  1855  they  sought  a home  in  the  New  World  and  here  they  reared 
their  family  of  seven  children,  whose  names  are  given  in  the  order  of  their  birth:  John  P. ; Mar- 
guerite, who  was  born  in  1853,  and  is  now  living  in  Floyd  Knobs,  Ind. , the  wife  of  John 
Shoeman;  Josephine,  who  resides  in  the  same  ])lace,  the  wife  of  JohnErb;  Emily  also  resides 
there  and  is  the  wife  of  Koon  Navale;  Rosie  is  a resident  of  New  Albany,  Ind.,  and  is  the 
wife  of  William  Smith,  and  the  two  youngest  children  died  in  infancy.  John  lie  Page  was 
reared  on  a farm  until  he  was  about  sixteen  years  of  age,  at  which  time  he  began  working  at 
his  present  trade  of  marl)le  cutting,  which  he  has  followed  successfully  ever  since.  His 
father  was  a fresco  painter  and  gave  his  son  many  valuable  lessons  and  hints  in  the  art  of 
drawing,  which  proved  very  valuable  to  him  in  his  present  business.  On  November  22,  1874, 
he  led  to  (he  altar  Miss  Louisa  Kinzie,  who  comes  of  excellent  German  stock,  her  parents 
being  still  residents  of  the  Old  Country.  To  his  union  four  children  living  have  been  given, 
and  were  named  as  follows:  John,  born  September  3,  1881;  Emma,  Charley  and  Elmer,  all 
of  whom  are  {)ursuing  their  studies  in  the  public  schools.  Six  children  are  deceased.  No 
man  in  the  community  stands  higher  than  does  IVIr.  Le  Page.  Socially  he  is  a member  of 
the  K.  of  P.,  tlie  A.  F.  & A.  M.,  the  Druids,  the  Red  Men,  the  Chosen  Friends,  the  K.  of  L. 
and  the  K.  of  H. , and  is  also  an  earnest  and  consistent  member  of  the  church. 

NuER(iE  <fe  Reinkixg.  This  is  One  of  (he  best  known  building  and  contracting  firms  of 
the  State  of  Indiana,  and  has  been  in  existence  since  1872,  although  piior  to  its  foimiation 
each  gentleman  was  engaged  in  building  and  contracting  (jn  his  own  responsibility.  The 
senior  member  of  the  firm,  Charles  Nuerge,  was  born  in  Adams  County,  Ind.,  in  1850,  a 
son  of  Charles  A.  Nuerge,  a native  of  Germany,  who  came  to  the  United  States  when  a 
young  man  and  took  up  Ids  residence  in  Adams  County,  Ind.,  where  he  t)ecame  extensively 
and  successfully  engagcKl  in  farming.  In  tin*  schools  of  his  native  coutdy  Charles  Nuerge 
obtained  a ))ractical  common-school  education  and  assisted  his  father  on  tlie  farm.  After  a 
time  lie  began  working  at  the  carpeid.er’s  trade  and  learned  all  the  details  of  tins  Imsiness 
even  to  hesving  the  timl;er  for  frames.  In  187t>hecame  to  Indianapolis  and  entered  the 
employ  of  George  Hoereth,  in  whose  employ  he  remaiin'd  sev(>n  yi'ars,  and  in  1878  com 
menced  contracting  for  himself.  He  was  very  soon  after  engageil  liy  Henry  tl.  Wilson  to 
do  some  work  for  him  and  this,  which  was  his  maiden  effort,  was  his  start  in  his  pres(»nt 
business.  He  first  formed  a partnershij)  witli  I^’rank  Mowwe  and  finally,  in  1883,  liecame 


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MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


associated  in  business  with  Henry  E.  Reinking  and  together  they  have  erected  some  of  the 
following  buildings:  the  Jamison  & Malott  buildings,  the  rebuilding  of  Progress  House,  the 
Arcade  Clothing  House,  the  residence  of  John  W.  Schmidt,  which  was  the  finest  in  the 
State  at  that  time,  the  A.  C.  Harris  residence  on  North  Meridian  Street,  the  school-house  on 
Nolile  and  North  Streets,  the  Fishback  house  on  North  Delaware  Street,  the  Snow’s  resi- 
dence, Home  Brewing  Company,  and  others,  also  a great  deal  of  work  on  St.  Mary’s  in  the 
Woods,  at  Terre  Haute,  ancl  just  completed  the  Starch  Works  in  Des  Moines,  Iowa,  for  which 
he  was  paid  1130,000.  In  1873  he  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Louisa  Schildmeyer, 
of  this  city,  who  died  leaving  him  with  two  children  and  he  took  for  his  second  wife  Mrs.  Lizzie 
Pierson,  who  has  also  borne  him  two  children.  Mr.  Nuerge  is  a member  of  the  Builders’ 
Exchange  and  the  Contractors  Association  and  for  some  time  has  been  a member  in  good 
standing  of  the  Lutheran  Church.  He  is  an  affable  and  agreeable  gentleman  and  very  suc- 
cessful. 

Henky  E.  Reinkinu,  the  junior  member  of  the  above  mentioned  hrm,  was  born  in 
Adams  County,  Ind.,  July  21,  1851,  a son  of  Conrad  Reinking,  who  was  born  in  Germany 
and  who,  after  coming  to  the  Pnited  States,  located  in  New  Orleans,  where  he  joined  the 
United  States  army  and  went  to  Mexico,  during  the  war  with  that  country,  where  he  was 
engaged  in  the  prinei{)al  battles  fought.  After  that  war  ended  he  came  to  Indiana  and 
commenced  farming  in  Adams  County  an  occupation  which  still  receives  his  attention 
to  some  extent,  although  he  is  now  over  .seventy  years  of  age.  Henry  E.  attended  the 
schools  of  Adams  County,  and  |)artially  learned  his  trade  there,  and  in  company  with 
Charles  Nuerge,  his  present  partner,  with  whom  he  had  gone  to  school  and  associated 
with  as  a boy  and  young  man,  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  together  they  entered  the 
employ  of  George  Hoereth,  but  afterward  worked  for  other  parties  and  shortly  after  com- 
menced taking  contracts  for  himself.  In  1883  he  formed  his  present  partnership  and 
together  these  two  gentlemen  have  made  a siiccess  of  their  undertaking.  In  1873  he  was 
united  marriage  with  the  daughter  of  Fred  Schildmeyer,  of  this  city,  and  their  union  has 
resulted  in  the  birth  of  six  sons.  Mr.  Reinking  is  a prominent  member  of  the  Builders 
Exchange,  the  Contractors  Association  and  the  German  Lutheran  Church.  In  his  political 
views  he  has  always  supported  the  principles  of  the  Democrat  party,  but  so  far  as  himself 
is  concerned  he  has  not  been  an  aspirant  for  office. 

Robert  Furnas.  The  career  of  this  venerable  and  venerated  gentleman  of  whom  it  is 
our  pleasure  and  privilege  to  here  attem])t  a short  sketch,  is  connected  with  Ohio  and  Indi- 
ana, his  birth  occurring  in  the  former  State  October  22,  1812.  He  received  such  education 
as  the  subscription  schools  of  those  days  afforded,  going  on  an  average  about  two  months  in 
the  year,  and  leaving  school  at  the  age  of  thirteen.  In  the  fall  of  18t)4  he  came  to  Indiana, 
and  located  in  Decatur  Township  where  he  bought  320  acres  of  land.  In  1883  he  bought 
forty  acres  more  and  about  the  same  year  he  bought  eighty  acres  in  Hendricks  County,  Ind. 
Half  of  his  home  farm  of  320  acres  was  cleared  when  Mr.  Furnas  bought  it  and  he  has 
cleared  fifty  acres  since.  He  is  a wide-awake,  enterprising  farmer  and  he  thoroughly  under- 
stands all  the  details  of  farm  life.  He  is  a member  of  the  Friend’s  Church  and  a liberal 
contributor  to  the  same.  Originally  he  affiliated  with  the  Whig  party  but  on  the  formation 
of  the  Republican  party  he  joined  its  ranks  and  of  late  years  he  has  been  a Prohibitionist. 
His  first  vote  was  cast  for  Henry  Clay.  Mr.  Furnas  has  been  married  three  times.  His  first 
marriage  was  in  1838,  to  Miss  Phcebe,  daughter  of  Samuel  and  Barbara  (Sanders)  Whitson. 
No  children  of  this  union  survive.  His  second  marriage  occurred  in  1847  to  Miss  Anna 
Hollingsworth,  daughter  of  Abraham  Hollingsworth,  but  no  children  were  born  to  their 
union.  In  1859  he  was  married  to  Achsa  Newby,  daughter  of  William  and  Ruth  (Cox) 
Newby,  and  five  children  were  the  fruits  of  this  union,  but  one  died  in  infancy.  The  others 
were;  John  R.,  a resident  of  Hendricks  County,  married  Rachel  Lewis  who  bore  him  two 
children,  Robert  and  Edgar;  Anna,  married  Lincoln  R.  Jessup,  son  of  Jesse  and  Mary  (Bray) 
Jessup  and  they  have  these  children,  Ethel  and  Mabel;  Wilson,  married  Addie  Albertson, 
daughter  of  Phineas  and  Aseneth  (Wilson)  Albertson,  and  Charles  W.,  who  married  Addie 
Tincher.  Robert  Furnas,  father  of  our  subject,  was  born  in  the  Palmetto  State,  June  27, 
1772,  and  in  that  State  he  reached  mature  years.  He  was  married  at  Cain  Creek,  S.  C., 
February  11,  1790,  to  Miss  Hannah  Wilson,  daughter  of  John  and  Dinah  (Cook)  Wilson,  and 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


287 


in  1803  they  came  to  what  is  uow  Warren  County,  Ohio,  near  Wayuesville.  He  settled  on  a 
farm  of  210  acres,  the  land  warrant  of  which  he  bought  of  a revolutionary  soldier,  and  there 
his  death  occurred  February  15,  1863.  He  was  a Quaker  in  his  religious  views  and  a Whig 
in  politics.  Eleven  children  were  born  to  his  marriage  and  named  as  follows:  Mary  (deceased), 
Esther  (deceased),  John  (deceased),  Seth  (deceased),  Joseph  (deceased),  Isaac  (decea.sed), 
Dinah  (deceased),  Robert  (our  subject).  Rebecca  (deceased),  Hannah,  and  Sarah  (deceased).  All 
these  children  married  and  reared  families.  John  Furnas,  the  grandfather  of  our  subject, 
was  born  at  Standing  Stone,  Cumberland,  England,  March  5,  1736,  and  was  married  there 
March  24,  1762,  to  Miss  Mary  Wilkerson  who  was  born  at  Wigton,  Cumberland,  England,  Sep- 
tember 19,  1742.  They  were  the  parents  of  the  following  children:  Joseph,  Rebecca, 
John,  Esther,  Thomas  W.,  Robert  and  William.  Soon  after  his  marriage  the  grandparents 
came  to  America  and  the  grandfather  died  in  South  Carolina  about  1780. 

Fr.vncis  M.  Lawler,  master  mechanic  of  Chicago,  Indianapolis  & IVhite  Water  Division 
shops  of  the  Big  Four  Railroad,  is  a product  of  the  Granite  State,  born  in  Concord,  April  21, 
1848,  and  is  a son  of  Martin  and  Hannah  (Brown)  Lawler,  the  former  a native  of  Ireland, 
and  the  latter  of  Nova  Scotia.  Both  father  and  mother  came  to  the  United  states  with  their 
parents  when  children  and  were  here  married.  The  father  was  a stone  contractor  in  rail- 
road work  in  the  East  for  many  years  and  accumulated  considerable  means.  In  1856  the 
family  came  west  and  located  at  Springfield,  111. , where  the  father  entered  the  employ  of 
the  Wabash  road.  He  died  in  Springfield  in  October,  1879.  The  mother  is  still  living  and 
makes  her  home  in  St.  Louis.  Francis  M.  Lawler  was  but  a small  boy  when  his  parents 
moved  to  Illinois,  and  he  grew  to  manhood  and  received  his  scholastic  training  in  Spring- 
field.  In  March,  1864,  he  left  home  with  a number  of  soldiers  and  went  to  Point.  Miss., 
where  he  enlisted  in  Company  L,  Tenth  Missouri  Cavalry,  and  served  a little  over  a year, 
when  he  was  transferred  to  Com2)any  L,  Fourth  Missouri  Cavalry,  with  which  he  remained 
until  cessation  of  hostilities,  being  discharged  Septeml)er  10,  1865.  While  fighting  for  the 
old  flag  he  followed  Gen.  Forrest  for  the  most  part  and  was  in  Guntownraid  after  Gen.  Price 
through  Missouri.  He  was  also  on  the  Wilson  raid  through  Georgia.  On  account  of  age  he 
enlisted  as  a bugler  but  subsequently  served  as  a private.  When  he  left  home  his  parents 
knew  nothing  about  his  enlisting,  for  he  went  on  the  spur  of  the  moment  while  the  soldiers 
were  at  the  depot  to  take  the  train.  After  the  war  he  returned  to  S|)ringfleld  and  entered 
the  Wabash  shops  as  apprentice  to  the  trade  of  machinist,  serving  three  and  a half  years. 
After  that  he  became  fireman  on  the  road  for  a short  time  and  later  secured  employment  in 
the  Iron  Mountain  shops  at  Carondolet.  Six  months  later  he  secured  a position  in  the  St. 
Charles,  Mo.,  shops  for  four  months,  and  then  went  to  Omaha  to  work  in  the  shops  there 
under  a master  mechanic,  serving  an  apprenticeshij).  He  fitted  up  a couple  of  engines  and  ran 
one  while  the  new  bridge  was  under  construction.  He  then  returned  east  on  account  of  his 
mother  and  occupied  a position  in  the  shops  at  Indianapolis,  St.  Louis  and  Mattoon  as 
machinist,  and  has  been  with  this  company  ever  since.  In  1880  he  was  made  gang  foreman; 
five  years  later  he  was  promoted  foreman  in  the  shops  at  Mattoon,  and  in  1889  he  was  made 
assistant  master  mechanic.  In  January  of  the  following  year  he  was  made  ma.ster  mechanic 
of  the  division  and  on  June  1,  1892,  he  was  pi’ornoted  master  mechanic  of  the  Chicago, 
Indianapolis  & White  Water  divisions,  with  headcjuarters  at  Indianapolis,  and  this  position 
he  still  holds.  Mr.  Lawler  was  married  in  1872  to  Miss  Fernanda  M.  Cyphers,  a native  of 
Gallion,  Ohio,  and  five  children  have  been  given  them,  May,  William,  Gracie,  Frank  and 
Daisy.  Mr.  Lawler  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity,  a Tnembei-  of  the  Conimandery, 
and  was  master  of  Blue  Lodge,  No.  260,  Mattoon,  also  high  juaest  of  the  chapter  six 
years.  In  politics  he  is  a stanch  Democrat.  Our  subject  occn{)ies  a most  responsible  position, 
over  1,300  men  being  under  his  suj)ervision.  His  natural  ability  and  thorough  knowledge 
of  machinery,  accjuired  from  years  of  ])ractical  expeiience,  is  appreciated  by  the  company 
which  repose  the  utmost  confidence  in  his  ability  and  judgment.  'I'lie  position  is  one  that 
requires  close  a|)j)lication  and  attention  to  all  the  details  of  an  immense  business.  It  also 
demands  a great  deal  of  study  and  research  in  kee})iug  abreast  of  tin*  times  in  the  strides 
and  iiiqjrovements  that  daily  take  place  through  the  inventiv**  ifoninsof  advanced  civilization. 
Mr.  Lawler  has  proven  himself  eidirely  ca[)able  and  worthy  at  all  times  to  till  the  position 
he  noW  occuj)i«!S.  He  is  a pleasant,  social  gpidleman,  characteiistics  which  usuall}' predomi- 


288  MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 

uate  aiuoug  railroad  men,  and  is  popular  and  well  liked  anioncr  the  employes  with  whom  he 
comes  in  daily  contact. 

Ben.iamin  F.  David.  Among  those  who  have  fought  the  battle  of  life  bravely  and  are 
now  living  retired  from  the  strife  and  turmoil  of  active  life,  is  Benjamin  F.  David,  who  is  a 
product  of  Harrison  County,  Ky.,  born  November  20,  1828,  on  a farm,  but  who,  at  the  age 
of  nine  months,  was  brought  by  his  parents  to  Indiana,  who  located  on  a farm  of  200  acres, 
in  Marion  County,  eighty  acres  of  which  had  been  purchased  a year  or  so  prior  to  their  re- 
moval here  and  the  remainder  afterward.  On  this  farm  Benjamin  F.  was  brought  up,  h's 
education  being  acquired  in  the  subscription  schools  which  weie  in  vogue  at  that  time  and 
which  were  held  in  the  proverbial  pioneer  log  school  house.  He  attended  about  two  months 
out  of  the  year  up  to  his  fifteenth  year,  after  which  he  remained  at  home  and  assisted  his 
father  on  the  home  farm  until  he  was  twenty-five  years  of  age.  During  this  time  he  learned 
the  blacksmith’s  trade  at  Danville,  Ind.,  and  at  the  end  of  about  a year  he  came  to  Bridge- 
port, Marion  County,  and  worked  with  Henry  Mattern,  a blacksmith,  for  nearly  three  years. 
At  the  end  of  that  time  he  returned  to  his  father’s  farm,  where  he  made  his  home  up  to  1891, 
when  he  moved  to  west  Indianapolis,  where  he  now  lives.  He  is  a member  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church,  is  a Republican  jiolitically,  and  has  served  as  supervisor  of  his  township. 
In  1 857  he  led  to  the  altar  Elizabeth,  daughter  of  Thomas  and  Rebecca  (Tucker)  Whitson,  and 
to  them  were  born  live  children:  Sarah  E. , who  married  Charles  Mattern,  resides  in  Hendricks 
County,  Ind. , and  has  one  daughter,  (trace;  William  T.,  who  married  Martha  E.  Chamber- 
lain had  one  daughter,  Frankie,  who  died  in  infancy;  Oliver  W.,  who  married  Ella  A. 
Johnson;  (tilmore  (deceased),  and  Rebecca  Blanche,  who  married  John  L.  Sanders  and  has 
one  son,  Paul  Whitely  D.  The  father  of  Benjamin  F.,  was  William  David,  born  in  Virginia,  in 
1800,  and  who  was  brought  nj)  in  Mason  and  Harrison  Counties,  Ky. , where  his  parents  moved 
when  he  was  about  live  years  old.  He  was  married  in  Harrison  County,  in  1820,  and  eight 
years  later  came  to  Indiana  as  above  stated.  To  himself  and  wife  these  children  were  given, 
as  follows:  IMary,  widow  of  John  Hiatt;  Benjamin  F. ; Milton  (deceased);  Hiram  (deceased) ; 
Martha,  widow  of  Henry  B.  Wright,  has  hve  children;  Sarah  E.,  who  married  Benjamin  Mizz- 
ner,  and  has  three  children ; John  W.,  who  married  Sarah  E.  Gamble,  and  has  three  chil- 
dren— Mable.  Dile  (deceased)  and  Fred;  Oscar,  who  married  Hattie  O’Neals  and  has  one 
daughter — Mary  Pauline;  Louise,  who  married  George  Post;  Susana  (deceased);  Ann,  wife 
of  Joseph  Kenworthy;  Elizabeth  (deceased);  John  (deceased),  and  Emily  (deceased).  The 
paternal  grandfather  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  Jacob  David,  was  born  in  Germany,  in 
1770,  and  in  early  maidiood  came  to  America  atid  located  first  in  Virginia,  and  then  in  Ken- 
tucky. He  was  married  twice,  his  first  wife  being  the  grandmother  of  Benjamin  F.  David. 
She  bore  him  six  children,  as  follows:  Thomas;  Henry,  who  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812; 
William,  father  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch;  Mary,  who  married  John  Manck;  Katharine, 
who  married  William  Cox,  and  Sallie,  who  mairied  Henry  Spears.  The  father  of  these  chil- 
dren died  in  1827.  His  first  wife  was  Mary  Wiseman,  and  his  second,  Mary  Davis,  by  whom 
he  had  two  children:  David,  who  died  unmarried,  and  Simon,  who  first  married  Nancy 
Brown,  by  whom  he  had  two  children,  Elizabeth  and  Mary,  and  for  his  second  wife,  took 
Mary  Martindale,  who  also  bore  him  two  children,  Lucinda  and  James  Jv. 

Jacob  F.  Schweikle.  The  business  of  carriage  and  wagon  manufacturing  has  developed 
enormou.sly  in  the  past  twenty-five  years,  and  the  large  factories  all  over  the  country  turn 
out  carriages  and  wagons  by  machinery,  and  which  are  in  so  many  instances  unreliable,  that  it 
is  a comfort  to  know  that  there  are  still  some  of  the  old  trustworthy  firms  in  existence. 
Such  a representative  firm  is  that  of  Schweikle  & Prange,  which  was  established  on  East 
Washington  Street,  Indianapolis,  in  1873,  on  leased  property,  and  which  has  been  continued 
successfully  by  the  same  firm  ever  since.  In  February,  1893,  this  firm  purchased  the  valu- 
able property  at  the  southeast  corner  of  Davidson  & Market  Streets,  and  erected  a building 
thereon  40x100  feet,  and  two  stories  high.  A general  manufacturing  business  is  done, 
wagons  and  carriages  and  general  blacksmithing.  From  seven  to  ten  expert  and  skillful 
workmen  are  constantly  employed  and  turn  out  first  class  work.  Messrs.  Schweikle  & 
Prange  give  their  personal  supervision  and  attention  to  the  work  at  all  times,  and  there  is 
nothing  better  made  in  the  way  of  carriages  and  wagons  than  they  turn  out.  Mr.  Schweikle 
was  born  in  Wurtemberg,  Germany,  December  (3,  1837,  and  is  a son  of  Jacob  and  Margaret 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  289 

(Klein)  Scbweikle,  natives  also  of  the  old  country,  where  they  passed  their  entire  lives. 
The  father  was  a linen  weaver  by  occupation.  Our  subject  came  to  America  in  1857  and 
although  he  had  learned  the  linen  weaver’s  trade  of  his  father,  after  coming  to  America  he 
learned  carriage  and  wagon  making  at  Connorsville,  Ind.,  and  followed  that  in  that  city 
until  1870.  He  then  came  to  Indianapolis  and  three  years  later  engaged  in  business  for 
himself  under  the  present  tirm  name.  Mr.  Schweikle  was  married  in  January,  1801,  to 
Miss  Kate  Hunnehagen,  a native  of  Germany,  who  came  to  America  in  1860.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Schweikle  have  one  child,  Mary.  Our  subject  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  and  is  con- 
nected with  two  building  associations,  being  a director  in  Tradonian  No.  4 and  National. 
He  and  family  are  members  of  the  Second  German  Reformed  Church  and  for  fourteen  years 
he  was  an  official  in  various  capacities,  secretary,  treasurer,  deacon,  etc. 

Fred.  \V.  Prange  was  born  in  Germany,  December  1,  1853,  to  the  union  of  Fred, 
and  Sophia  (Thine)  Prange,  also  natives  of  that  country.  A'oung  Prange  was  not  (juite 
a year  old  when  he  came  to  America  with  *liis  parents,  who  came  direct  to  Indianapolis,  and 
in  that  city  he  was  reared  and  educated,  his  scholastic  training  being  received  in  the  German 
Lutheran  schools.  When  sixteen  years  of  age  he  began  blacksmithing  and  also  learned 
carriage  and  wagon  making,  which  he  has  followed  since.  In  1875  he  engaged  in  business 
for  himself  under  the  present  tirm  name  of  Schweikle  & Prange.  Mr.  Prange  was  married 
in  1881  to  Miss  Minnie  Klinsick,  a native  of  Logansport,  Ind.,  and  daughter  of  Henry  and 
Minnie  Klinsick,  natives  of  Germany.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Prange  are  the  parents  of  two  children, 
Mamie  and  Elmer.  Mr.  Prange  has  stock  in  Tradonia  Building  and  Loan  Association,  and 
is  a prominent  business  man  of  the  city.  He  is  a Democrat  in  politics  and  he  and  wife  are 
earnest  members  of  the  German  Lutheran  Church. 

Valentine  Heintz.  One  of  the  prominent  brick  contractors  of  the  city  is  Valentine 
Heintz,  who  is  a native  German,  born  in  1849,  l)ut  who  came  to  the  United  States  in  1804. 
In  Columbus,  Ohio,  he  learned  his  trade  under  his  uncle,  Jacob  Schneider,  who  was  an 
experienced  and  competent  brick  layer,  and  after  serving  an  apiirenticeship  of  four  years  he 
began  working  as  a journeyman,  and  in  1874  came  to  Indianapolis.  Here  he  worked  for 
different  persons  on  numerous  buildings  for  a long  while,  then  began  contracting  on  his  own 
account  and  was  soon  engaged  to  build  the  tunnel  on  South  Illinois  Street  under  the  Union 
Station  tracks,  which  work  he  accomplished  successfully.  Some  other  evidences  of  his 
handiwork  may  l)e  seen  on  the  Cerealine  Works,  the  McCormack  building,  which  was  the 
first  six-story  house  in  the  city,  besides  numerous  fine  residences  throughout  the  city  and 
suburbs.  The  Klee  & Coleman  block,  the  Frank  Dill  business  block  and  the  Sacred  Heart 
Church  were  also  erected  by  him;  in  fact,  go  where  you  will  in  the  city  you  will  find  that  he 
has  also  lieen  there  and  that  his  name  is  a familar  one  to  the  real  estate  men  and  house- 
holders.  He  superintended  the  brick  work  on  the  State  house,  which  occupied  about  eight 
years,  then  su[)erintended  the  work  on  the  custom  house  in  Louisville,  Ky.  When  he  com 
menced  working  for  himself  his  principal  capital  was  a good  constitution  and  a thorough 
knowledge  of  his  calling,  coupled  with  energy  and  ambition,  and  these  essential  (pialities 
have  led  to  his  success.  He  is  a member  of  the  Jiuilders’  Exchange,  Lodge  No.  50,  K.  of  P., 
Lodge  No.  2034,  K.  of  H.,  and  is  a inember  and  leader  of  the  Concordia  Social  Club.  On 
February  20,  1885,  he  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Matilda  Schmuck,  of  this  city,  and 
has  three  children. 

James  P.  Broce.  While  the  idea  of  having  public  bake  sho]is  originated  with  the  Eng 
lish,  the  industry  has  become  a most  extensive  one  in  America,  and  thousands  of  persons  and 
vast  sums  of  capital  are  employed.  A house  which  is  doing  a successful  business,  thanks  to 
the  excellent  ipiality  of  the  goods  sent  out  as  well  as  to  the  undoubted  integrity  of  the  juo- 
[)rietor,  is  that  owned  and  conducted  by  James  P.  Bruce,  who  is  a wide  awake  gentleman 
imbued  witli  the  proj)er  amount  of  enterprise  to  enlist  success,  and  his  busim^ss  enterprise's 
have  been  widely  satisfactory.  He  is  a native  of  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  where  he  was  born  Novc'in 
b.T  30,  1851,  a son  of  Alexander  and  Jane  (lieid)  Bruce,  both  of  whom  were  born  in  Scotland 
and  wlm,  shortly  after  their  arrival  in  Aiinn'ica,  settled  in  Cincinnati.  Alexander  Bru(;e  s(>t - 
tied  first  in  Anu'rica  at  (Quebec  in  June,  1843,  and  later  in  October  of  the  same  year,  in  New 
York.  He  worked  at  Ids  trade  of  l)akei'  in  Brooklyn  ami  there  wedded  Jaiu'  Laurie  R(‘id,  a 

native  of  Peterheail,  Scotland,  Se])teml)er  20,  1841.  In  l'’ebruary,  1845,  he  settled  at  Cin 
111 


290 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


ciunati  and  in  August  of  the  same  year  began  working  at  his  trade,  continuing  until  1861. 
In  1803  he  moved  to  Indiana,  and  in  April,  1875,  to  Indianapolis,  engaging  again  at  his 
trade  with  James  P.  Bruce  at  598  Virginia  Avenue  which  continued  until  1889,  since  which 
time  James  P.  has  been  sole  owner  of  the  business.  The  father  at  present  resides  with  his 
son  in  Indianapolis,  retired  from  the  active  duties  of  life.  The  mother  died  in  March,  1881. 
James  P.  Bruce  was  reared  in  Cincinnati,  and  there  received  the  advantages  of  the  public 
schools.  In  the  fall  of  1871  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  entered  the  employ  of  P.  F.  Bryce, 
a baker  of  the  place,  but  now  of  the  Bryce  Baking  Company  of  Chicago,  continuing  with 
him  until  April,  1875,  when  he  engaged  in  business  for  himself  on  Virginia  Avenue,  in  a 
one-story  frame  liouse  and  on  a small  scale.  By  hard  work  and  close  attention  to  business 
he  gradually  began  to  accumulate  means  and  when  practicable  he  enlarged  his  business,  and 
he  is  now  doing  a business  of  about  |20,0(K)  a year  in  a subitantial  two  story  brick  building 
57x37  feet  in  dimensions  which  he  erected  in  1893  at  a cost  of  $0,000.  He  keeps  constantly 
on  hand  a tine  line  of  all  kinds  of  bread  stuffs,  cakes,  j)ies,  etc.,  and  supplies  on  short  notice 
first-class  wedding  and  ornamental  cakes  Avhich  he  guarantees  to  be  fresh.  His  stock  is  daily 
replenished  and  his  [latrons  come  from  a class  who  are  very  paiticular  about  the  (piality  of 
their  breadstuff's.  He  has  every  facility  for  baking,  including  two  excellent  ovens,  and  em- 
ploys none  but  skilled  workmen.  Mr.  Bruce  was  married  -lune,  1878,  to  Louise  Baker,  a 
native  of  Cincinnati,  by  whom  he  has  a family  of  seven  children:  Albert  (I.,  James  Cartield 
(deceased),  Ilobert  S.,  Charles,  Ralph,  Adah  and  Nettie. 

Christian  F.  Wishmeyer,  whose  name  heads  this  sketch,  is  a native  of  Westphalia, 
Prussia,  born  August  22,  1822,  and  in  his  native  land  was  reared  and  educated,  attending 
school  from  the  time  he  was  six  until  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age.  On  May  5,  1843,  he 
and  his  parents  sailed  from  Bremen  and  landed  at  Baltimore,  Md. , June  8,  and  from  that 
place  they  at  once  proceeded  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  whither  an  uncle,  Anthony  Wish- 
meyer, had  come  in  1834,  and  a brother,  Charles  F.  Wishmeyer,  in  1840.  Upon  his  arrival 
the  father  purchased  forty  acres  of  land  in  Warren  Township,  on  which  he  settled  and 

lived  until  the  fall  of  1853,  when  he  was  killed  by  runaway  horses.  In  1843  Christian  F. 

had  settled  in  Indianapolis,  and  he  at  once  began  working  at  the  carpenter’s  trade,  which 
be  had  learned  in  the  old  counti'y,  his  first  employers  being  Fred  Diekman  and  Charles 
Wishmier,  with  whom  he  remained  two  years.  He  then  worked  at  his  trade  in  Lafayette 
for  one  year,  after  which  he  returned  to  this  city  and  formed  a partnership  with  John  F. 
Ramsey  (deceased),  in  the  cabinet  and  chair  manufacturing  business,  with  whom  he  re- 
mained associated  for  about  two  and  a half  years.  He  then  commenced  contracting  in  the 

carpenter’s  business,  which  he  carried  on  until  1855,  after  which  he  devoted  his  time  to 

saw-milling,  having  erected  a mill  in  1853,  on  Pogue’s  Run,  near  National  Road,  which  he  con- 
ducted in  connection  with  a lumber  yard  until  1872.  In  1863  he  purchased  240  acres  of 
land  in  one  tract  and  eighty  acres  in  another,  and  onto  this  farm  he  moved  with  his  family 
in  1873,  erecting  thereon  a handsome  two-story  brick  residence  with  a slate  roof,  contain- 
ing over  twenty  rooms.  In  1886  he  added  eighty  acres  to  his  estate,  about  115  acres  of 
which  he  deAmtes  to  the  raising  of  corn  and  wheat  annually,  his  best  wheat  average  being 
twenty-seven  bushels  to  the  acre.  Politically  he  has  always  been  a Democrat,  and  his  first 
presidential  vote  was  cast  for  Franklin  Pierce,  but  he  has  taken  little  interest  in  political 
affairs  since  the  Douglas  campaign,  and  although  once  elected  a member  of  the  city  council 
of  Indianapolis  declined  to  serve.  He  Avas  married  in  1847  to  Wilhelmina  Fehling,  and 
by  her  became  the  father  of  five  children:  Mary,  who  married  Henry  Niemann,  and  has 
five  children,  Bertha,  William,  Emma,  Frank  and  Carl;  Martha,  Avho  married  Lewis  Smith 
and  has  two  children,  Minnie  and  Charley;  Amelia,  who  married  Albert  Schower  and  has 
two  children,  Ella  and  Mabel;  Charles,  who  married  Ella  Barton;  and  George,  who  died 
in  1889,  at  the  age  of  thirty-four  years.  Charles  Wishmeyer,  the  father  of  Christian 
F.,  was  a Prussian,  born  in  1787,  and  was  a carpenter  by  trade.  He  was  married  twice 
in  Prussia,  and  by  his  first  wife  became  the  father  of  three  children : Christina  (deceased), 
who  married  Chris  Reosener,  of  Hancock  County,  Ind. , had  four  children,  Sophia  (Schill- 
ing), Christian,  Christina  (Buchorn)  and  Charles;  Charles,  Avho  is  a resident  of  Indianapo- 
lis, is  married  to  Christina  Reosener  and  has  four  children.  Christian,  William,  Emma 
(Fehling)  and  Matilda  (Nieman);  and  Charles  F.,  the  father  of  Christian  F. , the  subject  of 


291 


AKD  MAEION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

this  sketch.  For  Iiis  second  wife  be  married  Christina  Nieinan,  and  by  her  had  the  follow- 
ing children:  Anthony;  Elenora,  wife  of  William  F.  Fiel,  of  Indianapolis;  Louisa  (de- 
ceased), who  married  Ernest  H.  Piel;  Sophia  (deceased),  who  married  Fred  Cruger;  IMary, 
who  first  married  Charles  Wyland,  and  after  his  death  a Mr.  Deder,  and  Henry.  The 
paternal  grandfather,  Charles  Wishmeyer,  lived  and  died  in  Prussia,  having  followed 
the  calling  of  a teacher.  Anthony  Wishmeyer,  the  half  brother  of  the  subject  of  this 
sketch,  was  a soldier  in  the  Mexican  War  and  in  the  war  of  the  Rebellion. 

William  Landmeier.  The  manufacture  of  brick  in  the  United  States  has  assumed  very 
large  proportions,  owing  to  the  numerous  uses  to  which  they  are  put  and  the  erection  of 
thousands  of  large  structures  in  all  large  cities  annually,  and  in  this  important  branch  of 
human  endeavor  William  Landmeier  is  very  e.xtensively  engaged  and  is  doing  a paying 
annual  business.  He  was  born  in  Germany  in  1861  to  Henry  Landmeier  and  by  his  father 
was  brought  to  the  United  States  in  1867  and  a location  was  at  once  made  in  the  city  of 
Indianapolis.  The  father  was  a successful  brick  maker  and  like  the  majority  of  boys  Will 
iam  followed  in  his  father’s  footsteps  when  it  came  time  for  him  to  choose  an  occupation  for 
himself,  and  also  became  a brick  manufacturer.  In  the  private  schools  of  Indianapolis, 
William  obtained  his  knowledge  of  the  world  of  books  and  at  the  age  of  fourteen  years  com- 
menced to  learn  his  trade  under  the  competent  instruction  of  his  father,  who  is  still  a resi- 
dent of  the  city  of  Indianapolis  and  is  yet  interested  in  his  former  occupation.  After  com- 
pleting his  knowledge  of  the  manufacture  of  brick  William  began  learning  the  brick  mason’s 
trade  under  B.  W.  Hartley,  with  whom  he  labored  one  year,  then  he  became  a partner  of 
that  gentleman,  who  is  an  old-time  brick  contractor  of  the  city.  Four  years  ago  Mr.  Laud 
meier  commenced  manufacturing  brick  on  his  own  account,  in  which  venture  he  and  a 
brother  were  associated,  but  William  also  carried  on  contracting  for  one  season,  since  which 
time  lie  has  given  his  exclusive  attention  to  the  manufacture  of  brick,  his  yards  being  located 
on  the  Perkins  Pike,  southeast  of  the  city.  In  1877,  when  still  ipiite  a young  man,  Mr.  Land 
meier  went  to  Denver,  Colo. , where  he  remained  for  a time,  succeeding  which  he  was  the 
manager  of  a brick  yard  for  other  parties.  Following  this  he  was  in  Camp  Rice,  Tex., 
where  he  employed  Mexicans  while  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  brick  for  the  Government 
building  at  that  place.  He  was  cpiite  a traveler  in  those  days  and  was  in  all  parts  of  the 
West,  sight-seeing  and  looking  for  a business  location.  In  1889,  he  led  to  the  altar  Miss 
Sarah  C.,  daughter  of  William  Fenneman  (deceased),  who  was  also  a brick  manufacturer  of 
this  city.  Mr.  Landmeier  is  a member  of  the  German  Reformed  Church,  is  a man  of  excel 
lent  principles,  thoroughly  understands  his  business  and  is  deserving  the  wide  |)atronage 
wliich  he  now  has. 

Henry  Rauh.  The  business  in  which  Henry  Ranh  is  engaged  is  one  of  the  utmost 
importance  and  he  is  enabled  to  point  back  over  an  unsullied  record.  He  was  born  in  Ger 
many  March  21,  1852,  a son  of  Elias  and  Hannah  (Samuels)  Rauh,  who  were  also  natives  of 
Germany  and  came  to  America  in  1864,  locating  at  Dayton,  Ohio,  where  the  father  estab 
lished  himself  in  an  extensive  hide  and  fertilizing  business,  which  business  he  carried  on 
successfully  for  a number  of  years.  In  1872  they  established  a branch  house  at  Indianapo- 
lis, and  although  the  founder  of  the  business — Elias  Rauh — died  in  1887,  the  house  is  still 
in  existence  and  is  carried  on  under  the  firm  name  of  E.  Rauh  & Sons.  Mr.  Rauh  became 
one  of  the  prominent  business  men  of  Dayton  for  many  years  and  conducted  a most  success- 
ful business.  He  was  pul)lic  s])irited,  enter[)rising  and  honest,  a man  of  considerable  force 
of  character  and  one  wlio  won  many  friends  by  his  straightforward  walk  through  life.  His 
wife’s  death  occurred  two  years  prior  to  his  own.  In  the  ])ublic  schools  of  Dayton  Henry 
llauh  was  educated  and  lie  may  be  said  to  have  been  brought  uji  in  the  establisliment  of 
which  his  father  was  the  proprietor,  so  that  upon  reaching  his  twentieth  year  he  was  end 
nently  titted  to  liecome  his  fatlier’s  associate  in  business.  In  1874  lie  came  to  Indianapolis 
and  became  associated  in  a liusiness  way  witli  his  younger  brother,  Samuel  E.,  in  conducting 
a hide  and  fertilizing  liusiness,  which  they  have  conducted  ever  since,  disposing  of  their 
commodity  at  wholesale  and  doing  a business  of  from  8 1,50(1, 00(1  to  .'f2, 000, 000  annually. 
'I’his  enterjirise  has  been  most  prosjierous  and  has  incriuised  to  enormous  pro[)orlions,  which 
ilesirable  state  of  affairs  has  been  lirought  about  through  the  enterprise,  push,  determina 
tion  and  honesty  of  the  brothers,  whose  thoroughly  methodical  business  arrangements,  wide 


292 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


experience  and  excellent  judgment  entitle  them  to  the  line  reputation  that  they  enjoy  in  the 
commercial  world.  Henry  Rauh  is  also  interested  in  other  enterprises,  being  vice-president 
of  the  Indianapolis  Abattoir  Company,  interested  in  the  Moore  Packing  Company,  the 
Union  Trust  Company,  the  Independent  Hair  Company  and  others.  Mr.  Rauh  is  one  of 
the  best-known  citizens  of  Indianaj>olis,  and  in  the  fall  of  1893  he  was  prevailed  upon  to 
become  a candidate  for  councilman- at-large  on  the  Republican  ticket,  and  although  in  a city 
of  2,000  Democratic  majority,  was  elected  by  a majority  of  over  3,300  votes,  which  speaks 
for  itself  as  to  his  standing.  He  has  been  elected  chairman  of  the  tinance  committee  by 
the  council,  in  which  capacity  he  has  shown  much  good  judgment  and  undoubted  ability. 
He  is  an  active  member  of  the  Commercial  Club,  and  socially  is  a member  of  the  Columbia 
Club,  the  American  Club,  and  is  one  of  the  wide-awake  men  of  the  city,  interested  in  every- 
thing tending  to  her  benefit.  April  G,  1881,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Marie  Sterne,  a native 
of  Peru,  Ind. , by  whom  he  has  two  children:  Eugenia  and  Marie,  but  on  September  4, 
1889,  was  left  a widower,  and  has  since  remained  unmarried. 

William  Henry  Harrison  Phillips.  Among  the  industries  always  in  demand,  and 
daily  growing  more  so  by  reason  of  the  rapid  growth  of  cities  and  towns,  is  that  of  contract- 
ing and  building.  A single  glance  about  us  is  all  that  is  retjuired  to  gain  a conception  of  the 
number  of  builders  required  in  the  construction  of  a city.  One  of  the  pi'ominent  men 
engaged  in  this  line  of  business  is  William  H.  H.  Phillips,  who  is  a native  of  Hoosierdom, 
born  in  Marion  Cjunty  in  1840.  His  father,  Ben  M.  Phillips,  was  born  in  Virginia.  When 
a young  man  the  latter  went  to  Henry  County,  Ky.,  and  located  near  New  Castle,  where  he 
remained  until  1827,  when  he  came  to  the  village  of  Indianapolis,  Maiion  County,  Ind.  He 
was  a stone  mason  by  trade  and  followed  that  for  many  years,  but  duiing  the  latter  part  of 
his  life  followed  farming.  His  death  occurred  in  18G3  when  eighty  four  years  of  age.  In 
politics  he  was  at  one  time  a Whig  but  afterward  a Democrat.  His  farm  was  located  six 
miles  from  the  court  house  near  New  Bethel,  between  Churchman  Pike  and  Shelbyville  Road. 
He  was  sergeant-major  of  the  Fourth  Kentucky  Militia  and  was  under  (Ten.  Harrison  for 
seven  years,  participating  in  the  battle  at  Fort  Ti[)pecanoe.  At  one  time  he  was  taken 
prisoner  by  Indians  but  managed  to  make  his  escape,  and  he  was  at  one  time  slightly 
wounded.  He  cleared  up  his  farm  of  nearly  1G3  acres  in  this  county  and  was  one  of  the 
prominent  pioneer  settlers.  His  wife  died  January  7,  1890,  when  eighty-five  years  of  age. 
They  were  worthy  members  of  the  Finer  Baptist  Church  for  many  years,  and  Mr.  Phillips 
was  moderator  until  his  death.  Ten  daughters  and  two  sons  were  born  to  this  union,  Will- 
iam Henry  Harrison  Phillips  being  seventh  in  order  of  birth.  He  was  named  in  honor  of 
his  father’s  old  commander.  His  education  was  received  in  the  city  and  at  the  academy  in 
Marshall,  111.,  and  when  the  Civil  War  broke  out  he  volunteered  in  the  first  company 
organized  in  the  State,Company  E,  Eleventh  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry, three  months’  service. 
Afterward  he  joined  Company  B,  Seventy-ninth  Indiana  Infantry  as  first  duty  sergeant, 
and  continued  with  the  same- until  discharged  May  12,  18G5.  At  the  battle  of  Stone  River 
he  was  taken  prisoner  and  retained  at  Libby  Prison  nine  months,  experiencing  during  that 
time  all  the  hardships  and  unpleasant  features  of  prison  life,  besides  having  the  measles.  He 
participated  in  the  battles  of  Chattanooga,  Chickamauga,  Missionary  Ridge,  was  on  the  road 
from  Knoxville  to  Dalton,  and  then  to  Atlanta,  where  he  was  severely  wounded,  being  dis- 
abled for  two  years.  This  wound  troubles  him  at  the  present  time,  and  was  the  result  of  a 
minie  ball  in  the  leg.  (jangrene  set  in  and  it  is  a wonder  to  the  physicians  that  he  is  now 
living.  After  the  war  Mr.  Phillips  passed  two  years  on  the  farm  and  then  opened  a grocery 
store  at  the  corner  of  Market  and  Noble  Streets.  The  same  year  he  (juit  business  and  went 
to  Kentucky,  where  he  began  to  work  at  his  trade,  carpentering,  which  he  had  learned  before 
the  war.  He  assisted  in  building  the  Insane  Hospital  at  Hopkinsville.  Ky.,  in  18G7, 
but  the  following  year  he  returned  to  Indianapolis,  where  he  was  with  the  drover  &,  Baker 
iMachine  Company  for  five  years.  For  two  years  after  this  he  was  with  the  Pan  Handle 
Railroad,  after  which  he  was  elected  city  sealer,  serving  in  that  capacity  two  years,  and  one 
year  on  the  police  force.  Again  he  returned  to  contracting,  but  soon  after  received  the 
appointment  as  postal  clerk  by  President  Grant,  holding  the  route  from  Cincinnati  to  Chicago 
five  years.  After  this  he  was  a bridge  builder  until  1889  and  was  with  Massilion  Bridge 
Company,  all  over  the  county  as  the  superintendent.  For  four  years  he  had  charge  of  the 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  2it3 

city  bridge  department,  and  then  for  two  years  was  weigh  master.  Since  then  he  has 
returned  to  contracting  and  building  and  enjoys  an  enviable  reputation  for  satisfactory 
work.  On  November  8,  1809,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Gulia  E.  Bray,  daughter  of  John  S. 
Bray  of  Morgan  County,  Ind.  To  this  union  nine  children  were  born,  three  of  whom  are 
living.  Harry  B. , Clarence  F.  and  Claude  S.  Mr.  Phillips  is  a member  of  the  Third 
Christian  Church,  and  in  politics  is  a Republican.  Socially  he  is  a Mason,  a member  of 
Centre  Lodge,  No.  23,  Olive  branch  Lodge  No.  2,  K.  of  P. , and  George  H.  Thomas  Post, 
G.  A.  R. , Camp  80  Veteran  Legion. 

Lee  Nixon  occupies  the  responsible  position  of  clerk  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  Ind. 
He  was  born  in  Carthage,  Rush  County,  Ind.,  February  27,  1800,  a son  of  Benjamin  and 
Sarah  (Risk)  Nixon,  the  former  of  whom  was  l)orn  in  the  Old  North  State,  in  Perquimans 
County,  June  10,  1819,  and  the  latter  in  Virginia,  September  12,  1824.  The  parents  came 
to  Indiana  in  an  early  day  by  wagon  and  settled  at  Carthage,  of  which  ])lace  they  were 
among  the  very  earliest  residents.  The  father  was  for  twenty-four  years  a justice  of  the 
peace  in  that  section  and  by  occupation  was  a contractor  and  builder,  carrying  on  this  busi- 
ness with  good  success  for  a long  period.  In  addition  to  these  every  day  duties  he  minis- 
tered to  the  spiritual  wants  of  his  fellows,  as  a local  minister  of  the  Wesleyan  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  for  some  years.  He  was  called  from  life  at  Rushville,  Ind.,  in  December, 
1883,  his  wife  having  paid  the  last  debt  of  nature  in  May.  1877.  having  borne  him  ten  chil- 
dren, three  of  whom  are  living:  Charles  O. , Lucius  and  Lee.  In  the  pulilic  schools  of  his 
native  town  Lee  Nixon  was  educated,  successfully  graduating  from  the  high  school  of  that 
place.  When  nineteen  years  old  he  removed  to  Rushville,  and  entered  the  office  of  the 
Rushville  RepuhRcan  to  learn  the  printer’s  trade,  and  after  serving  an  apprenticeship  he 
became  the  editor  of  the  Rushville  Graphic.  In  188P)  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  this 
place  has  since  continued  to  be  his  home,  during  which  time  he  has  been  connected  with 
different  printing  establishments  in  the  city,  and  for  the  past  four  years  has  been  associated 
with  the  Indianapolis  Journal.  In  the  fall  of  1893  he  became  the  nominee  of  the  Repub- 
lican party  for  the  jiosition  of  city  clerk,  receiving  his  nomination  by  acclamation  at  the  con- 
vention, and  after  one  of  the  hottest  and  most  notable  campaigns  in  the  history  of  city  pol- 
itics, he  was  elected  bv  a majority  of  3,246  votes,  overcoming  a Democratic  majority  of  two 
vears  previous  of  2,790.  Mr.  Nixon  is  a member  of  Indianapolis  Typographical  Union  No. 
1..  also  of  the  International  Typographical  Union,  to  which  he  was  elected  a delegate  in 
March.  1893,  by  the  largest  majority  ever  given  a candidate  for  that  office  from  the  city  of 
Indianapolis,  there  being  six  candidates  in  the  field. 

James  Thomas  Hardin.  Among  the  noble  men  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  who  fulfilled 
their  destiny  and  are  now  no  more,  may  be  mentioned  James  Thomas  Hardin  who  was  born 
in  Wayne  Township,  this  county,  July  23,  1828,  a son  of  Isaac  Hardin.  His  walk  through 
life  was  characterized  by  the  most  honorable  business  methods,  by  his  devotion  to  his  fam- 
ily and  by  the  interest  he  took  in  the  welfare  of  his  fellow  man.  His  death  which  occurred 
December  14,  1891 , was  not  only  a severe  blow  to  his  own  family, but  to  the  community  at  large. 
Mr.  Hardin  was  reared  upon  his  fathers  farm  to  hard  work,  and  owing  to  the  indifferent  old 
fashioned  subscription  schools,  his  instruclion  consisted  of  about  two  months  per  year  during 
his  early  boyhood  days.  November  17,  1846,  when  not  yet  nineteen  years  old.  he  married 
Frances  Stout,  and  shortly  after  this  event  the  young  couple  moved  to  a farm  of  eighty  acres 
which  had  been  given  them  by  their  fathers,  situated  about  two  and  a half  miles  east  of  the 
home  place.  This,  their  first  home,  was  a round  log  cabin  and  furnished  with  two  beds,  six 
chairs,  one  table,  one  set  of  dishes,  one  skillet,  one  oven  and  one  tea  kettle,  and  the  cooking 
was  done  in  the  fireplace.  About  two  years  later  they  moved  to  Bridgeport  where  Mr. 
Hardin  was  engaged  in  the  grocery  trade  about  a year.  He  then  sold  his  interest  in  the 
store  and  their  farm  of  eighty  acres,  and  bought  a 160-acre  farm  in  Wayne  Township  where 
he  remained  about  five  years,  then  sold  out  and  purchased  another  160  acres  east  of  this 
place  where  he  resided  until  his  death.  Mr.  Hardin  was  a member  of  the  Methodist  Epis- 
copal Church,  an  Odd  Fellow  and  a Democrat.  He  and  wife  were  the  parents  of  eleven 
children:  Joanna,  who  married  William  Traub  by  whom  she  had  two  children,  Henrietta 
(Shafer)  and  Emma  F.  (Brewer);  Rebecca,  who  died  in  infancy;  Theodore  M.  (deceased) 
who  married  Alice  Berg;  Ellen,  married  Alpheus  Smith  and  bore  him  one  daughter,  Lillian; 


294 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


CtiailBH  I.,  married  Mary  Maiaes  aad  has  one  sou,  4.  Franklin;  Laura  (deceased);  Indiana, 
wedded  William  Carter  and  has  one  son,  Harry;  George  D.,  married  Anna  Robertson  and  is 
the  father  of  four  children,  James,  Joseph,  Raymond  and  Francis;  Noah,  who  married  Agnes 
Hart  and  has  two  children,  Lewis  and  Grace;  Joseph,  selected  Rosa  Hasselberg  as  his  wife 
and  is  the  father  of  one  son,  Jose{)h;  and  Cora  E.,  who  became  the  wife  of  J.  Orlando  Dunn 
and  the  mother  of  one  son,  Ovid  Hardin  Dunn.  Mrs.  F.  Hardin’s  father,  David  Stout,  was 
born  in  Butler  County,  Penn.,  January  22,  1801,  and  was  there  married  to  Joanna  Hurd, 
formerly  of  New  Jer.sey.  Mrs.  J.  T.  Hardin’s  father,  Isaac  Hardin,  and  his  wife  were  among 
the  earliest  pioneers  of  Marion  County.  He  was  born  in  1804,  married  Rebecca  Jackson  in 
1820,  and  coming  to  tliis  county  purchased  a farm  of  100  acres  where  they  resided  until  his 
death.  J.  T.  Hardin  became  the  owner  of  a 289-acre  farm  in  Marion  County,  eighty  acres 
in  Hendricks  County  and  eighty  acres  in  Illinois.  He  was  an  enter[)rising  man  and  his  death 
was  a loss  to  the  community  in  which  he  resided. 

Geoiuje  W.  Co.mbs,  M.  D.  The  standing  of  every  profession  is  marked  by  the  char- 
acter of  the  man  who  re[)resents  it.  Deplorable  as  it  is,  it  is  nevertheless  true,  that  the 
inducements  offered  by  the  medical  profession  for  the  gratification  of  personal  ambition  and 
the  accomplishment  of  selfish  ends,  have  drawn  into  it  men  whose  influence  has  been  only  to 
degrade  the  profession.  When,  therefore,  we  find  a man  of  true  worth  and  genuine  ability 
giving  his  energies  to  the  elevation  of  the  profession,  it  is  but  just  that  he  should  receive  the 
eulogies  of  men.  Such  an  one  is  Dr.  George  W.  Combs,  who  was  born  in  Oakland,  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  March  19,  1809,  his  parents  being  John  W.  and  Emma  (Cole)  Combs,  early 
settlers  of  Marion  County.  The  paternal  grandfather,  Jesse  Combs,  took  up  his  residence 
at  Indianapolis  in  the  early  twenties,  and  at  one  time  owned  a great  deal  of  property,  where 
many  of  the  most  substantial  business  blocks  of  the  city  now  stand.  The  public  schools  of 
his  native  county  afforded  Dr.  George  W.  Combs  his  early  education,  but  about  the  age  of 
twelve  years  he  was  placed  in  the  high  school,  where  he  remained  until  he  was  about  seven- 
teen years  of  age.  He  then  began  the  battle  of  life  for  himself  as  a “ Hoosier  School- 
master,” which  occupation  he  followed  very  successfully  in  Lawrence  Township  for  five 
years.  During  one  year  of  this  time  he  was  principal  of  the  graded  school  of  Lawrence,  and 
his  last  two  years  as  a pedagogue  were  spent  as  principal  of  the  Oakland  schools.  From 
early  boyhood  he  had  had  a great  desire  to  become  a physician,  and  his  leisure  hours,  while 
teaching  the  ‘‘young  idea”  were  devoted  to  the  study  of  this  science,  to  which  his  kindly 
nature  seemed  to  instinctively  turn.  After  serving  his  native  township  and  county  as  a 
teacher  in  its  schools  he  entered  the  Normal  School  at  Lebanon,  Ohio,  where  he  gave  especial 
attention  to  the  study  of  medicine.  In  the  spring  of  1880  he  came  to  Indianapolis  for  the 
purpose  of  completing  his  medical  studies,  and  for  some  time  he  pursued  his  investigations 
under  the  able  directions  of  Drs.  P.  H.  & H.  Jame.son.  He  then  entered  the  Medical  Col- 
lege of  Indiana,  and  after  a thorough  course  of  three  years  graduated  with  honors  in  1883. 
Upon  taking  the  competitive  e.vamination  for  the  interne  to  the  city  dispensary  he  was  suc- 
cessful, and  soon  after  received  his  appointment  to  that  position,  which  he  filled  with  ability 
for  one  year.  At  the  end  of  this  time  the  board  of  aldermen  of  Indianapolis  changed  the 
time  of  service  of  internes  to  the  dispensaiy  from  one  to  two  years,  and  recognizing  the  valu- 
able services  of  Dr.  Combs,  they  reapj)ointed  him  for  another  term,  at  the  expiration  of  which 
term  he  was  tendered  the  superintendency  of  the  dispensary,  which  he  accepted  and  filled 
for  one  term  of  two  years.  During  the  time  that  the  Doctor  had  charge  of  the  dispensary  great 
good  was  accomplished  by  him,  and  the  standard  of  the  institution  for  usefulness  and 
efficiency  was  brought  up  to  a high  mark.  He  wisely  introduced  various  ap])liances,  instru 
ments,  etc.,  for  the  prosecution  of  surgical  work,  and  many  of  the  details  and  ])lans  of  work 
introduced  by  him  are  still  followed  to  the  letter,  and  the  standard  of  exellence  which  obtains 
at  the  present  time  is  in  no  small  degree  the  result  of  his  labor.  The  Doctor  is  a member 
of  the  American  Medical  Association,  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Association  and  Marion 
County  Medical  Society.  He  has  served  as  assistant  to  the  chair  of  obstetrics  and  diseases 
of  cfiildreu,  and  principles  and  practices  of  medicine  in  his  alma  mater — the  Medical  Col- 
lege of  Indiana.  The  Doctoi-  is  a thirty-second  degree  Mason.  Indianapolis  has  practi- 
cally been  the  Doctor’s  home  all  his  life,  for  he  was  born  but  a few  miles  from  it,  and  he  has 
evei' been  closely  identified  with  its  best  interests,  and  has  always  been  ready  to  aid  in  every 


IN 

.. 


OF  THE 

'JNIVERSITY  OF  ILUNOI' 


295 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

good  project.  He  is  a member  of  the  Commercial  aud  Columbia  Clubs,  and  in  his  social 
relations  he  is  very  pleasant  aud  agreeable,  an  entertaining  companion,  a warm  friend  and, 
during  the  lifetime  of  his  wife,  was  a dovoted  husband.  He  led  to  the  hymeneal  altar  Miss 
Carrie  Kregelo,  grand-daughter  of  David  Kregelo,  February  15,  1888,  a native  of  Indian- 
apolis, bat  after  a few  short  years  of  wedded  happiness  he  was  called  upon  to  mourn  the 
death  of  his  wife,  which  occurred  February  4,  1892,  of  that  dread  disease — consumption, 
after  an  illness  of  nineteen  months.  Dr.  Combs  is  a renowned  physician  and  surgeon  in 
Indiana,  and  his  clearness  of  perception,  accuracy  of  diagnosis  and  boldness  of  operation 
have  won  for  him  many  admirers.  He  is  in  the  enjoyment  of  good  health,  and  is  ever  found 
ready'  to  perform  the  arduous  duties  of  his  calling,  which  is  the  most  wearing  on  brain  aud 
body  of  any  in  the  held  of  science.  The  Doctor  has  always  supported  Republican  principles, 
but  has  never  been  an  aspirant  for  political  favors,  the  honorous  duties  of  his  profession  fully 
occupying  his  heart  aud  mind. 

John  A.  L.vng.  The  lirst  ]>urchase  of  real  estate  named  in  the  Bible  was  made  by 
Abraham,  from  Ephron,  of  the  cave  aud  held  or  Machpelah,  consideration  four  hundred 
shekels  of  silver,  aud  the  instrument  of  transfer  reads  much  like  the  modern  guarantee 
deed.  Land  has  been  bought  and  sold  among  all  nations:  but  the  business  reaches  its 
climax  in  the  United  States,  where  general  distribution  of  realty  and  spirit  of  speculation, 
incised  by  advancing  values,  combine  to  give  great  activity.  Indianapolis,  like  all  live 
American  cities,  does  a large  real  estate  business,  and  among  the  large  number  of  inhuential 
men  who  turn  their  attention  to  this  business  is  John  A.  Lang,  a member  of  the  hrm  of 
Lang  & Shaw,  who  also  do  an  insurance  and  pension  agency  business.  Mr.  Lang  was  born 
in  Indianapolis,  November,  1854,  to  Daniel  A.  aud  Grace  (Stevenson)  Lang,  both  of  whom 
were  l)oru  in  Scotland  and  were  there  reared  and  married.  They  came  to  America  about 
the  year  1849,  locating  at  Pittsburgh,  Penn.,  later  residing  successively  in  Madison  and 
Howard  Counties,  Ind.,  in  each  of  which  Mr.  Lang  was  engaged  in  operating  saw  and  grist- 
mills and  carrying  on  a successful  lumber  business.  In  1801  the  family  came  to  Indianapolis 
where  Mr.  Lang  became  a contractor  and  builder,  which  business  he  cairied  on  for  several 
years,  his  office  and  shop  being  located  where  the  new  county  jail  now  stands.  The  subject 
of  this  sketch  received  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Indianapolis,  but  when  still  a 
youth  began  working  at  the  carpenter's  trade,  which  he  continued  until  he  was  twenty 
years  old,  then  was  an  employe  in  the  service  of  the  Adams  Express  Company  for  three 
years.  Following  this  he  estal)lished  a giocery'  store  of  his  own  in  1876,  carrying  on  a 
prosj)erous  retail  trade  until  1888,  when  he  disjiosed  of  his  establishment,  and  from  that 
time  until  1880  was  superintendent  of  })olice,  succeeding  Maj.  Robins.  Since  that  time  he 
devoted  his  attention  to  his  ju'esent  business  and  it  may  be  said  of  him  that  there  are  few',  if 
any,  better  judges  of  real  estate  in  the  city.  He  gives  his  close  and  prompt  attention  to  all 
orders  and  special  commissions  and  may  be  implicitly  trusted  in  all  business  transactions. 
This  fact  must  be  appreciated  by  a large  number  of  the  residents  of  the  city  and  owners  of 
farm  property  throughout  Marion  County,  as  he  has  a large  list  of  patrons  in  the  territory 
mentioned.  In  1880  he  was  elected  to  the  position  of  councilman  from  the  twenty-fourth 
ward  on  the  Democratic  ticket  and  served  one  term.  He  is  a member  of  and  Slate  president 
of  the  P.  O.  S.  of  A.  November  80,  1882,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Amanda  Gregory,  a native 
of  Boone  County  and  a daughter  of  Thomas  Gregory.  They  have  two  children,  Ravmond 
G.  and  Grace. 

ItoBEKT  GiLBKEA'ni.  The  steady  growth  of  Indianapolis  and  the  raj)id  increase  in  popu- 
lation have  opened  up  a wide  and  important  field  of  enterprise  in  the  line  of  building  and 
contracting.  Many  prominent  citizens  are  engaged  in  this  line  of  business.  Among  those 
well  known  in  this  city,  and  among  those  who  have  won  a first-class  reputation  for  reliable 
woi'k  is  Robert  Gilbreath,  contractor  and  builder.  Mr.  Gilbreath  was  boiii  iu  (Juilfoid 
County,  N.  C.,  in  1844,  and  is  a son  of  .Jesse  Gibreath,  who  was  also  born  in  Guilford 
County,  of  the  Old  North  State.  'I’he  lattei'  was  a wagon  inakei'  by  trade  and  remained  in 
his  native  State,  following  his  trade,  until  1851,  when  he  came  to  Indiana.  He  located  in 
Greensboi'o,  Henry  County,  but  died  in  .Marion  County  while  on  a visit,  when  sixty-two 
years  of  age.  Hobert  Gilbreath  received  a good  ])ractical  education  in  Greensboro  and  Car 
thage  Rush  County,  and  when  the  tocsin  of  war  sounded  he  was  lilhMl  with  a patriotic  desire 


296 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


to  light  for  the  old  flag.  In  November,  1863,  he  enlisted  in  the  Ninth  Indiana  Cavalry, 
Company  E,  and  served  irntil  August,  1865.  He  participated  in  the  battle  of  Nashville, 
Franklin,  was  in  many  skirmishes  with  Forrest  and  Hood,  and  although  never  wounded,  was 
taken  prisoner  December  1,  186-1,  and  contined  in  Cahaba.  He  was  in  prison  five  months 
and  during  that  t me  was  nearly  starved  to  death.  Although  on  board  the  fated  “ Sultana,” 
when  it  blew  up,  he  wa^  one  of  the  few  who  escaped  without  injury,  and  floated  on  staging 
to  Memphis  in  ice  cold  water  from  2 o’clock  until  daylight,  after  which  he  returnfed  to 
Henry  County,  Ind. , and  assisted  his  father  in  the  lumber  business  and  in  a saw  mill  in 
Knightstown.  He  learned  his  trade  and  worked  at  it  for  some  time  in  Knightstown; 
then  branched  out  for  himself,  moving  to  Indianapolis  and  working  at  his  trade  until 
1875;  he  engaged  in  farming  in  Hush  County  for  four  years,  after  which  he  returned  to 
Indianapolis  and  has  been  engaged  in  contracting,  principally  by  himself,  although  he  was 
associated  for  a time  with  William  Bowman  and  William  Maul,  and  was  with  the  Indian- 
apolis Tile  Hooting  Company  and  with  the  cabinet  works  for  a few  months.  He  has  had  a 
number  of  narrow  escapes  from  the  “Grim  Heaper ” during  the  time  he  has  followed  his 
trade,  falling  twice  from  high  buildings,  but  his  time  had  not  come.  Politically  he  is  a 
He{)ublican,  and  socially  a member  of  George  H.  Thomas  Post,  G.  A.  H.  In  1869  he 
was  married  to  Miss  Emily  White,  of  Carthage,  and  they  have  an  interesting  family  of  three 
children,  two  sons  and  a daughter. 

Chahles  Meadows.  Many  of  the  successful  business  men  of  America  received  their  early 
education  in  the  institutions  of  Europe  and  among  them  was  Charles  Meadows  who  is  now  a 
prominent  boot  and  shoe  dealer  of  Brightwood,  Ind.  He  was  born  in  England  in  1847  and 
when  but  sixteen  years  of  age  came  to  the  “ land  of  the  free,”  and  settled  in  the  city  of 
Brotherly  Love.  In  1881  he  came  to  Brightwood.  Ind.,  where  he  has  been  in  business  ever 
since.  He  first  branched  out  as  a shoemaker,  but  getting  tired  of  the  bench,  he  invested  his 
frugal  savings  in  a stock  of  boots  and  shoes  in  1889  and  since  then  has  been  doing  a very 
good  business.  He  is  a man  whose  l)usiness  career  is  a decidedly  interesting  one  showing 
the  competency  that  can  soon  be  attained  by  the  natives  of  other  lands.  He  is  an  honorable, 
reliable  business  man  and  his  store  has  become  very  pojnilar  with  all.  Mr.  Meadows  is  a son 
of  George  and  Emily  (Arnold)  Meadows,  natives  of  England  where  they  were  married  in 
1834.  Ten  children  were  born  to  the  parents,  five  sons  and  five  daughters,  as  follows: 
Emma  E.  married  Samuel  Page  and  resides  in  England:  George  died  in  England  when 
twenty-five  years  of  age;  Letichia  Meadows,  and  all  the  others  are  deceased  except  our  sub- 
ject. The  mother  of  these  children  died  in  England  in  1858  but  the  father  is  still  living  and 
makes  his  home  in  his  native  country.  The  original  of  this  notice  was  married  in  1873  to 
Miss  Mary  E.  Lathberry,  daughter  of  John  and  Phoebe  Lathberry,  who  were  among  the  old 
settlers  of  Bridgeton,  N.  J.,  and  native  born  Americans.  They  had  but  two  children,  Mrs. 
Meadows  and  a son.  To  our  subject  and  his  wife  have  been  born  eight  children,  six  of  whom 
are  now  living:  Emily  A.,  born  February  10,  1874,  is  now  at  home  with  her  parents  and 
assists  her  father  in  the  store;  George  W.,  born  May  13,  1879,  is  at  home  as  are  the  re- 
mainder of  the  children;  Willie,  born  December  16.  1882;  Alic<?,  born  April  24,  1884;  May, 
born  August  18,  1886,  and  Charley,  born  July  6,  1889.  The  other  children  died  in  infancy. 
Mr.  Meadows  is  an  active  member  of  the  K.  & L.  of  H.  and  is  at  present  treasurer  of  the  lat- 
ter society.  He  is  an  honorable,  trustworthj'  citizen  and  well  respected  by  his  large  circle  of 
friends.  In  religious  and  educational  matters  as  well  as  in  all  other  worthy  enterprises  he 
takes  a deep  interest  and  contributes  liberally  to  all. 

Orville  L.  Hahn.  Brightwood  can  well  be  proud  of  the  amount  of  brains  and  energy 
possessed  by  her  representative  business  men,  for,  taken  as  whole,  there  are  none  brighter, 
more  intelligent,  or  with  more  ability  and  push  in  any  direction,  and  among  the  number  is 
Orville  L.  Hahn.  Tho.se  who  deal  with  him  find  him  a very  pleasant  gentleman,  courteous 
and  affable,  and  in  every  respect  of  the  term,  a true  man  of  business,  a man  whose  experi- 
ence and  thorough  knowledge  of  his  work  have  placed  him  among  the  leading  merchants  of 
this  thriving  suburb.  He  is  a native  of  the  Hoosier  State,  born  in  Jonesboro,  September 
9.  1863.  son  of  Ezra  and  Sarah  Jane  (Dever)  Hahn  who  were  married  at  Sidney.  Ohio,  in 
1861.  The  father  was  a native  of  Maryland  his  birth  occurring  in  1821,  and  came  from 
Philadelphia  to  Indiana  in  1855.  His  wife  was  an  Ohio  lady,  and  shortly  after  her  marriage 


297 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

accompanied  her  husband  to  Indiana.  The  fruits  of  their  union  were  four  children,  all 
sons:  Archie  V.,  born  February  15,  1SB2,  married  Miss  Laura  Stevens  and  now  resides  in 
Marion,  Indiana;  Orville,  L. , subject;  Jean  M. , a school  teacher  and  single,  resides  in  Cali- 
fornia; and  Ezra  Clyde  was  killed  by  a horse  when  but  fourteen  years  of  age.  The  subject 
of  this  sketch  has  passed  his  entire  life  in  his  native  State  and  on  January  22,  1S91,  he  was 
married  to  Miss  May  Keener  of  Indiana|)olis,  Ind.  She  was  the  daughter  of  I'.  L.  Keener 
and  Elizabeth  (Coppersmith)  Keener,  both  born  in  America  and  married  in  Indiana. 
Mr.  Hahn  learned  the  wood  turner’s  trade  when  young  and  worked  at  this  until  1S90,  when 
he  invested  his  savings  in  dry  goods  and  started  out  on  his  career  as  a merchant  in  Bright- 
wood,  Ind.  He  has  now  one  of  the  most  complete  dry  goods  stores  in  the  city  and  has  the 
best  selected  stock  of  goods  in  his  line  in  this  j)art  of  the  county.  He  is  careful  and  pains- 
taking and  he  and  his  estimable  wife  attend  to  the  store  in  all  its  details.  He  is  upright  and 
honorable  in  all  his  dealings  and  has  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  the  entire  community. 
His  store  is  near  the  de])ot,  is  located  in  the  finest  block  in  town  and  has  a metropolitan 
appearance  about  it.  His  mother  died  in  1871  but  the  father  is  still  living  and  enjoys  com- 
paratively good  health.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hahn  have  but  one  child,  Ezra  Vernon,  a Inight 
little  fellow  born  October  28,  1891. 

Caul  von  Hake.  To  her  noble,  j)ushing,  hardworking  business  men  is  due  the  great 
prosperity,  wealth  and  advancement  of  Indianapolis.  To  their  zeal,  energy  and  integrity 
will  its  future  greatness  be  indebted,  as  it  has  been  in  the  past,  and  among  those  names 
prominent  in  the  promotion  of  successful  business  enterprises  in  this  city,  none  will  stand 
higher  or  occu])y  the  position  more  justly  than  does  that  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  Carl 
von  Hake  was  born  in  Canada  December  8,  1855,  and  when  but  a child  was  taken  to  Kala- 
mazoo, Mich. , by  his  parents.  There  he  received  his  education  and  completed  the  high 
school  course  in  186(1.  Later  he  took  a position  with  a whip  socket  factory  in  Westfield, 
Ma.ss.,  as  superintendent  of  the  factory,  and  held  that  jiosition  for  three  years.  Leaving 
that  city  he  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  in  1873,  and  bought  a farm,  which  he  tilled  suc- 
cessfully for  ten  years.  After  this  for  three  years  he  was  out  of  business,  but  from  1888  to 
1890  he  was  in  the  retail  shoe  l)usiness,  the  firm  name  being  Camplin  & Von  Hake.  In  the 
fall  of  1890,  the  Indianapolis  Coffin  Company  was  organized  and  our  subject  was  made 
))resident,  which  position  he  holds  at  the  present  time.  The  capital  stock  is  145,000  and 
they  do  an  annual  business  of  about  $120,000.  Mr.  Von  Hake  has  always  been  one  of  the 
most  j)ublic  s[)irited  men  of  Indianajiolis  and  is  an  excellent  business  man,  prompt,  ener- 
getic and  strictly  upright.  In  politics  he  supj)orts  the  measures  and  principles  of  the  Demo- 
cratic party.  In  the  year  1873  he  was  married  to  Miss  Sarah  Kichardson,  daughter  of 
W illiam  Richardson  of  New  A’ork.  Three  children  have  been  born  to  this  marriage  and  are 
named  in  the  order  of  their  births  as  follows:  Carlesta,  Alberta  and  Norma.  Our  subject’s 
father,  Oscar  Von  Hake,  was  a native  of  Pa])itz,  Germany,  but.  growing  restive  he  bade  adieu 
to  friends  and  scenes  long  loved  and  when  a young  man  came  to  Canada.  Later  he  came  to 
Kalamazoo.  Mich.,  and  there  his  death  occuri(>d  in  1869.  He  saw  service  in  the  army  in  the 
old  couidry.  His  marriage  to  Miss  Johanna  Wilson  resulted  in  the  birth  of  one  child  besides 
our  subject,  Bauline,  who  became  the  wife  of  Frank  Vonnegnt,  of  Indianapolis,  Ind.  The 
mother  passed  away  in  1872. 

G.  B.  Mautin,  I).  D.  S..  was  born  in  Chiawassee  County,  Jlich.,  INIay  20,  1850,  a .son  of 
M.  B.  and  ]\Iary  A.  (Beach)  JJartin,  the  former  of  wliom  was  born  in  Johnstown,  N.  Y.,  and 
th(^  latter  in  Hartfoid,  Conn.  They  were  early  settlers  of  Chiawassee  Couidy,  IMicli.,  where 
they  located  in  1836.  'I'he  father  was  a farmer  but  for  many  years  lived  in  retirement  from 
the  work-a  (lay  world.  'I’he  Martin  and  Beach  families  became  i)rominent  in  political 
atlairs.  E.  'F.  'Throop,  uncle  of  AI.  B.  Alartin,  was  at  at  one  time  Governor  of  tlie  State  of 
New  A (irk  and  held  s(weral  very  important  foreign  official  positions.  Dr.  G.  B.  Martin  was 
reared  in  his  native  county  and  receivial  the  a(lvant,ag(!s  of  the  public  schools  and  the  train 
ing  to  l)e  derived  from  life  on  a farm.  After  starting  out  in  life  for  himself  he  (levot(Ml  sonui 
tiiru!  to  agricultural  pursuits,  then  engag(‘d  in  business  in  New  York  and  later  at  several  dif 
f((r(mt  p(jints  in  tlie  South.  After  giving  Ids  attiuition  to  the  study  of  dentistry  for  some 
time  he  practiced  successfully  for  several  yetirs  at  Lansing.  .Mich.  In  1887  he  came  to  Indi- 
anapolis <ind  enter(*d  tlie  Indiami  Dontiil  (kjllege,  from  which  Ik*  gradiuited  in  1889,  having 


298 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


taught  dentistry  for  several  years,  and  he  was  afterward  elected  to  the  chair  of  prosthetic 
dentistry.  At  the  present  time  the  Doctor  has  charge  of  the  mechanical  laboratory  and  gives 
instruction  in  crown,  bridge  and  continuous  gum  work.  He  was  the  originator  and  promi- 
nent in  the  organization  of  the  Indianapolis  Post  Graduate  School  of  Prosthetic  Dentistry, 
which  was  incorporated  in  1890,  and  has  been  president  of  the  same  since  its  organization 
lie  has  been  decidedly  successful  in  his  practice  and  ranks  among  the  leading  dentists.  Dr. 
Martin  was  married  in  1877  to  Miss  Mary  Case,  a native  of  Indiana,  but  who  was  reared  and 
educated  in  Michigan,  where  they  met  and  eventually  married. 

James  Caktek,  M.  D.  However  well  compensated  a physician  may  be  for  his  services, 
and  the  cases  are  very  numerous  in  which  he  neither  asks  nor  receives  compensation,  his 
|)ix)fession  must  ever  be  regarded  as  the  noblest  and  most  beneficial  to  mankind.  Dr.  Carter 
is  a dignified  but  kindly  gentleman,  of  pleasing  manners,  with  a very  large  circle  of  friends, 
who  hold  him  in  high  esteem.  Of  a cheerful  disposition  himself,  he  has  the  faculty  of 
imj)arting  courage  to  those  who  are  despondent  from  illness,  and  his  skill  in  the  diagnosis 
and  treatment  of  diseases  is  the  cause  of  the  success  he  has  won  in  his  profession.  He  is  a 
j)roduct  of  Union  County,  Ind.,  where  he  was  born  February  14,  1843,  his  father,  Benjamin  F. 
Carter,  being  a native  of  Rockingham  County,  N.  C.,  where  he  was  born  in  1 812,  and  reared 
to  manhood.  About  the  year  1841  he  came  to  Indiana  and  settled  in  Fayette  County,  where 
he  resided  some  two  years.  In  1842  he  removed  to  ITnion  County,  Ind.,  where  he  married 
Susannah  Chenault,  a native  of  that  county,  born  in  1812,  and  a daughter  of  Abner  and 
Mary  Chenault,  who  were  natives  of  North  Carolina  and  early  pioneers  of  Union  County, 
where  they  settled  in  1811.  then  the  country  was  a wilderness,  infested  by  Indians,  and  for 
a long  time  were  compelled  to  reside  in  a fort  for  protection.  Benjamin  F.  Carter  was  a 
resident  of  Union  County  for  about  seven  years,  at  the  end  of  which  time  he  removed  with 
his  family  to  Fayette  County,  where  he  made  his  home  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in 
1 838.  He  was  a prosperous  farmer  by  occu))ation,  and  some  four  or  five  years  previous  to 
his  death  he  was  ordained  as  a minister  to  the  Ba])tist  Church.  His  widow  survives  him  at 
the  advanced  age  of  eighty-one  years.  Dr.  James  Carter  was  the  eldest  of  their  eight 
children,  and  is  now  the  only  surviving  member  of  the  family.  He  was  about  six  years  of 
age  when  his  parents  removed  to  Fayette  County,  Ind.,  and  there  he  attained  to  man’s  estate. 
On  account  of  the  ill  health  of  his  father  and  from  the  fact  that  he  was  the  only  son  and  the 
eldest  of  the  family,  he  was  deprived  of  the  advantages  of  an  education,  for  all  the  cares  and 
work  of  the  farm  fell  upon  his  shoulders.  He  was  very  industrious  and  faithful  to  his 
parents’  interests,  laboied  early  and  late,  and  was  the  mainstay  of  the  family  for  a number 
of  years.  He  continued  life  as  a farmer  until  the  spring  of  1875,  when  he  engaged  in  the 
drug  business  at  Fayetteville,  Ind.,  which  he  continued  to  follow  with  reasonably  satisfactory 
results  until  the  sjuing  of  1880,  when  he  sold  the  same  and  removed  to  Freeport,  Shelby 
County,  Ind.,  and  turned  his  attention  to  the  practice  of  medicine.  During  the  years  that 
he  was  engaged  in  the  drug  business  he  took  up  the  study  of  medicine,  and  in  the  fall  of 
1 878  he  entered  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana,  where  he  pursived  his  medical  researches 
for  some  time.  For  a period  of  four  years  he  practiced  medicine  in  Freeport,  Morristown  and 
Gwynneville,  but  since  the  month  of  December,  1884,  became  to  Indianapolis  and  followed  his 
j)rofession  for  nearly  two  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  returned  to  Gwynneville,  Shelby 
County,  where  he  resided  six  years,  but  on  November  21,  1892,  once  more  came  to  Indian- 
apolis, and  has  taken  uj)  his  j^ermanent  residence  here,  having  purchased  him  a ccinfoi table 
home.  He  has  a practice  which  is  in  every  way  satisfactory,  and  a wide  circle  of  friends, 
and  he  and  his  wife,  whose  maiden  name  was  Naomi  A.  Morris,  and  whom  he  married  in 
1862,  move  in  the  best  circles  of  society.  She  was  born  in  Bush  County,  Ind.,  her  parents, 
Houston  and  IMelchi  Morris,  having  been  early  pioneers  of  that  section,  where  they  entered 
considerable  land  and  followed  farming  all  their  lives.  The  father  was  a native  of  the 
“Keystone  State,”  was  a man  of  much  intelligence,  was  highly  respected  in  his  section,  and 
through  his  good  management  and  industry  accumulated  a goodly  pio]ierty.  Dr.  Carter  is 
a member  of  the  honorable  order  of  F.  & A.  M.,  and  in  politics  is  a pronounced  Demociat, 
his  efforts  at  all  times  being  in  behalf  of  this  ])arty,  although  he  was  at  the  October  election, 
1876  (while  in  the  drug  business),  elected  and  served  one  term  as  township  trustee,  refusing 
a second  term. 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


299 


Francis  J.  Bergmanx.  It  has  been  said,  and  said  truly,  that  “cleanliness  is  next  to 
godliness,”  and  this  is  true  in  every  particular  when  soap  can  be  had  at  such  reasonable 
figures,  made  of  the  purest  and  best  materials  as  is  that  manufactured  by  Francis  J.  Berg- 
mann.  He  learned  the  business  of  soap  making  from  his  father,  who  followed  that  line  of 
human  endeavor  all  his  life,  having  learned  it  in  his  native  land  of  Germany.  Francis  is  a 
product  of  Logansport,  Ind.,  where  he  first  saw  the  light  of  day,  March  1 1,  181)2,  his  parents 
being  Francis  and  Caroline  (Boltz)  Bergmann  who,  although  native  Germans,  have  long 
been  residents  of  the  “land  of  the  free  and  the  home  of  the  brave.”  The  father  was  born 
October  6,  1823,  came  to  America  about  the  year  1845  and  in  connective  order  resided  in 
Pennsylvania,  Cambridge  City,  Ind.,  Fort  Wayne,  Wabash,  Logansport  (three  of  his  chil- 
dren having  been  born  at  this  place)  and  Indianapolis.  Mrs.  Bergmann  was  born  in  Germany, 
August  2,  1837,  and  in  1803  came  to  Indianapolis  with  her  parents  who  purchased  the  land 
on  which  now  stands  the  establishment  now  operated  by  Francis  J.  Bergmann.  The  mar 
riage  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bergmann  was  celebrated  in  Fort  Wayne,  Ind.,  August  0,  1857,  result 
iug  in  the  birth  of  ten  children,  those  living  as  follows:  Clementine,  born  in  1858,  who  is  a 
resident  of  Indianapolis  and  is  the  wife  of  Henry  J.  Kissel;  Charles  E.,  born  in  1800,  who  is  a 
resident  of  Chicago,  111.,  and  is  married  to  Ada  Leekly,  and  is  following  the  calling  of  a 
commission  merchant;  Francis  J.,  the  subject  of  this  sketch;  Louisa,  born  in  1807,  who  is 
residing  in  Indianapolis  and  is  the  wife  of  Stephen  Sharp;  Emma,  born  in  1873,  who  also 
resides  in  this  city,  is  the  wife  of  Osborn  Magill,  and  Henry,  born  in  1880,  who  is  pursuing 
his  studies  in  the  public  schools  of  Indianapolis.  The  father  of  these  children  opened  an 
establishment  in  1803  on  the  same  ground  where  his  son  is  now  doing  business.  Soon  after 
this  he  purchased  two  acres  of  land  in  a corn  field,  which  is  the  same  land  that  is  still  in 
possession  of  the  familj"  at  the  corner  of  West  and  Morris  Streets.  At  this  time  all  the  land 
that  was  not  seeded  to  corn  was  covered  with  a heavy  growth  of  timber  but  during  the 
progress  of  time  he  has  seen  it  converted  from  this  condition  to  beautifully  j)aved  streets  of 
a great  city.  A short  time  after  embarking  in  business  for  himself  he  became  a member  of 
the  firm  of  Bergmann  & Birk,  who  conducted  a rendering  establishment,  in  addition  to  which 
Mr.  Bergmann  was  also  conducting  a like  business  in  Pendleton,  Ind.,  at  the  time  of  his 
death.  When  he  was  called  u])on  to  pay  the  last  debt  of  nature,  in  1891,  his  son  Francis  J., 
the  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  managing  the  busine.ss  in  Pendleton.  Soon  after  this,  how- 
ever, the  business  at  that  ]>lace  was  closed  and  Francis  -1.  has  since  been  successfully  carrying 
on  a fairly  lucrative  business  in  Indianapolis.  Not  only  does  he  manufacture  a fine  gradeof 
soaps  but  also  sal  soda,  and  deals  in  alkalies  and  soa])  stocks.  He  manufactures  an  es{)ecially 
fine  line  of  laundry  soaps;  in  fact,  all  the  goods  he  turns  out  are  strictly  first  class  and  he  is 
in  every  way  deserving  the  ])atronage  which  lu'  commands.  He  is  honorable  and  upright  in 
his  business  methods,  is  unmarried  and  has  a wid(‘  circle  of  friends  and  ac(|uaintances. 

Samiiel  G Eden.  One  of  the  most  important:  industries  carried  on  in  the  city  of  Indian- 
apolis is  that  of  contracting  and  building,  and  among  the  rej)resentative  citizens  engaged  in 
this  line  of  business,  and  thoroughly  familiar  with  it  in  its  every  detail  is  Samuel  O.  Eden. 
He  is  a |)roduct  of  the  Blue-Grass  soil  of  Kentucky,  born  in  Scott  County,  November  39, 
I'^ll,  and  the  son  of  Henry  Eden,  a brick  mason  and  manufacturer.  I’lie  latter  resided  in 
Woodfonl  County.  Ky..  many  years,  and  the  family  was  a pioneer  one  of  that  State.  He 
was  an  extensive  contractor  in  his  day,  and  an  enterprising,  thorough  going  citizen.  Samuel 
C.  Eden,  the  youngest  of  ten  children,  leceived  his  scholastic  training  in  Lexington,  Ky., 
and  at  the  Old  Northwestern  Clii  istian  University,  Indianapolis.  Then,  after  his  marriagt',  he 
took  a course  at  Purdy’s  Commercial  College.  Previous  to  t his,  when  only  fifteen  years  of 
age,  lie  started  to  learn  his  trade  under  his  brother.  Charlton  Eden,  and  after  finishing  the 
same,  woiked  for  his  lirother  for  several  years.  Later  he  became  foreman  in  the  Builders 
and  Manufacturers  Association  and  when  that  organization  sold  out  he  went  back  to  work  at 
his  trade.  One  year  later  he  formed  a partnership  with  his  brother  (fiiarlton  and  they  (>rected 
some  of  the  finest  buildings  in  the  city.  Sometime  afterward  they  dissolved  partnershij)  and 
he  was  superintendent  for  his  Virother  for  some  time.  After  that  he  commenc.ed  contracting 
for  himself  and  is  now  engaged  in  that,  business  and  is  meeting  with  well  deserved  success. 
He  has  been  a Kepublican  since  that  party  came  into  existence  and  is  an  active  worker  in  the 
interests  of  the  same.  On  Octolier  3,  1801,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Mary  A.  Berry  who  was 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


horu  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  three  sons  and  four  daughters  have  been  the  result  of  this 
union.  The  wliole  family,  with  the  exception  of  the  two  youngest  children,  are  members  of 
the  Christian  Church.  Mr.  Eden  joined  when  a young  man  and  recently  assisted  in  estab- 
lishing the  Hillside  Cliristian  Church.  He  is  })resideut  of  the  board  of  trustees  of  that 
organization,  is  a teacher  in  the  .Sunday-school,  and  one  of  the  city’s  most  worthy  and  influ- 
tuitial  citizens,  and  his  wife,  Mary  A.  Eden,  is  one  of  the  officers  of  the  Ladies’  Aid  Society 
and  a worker  in  tlie  same  church  and  visits  the  sick  and  distressed  wherever  she  finds  them. 

Peter  C.  Weyenbekg.  By  a most  thorough  knowledge  of  his  trade,  gained  step  by  step, 
Peter  C.  Weyenberg  has  built  up  a wide  reputation  as  a contractor  in  all  kinds  of  brickwork 
and  has  a {)atronage  of  very  satisfactory  pro])ortions.  He  is  a native  of  Littleshute,  Wis. , 
where  he  was  b.orn  on  April  3,  18611,  his  father,  Henry  Weyenberg,  being  a resident  of  Glen- 
ville.  Clay  County,  Neb.  He  is  successfully  engaged  in  tilling  the  soil  there  but  was  for- 
merly a contractor  and  made  a specialty  of  bridge  work,  erecting  many  bridges  across  the 
Fox  lliver  in  Wisconsit).  He  has  been  a resident  of  Nebraska  for  the  past  sixteen  years, 
liaving  moved  there  when  the  country  was  sparsely  settled,  and  is  now  a well-to  do  citizen 
of  sixty-three  years.  From  the  time  he  first  commenced  voting  he  has  been  a Democrat, 
but  has  by  no  means  been  an  office-seeker.  The  early  education  of  Peter  C.  Weyenberg  was 
received  in  his  native  county  and  in  Clay  County,  Neb.,  whither  he  moved  with  his  parents, 
and  there  he  continued  to  make  his  home  until  his  eighteenth  year,  at  which  time  he  began 
learning  the  brick-mason’s  trade  and  that  of  a plasterer,  also  becoming  familiar  with  cement 
work,  in  Denver,  Colo.,  to  which  {)lace  he  went  during  its  “ boom.”  He  followed  his  trade 
all  over  the  West  and  after  a time  arrived  in  Hastings,  Neb.,  where  he  began  contracting  as 
a plasterer  and  brick-mason,  during  which  time  he  made  both  money  and  a good  reputation. 
For  the  |)ast  six  years  he  has  been  a resident  of  Indianapolis  and  at  once  l)egan  doing  con- 
tract work,  in  the  fultillment  of  which  he  won  such  hearty  approval  for  the  meritorious 
character  of  his  woi'k  that  he  has  since  had  all  the  business  he  could  properly  attend  to.  He 
did  the  work  on  the  Eaglefield  Planing  Mill,  some  tine  residence  work  on  Meridian  Street, 
the  work  on  the  Van  Camp  Packing  Company’s  l)uilding,  the  school-house  on  Ben  Davis 
Street,  and  many  other  ])ieces  of  excellent  work.  Like  so  many  of  the  prosperous  business 
men  of  the  day  he  started  in  life  with  nothing  but  a good  constitution  and  a thorough 
knowledge  of  his  trade,  and  these,  combined  with  energy,  jierseverance  and  a wise  and  pru- 
dent economy,  have  placed  him  on  a sound  financial  footing.  On  November  17,  1888,  he  led 
to  the  hymeneal  altar  Miss  Katie  Schleicher,  of  Indianapolis,  but  a native  of  Lawrenceburg, 
and  their  union  has  resulted  in  the  birth  of  one  son.  Mr.  Weyenberg  is  a member  of  St. 
Joseph’s  Catholic  Church,  and  i)olitically  is  a Democrat. 

Ctekhard  Ittenbach.  Since  the  tide  of  immigration  first  set  toward  America  perhaps 
no  class  of  peo]ile  who  have  found  homes  upon  her  shores  has  done  more  to  build  up  her 
interests  or  contribute  more  to  her  commercial  importance  and  national  prosperity  than  the 
sturdy,  honest  hearted  and  industrious  Germans,  who  have  come  here  to  enjoy  the  fieedom 
of  thought  and  inde])endence  of  action  denied  them  in  the  Fatherland,  and  no  class  in 
Indianapolis  is  more  indebted  for  the  present  proud  position  and  future  promise  than  to 
that  of  which  the  subject  of  our  sketch  is  a worthy  and  honored  representative.  Gerhard 
Ittenbach  was  born  in  Prussia,  Germany,  March  28,  1828,  and  was  educated  in  the  schools 
there.  He  learned  the  stone  cutter’s  trade  in  that  country,  but  love  of  adventure  and  a 
desire  to  try  his  fortune  in  the  new  world  induced  him  to  leave  home  and  friends  and  in  1848 
he  landed  in  New  York  City  with  about  $12  in  his  pocket.  Meeting  a friend  in  that  city 
who  was  without  means  our  subject  i)aid  his  fare  to  Philadelphia  and  went  to  that  city  him- 
self Two  days  later  he  went  to  Cinncinnati,  and  not  being  able  to  get  work  at  his  trade,  he 
worked  at  any  honorable  em])loyment  he  could  find  for  about  three  months.  From  there  he 
went  to  Wheeling,  W.  Va.,  where  he  secured  work  at  his  trade  on  the  suspension  bridge  and 
worked  there  three  months.  The  river  getting  low  he  returned  to  Cincinnati  and  obtained 
work  on  the  Hotise  of  Correction,  then  building,  and  remained  there  until  the  spring  of 
1849.  From  there  he  went  to  IMadison,  Ind.,  where  he  worked  on  the  new  jail  and 
made  his  home  there  two  years.  In  1851  he  went  to  Indianapolis  to  put  up  the  steps  for 
the  Deaf  and  Dumb  Asylum,  but  after  finishing  fhat  work  he  I'eturned  to  Madison,  where  he 
lemained  for  a month.  Again  he  returned  to  Indianapolis  and  worked  on  the  Bates  House, 


301 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

the  Blind  Asylum  and  the  old  Masonic  Hall.  From  there  he  went  lo  Madison  again,  but  tind- 
ing  no  work  there  he  went  to  Cincinnati,  where  he  had  employment  for  six  weeks.  About 
that  time  his  old  employer,  James  Muersou,  of  Indianapolis,  came  to  Cincinnati  and  pre- 
vailed upon  him  to  return  to  Indianajiolis.  He  worked  foi'  Mr.  Muersou  until  1800,  after 
which  he  bought  him  out  and  formed  a partnership  with  his  brother,  Jhank  Ittenbach,  and 
J.  C.  Schmid,  the  firm  being  known  as  Schmid,  Ittenbach  & Co.,  cut  stone  contractors,  with 
stone  yard  on  South  Delaware  Street.  After  a two  years’  business  of  sawing  stone  by  hand, 
and,  owing  to  increase  of  business,  they  moved  their  yard  to  the  corner  of  Pennsylvania 
Street  and  Madison  Avenue  in  1862,  where  they  put  in  horse  power  for  sawing  stone.  The 
following  year  they  bought  their  engine,  and  after  using  it  three  years  with  success  and 
increase  of  business,  and  with  the  idea  of  still  further  increasing  their  splendid  business,  they 
bought  the  present  location  in  1860  and  put  up  a new  six-gang  mill,  and  engine,  boilers, 
rubbing  bed,  derrick  and  railroad  switch.  After  a successful  business  of  seventeen  years 
this  firm  dissolved  partnership,  Mr.  J.  C.  Schmid  retiring,  and  Gerhard  and  Frank  Itten- 
bach assuming  control.  They  continued  together  under  the  name  of  G.  Ittenbach  & Co. 
until  1880,  when  the  brother,  Frank,  died.  After  that  Gerhard  Ittenbach  assumed  sole  con- 
trol and  carried  on  the  business  under  the  same  name,  G.  Ittenbach  A,  Co.  Since  then, 
from  time  to  time,  he  has  added  the  latest  and  most  improved  stone  working  machinery, 
until  to  day  it  is  the  most  complete  stone  yard  in  the  State.  Not  only'  is  it  known  in  Indi- 
ana but  all  through  the  FTnited  States,  and  Mr.  Ittenbach  may  well  feel  proud  of  a business 
that  has  been  the  result  of  much  hard  work  on  his  part.  Satisfied  that  he  had  done  his 
share  of  toiling  and  labor,  he  retired  from  this  gigantic  business  enteriu'ise  in  1893,  his 
three  sons,  John,  Frank  and  Gerhard,  carrying  on  the  business  under  the  same  title.  Ow- 
ing to  his  ill  health  of  late  years  he  has  traveled  a great  deal  through  the  United  States  and 
Europe.  Mr.  Ittenbach  is  a man  of  sterling  integrity  and  solid  social  (pialities,  a devoted 
husband  and  a kind  father,  and  a citizen  who  enjoys  the  respect  and  esteem  of  all  who  know 
him.  He  has  put  up  nearly  all  the  stone  work  in  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  notably  Fletcher’s 
Bank,  Vance  Block,  Martindale  Block,  Clifford’s  Block,  Eastman,  Schleicher  & Lee  Block, 
Commercial  Club  Building,  the  Public  Library,  the  new  jail,  the  Ingall’s  Block,  Roberts 
Park  Church,  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  and  numerous  other  churches  in  other  parts 
of  the  city,  as  well  as  St.  Mary’s  Church  near  Terre  Haute,  Ind.  He  has  also  erected  some 
elegant  private  residences,  including  Judge  E.  B.  Martindale’ s,  Harvey  Bates’,  John  W. 
Schmidt’s  two  buildings  in  Indianapolis,  besides  the  First  National  Bank  and  De  Pauw 
University  at  Greencastle,  Ind.,  as  well  as  the  P’irst  National  Bank  and  jail  at  Connorsville, 
and  the  Wolf  & Wilson  Bank  Building  at  Marion,  Ind.  In  his  political  principles  Mr.  Itten 
bach  is  a Democrat,  but  never  sought  office.  Once  when  nominated  for  councilman  he 
positively  declined.  He  holds  raeml)ershi{)  in  the  Roman  Catholic  Church,  and  takes  a deep 
interest  in  its  work.  He  was  married  in  Indianapolis  in  1853  to  Miss  Frances  Schumacher, 
a native  of  Germany,  where  her  father,  Michael  Schumacher,  was  also  born.  The  latter 
passed  his  entire  life  in  his  native  country,  but  the  daughter,  Frances,  came  to  America 
about  five  years  after  our  subject,  wliom  she  had  known  there.  To  this  marriage  were  born 
six  children,  as  follows;  Mary,  wife  of  Jacob  Dux,  of  Indianaj)olis;  Josephine,  wife  of 
George  Wilf,  who  is  now  (1893)  township  assessoi';  Frank,  Gerhard  L.,  John,  and  Frances, 
who  is  the  wife  of  Jose))h  Bauer,  who  is  deputy  sheriff  of  Indianapolis.  All  the  children 
are  married,  the  sons  as  follows;  Frank  married  Miss  Beilha  Mouninger,  Gerhard  married 
M iss  Lena  Rickenbach,  and  John  married  Miss  Mary  Siersdorfer.  'I’he  father  of  lliese  chil 
dren  has  twenty  grandchildren.  His  father,  G(jtfried  ltlenl)ach,  sjx'nt  his  mitire  lif«'  in  the 
old  country.  He  was  a soldier  in  the  French  War,  and  died  in  1841.  The  maiden  name  of 
our  subject’s  mother  was  Mary  Fleichsman.  I’liey  were  tlie  parents  of  six  childien,  five  of 
whom  grew  to  niaturf*  years,  but  onIy_  two  survives  at  the  present  time,  Gertrude,  wife  of 
Jacol)  Nickoli,  and  our  subject,  who  was  the  youngest  of  the  chihlreu.  The  inotluM-  died  in 
1858. 

Jamks  Hvi.and,  contractor  with  premises  at  882  North  Mississippi  Street,  was  born  in 
Ireland  December  12,  1834,  and  there  received  a common-school  education.  He  also  pai’ 
tially  learned  the  mason  trade.  In  1850  he  came  to  tln^  United  States  and  located  in  New 
York  city  where  he  learned  the  details  of  his  trade.  On  November  17,  1853.  he  weid.  to 


802 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Amberstbnrg,  Canada,  to  cut  stone  for  the  Sanlt  Ste.  Marie  Canal  Company,  and  after  a short 
stay  there  he  went  to  Marblehead,  Ohio,  to  work  for  the  same  company.  In  April,  1854,  he 
left  there  for  Chicago,  where  he  worked  at  brick  laying  for  some  time,  and  then  went  to  St. 
Louis,  thence  to  New  Orleans,  from  there  to  Vicksburg,  then  to  Jackson,  Miss.,  then  Meni- 
j)hi8,  Tenn.,  and  from  there  to  Louisville,  Ky.,  where  he  worked  until  July,  1855.  After 
that  he  went  to  Nazareth,  Nelson  County,  Ky.,  where  he  built  an  addition  to  the  academy 
ixnder  the  superintendence  of  William  Keely,  architect.  In  February,  1850,  he  came  to 
Indianapolis  and  began  working  with  his  brother  Michael.  Business  being  dull  he  went  to 
work  for  Robert  Taylor,  George  Durham,  and  then  for  Robert  Tarkington.  In  1857  he  built 
the  Protestant  Episcopal  Church  in  partnership  with  his  brother,  and  in  1859  he  worked  as 
foreman  for  Contractor  Costigan  during  the  building  of  the  United  States  postoffice.  In 
1801)  he  and  his  brother  worked  on  a residence  for  Henry  Probases  at  Clifton  (a  suburb  of 
Cincinnati),  also  built  the  pastor's  residence  and  a sister’s  school  at  St.  Vincents,  Shelby 
County,  Ind.;  in  1801,  and  since  then  he  has  built  St.  John’s  Church  and  school-house,  St. 
Patrick’s  Church  and  brother’s  Residence,  St.  Mary’s  School-house,  Academy  of  Music,  Sec- 
ond Ward  School-house,  First  Baptist  Church,  Second  Presbyterian  Church,  Meridian, 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  Indianapolis,  church  at  Franklin,  Ind.,  church  at  Greenwood, 
Ind.,  church  at  St.  Vincent,  Ind.,  and  church  at  Washington,  Ind.  He  also  built  the  Cham- 
ber of  Commerce,  Cleveland  Block,  Kingan  A Company  Packing  House,  St.  Charles  Block, 
the  Ryan  Block,  etc.  Mr.  Hyland’s  two  sons  are  associated  with  him  in  business.  He  is  a 
member  of  the  Builders’  Exchange.  In  religion  he  is  a Catholic. 

Jonathan  Gray.  A prominent  brick  contractor  of  Indianapolis,  whose  place  of  business 
is  at  128  Hill  Avenue,  is  Jonathan  Gray,  who  owes  his  nativity  to  Washington  County,  Ind., 
where  he  was  born  October  5,  1833.  His  father,  Columbus  Gray,  was  a native  of  the  State 
of  New  York,  born  in  New  York  city,  and  in  after  years  became  a pilot  on  the  Hudson,  Ohio 
and  Mississippi  Rivers.  Many  years  ago  he  located  in  the  State  of  Indiana,  his  son  Chaun- 
cey  being  the  first  white  child  born  in  Madison,  now  over  seventy  years  ago.  Columbus 
Gray,  with  his  father,  was  in  numerous  fights  with  the  Indians  in  Indiana  and  they  had 
many  narrow  escapes  from  being  killed.  Hosea  Gray,  the  grandfather,  was  a native  of  the 
State  of  Vermont.  Columbus  Gray  died  when  a middle-aged  man.  He  was  married  in 
Indiana  to  Lavina  Hosey,  a native  of  the  Green  Mountain  State,  and  in  the  faith  of  the 
Baptist  Church  they  reared  their  nine  children,  the  father  bringing  up  his  son  to  believe  in 
the  principles  of  the  Whig  party  also.  Jonathan  Gray  obtained  a good  education  in  a 
Catholic  .school  of  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  attending  St.  John’s  school  until  he  was  twelve  years  of 
age,  during  which  time  he  became  quite  proficient  in  the  German  language.  In  1852  he 
came  to  Indianapolis  with  his  mothei'  and  began  learning  the  brick  mason’s  trade  with  the 
well  known  Christopher  Wysong,  with  whom  he  served  an  apprenticeship  of  three  years, 
after  which  he  began  working  as  a journeyman  but  at  the  time  of  his  enlistment  in  the  Union 
army  in  August,  1862,  he  was  in  the  employ  of  Springsteen  & Theodore.  He  became  a mem- 
ber of  Company  E,  Seventieth  Indiana  Infantry  (Gen.  Harrison’s  Regiment)  and  remained  in 
the  service  for  fifteen  months,  being  a participant  in  a number  of  engagements.  Upon  his 
return  to  Indianapolis  he  was  a member  of  the  police  force  for  about  eighteen  months,  after 
which  he  commenced  contracting  on  his  own  account  and  has  since  given  his  attention  to 
this  business.  He  has  erected  the  National  Hotel,  the  business  house  of  C.  Vonegut,  the 
Dennison  Hotel,  the  Bates  House  and  numerous  other  buildings  of  imj)ortance  throughout 
the  city.  To  him  belongs  the  honor  of  having  laid  the  first  pressed  brick  in  the  State.  He 
has  been  remarkably  successful  in  his  business  and  during  the  long  term  of  years  that  he  has 
devoted  to  brick  contracting  he  has  been  associated  with  the  following  gentlemen;  Sam 
Wallace,  eleven  years,  Isaac  Lyons,  William  Amos  and  Al.  Wallace,  but  is  now  associated  in 
business  with  his  four  sons,  all  of  whom  are  practical  and  experienced  brick  layers.  Their 
mother  was  Rebecca  Baker  of  Martinsville.  Mr.  Gray  has  always  been  interested  in  the 
success  of  the  Rejmblican  party  and  socially  is  a member  of  the  Red  Men  and  the  G.  A.  R. 
He  has  been  married  thirty  years  to  his  second  wife  whose  maiden  name  was  Sarah  E. 
Johnston  and  they  have  seven  living  children,  six  sons  and  one  daughter,  and  he  has  one  sou 
by  his  first  wife,  all  of  this  city. 


808 


AND  MARION  COUN'/'Y,  INDIANA. 

Dr.  Alembert  Winthrob  Braytun,  of  lucliauapolis,  Iml.,  was  boru  in  Avon,  N.  Y., 
March  3,  1848,  a son  of  Elijah  and  Helen  P.  Brayton,  also  of  the  State  of  New  York,  at 
present  residents  of  Chicago.  The  family  is  of  Scotch  descent,  and  like  all  those  in  whose 
veins  course  that  blood,  possesses  fine  order  of  intellect  and  is  of  a religious  nature.  During 
his  early  life  Dr.  Brayton’s  father  was  a Inmbennan  in  the  Lake  George  region  and  later 
was  engaged  in  milling  in  Pike,  Wyoming  County,  N.  Y.  His  wife,  Helen  Parker,  was  of 
English  descent  and  a native  of  Vermont.  The  early  schooling  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch 
was  acquired  at  his  mother's  knee,  and  he  does  not  remember  when  he  could  not  read.  In 
order  that  he  and  his  brothers  might  have  better  educational  advantages  and  be  brought  u]) 
to  a life  of  usefulness,  rather  than  the  enforced  idleness  which  so  often  characterizes  village 
life,  the  father  removed  westward  and  settled  on  a farm  on  the  prairies  of  Kankakee  County, 
111.,  about  fifty  miles  .south  of  Chicago,  where  he  j)i;t  his  boys  to  work  following  the  furrow, 
planting  “sod  corn”  and  harrowing  in  spring  grain.  These  years  were  useful  and  happy 
ones,  and  lessons  of  morality  and  industry  were  learned  which  ever  afterward  remained  with 
them.  At  odd  times  they  attended  the  district  school  in  the  vicinity  of  their  prairie  home, 
and  this,  with  the  Sunday  school  books,  which  they  obtained  at  the  Manteuo  Methodist 
Church,  and  such  literary  works  as  the  farmers  of  the  vicinity  had  in  their  ])OS8ession,  con- 
stituted the  educational  opportunities  and  material.  Horace  Greeley’s  Weekly  Tribune,  the 
New  York  Cliristiun  Adrocafe  and  Journal,  the  Ladies’  Repository  and  the  Atlantic 
Monthly  also  found  a place  in  their  home.  In  1868  the  family  moved  to  Blue  Island,  a few 
miles  south  of  Chicago,  and  this  growing  city  was  thereafter  a considerable  factor  in  the 
experience  and  education  of  its  members.  After  attending  the  Blue  Island  High  School  for 
three  years.  Dr.  Brayton  and  his  Ijrothers  entered  the  Cook  County  Normal  School,  located 
at  Englewood,  111.,  and  so  came  under  the  daily  instruction  of  that  moat  fascinating  and  suc- 
cessful educator.  President  Daniel  S.  Wentworth,  of  Chicago.  From  this  school  Dr.  Brayton 
graduated  in  1879,  and  immediately  after  became  principal  of  the  Glencoe  schools.  Cook 
County,  but  the  following  year  was  elected  professor  of  natural  science  in  the  Normal 
School.  However,  he  decided  to  first  take  a course  in  Cornell  University,  Ithaca,  N.  Y.,  but 
owing  to  the  great  Chicago  fire,  he  left  the  university  at  the  completion  of  the  sophomore 
year,  and  took  up  the  work  of  biological  teaching  in  the  Normal  School.  In  January,  1877, 
being  earnestly  .solicited  by  David  S.  Jordan,  now  president  of  Leland  Stanford  University, 
but  then  professor  of  natural  sciences  in  Butler  University  and  a classmate  of  the  Doctor’s 
in  Cornell  University,  Dr.  Brayton  moved  with  his  family  to  Indianapolis,  and  at  once 
interested  himself  in  zoological  researches  with  Prof.  Jordan.  He  there  completed  his 
university  course,  taking  the  degree  of  bachelor  of  science  at  Butler  University,  the  degree 
of  master  of  science  being  afterward  conferred  upon  him  by  the  State  University  at  Bloom- 
ington, Ind.,  and  by  Purdue  University  at  Lafayette,  Ind.,  on  account  of  the  meritorious 
work  he  had  accomplished  in  zoology.  In  comjrany  with  Prof.  Jordan  and  Charles  Gilbert 
and  some  college  students  he,  in  1877,  visited  the  southern  Alleghany  Mountain  region  in 
the  interests  of  ichthyological  science.  Many  rivers  and  streams  of  the  South  were  seined,  the 
result  being  that  some  twenty  new  specimens  of  fish  were  discovertnl  and  wei’e  descrilred  and 
published  by  Prof. Jordan  and  Dr.  Brayton  in  Bulletin  No.  12  of  the  United  States  National 
.Museum.  The  following  summer  was  also  sj)ent  in  these  researches  in  the  Alleghanies,  at 
Beaufort,  N.  C.  and  the  Smithsonian  Institution.  In  1879  Dr.  Brayton  contributed  a list,  with 
scientific  and  literary  notes  irpon  the  ‘‘Birds  of  Indiana,”  which  was  published  in  the  annual 
I'eport  (jf  that  year  of  the  Indiana  Horticultural  Society.  In  1882  the  Doctor  published  a 
“Report on  the  Mammals  of  Ohio,”  which  occupicnl  175  pages  of  Volume  IV  of  the  Geological 
Survey  of  that  State.  Dr.  Brayton  began  his  medicnil  studies  in  Chicago,  rc^sumed  them  in 
Indianapolis,  and  in  1879  took  the  degre<!  of  doctor  of  medicine  from  the  Medical  College 
of  Indiana.  The  following  autumn  he  was  elected  proft^ssor  of  chemistry,  toxicology  and 
medical  juris|)rudenc(*  in  the  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons  of  Indianapolis,  giving 
two  full  courses  of  eighty  hours  each  term,  and  doing  considerable  (.‘xpert  work  in  criminal 
toxicology  and  allied  cases  in  medical  Jurisprudence.  In  the  fall  of  1881  he  was  <>lecled  to 
the  same  [)osition  in  the  .Medical  Colleg«*  of  Indiana.  After  four  years  of  exacting  work  in 
chemistry  he  was  «‘lected  to  the  chair  of  physiology  in  the  same  institution,  and  two  years 
later  to  the  chair  of  pathology,  clinical  medicine  and  ilermatology,  which  he  still  holds,  lie 


304 


MEMOIR^^  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


has  beeu  on  the  consulting,  clinical  and  teaching  staff  of  the  Indianapolis  City  Hospital  and 
Dispensary  since  commencing  the  practice  of  medicine,  and  has  devoted  himself  particularly 
to  diseases  of  the  skin.  The  result  has  been  that  in  these  charities  skin  diseases  have 
received  the  attention  of  an  expert.  Some  extremely  unusual  cases  have  have  been  met  with 
in  his  dermatological  practice  and  have  received  widespread  attention  by  the  medical  journals 
of  the  country.  Dr.  Brayton  has  had  a large  consultation  business  in  this  department  of 
medicine,  to  which  he  has  devoted  much  thorough  work  and  painstaking  investigation.  He 
has  been  a faithful  attendant  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  to  which  he  has  con- 
tributed numerous  papers  and  discussions,  and  of  which  he  has  been  both  president  and 
secretary.  He  also  belongs  to  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society,  the  proceedings  and 
transactions  of  which  he  has  edited  for  the  past  four  years.  Since  the  establishment  of  the 
Indiana  Medical  Journal,  September,  1892,  Dr.  Brayton  has  been  almost  continuously  a 
member  of  its  editorial  staff',  and  when  the  journal  came  into  possession  of  a stock  company, 
in  April,  1892,  Dr.  Brayton  was  unanimously  elected  its  editor-in-chief,  a position  he  still 
holds,  and  for  which  he  is  admirably  adapted.  Under  his  management  the  journal  has 
greatly  increased  its  range  and  usefulness,  and  has  become  the  recognized  organ  of  the 
medical  profession  in  Indiana,  and  now  is  one  of  the  leading  State  journals  of  the  West. 
Dr.  Brayton  was  on  the  editorial  staff  of  the  Indianapolis  Daily  Journal  for  six  years,  his 
writings  being  limited  to  medical,  educational  and  scientific  subjects.  He  has  always  taken 
a great  interest  in  the  scientific  education  of  young  men,  and  has  urged  them  to  take  a full 
collegiate  course.  He  has  been  a member  of  the  CTentlemen’s  Literary  Club  and  the  Con- 
temporary Club  of  Indianapolis,  and  of  other  organizations  devoted  to  the  advancement  of 
the  social  and  intellectual  life  of  his  community.  His  wife,  Jessie  M.  Dewey,  is  a native  of 
Chicago,  a graduate  of  the  Chicago  Normal  School,  an  ardent  student  of  ornithology,  and  is  of 
artistic  tastes  and  literary  habits.  They  were  married  in  Chicago  June  24,  1874,  and  have 
seven  children,  the  two  elder  of  whom,  May  and  Nelson,  are  in  the  junior  year  of  Butler 
University. 

Joseph  A.  Kink.  One  of  the  most  successful  and  progressive  enterprises  in  Indian- 
apolis is  that  conducted  by  Mr.  Joseph  A.  Rink,  dealer  in  cloaks,  furs,  etc.,  and  who  is  one 
of  the  thorough  going  business  men  of  the  city.  He  is  a native  of  Lawrenceburg,  Ind. , 
born  April  15,  1858,  and  the  son  of  Michael  and  Ruftina  (Spades)  Rink.  Our  subject  was 
reared  in  his  native  town  until  twelve  years  of  age,  and  while  yet  a boy  laid  the  foundation 
for  his  subsequent  prosj)erous  career,  having  the  agency  and  route  for  sale  of  all  news- 
papers in  that  place.  When  he  had  reaciied  the  above  mentioned  age,  the  family  removed 
to  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  where  young  Rink  received  a limited  education  in  the  Catholic  schools. 
In  1874  he  came  to  Indianapolis  with  his  parents,  and  shortly  afteiuvard  entered  the  employ 
of  M.  H.  Spades,  retail  dry  goods  merchant,  in  the  lowest  position  of  the  store.  He  con- 
tinued in  the  employ  of  Mr.  Spades  until  1888,  and  during  that  time  was  promoted  to  the 
highest  position,  being  manager  and  buyer.  This  establishment  was  known  as  the  Boston 
Store  and  was  the  largest  retail  enterprise  in  the  city  at  that  time.  By  economy  and  care- 
ful management  Mr.  Rink  had  accumulated  some  means,  and  in  1888  he  embarked  in  busi- 
ness for  himself  on  a small  scale,  his  cash  capital  being  $1,000.  His  stock  of  cloaks  was 
in  an  up  stairs  room,  20x40  feet,  and  he  was  the  originator  of  the  exclusively  cloak 
house  in  the  west.  He  met  with  unusual  success  in  his  venture  and  pi’ospered  from  the 
start.  Although  he  has  been  but  five  years  in  the  business  he  has  one  of  the  finest  estab- 
lishments in  the  country,  carrying  a stock  of  goods  valued  at  from  $40,000  to  $50,000.  He 
deals  exclusively  in  cloaks  and  furs  in  his  salesroom  which  is  50x150  feet,  on  the  ground 
ffoor,  and  fitted  up  in  modern  style  during  the  ])ast  year  at  a cost  of  $15,000,  and  considered 
one  of  the  finest  stores  of  its  size  in  the  United  States.  In  addition  to  this  Mr.  Rink  estab- 
lished a dry  goods  store  in  1891,  as  Rink  & Co.,  M.  H.  Spades  being  his  partner.  The 
latter  retired  in  1892,  and  Mr.  Rink  has  since  carried  on  the  business  and  carries  a stock  of 
everything  to  be  found  in  a first-class  dry  goods  store.  He  carries  goods  valued  at  from 
$15,000  to  $18,000,  and  the  store  is  known  as  the  Bee  Hive.  In  addition  to  these  vast 
enterprises  Mr.  Rink  manufactures  all  seal  and  fine  fur  garments,  working  summer  and 
winter  in  this  branch,  there  not  being  another  manufacturing  concern  of  this  kind  in  Indian- 
apolis. The  cloak  room  and  manufacturing  department  give  employment  to  forty  five  hands. 


305 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

being  now  in  its  infancy,  but  next  year  there  will  be  100  hands  employed,  and  eventually 
several  hundred.  Mr.  Kink  also  owns  valuable  real  estate  in  Indianapolis,  the  Rosevelt 
House  belonging  to  him.  It  is  a four  story  brick  situated  on  Ohio  Street,  in  the  central 
part  of  the  city,  and  is  very  valuable.  He  also  owns  considerable  handsome  residence  prop- 
erty in  North  Meridian  and  some  in  this  city.  The  garments  manufactured  by  Mr.  Rink 
have  no  superior  in  the  American  market  for  quality  of  materials,  fashionable  elegance  and 
finish,  and  are  equal  in  every  respect  to  those  imported  from  the  most  noted  European 
houses.  Mr.  Rink  is  a keen,  intelligent  business  man,  thoroughly  conversant  with  all  the 
requirements  of  his  various  enterprises,  and  eminently  popular  in  meeting  all  its  demands. 
On  September  29,  1891,  our  subject  was  married  to  Miss  Carrie  Pfau,  daughter  of  the 
wholesale  liquor  merchant,  George  Pfau.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Rink  are  the  parents  of  one  child, 
Loretta,  who  was  born  November  2,  1892.  They  are  members  of  the  Catholic  Church,  and 
in  politics  Mr.  Rink  is  a Democrat. 

George  H.  Roberts.  The  practice  of  veterinary  surgery  is  even  more  intricate  than 
that  of  medicine  as  applied  to  the  hmnan  family,  demanding  in  addition  to  a perfect  knowl- 
edge of  the  anatomy  of  the  horse  and  a thorough  practical  knowledge  of  drugs  and  medi- 
cines, also  an  intimate  knowledge  of  equine  habits  under  varying  conditions,  coupled  with  a 
quick,  intuitive  perception  to  grasp  the  seat  and  nature  of  the  disease — since  the  patient  can 
never  tell  their  symptoms.  The  possession  of  these  qualifications  and  endowments  in  a high 
state  of  development,  satisfactorily  accounts  for  the  success  of  George  H.  Roberts,  the  well 
known  veterinary  surgeon  of  Indianapolis.  He  is  a native  of  New  York,  born  in  Alabama, 
Genesee  County,  November  1,  1864,  and  is  a son  of  Horace  and  Mary  (Easton)  Roberts,  the 
former  a native  of  York  State,  and  the  latter  of  England.  At  the  present  time  the  father  is 
a prosperous  farmer  of  his  native  State,  and  has  tilled  many  responsible  positions  in  his 
county.  Our  subject  was  but  six  months  old  when  his  parents  removed  from  Genesee 
County,  N.  Y.,  to  Orleans  County,  that  State,  and  he  there  became  familiar  with  the  ardu 
ous  duties  of  the  farm,  and  received  his  early  education  in  the  district  schools.  When  four- 
teen years  of  age  he  entered  the  Genesee  Wesleyan  Seminary  at  Lima,  N.  Y.,and  there  com- 
pleted his  literary  education.  When  seventeen  years  of  age  he  began  the  study  of  medicine, 
and  when  twenty  he  entered  the  New  York  College  of  Veterinary  Surgeons,  from  which 
institution  he  graduated  March  14,  1888.  He  established  himself  at  Akron,  N.  Y.,  in  1887, 
having  previously  graduated  from  the  school  of  Comparative  Medicine  at  New  York,  and  at 
that  time  he  also  took  a full  laboratory  course  at  Bellevue  Hospital.  Until  the  spring  of 
1899  he  carried  on  a successful  business  in  Akron,  N.  Y. , and  then  moved  to  Indianapolis, 
where  he  ranks  among  the  foremost  veterinary  surgeons  of  the  city.  Socially  he  is  a mem- 
ber of  the  I.  O.  OF.,  and  politically  he  is  a Republican.  He  has  the  best  and  most  com- 
plete facilities  for  the  treatment  of  sick  and  lame  animals,  and  his  building,  60x100  feet,  will 
accomodate  thirty  horses.  In  connection  with  the  veterinary  business  the  Doctor  has  a 
livery  and  boarding  stable.  He  also  jiays  special  attention  to  the  treatment  of  dogs,  and  is 
veterinarian  of  the  Illindio  Kennel  Club.  The  intirmary  is  located  at  276  East  Washington 
.Street. 

Robert  Zener.  This  gentleman,  who  alone  comimses  the  tirni  of  Robert  Zener  & Co. 
of  this  city,  came  from  Chicago  to  Indianapolis  in  September,  1885.  He  is  a native  of  this 
State,  however,  and  was  born  in  New])ort,  Vermillion  County,  April  23,  1841,  his  parents 
l)eirig  among  the  earliest  settlers  of  that  county.  His  father  was  possessed  of  valuable 
estates  in  and  about  Newport  which  was  the  county  seat.  As  was  the  custom  in  those  days 
the  subject  of  this  sketch,  with  his  brothers,  was  recpiired  at  an  early  age  to  assist  in  the 
f)peration  of  his  father’s  mills  and  the  farm  of  several  hundred  acres  which  adjoined  the 
town,  relying  maiidy  on  the  winter  terms  of  the  public  schools  for  his  education.  After 
reaching  his  majority  .Mr.  Zener  began  the  study  of  medicine  in  the  office  of  Dr.  Clark 
Leavitt,  then  of  Newport  and  now  living  in  Danville,  III.  Finishing  his  course*  of  studies  at 
the  I'ni versify  of  Michigan  he  began  the  practice  of  medicine  at  Clinton,  Vermillion  County 
ill  March,  18th),  about  one  month  liefore  the  close  of  the  Civil  War.  His  success  was  far 
lieyond  his  exjiectat ions  but  he  remained  in  Clinton  until  Octobei*  of  that  year  oidy  when  in 
coinfiany  with  his  two  elder  brothers  he  emigrat«*d  to  western  Missouri,  locating  at  Clinton, 
th  e county  seat  of  Henry  County.  'I’he  brothers  mentioned  had  passed  through  this  jiortion 


30(5 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


of  Missouri  with  Geu.  Curtis’  division  of  the  Westeru  army  iu  18(51  and  being  pleased  with 
the  appearance  of  the  country  resolved  to  make  it  tlieir  home  after  the  war  was  over.  Mr. 
Zener  remained  in  Missouri,  latterly  at  Sedalia,  for  eleven  years  then,  in  187(5,  he  removed 
with  his  family  to  Bloomington,  111,  and  thence  to  Chicago.  Prior  to  leaving  Missouri  he 
had  connected  himself  with  the  Springfield  Fire  and  Marine  Insurance  Company  of  Massa- 
chusetts, as  their  special  agent  and  adjuster,  which  position  he  held  until  January  1,  1887, 
when  he  resigned.  In  the  year  1885,  having  taken  charge  of  his  comjiany’s  interests  in 
Indiana  and  Ohio  he  removed  to  Indianapolis  and  a year  later,  in  July,  1886,  he  purchased 
the  local  agency  of  Cleaveland  ct  Brown  of  this  city,  but  did  not  sever  his  connection  with 
his  company  until  six  months  later.  The  agency  which  he  purchased  had  on  its  books  at  the 
time  about  $‘27,0(M)  in  premiums.  Under  Mr.  Zener’s  management  the  business  increased 
rapidly  and  in  18U2,  over  .|12(),(X)()  in  premiums  was  written.  The  building  up  of  this 
immense  business  in  so  short  a time  was  made  possible  only  by  Mr.  Zener’s  thorough 
understanding  of  the  science  of  underwriting  and  his  hal)it  of  close  attention  to  minutest 
details.  In  his  profession  Mr.  Zener  has  taken  high  rank  and  his  j)atrons  have  learned  to 
have  the  utmost  confidence  in  his  integrity,  and  in  his  ability  to  take  care  of  their  interests. 
Five  years  ago  the  general  agency  for  Indiana  and  Kentucky  of  the  Employers  Liability 
Assurance  Corporation  (limited)  of  London,  England,  was  placed  in  Mr.  Zener’s  office  with- 
out solicitation  and  during  the  year  of  181)2  he  wrote  in  premiums  for  that  corporation  alone 
over  |!40,00().  This  company  was  the  first  to  introduce  into  this  country  what  is  known  as 
employers  liability  insurance  which»insures  employers  of  labor  against  liability  for  accidents 
to  their  employes.  This  form  of  insurance  has  become  very  i)opular  and  as  Mr.  Zener  set- 
tles and  pays  all  claims  from  his  office  he  has  been  enabled  to  build  up  for  the  corporation  a 
large  business  in  his  field.  To  conduct  such  a business  recpiires  not  only  system  but  a 
superior  grade  of  help  to  take  charge  of  the  different  departments.  In  November,  1861),  Mr. 
Zener  was  married  at  Clinton,  Mo.  to  Miss  Catharine  F.  Dodge,  then  of  Clinton,  but  for- 
merly of  Brooklyn,  N.  Y.  There  are  three  children  and  the  family  home  at  316  College 
Avenue  is  one  of  the  most  desii'able  on  that  street  of  beautiful  residences.  The  eldest  son, 
Clarence  M.  Zener,  graduated  from  the  grammar  school  in  Chicago  and  from  the  high  school 
iu  this  city,  in  both  cases  at  the  head  of  his  classes,  and  in  June  of  this  year  received  his 
diplonia  from  Wabash  College  in  this  State.  He  is  now  in  his  father’s  office  and  will  no 
doubt  make  his  maik  in  the  business.  Mr.  Zenei',  while  in  love  with  and  devoted  to  his 
business,  has  not  forgotten  that  one  of  the  results  sought  after  is  the  “ laying  up  of  something 
for  a rainy  day.”  In  addition  to  his  Indianapolis  property  he  has  large  interests  in  the 
State  of  Kansas  which  require  all  the  time  of  his  youngest  brother  to  look  after  for  him. 

John  Hardacre.  In  a work  which  has  for  its  object  a compreliensive  review  of  the 
leading  industries  of  Indianapolis,  it  is  highly  important  that  special  attention  shoidd  be 
given  to  those  great  artisans  whose  skill  and  labor  have  been  utilized  in  the  construction  of 
her  buildings  and  public  institutions.  Foremost  among  this  number  is  John  Hardacre, 
who  is  one  of  the  prominent  builders  and  contractors  of  the  city.  Like  many  of  the  rep- 
resentative citizens  of  Marion  County,  Ind  , Mr.  Hardacre  is  a native  of  the  Buckeye 
State,  born  in  Dayton,  Montgomery  County,  in  1834.  His  father,  Joseph  Hardacre,  was  a 
native  of  West  Virginia,  and  remained  in  that  State  until  a young  man.  He  then  went  to 
Ohio,  and  located  in  Dayton,  where  he  was  engaged  as  a carriage  manufacturer  for  some 
time.  Later,  he  moved  to  Miami  County,  that  State,  and  there  passed  the  closing  scenes  of 
his  life.  Our  subject  received  a good  practical  education  in  the  common  schools  of  Miami 
County,  and  subse<juently  learned  the  trade  of  carriage  and  wagon  making  from  his  father. 
The  latter  gave  him  his  time  after  nineteen  years  of  age,  and  young  Hardacre  commenced 
learning  the  carpenter’s  trade,  serving  an  apprenticeship  at  the  same.  From  there  he  went 
to  Greenfield,  Hancock  County,  Ind.,  and  worked  at  his  trade  there  irntil  1871,  when  he 
came  to  this  city  as  journeyman  carpenter.  One  year  later  he  was  engaged  in  contracting 
in  partnership  with  Joseph  Taylor,  with  whom  he  continued  one  year,  and  since  that  time 
he  has  been  contracting  alone.  In  August,  18(52,  he  enlisted  in  Company  B,  Seventy-ninth 
Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry,  and  served  until  the  battle  of  Missionary  Bidge,  when  he  was 
severely  wounded  by  a bursting  shell,  in  the  head  and  back.  After  this  he  was  transferred 
to  the  Invalid  Corps.  Previous  to  this  he  was  wounded  at  Chickamauga,  but  was  never 


807 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

taken  prisoner.  ITe  was  discharged  in  1865,  lacking  just  thirteen  days  of  being  tliree 
years  from  the  time  he  enlisted.  He  was  in  many  prominent  engagements  and  skirmishes, 
and  was  a In-ave  and  loyal  soldier.  In  politics  he  has  ever  advocated  the  cause  of  the 
Republican  party,  and  is  deeply  interested  in  its  welfare.  He  is  a member  of  the  Murphy 
Lodge  and  a member  of  the  Seventh  Street  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  In  1857  he  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Lovina  Rocky,  who  also  holds  membership  in  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church. 

Sylvester  S.  Goeby.  The  gentleman  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  is  State  geologist 
of  Indiana,  and  is  unquestionably  one  of  the  ablest  and  best  posted  men  on  that  Subject  in 
the  State.  He  came  originally  from  the  Buckeye  State,  which  has  contributed  so  much  of 
population  and  intelligence  to  his  adopted  State;  and  from  a parentage  marked  by  strength 
of  character  and  by  a certain  hospitality  and  largeness  of  nature.  Born  in  Morgan  County 
(now  Noble  County),  February  5,  1848,  he  is  the  son  of  Thomas  Gorby,  who  was  a Virginian 
by  birth.  The  elder  Gorby  left  his  native  State  after  reaching  mature  years,  became  a 
jjrominent  lawyer,  and  died  in  Kentucky  in  1879.  He  was  colonel  of  a Missouri  regiment  in 
the  Confederate  army  during  the  Civil  War  but  was  captured  and  held  a prisoner  for  two 
years.  He  married  Miss  Mary  E.  Dean,  a native  also  of  the  Old  Dominion  and  our  subject 
is  the  only  surviving  child  of  two  children  born  to  them.  She  was  his  second  wife  and  died 
in  1854.  Mr.  Gorby  was  of  Scotch-English  descent  and  his  ancestors  came  to  this  country 
and  settled  first  in  New  Jersey,  but  later  in  Virginia.  While  a resident  of  Iowa  he  was 
elected  circuit  judge  in  1856,  and  in  1860  was  elected  judge  in  Missouri,  but  served  only  a 
few  months.  When  three  years  of  age  he  accompanied  his  parents  to  Iowa,  and 
remained  there  until  1858,  when  they  removed  to  Knox  County,  Mo.  There  he  was  edu- 
cated by  a private  tutor,  and  fitted  for  the  State  University  at  Columbia,  Mo.,  from  which  he 
graduated  in  1867.  After  finishing  his  education  he  went  west  in  the  employ  of  the  Govern- 
ment as  civil  engineer,  locating  roads,  surveying  lands,  establishing  section  lines,  etc. , in 
Montana,  Washington,  Idaho  and  Utah.  For  years  he  was  located  in  the  West,  and  then 
returned  to  his  father’s  home,  near  Lafayette  (now  New  York),  Ky.,  whither  the  latter  had 
moved  in  1865.  Two  or  three  months  after  his  return  home  our  subject  located  in  Orange 
County,  Ind.,  where  he  taught  school  and  wrote  for  various  papers,  contracted,  etc.,  until 
1878,  when  he  located  at  Lawrenceburg,  Ind.  There  he  taught  school  but  at  the  same  time 
edited  the  American  Home  Monthly,  a magazine  at  that  time  published  in  Cincinnati.  He 
wrote  “ Saddle,  Camp  and  Trail  or  Fen- pictures  of  the  West,”which  was  afterward  published 
in  book  form  and  many  thousands  sold.  Mr.  Gorby  was  connected  with  this  monthly  maga- 
zine for  two  years,  or  until  1876.  During  his  residence  in  Lawrenceburg  he  also  wrote 
sketches  for  various  eastern  journals,  and  some  articles  for  scientific  journals.  In  April, 
1891,  he  moved  to  Franklin,  Ind.,  where  he  has  made  his  home.  He  presented  to  the 
college  there  his  mag^iificent  geological  collection,  called  the  “Gorby  Cabinet,’’  and  this 
is  placed  in  a large  room  by  itself,  Ijeing  worth  many  thousand  dollars.  This  collection  was 
ac(piired  during  the  last  twenty-five  years  in  the  United  States  and  Europe.  He  has 
traveled  as  an  expert  in  the  employ  of  various  mining  companies,  all  over  the  United  States, 
Canada  and  Mexico.  In  1887  Mr.  Gorby  was  appointed  by  Gov.  Gray  to  fill  out  the  unex- 
pired term  caused  by  the  resignation  of  Maurice  Thom[)son,  whose  assistant  our  subject  was 
at  that  time.  During  the  session  of  the  Legislature  in  1889,  Mr.  Gorby  was  elected  director 
of  the  “ Department  of  Geology  and  Natural  Resources,”  and  in  1890  was  re-elected  to  the 
same  office  by  the  j)eople  for  a term  of  four  years.  He  was  also  a member  of  the  Indiana 
Board  of  World’s  Fair  Managers.  He  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity,  and  in  his 
religious  views  is  a Jiaptist. 

CfiARLES  F.  Hartmann.  If  the  old  world  had  not  contributed  to  the  po})ulatiou  of  the 
new  Indiana  would  not  liave  reached  its  [)resent  high  state  of  development.  Germany  has 
furnislied  her  full  (juota  (jf  vigorous,  energetic  men,  but  she  has  contributed  none  more 
wortliy  of  mention  than  Charles  F.  Hartmann,  who  is  a resident  of  Marion  County  and  one 
of  its  most  substantial  citizens.  He  was  born  December  89,  1825,  in  the  village  of  Frille, 
in  I’ritssia,  Minden,  on  the  Weser  River,  one  of  the  largest  navigable  rivers  in  Gejinauv, 
and  was  the  son  of  Charles  and  Louisa  ( Faulkaning)  Hartmann,  bolh  natives  of  the  old 
country.  'I'he  father  was  a farmer  and  considered  a wealthy  one,  for  he  (jwned  I (15  acres  of 


80S 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOIAS 


land.  The  grandfather,  Johannas  Conrad,  was  also  a lineal  descendant  of  e-states  of  the 
family  of  Hartmann.  The  father  of  onr  subject  was  an  only  son  and  had  but  one  sister, 
Christina,  who  married  Frederick  Faulkaning.  She  and  her  husband  settled  in  Prussia, 
Minden,  and  became  the  owners  of  128  acres  on  the  river.  On  this  land  to-day  stands  the 
railroad  depot  of  the  place.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Faulkaning  became  the  parents  of  two  children; 
one  son  inherited  the  old  place,  but  died  after  becoming  heir  to  his  property.  The  other 
son,  Charles  Faulkaning,  now  resides  near  Five  Points,  on  the  Michigan  road,  in  Warren 
Township,  this  county.  The  mother  of  our  subject  was  the  daughter  of  Frederick  Faulka- 
ning, who  was  a member  of  an  old,  aristocratic  and  wealthy  family  of  the  German  empire. 
After  marriage  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hartmann  l)egan  farming  in  the  old  country  and  Mr.  Hart- 
mann became  one  of  the  wealthiest  men  in  his  section.  He  was  a soldier  in  Bonaparte’s 
army,  and  although  their  was  a law  in  the  old  country  that  a widow  can  have  one  son  exempt 
from  the  army,  he  was  obliged  to  go,  and  in  going  distinguished  himself.  This  was  during 
the  reign  of  William  HI.  To  his  marriage  were  born  six  children,  two  of  whom  died 
in  childhood.  Christina,  the  first  born,  married  Herman  Fahring,  by  whom  she  had  nine 
children.  Her  death  occurred  in  her  native  country  in  1887.  Three  of  her  children  are  in 
America  and  two  in  Germany.  The  remainder  are  deceased.  The  remainder  of  the  children 
born  to  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hartmann  are  deceased,  except  our  subject  and  Louisa,  who  married 
John  Fishback  arid  resides  in  Terre  Haute,  Ind.  The  mother  of  these  children  died  in  the 
old  country  in  1880.  She  was  a worthy  and  consistent  member  of  the  Lutheran  Evangelical 
Church  and  her  husband  held  membership  in  the  same.  After  his  wife’s  death  Mr.  Hart- 
mann sold  his  possessions,  came  to  America,  and  subsequently  married  Miss  Louisa  Stein - 
inner,  also  a native  of  Prussia,  who  bore  him  three  children:  Antony,  Henry  and  Mary. 
The  last  two  are  deceased  and  Antony  resides  in  Warren  Township,  this  county,  where  he 
is  engaged  as  a carpenter.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  attended  school  in  Germany  until 
twelve  years  of  age,  having  six  years  of  schooling  and  only  two  studies — Latin  and  German. 
After  coming  to  America  he  received  only  four  months  schooling  and  his  first  teacher  was 
Elias  N.  Shimer.  He  remained  at  home  with  his  father  until  the  latter’s  death  and  assisted 
in  clearing  the  farm  of  eighty  acres,  then  an  unbroken  wilderness,  except  a few  acres,  upon 
which  stood  a log  cabin.  This  was  the  only  improvement  and  the  father  paid  $2,200  for 
the  farm,  including  four  head  of  hor.ses,  four  head  of  cattle,  eight  hogs  and  the  household 
furniture.  The  money  was  paid  in  gold.  At  that  time  deer,  bear  and  wolves  were  plenti- 
ful and  Indians,  although  numerous,  were  friendly.  Our  subject  delighted  in  hunting  and 
often  killed  from  fifteen  to  twenty  scpiirrels  an  hour.  When  fourteen  years  of  age  young 
Hartmann  commenced  drawing  grain  to  Cincinnati  and  other  large  cities,  also  heavy  grocer- 
ies for  the  merchants,  receiving  $1  per  hundred  pounds.  He  made  a trip  once  a vveek. 
On  November  25,  1818,  he  married  Miss  Katrina  Henrietta  lluschhaupt,  who  was  born  in 
Germany  March  25,  1829.  Her  parents  came  from  Burgholtzhauser,  Germany,  and  first 
settled  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  but  later  settled  in  Hancock  County,  where  they  passed  the 
remainder  of  their  days.  Five  children  were  born  to  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hartmann,  all  of  whom 
grew  to  manhood  and  womanhood:  Katrina  Marie,  born  September  19,  1849;  Louisa 
Charlotte,  born  November  2,  1851;  William  C.,  born  November  18,  1853;  August  William, 
born  November  29,  1855,  and  Charles  F.,  born  November  15,  1858.  Katrina  Marie  married 
Frederick  Bremer  and  now  resides  on  the  Michigan  road;  Charlotte  died  May  19,  1885; 
Charles  F.,  died  July  20,  1884  (he  was  educated  and  had  started  studying  law);  William  C. 
married  Miss  Frances  Hubert,  an  atuiable  young  lady,  who  was  born  and  reared  in  Warren 
Township,  this  county  (they  have  had  two  children;  one  died  in  infancy;  the  other  child, 
Charles  F.,  was  named  after  his  Grandfather  Hartmann);  August  E.  married  Miss  Alice 
Thompson  and  has  one  child,  Clara,  a bright  little  girl  of  seven  years  (the  mother  of  this 
child  died  in  August,  1892);  Mrs.  Hartmann,  wife  of  our  subject,  died  November  25,  1858, 
leaving  an  infant  son,  ten  days  old.  This  son  grew  to  mature  years  and  died  of  lung  dis- 
ease at  the  age  of  twenty-seven.  Mr.  Hartmann’s  second  marriage  was  with  Mrs.  Louise 
Katherine  Ruschhaupt,  a widowed  sister  of  his  first  wife,  and  their  nuptials  were  celebrated 
June  7,  1860.  One  son  has  been  born  to  this  union,  Albert  E.,  whose  birth  occurred 
November  10,  1865.  He  died  at  the  age  of  three  months  and  seven  days.  Mrs.  Hartmann 
had  four  children  by  her  former  marriage:  Mary,  Louise,  Eda  and  William.  Mary  mar- 


309 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

riecl  a Mr.  Hunter  and  died  leaving  an  infant.  Mrs.  Hartmann  has  been  an  invalid  for 
thirty-two  years.  She  is  quite  accomplished  and  a tine  singer.  Mr.  Hartmann  cleared  up  a 
farm  of  100  acres  and  gave  his  son  William  forty  acres.  He  is  a Democrat  of  the  solid 
kind,  is  public  spirited  and  progressive  and  although  he  has  been  offered  many  local  posi- 
tions he  has  seen  fit  to  refuse  all.  Socially  he  is  an  Odd  Fellow,  a charter  member  of  Ger- 
mania Lodge,  No.  129,  of  Indianapolis.  He  has  always  been  in  good  standing  and  would 
never  receive  benefit.  He  is  also  a member  of  Germania  Encampment  and  a member  of 
the  Zion  Church,  as  are  all  his  children.  He  has  erected  his  own  buildings  and  was  his 
own  architect,  being  a natural  mechanic.  His  barn  cost  |4,000  and  he  has  $1,500  bushels 
of  grain  in  it.  For  many  years  he  acted  as  interpreter  for  the  courts,  also  acted  as  guide  in 
locating  land  for  settlers  when  he  came  in  after  his  father’s  death.  In  1867  he  was  the 
originator  of  the  Germania  Mutual  Fire  Insurance  Company.  Mr.  Hartmann  is  one  of  those 
strictly  honorable  and  upright  German  citizens  for  which  IMarion  County  has  become  so 
well  known,  and  possesses  all  the  characteristics  for  which  those  of  his  nationality  have 
become  well  known — unbounded  energy,  sterling  honesty  and  much  ])ublic  spirit. 

Conrad  Baker  was  born  in  Franklin  County,  Penn.,  February  12,  1817.  He  was  edu- 
cated at  Pennsylvania  College,  at  Gettysburg,  and  afterward  studied  law  in  the  office  of 
Stevens  & Smyser,  of  that  city,  his  preceptors  Ijeing  the  late  Thaddeus  Stevens  and  Judge 
Daniel  M.  Smyser.  He  was  admitted  to  the  bar  in  the  spring  of  1839,  at  Gettysburg,  and 
practiced  law  at  that  place  for  two  years.  He  emigrated  west,  and  settled  at  Evansville  in 
1841,  and  resided  there  until,  having  been  elected  lieutenant-governor,  the  office  of  governor 
devolved  upon  him  by  the  election  of  Gov.  Morton  to  the  United  States  Senate  in  Janu- 
ary, 1867,  since  which  time  he  resided  at  Indianapolis.  In  1845  he  was  elected  to  represent 
Vanderburg  County  in  the  general  assembly,  and  served  one  term.  In  1852  he  was  elected 
judge  of  the  court  of  common  pleas  for  the  district  comprising  the  countries  of  Warrick  and 
Vanderburg,  and  served  about  eighteen  months,  when  he  resigned.  In  1856  he  was  nomi- 
nated for  lieutenant-governor  by  the  Republican  party,  without  his  knowledge  and  without 
having  sought  the  nomination,  on  the  ticket  with  Oliver  P.  Morton  as  a candidate  for  gov- 
ernor, and  they  were  defeaterl.  In  1861  Mr.  Baker  was  commissioned  colonel  of  the  First 
Cavalry,  Twenty-eighth  Regiment  of  Indiana  Volunteers,  and  served  as  such  for  over  three 
years.  From  August,  1861,  to  April,  1863,  he  commanded  either  his  own  regiment  or  a 
brigade  in  the  field  in  Missouri,  Arkansas  and  Mississif)])!.  In  April,  1863,  an  order  fiom 
the  secretary  of  war  reached  him  by  telegraph  at  Helena,  Ark.,  recjuiring  him  to  pro- 
ceed forthwith  to  Indianai)oliR,  Ind.,  and  report  to  the  provost-marshal-general.  He  obeyed 
the  instructions,  and,  on  his  arrival  at  Indiana|)Olis,  he  received  an  order  detailing  him  to  act 
as  as.sistant-provost marshal-general  for  the  State  of  Indiana,  and  as  such  to  organize  the 
|)rovost-marshal  general’s  bureau  in  Indiana.  He  performed  the  duties  of  provost -marshal - 
general,  superintendent  of  volunteer  reciuiting.  and  chief  mustering  officer  until  August, 
1864,  when,  his  term  of  military  service  having  expired,  he  was  relieved  at  his  own  request, 
and  a few  weeks  afterward  was  mustered  out  of  service  with  his  regiment.  The  Republican 
convention  which  met  in  1864  nominated  Gov.  Morton  for  re-election,  and  juesented 
Gen.  Nathan  Kimball,  who  was  in  the  field  for  the  ofiice  of  lieutenant-governor.  Gen.  Kim- 
ball declined  the  nomination,  and  thereupon  the  Republican  State  committee,  without  Mr. 
Paker  being  a candidate  or  applicant  for  the  position,  unanimously  tendered  him  the  nomi- 
nation for  lieutenant-governor.  In  1865  Gov.  Morton  convened  the  general  assembly  in 
special  session,  and  immediately  after  the  delivery  of  his  message  started  for  Europe  in  (juest 
of  health,  leaving  the  lieutenant-governor  in  charge  of  the  administration  of  the  executive 
de|)artment  of  the  State,  (tov.  Morton  was  absent  for  five  months,  during  which  time  the 
duties  of  the  executive  office  were  performed  bv  IJeut  (lov.  Baker.  In  February, 
1867,  Gov.  Morton  was  elected  to  the  Senate  of  the  I’nited  States,  and  the  duties  of  gover- 
nor again  devolved  upon  Gov.  Baker.  He  was  unanimously  nominated  by  the  Re])ublican 
convention  of  1868  for  governor  and  was  elected  over  the  Hon.  Thomas  A.  Hendricks  by  a 
majority  of  tt61  votes.  He  retired  from  the  executive  chair  in  1873  and  at  once  lesunu'd  the 
practice  of  law,  becoming  a member  of  the  firm  of  J3akei',  Hord  A Heiidiicks,  of  which  firm 
he  was  a member  at  the  time  of  his  death.  In  the  meimjrial  ado])ted  by  his  associates  of  the 
Indiana  bar,  the  charactei'  of  Gov.  Baker  is  discussed  in  the  following  language;  “ 'I’lie 


310 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


death  of  Gov.  Baker  deprives  Indiana  of  one  of  its  worthiest  and  most  eminent  citizens.  On 
its  dead-roll  of  soldiers  and  civilians  there  is  not  any  name  that  occupies  a more  honorable  or 
conspicnons  jilace  than  his.  Its  history  would  he  grossly  incomplete  without  any  mention 
of  his  life  and  public  services.  His  name  is  written  in  the  records  of  its  courts  as  a lawyer 
and  as  a judge;  it  is  on  the  journals  of  its  Legislature;  it  may  be  found  among  the  archives 
of  its  executive  department,  and  it  has  an  imj)ortant  place  in  its  military  annals.  Wherever 
it  aj)pears  the  State  has  reason  to  be  proud  of  a name  that  was  never  stained  by  a single  vice 
or  sullied  by  one  dishonorable  act;  whose  owner  always  and  everywhere  wore  upon  his  breast 
the  white  flower  of  a blameless  life.  The  fierce  light  which  beats  upon  every  candidate  for 
political  distinction  disclosed  no  sj)ot  upon  his  character;  slander  was  disarmed  by  his  purity 
and  detraction  was  stricken  dumb.  Mortuary  literature  abounds  in  benevolent  falsification, 
but  it  can  be  guilty  of  none  in  its  unstinted  {)raise  of  him.  The  most  sensitive  conscience  is 
not  strained  in  the  commemoration  of  his  virtues  or  by  the  concealment  of  any  shortcomings. 
It  would  be  impossible  to  overrate  him,  for  the  highest  eulogy  is  the  simple  truth.  In  every 
act  and  relation  of  his  long  and  useful  life  the  simplicity  and  goodness  of  his  nature  were 
manifested,  as  they  were  revealed  in  every  lineament  of  his  singularly  benignant  features. 
As  a lawyer  he  was  conscientious,  painstaking  and  industrious,  a safe  and  judicious  counselor, 
faithful  to  the  interests  of  his  clients,  and  regardful  of  his  own  duties  to  the  court.  He  had 
the  implicit  contidence  of  the  courts,  because  they  knew  he  would  not  consciously  mislead 
them,  or  suffer  them  to  be  misled.  His  forensic  triumphs  were  due  to  the  sincerity  and 
earnestness,  the  skill  and  jr;dgment  with  which  he  advocated  and  managed  a cause,  instead 
of  the  arts  and  devices  of  the  orator,  for  which  he  indulged  a (piiet  and  humorous  contempt. 
The  l)ar  of  Indiana  may  have  had  more  brilliant  members,  but  it  never  had  one  more  justly 
distinguished  for  the  depth  and  accuracy  of  his  professional  learning.  His  brief  period  of 
service  on  the  bench  was  long  enough  to  demonstrate  his  peculiar  fitness  for  the  discharge  of 
judicial  functions,  and  to  afford  an  unmistakable  earnest  of  subsecjuent  distinction  as  a judge 
had  he  chosen  to  continue  as  one.  Indiana  has  never  had  a wiser  or  better  administration  of 
its  affairs  than  while  he  was  its  governor.  He  gave  to  the  administration  of  them  a dignity 
and  elevation  of  character  which  had  its  source  in  himself.  In  the  field  and  at  the  head  of 
his  regiment  he  displayed  a tranquil  courage  and  a calm  fortitude  Avhich  never  deserted  him 
under  any  of  the  vicissitudes  of  war.  A striking  illustration  of  these  qualities  is  afforded  by 
an  act  of  his  wliile  he  was  provost-marshal  general  at  Indianapolis.  An  unruly  and  bellig- 
erent mob  of  soldiers  was  threatening  with  destruction  the  office  of  a newspaper  which  had 
incurred  their  hostility.  He  went  among  them  alone  and  at  great  personal  risk,  and  stopped 
the  assault  as  soon  as  it  began.  It  was  at  a time  when  the  Union  sentiment  was  intense  and 
proscriptive,  and  his  interference  in  l)ehalf  of  a newspaj^er  that  had  become  the  object  of  its 
passionate  fury  was  simply  heroic.  His  sense  of  justice  could  not  be  subjugated  by  popular 
clamor,  and  it  was  broad  enough  to  include  those  who  were  regarded  by  his  associates  and 
comrades  as  the  enemies  of  his  country.  The  patriotism  which  made  him  a soldier  actuated 
him  as  a citizen,  and  it  never  degenerated  into  mere  partisanship.  In  his  social  and  domes- 
tic life  the  virtues  which  marked  his  professional  and  public  career  had  their  counterpart. 
The  ‘ honor,  love,  obedience  and  troops  of  friends  ’ which,  according  to  the  poet,  ‘should 
accompany  old  age,’  have  followed  him  to  the  edge  of  the  grave,  and  attest  the  universal  and 
heartfelt  esteem  in  which  he  was  held.  He  has  left  a fragrant  memory  and  the  precious 
legacy  of  a good  example  which,  through  many  years  that  are  yet  unborn,  will  stimulate  and 
encourage  the  virtuous  efforts  of  those  who  have  known  and  survived  him.  What  Anthony 
said  of  the  dead  Brutus  is  ap]ilicable  to  Conrad  Baker;  “ His  life  was  gentle;  and  the  ele- 
ments so  mixed  in  him  that  Nature  might  staml  up  and  say  to  all  the  world,  ‘This  was  a 
man.’  ” 

Ai.beut  Baker.  Among  the  well-known  lawyers  of  Indianapolis  is  Albert  Baker,  a man 
of  uu([U0stioned  integrity,  and  competent  in  his  profession.  To  a thorough  knowledge  of 
the  legal  science  he  joins  the  general  culture  derived  from  a varied  and  extended  course  of 
reading.  Skillful  in  the  [presentation  of  the  most  involved  or  intricate  facts,  fiprcible  in  his 
m l iner  of  dealing  with  difficult  and  entangling  subjects,  accurate  in  his  perceptions  of 
the  true  lieiriug  of  a case,  he  takes  an  enviable  position  among  the  more  prominent  practi- 
tioii9''.s  of  Indianapolis.  He  is  a native  of  Evansville,  Ind.,  born  November  22,  1851,  where 


311 


A\D  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

he  made  his  home  until  February,  1867,  attending  the  public  schools  of  that  city.  He  then 
came  with  his  parents  to  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  and  prepared  for  college  at  the  City  Academy, 
going  from  that  institution  in  November,  1868,  to  Wabash  College,  where  he  graduated  in 
1874.  Daring  that  period  he  spent  one  year  in  Kansas  upon  a ranch.  Leaving  college  he‘ 
became  a law  student  with  Baker,  Hord  & Hendricks,  of  Indianajiolis,  and  was  admitted  to 
the  bar  in  1876,  and  in  1881  entered  into  partnership  with  Edward  Daniels.  Afterward  in 
January,  1883,  his  tirm  was  merged  into  the  him  of  Hord,  Baker  & Hendricks.  Mr.  Baker 
holds  membership  in  the  Presbyterian  Church  and  is  an  honored,  upright  and  useful  citizen. 
He  selected  his  wife  in  the  person  of  Miss  Anna  S.  Campbell,  daughter  of  Prof.  John  L. 
Campbell,  of  Wabash  College,  Crawfordsville,  Ind.,  and  their  nuptials  were  celebrated  Octo- 
ber 19,  1876.  Four  interesting  children  have  been  born  to  them:  Ellen  S.,  Conrad  C.,  Ger- 
trude J.  and  Rosemary,  the  three  daughters  being  still  living.  Prof.  Campbell  was  the  origi- 
nator and  secretary  of  the  Centennial  celebration. 

Dk.  Rich.\rd  French  Stone.  He  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  was  born  near  Sharps- 
biirg,  Bath  County,  Ky.,  April  1,  1844,  and  is  of  English,  Scotch  and  Irish  lineage.  His 
mother,  whose  maiden  name  was  Sally  Lane,  is  still  living  at  about  the  age  of  eighty 
years,  and  retains  to  a remarkable  degree  her  intellectual  vigor  and  rare  conversational 
powers.  She  was  the  younge.st  daughter  of  Col.  James  H.  Lane  and  a sister  of  the  late 
Hon.  Henry  S.  Lane,  United  States  senator  and  first  Republican  governor  of  Indiana,  and 
a man  conspicuous  in  the  affairs  of  his  country.  On  his  father's  side  Dr.  Stone  is  descended 
in  the  fourth  generation  from  Josiah  Stone,  a native  of  England,  who  in  the  early  part  of 
the  last  century  came  to  America  as  a cabin  boy,  and  was  left  in  Prince  William  County,  Va. , 
while  the  captain  of  the  vessel  made  another  voyage,  but  the  ship  was  lost  at  sea  and  all 
on  board  peri.shed,  thus  Josiah  was  left  alone  in  the  world  when  a mere  lad.  He  was 
apprenticed  to  a Mrs.  Magaw,  who  reared  him  to  manhood  and  bequeathed  to  him  a 
considerable  fortune.  He  married  a Miss  Coleman,  who  bore  him  three  sons  and  four  daugh- 
ters, but  this  family  afterward  became  scattered,  some  continuing  their  residence  in  Vir- 
ginia, others  moving  to  Kentucky,  Mississippi,  Missouri  and  Texas,  and  distinguishing 
themselves  in  nearly  every  avocation  of  life.  Valentine  Stone,  the  third  son,  was  a soldier 
of  the  Revolution,  was  married  twice  and  became  the  father  of  five  sons  and  live  daughters. 
His  second  wife  was  the  daughter  of  William  French,  of  Virginia,  the  grandfather  of 
Judge  Richard  French,  the  famous  orator  of  Kentucky,  for  whom  the  subject  of  this  sketch 
was  named.  Valentine  Stone  was  noted  for  his  strength,  being  broad  shouldered  and 
muscular,  and  many  anecdotes  are  told  of  his  j)hysical  jirowess  in  old  Virginia.  In  1790 
he  removed  to  Boonsboro,  Ky. , and  became  an  a.ssociate  of  Daniel  Boone.  He  accpiired  the 
title  for  ‘2,<t0O  acres  of  land  lying  on  Bald  Eagle  Creek,  which  is  to-day  perhaps  as  rich  a 
body  of  land  as  can  be  found  within  the  bordei'S  of  Kentucky.  His  patent  was  signed 
witli  the  name  of  Patrick  Ifenry,  governor  of  Virginia.  He  settled  on  this  land  in  1799, 
when  bis  son  Samuel  was  but  two  years  old.  The  latter  received  such  education  as  was  to 
l)e  had  in  his  youth,  and  early  l)ecame  interested  in  political  affaiis,  being  frequently  elected 
to  office  by  the  Democrat  party,  serving  many  terms  as  representative  in  the  Legislature, 
his  first  election  taking  place  in  1824.  He  was  also  connected  with  the  State  IMilitia  for 
about  thirty  years,  and  was  jn’ornoted  from  an  ensign  to  the  rank  of  brigadier-general.  He 
possessed  a fine  physi<jue,  like  his  ])rogenitor.  had  a line,  courteous  and  soldierly  bearing, 
and  in  his  political  speeches  was  able,  convincing  and  inijiressive.  He  was  a man  of  gen- 
erous impulses  and  sympathetic  nature,  enjoyed  a good  story,  and  was,  himself,  an  excellent 
rticonleiir.  He  was  a prominent  slave  holder,  his  slaves  wei’e  well  cared  for.  and  he  main 
taincd  that  he  had  a moral  and  constitutional  right  to  own  them,  but  he  believed  that  his 
sons  would  l)e  more  likely  to  accjuire  habits  of  industry  and  self  reliance  in  an  anti-slaverw 
State,  and  for  that  reason  he  removed  to  Putnam  Gounty,  Ind.,  in  1851,  where  he  lived 
the  retired  life  of  the  farmer  until  the  ojiening  of  the  Givil  War.  As  many  of  his  relatives 
in  the  South,  among  them  Gen.  John  B.  Hood,  had  eidisted  in  the  cause  of  sect'ssion,  he 
was  a strong  Southern  sympathizer  and  often  engaged  in  heated  discussions  with  his  neigh- 
bors of  opposite  views.  .Mthough  he  was  himself  too  old  to  engage  in  active  service*,  three 
of  his  six  sons  entered  the  service  of  the  Union  army,  one  leeing  the  late  IVfaj.  Valentine  H. 
Stone,  of  the  Fifth  United  States  .Vrtillery,  who  was  twice  promoted  l)y  the  persona!  recom 


312 


MEMOIMS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


nieudcitioii  of  (leu.  Grant,  for  gallant  conduct  in  the  field,  and  who  had  the  immediate 
charge  of  Jefferson  Davis  while  a prisoner  of  war  at  Fortress  IMouroe.  He  died  of  yellow 
fever  during  the  epidemic  of  18f)7,  at  Fort  Jefferson,  Dry  Tortugas.  Anotlier  son,  Hon. 
H.  L.  Stone,  a prominent  lawyer  of  Louisville,  Ky.,  served  in  the  Confederate  army,  and 
was  witli  Gen.  Morgan  on  his  famous  raid.  The  father  died  near  Bainbridge  Ind. , January 
1 1,  1873,  and  was  buried  with  Masonic  honors,  having  been  a member  of  that  order  for  more 
than  fifty  years.  Dr.  li.  French  Stone  was  eight  years  of  age  at  the  time  of  his  parents’ 
removal  to  Indiana,  and  his  early  days  were  8))ent  in  attending  the  common  schools  and 
Bainbridge  Academy  and  laboring  on  the  farm.  He  supplemented  his  education  by  home 
study  and  instruction  under  private  teachers,  and  thus  acquired  some  knowledge  of  the 
languages  and  sciences.  He  selected  the  “healing  art’’  as  his  future  calling  in  life,  and  in 
order  to  defray  the  expenses  of  a medical  education  he  began  teaching  school,  and  although 
the  district  in  which  he  began  his  i)edagogic  labors  was  said  to  be  one  of  the  worst  and 
most  refractory  in  the  county,  he  met  the  unruly  leaders  with  their  own  weapons,  and  was 
soon  the  perfect  master  of  the  situation,  although  he  was  at  that  time  but  sixteen  years  of 
age.  Four  years  were  devoted  to  this  ))ursuit  and  the  study  of  medicine,  under  the  instruc- 
tion of  Dr.  J.  B.  Cross,  and  in  1863  he  entered  Rush  Medical  College,  and  while  there 
made  several  efforts  to  call  upon  his  brother,  who  was  a Confederate  jiri.soner  in  Camp 
Douglas,  but  was  unsuccessful,  and  this  news  coming  to  the  ears  of  his  brother,  the  latter 
scaled  the  })rison  walls  one  dark  night  and  made  the  call  on  his  own  account.  He  disguised 
himself,  went  to  the  medical  college  and  made  himself  known  to  his  brother.  They  went 
to  a hotel,  took  a meal  together,  viewed  the  city  throughout  the  day,  and  then  bade  each 
other  an  affectionate  farewell  and  met  no  more  until  the  war  was  over.  During  the  follow- 
ing s{)ring  Dr.  Stone  tendered  his  services  to  the  United  States  Government,  and  after 
being  examined  was  appointed  a medical  cadet  in  the  United  States  army.  In  May,  1864, 
he  was  assigned  duty  at  the  United  States  General  hospital,  at  Madison,  Ind. , and  was 
afterward  assigned  to  one  of  the  large  military  hospitals  at  Philadelphia,  and  while  there 
attended  the  University  of  Pennsylvania  and  received  the  degree  of  M.  D.  during  the  one- 
hundredth  anniversary  of  the  foundation  of  that  institution,  at  which  time  he  was  not  quite 
twenty-one  years  of  age,  being  the  youngest  in  a class  of  117  graduates.  He  was  later 
appointed  acting  assistant  surgeon  in  the  United  States  army,  and  when  an  appeal  came 
from  Key  West,  Fla.,  for  meJical  aid  during  the  yellow  fever  epidemic  among  the  Union 
soldiers  stationed  there.  Dr.  Stone,  though  entirely  unacclimated,  l)ravely  offered  his  serv- 
ices and  faced  the  ])estilence  on  that  panic-stricken  island.  He  had  a serious  attack  of  that 
malady,  but  remained  tliere  until  the  epidemic  had  sul)sided,  after  which  lie  was  ordered  to 
Gedar  Keys,  near  the  mouth  of  Suwanee  River,  Florida,  and  was  later  [ilaced  in  charge  of 
the  First  and  Second  Florida  Cavalry,  being  the  youngest  man  in  the  medical  department 
to  hold  positions  of  such  responsibility.  He  afterward  had  charge  of  the  post  hospital  at 
Monticello,  Fia.,  and  remained  witli  the  Department  of  the  Gulf  until  1866.  At  his  own 
request  he  was  released  from  duty,  and  in  1867  established  himself  at  New  Albany,  Ind., 
but  shortly  after  removed  to  the  village  in  which  his  childhood  had  been  passed  and  there 
spent  two  years.  He  then  resided  in  Bainbridge  until  1880,  then  came  to  Indianapolis, 
and  upon  the  establishment  of  the  Central  College  of  Physicians  atid  Hurgeons  he  was 
made  professor  of  materia  medica,  theraj^eutics  and  clinical  medicine.  This  chair  he  held 
until  1886,  in  which  jiosition  he  won  eminent  distinction.  His  didactic  lectures  were  noted 
for  their  clear,  concise  and  practical  character.  Many  years’  experience  in  the  general  prac- 
tice of  his  profession  had  not  only  made  him  familiar  with  disease  in  its  varied  forms,  but 
gave  him  a just  conception  of  the  powers  of  nature,  an  abiding  faith  in  the  resources  of 
medical  art,  and  a well-defined  knowledge  of  the  uses,  effects  and  capabilities  of  remedies 
HUggested  for  its  cure.  He  was  thus  enabled  to  reject  as  useless  that  which  was  speculative 
in  thera])eutics,  as  well  as  to  speak  with  authority  of  all  that  was  valuable  in  that  de])art- 
ment  t)f  medical  science.  Having  been  a close  and  almost  constant  student  of  medical 
literature  for  many  years,  having  also  studied  disease  in  the  great  book  of  Nature,  at  the 
bedside  in  private  practice,  and  in  the  wards  iti  civil  and  military  hospitals  in  various  parts 
of  the  ITnited  States,  from  the  ^Mississippi  Valley  to  the  Atlantic  seaboard,  and  from  the 
northern  lakes  to  the  inter  tropical  regions,  there  was  no  lack  of  material  to  illustrate  the 


313 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

subject-matter  of  his  clinical  teaching.  These  circumstances  enabled  him  to  form  opinions 
of  his  own,  and  these  opinions  he  did  not  hesitate  to  express  throughout  his  lectures  with 
reference  to  many  controversial  points  of  pathological  and  therapeirtical  importance.  He 
recognized  the  fact  that  to  be  a skillfirl  physician  involves  not  only  a thorough  understand 
ing  of  diseases,  but  the  application  of  the  right  remedies  at  the  right  time  and  in  the  right 
manner.  Therefore  the  typical  features  of  a given  malady,  its  pathological  history  and 
phenomena,  its  diagnosis — general  and  differential,  as  well  as  indications  for  treatment, 
were  presented  with  such  accuracy  and  force  that  the  student  saw  before  him  all  that  was 
distinctive  and  important  in  the  case,  while  the  j)rinciple8  of  treatment  were  expressed 
before  his  classes  with  a clearness  and  precision  that  warranted  its  intelligent  management 
in  the  future.  Since  1882  he  has  been  a member  of  the  consulting  and  clinical  staff  of 
the  Indianaj)olis  City  Hospital  and  City  Dispensary,  and  has  been  for  years  a member  of 
the  iledical  Board  of  Examiners  of  jrhysicians  aspiring  to  positions  in  these  institutions. 
In  1883  he  was  appointed  visiting  physician  to  the  Indiana  Institute  for  the  Blind,  and  held 
that  position  seven  years.  In  1885  he  was  appointed  Enited  States  examining  surgeon  of 
the  Pension  Bureau  at  Indianapolis,  and  in  1881)  was  re  appointed  to  the  same  position  by 
President  Harrison.  He  is  a member  of  the  G.  A.  R.,  and  for  several  years  has  been 
surgeon  of  Maj.  Robert  Andeison  Post.  He  was  formerly  visiting  physician  to  the  Marion 
Countv  Asylum,  has  been  medical  examiner  for  several  life  and  accident  insurance  compa- 
nies, and  is  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  the  Indiana  State  Medical 
Society  and  the  American  Medical  Association.  March  23,  1893.  he  was  apjiointtd  by  Cov. 
Claude  Matthews  a member  of  his  staff,  with  a commission  and  rank  of  colonel,  and  was 
made  surgeon-general  of  the  military  forces  of  Indiana,  a position  he  now  holds.  He  has 
contributed  many  valuable  articles  to  medical  liteiature  and  is  the  author  of  the  well  known 
reference  book,  •‘Elements  of  Modern  Medicine,”  which  work  includes  the  ])rinciples  of 
pathology  and  therapeutics,  and  has  met  with  an  extensive  sale.  He  has  now  in  ])reparation 
a new  publication,  entitled  “Biography  of  Eminent  American  Physicians  and  Suigeons,” 
which  is  being  published  at  Indianapolis  and  which  will  without  doubt  prove  a literary  ven- 
ture of  extraordinary  merit  and  success.  It  may  be  said  that  the  professional  career  of  Dr. 
Stone  has  been  that  of  an  all-round  practitioner.  He  has  performed  many  important  surgical 
operations  in  a skillful  manner,  and  as  an  obstetrician  he  has  the  remarkable  record  of 
never  having  lost  a mother  in  all  the  many  hundreds  of  cases  of  childbirth  that  he  has 
attended,  including  nearly  every  variety  of  complications  and  instrumental  deliveries.  At 
the  present  time  he  gives  much  of  his  attention  to  gastro  intestinal  and  rectal  diseases  and 
consultation  practice.  Although  a Democratic  adherent  he  is  not  a partisan  in  any  sense  of 
the  term,  and  has  never  aspired  to  any  office,  j)ersistently  refusing  to  hold  any  ])osition  not 
in  the  line  of  his  chosen  pro^ssion.  November  24,  1869,  he  married  iMatilda  C.  Long, 
daughter  of  the  late  Dr.  William  Long,  a noted  pioneer  |)hysician  of  IMaysville,  Ind.,  and 
one  living  child  is  the  result  of  this  union,  Donald  L.  Stone,  born  October  H),  188(5,  a prom- 
ising and  handsome  lad  who  is  now  in  school. 

(te.\.  AiiEi,  D.  Streiuht  (deceased).  'I’he  sketch  here  given  is  a tribute  paid  to  the 
memory  of  a man  whose  noble  and  honorable  life  was  an  example  to  all,  and  although  marked 
by  hard  and  undeviating  labor,  demonstrated  sterling  qualities  that  characterized  his  career, 
f'or  many  years  his  name  was  inseparably  linked  with  the  progress  and  develojunent  of 
Marion  County,  Ind.,  whose  annals  bear  testimony  to  the  integrity  of  his  character  and  the 
brightness  of  his  intellect.  He  was  born  in  Wheeler,  Steuben  County.  N.Y.,  June  17, 
1828,  and  his  boyhood  and  youth  were  passed  upon  a farm,  where  he  had  before  him  exam 
pies  of  industry  and  [lerseverance.  Like  the  average  country  boy  he  had  the  advantages  of 
a c jrnmou-school  education  and  at  the  age  of  soventemi  he  imrchased  from  his  father  his 
time  until  twenty-one,  paying  860  jier  year  for  the  same.  Having  a taste  for  mechanics  he 
rea<lily  learned  the  carpenter’s  trade  without  instruction,  and  before  attaining  his  nineteenth 
year  he  had  taken  the  contract  for  the  erection  of  a large  mill,  which  he  successfully  com 
pleted.  ,\t  this  early  period  he  also  owned  a sawmill,  accpiired  by  his  own  labor,  and  he 
then  engaged  in  the  lumber  business  at  Wheelei',  N.  Y..  where  he  remained  until  he  moved 
to  (hncinuati.  Ohio,  in  1858.  'I’he  following  ytair  found  him  a resident  of  Imlianapolis, 
where  he  became  a publisher,  continuing  this  business  until  the  begiiuung  of  the  Rebellion. 


814 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


It  was  at  tljis  crisis  that  the  patriotism,  earnestness  and  indomitable  purpose  of  Gen.  Streight 
was  luoiight  into  prominent  notice  and  marked  him  as  a man  of  foresight,  possessing  all  the 
(jualit.ies  of  a successful  leader.  Idealizing  the  importance  of  prompt  and  energetic  meas- 
ures for  the  |)reservatioii  of  the  Union,  he  published  an  exhaustive  pamphlet  in  which  he 
clearly  embodied  the  cause  of  the  Nation’s  calamity  and  indicated  the  measures  necessary 
to  insure  the  supremacy  of  the  law,  the  integrity  of  the  constitution  and  the  necessity  for  the 
preservation  of  the  Union.  He  believed  compromise  with  the  enemies  of  the  Government 
to  be  a mistake  and  advocated  forcible  means,  if  necessary,  to  com])el  obedience  to  the  laws. 
He  ])roved  conclusively  the  fallacy  of  a tem{)orary  pacification  policy,  and  by  voluminous 
(juotations  from  letters  written  from  the  foundeis  of  the  Government,  demonstrated,  it  to  be 
a Government  of  (he  people  collectively  and  not  of  the  States.  In  defense  of  the  Union, 
whose  integrity  he  so  earnestly  defended  with  his  pen,  he  entered  the  service  on  September 
1.  1S()1,  as  colonel  of  the  Uifty-first  Indiana  Infantry,  and  rendered  effective  service  until 
IMarch  18,  ISnr),  when  he  retired  with  the  l)revet  rank  of  brigadier  general,  having  partici- 
])ated  in  the  battles,  Shiloh,  Perryville,  Stone  Iliver,  Day’s  Gap,  Crooked  Creek,  Blount’s 
Farm,  engagements  with  AVheeler's  Cavalry  at  Dalton  and  Shoal  Creek,  near  Florence,  Ala., 
in  which  he  commanded  five  brigades;  Columbia,  Franklin,  Nashville,  and  again  at  Colum- 
bia, in  which  he  forced  the  juissage  of  Duck  Iliver.  On  May  8,  1808,  he  was  taken  prisoner 
and  confined  in  Libby  Prison,  Richmond,  Va.,  until  February  9,  1804,  when,  with  108  of 
his  fellow  prisoners,  he  escaped  by  a tunnel  excavated  from  the  prison  walls  to  the  street.  In 
this  connection,  and  as  a matter  of  history,  it  is  well  to  state  that  Gen.  Streight  planned  the 
tunnel  under  the  walls  of  the  notorious  Libby  Prison,  through  which  he  and  his  companions 
crawled  to  lil)erty,  notwithstanding  some  other  writers  to  the  contrary.  No  one  can  know 
the  anxiety  of  the  participants  of  this  famous  event,  and  the  name  of  A.  D.  Streight  will  be 
remembered  through  generations  to  come  as  the  hero  of  the  occasion.  After  an  interval  of 
rest  he  re-entered  the  service.  In  |>rison  Gen.  Streight  was  like  the  shadow  of  some  great 
rock  in  the  desert.  Men  instinctively  gathered  around  him.  He  was  their  counselor,  friend 
and  champion.  In  him  they  re})Ose(l  all  confidence,  intrusting  to  him  their  money  and  laying 
l)efore  him  their  grievances,  and  shaiing  with  him  their  every  thought.  It  was  Gen.  Streight 
who  defiantly  wrote  the  rebel  secretary  of  war,  compelling  an  increase  of  lations  and  more 
humane  treatment.  AVhile  the  enemy  hated  him,  yet  they  feared  him,  and  if  recaptured  his 
life  would  have  paid  the  forfeit  of  his  daring  and  patriotism.  On  returning  to  civil  life  he 
resumed  the  business  of  a publisher,  in  connection  with  the  cultivation  of  a farm  in  the 
suburbs  of  tlu^  city,  where  his  widow’  now  resides.  In  1805  he  embarked  in  the  lumber  bus- 
iness, making  a s|)ecialty  of  walnut  and  hard  wood  lumber,  to  which  was  subsequently  added 
chair  manufacturing  on  an  extensive  scale.  He  was  successful  and  pros])erous  in  business 
affairs  and  contributed  much  to  the  development  and  welfare  of  Indianapolis.  He  always 
manifested  a keen  interest  in  politics  and  as  a Republican  i)articipated  in  many  of  the  cam- 
))aigns.  In  1870  he  was  elected  to  the  State  Senate,  and  as  an  evidence  of  his  popularity 
and  standing  ran  more  than  1,000  votes  ahead  of  his  ticket.  Here  he  was  conceded  to  be 
one  of  the  leaders  of  the  party.  Among  the  measures  supported  by  him  was  the  introduction 
of  a bill  providing  for  the  erection  of  a new  State  house  building,  the  principal  provisions 
of  which  were  adopted.  In  1880  he  was  one  of  the  Republican  candidates  for  the  nomina- 
tion of  governoi-,  and  although  an  unsuccessful  aspirant  for  gubernatorial  honors,  press  and 
people  W'ere  unanimous  in  their  endorsement  of  his  irreproachable  honesty,  iron  will,  unusual 
intelligence  and  thorough  patriotism.  Gen.  Streight  was  married  January  14,  1849,  to  Miss 
Lovitia  IMcCarty,  a native  of  Bath  township,  Steuben  County,  N.  Y. , and  daughter  of  Mrs. 
McCarty,  a native  of  Sussex,  N.  J.,  who  came  to  Seneca  County,  N.  Y. , and  after- 
ward, when  Mrs.  Streight  was  eight  years  of  age,  to  Steuben  County,  that  State.  Mrs. 
Streight’s  father  was  a farmer.  By  his  marriage  to  Miss  Maiy  Abbott  Mr.  McCarty  became 
the  father  of  eight  children,  seven  daughters  and  one  son,  all  of  whom  grew  to  mature 
years  exce])t  one:  Elizabeth,  widow  of  John  Fairfield,  who  resides  at  Green  Hill,  Steuben 
County,  N.  Y.  ; Emeline,  wi<low  of  William  Rogers,  resides  in  Michigan:  Reuben  married 
Aliss  Emily  Briggs,  and  is  now  deceased,  his  death  occurring  June  80,  1890;  Lovina,  widow 
of  Gen.  Streight;  Delilah,  widow  of  AVilliam  Hughes,  resides  in  Idaho;  Mary  married  John 
Goodsell,  in  1854  and  died  in  1857;  Cordelia,  wife  of  John  Ingersoll,  died  July  10,  1892, 


315 


AND  M Alii  ON  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

and  Samantha  J.,  who  died  at  the  age  of  nineteen  months.  Gen.  Streight  had  hut  one  son, 
John,  who  now  resides  in  Cincinnati.  The  latter  married  Miss  Rosa,  daughter  of  David 
Shipman,  of  Knightstown.  Ind.  She  died  July  20,  1892.  The  General  was  never  a mem- 
ber of  any  of  the  secret  organizations,  but  belonged  to  the  society  of  the  Army  of  the 
Cumberland,  and  to  the  G.  A.  R.  of  Indianapolis.  Although  he  was  a member  of 
no  church  he  was  always  liberal  and  tolerant  in  his  views,  and  when  questioned  by 
Rev.  Sharpee,  his  regimental  chaplain,  during  his  last  sickness,  said:  “I  was  placed 
here  by  a just  God,  who,  when  my  mission  here  is  done,  will  take  care  of  me.”  Gen. 
Streight  died  May  27,  1892,  at  4 o’clock  a.  ji.  He  had  never  been  well  after  his  incarcera- 
tion in  Libb\'  Prison,  l)ut  had  attended  to  his  business,  nevertheless.  During  the  last  two 
years  of  his  life  he  was  a great  sufferer,  having  the  grip  three  times,  the  last  time  suffer- 
ing five  weeks  with  it.  Tliis,  together  with  camp  diarrhoea,  and  Bright’s  disease,  carried 
him  off.  He  attended  to  business  up  to  two  weeks  before  his  death.  A mouth  previous  to 
that  sad  event  he  called  his  wife  to  his  side  and  told  her  that  he  desired  that  after  his  death 
his  body  be  })laced  in  the  yard  of  the  home.  There  he  had  lived  with  his  devoted  wife 
since  the  fall  of  1894  and  there  to-day  lies  all  that  is  mortal  of  Gen.  A.  D.  Streight, 
the  patriot  and  citizen,  who  needs  no  costly  urn  to  perpetuate  the  memory  of  his  gallant 
deeds.  Every  Decoration  Day  the  veterans  of  the  war  cover  the  tomb  of  their  dead  comrade 
with  ffowers. 

Clements  A Greenleaf.  Who  has  not  heard  of  the  Greeuleaf  turntables  and  their 
famous  inventor?  Truly  it  is  not  always  that  “circumstances  make  the  man”  for  Mr.  Green 
leaf  is  a shining  example  to  the  contrary;  and  there  is  no  one  who  envies  the  success  he  has 
achieved  because  his  indefatigable  toil  and  hours  of  patient  thought  and  study  have  brought 
about  a just  reward.  He  is  a direct  descendant  of  Samuel  Greenleaf  who  made  the  first 
carriage  in  the  United  States,  the  factory  having  been  started  in  Belleville,  Mass.,  in 
1 (92.  Our  subject  was  born  Septeml)er  2t),  1838  and  has  been  a resident  of  Indianapolis 
for  the  past  forty-three  years.  He  is  a son  of  Edward  and  Mary  Jane  (Allen)  Greenleaf, 
both  of  whom  were  natives  of  Bangor,  Me.,  where  they  were  reared  and  married.  In  1859 
Edward  Greenleaf  came  to  Indiana})oli.s  from  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  where  for  many  years  he  was 
superintendent  of  the  famous  Anthony  Harkness,  and  Moore  A Richards  Locomotive  works. 
After  locating  in  Indianaf)olis  Mr.  Greenleaf  became  a partner  with  Watson,  Vorhis  A Co., 
in  tlie  Washington  Foundry  which  afterward  became  the  Eagle  Machine  M’orks.  A few 
years  later  Mr.  Greenleaf,  in  company  with  Capt.  Vorliis,  founded  the  City  Foundry  and 
Machine  Works,  in  which  R.  R.  X’^nderhill  was  and  M’.  W.  Robinson  subsequently  became 
interested.  On  the  death  of  W.  W.  Robinson  the  firm  business  was  settled  uj)  and  the  City 
Foundry  and  Machine  Works  some  years  later  became  the  Sinker,  Davis  Company,  of  this 
city.  In  1894  Mr.  Greenleaf  founded  the  Greeideaf  Machine  Works  which  is  now  tlie  Green- 
leaf Turntable  Manufacturing  Co.  To  Edward  Greenleaf  and  wife  were  born  eleven  children, 
Frances  Elizabeth  (now  Lancaster),  Mary  Jane  (now  Phipi)s),  William  A.  and  Clements  A., 
yet  living.  The  original  of  this  notice.  Clements  A.  Gi'eenleaf,  passed  his  youthful  days  in 
(5ncinnati,  Ohio,  and  there  received  his  scholastic  training.  At  an  early  age  he  evinced  a 
strong  liking  and  taste  for  mechanics,  and  in  1857  he  became  master  mechanic  of  the  Diem 
phis  A Little  Rock  Railroad.  When  the  war  broke  out  he  was  running  an  engine  on  the 
.M  enq»hia  A Charleston  Railroad  but  became  north  in  May,  1891,  and  enlisted  in  the  Eleventh 
Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry,  under  Gen.  Lew  \Vallace,  serving  over  three  years  in  the  ord- 
nance department  of  the  Gulf.  During  that  time  he  had  charge  of  the  ordnance  of  t he  'I'hir- 
enth  Army  Cor|)s  and  the  stores  for  one  year.  On  the  sixth  of  August.  1892,  he  was  married 
in  Indianapolis,  to  .Miss  I’’ ranees  Caroline  Phipps,  daughter  of  John  B.  and  Rebecca  (Snell) 
Phi|>ps.  nativesof  Viiginiaand  Massachusetts  i-espectively.  Mr.  Greenleaf  and  wife  became 
t he  [)arenls  of  tf;n  childien:  Edward  Timothy,  born  August  27,  1895,  married  Miss  Jennie 
Boor  of  Sandusky,  Ohio,  and  is  now  residing  in  Lima,  Ohio,  where  he  is  superint(‘ndent  of 
tin*  drafting  rooms  and  supply  de|)artmeTit  of  tin*  Lima  Locomotive  A Machine  Works;  Clem 
•Mits  ,A.,  born  .\ugust  19.  IS97,  married  Miss  Elizabeth  Bertie  Wilfley,  of  Dlexico,  IMo. , and 
now  resides  in  this  city;  the  next  two  children  were  twins,  John  L.  and  Harry,  born  July 
39.  18f  )9  (the  former  is  single  and  r(!sides  iti  this  city  but  the  latter  died  at  birth);  Mary, 
born  January  1 I,  1872,  is  single  and  at  home;  Helen  M.,  born  April  12,  187-1,  is  single  and 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


at.  home;  Frances  Jane,  l)oni  December  5,  1877,  died  when  four  years  of  age;  the  next  two 
children  were  twins,  Grace  and  May,  born  May  10,  1881,  now  at  home;  and  Paul,  born  March 
25.  1884,  is  also  at  home.  Our  subject  is  a mechanical  engineer  and  for  the  past  twenty 
years  has  been  engaged  in  manufacturing  the  famous  Greenleaf  Turntables  in  this  city.  His 
invention  is  used  by  railroads  in  turning  their  cars  and  engines,  they  are  in  use  on  most  of 
the  railroads  in  the  United  States,  Canada,  and  Mexico,  and  the  large  factory  in  Indianapolis 
is  now  engaged  in  manufacturing  turntables  alone.  There  is  no  part  of  his  life  work  to  which 
Mr.  Greerdeaf  refers  with  more  pride  than  to  the  mission  work  he  has  done  in  this  city. 
He  is  a strong  church  man  and  believes  that  every  individual  should  interest  himself  in  this 
work.  He  delights  in  assisting  and  relieving  the  poor  and  oppressed  and  no  one  has  done 
more  for  that  class  of  people  than  he.  For  years  he  has  carried  on  this  good  work  and  is 
to-day  as  active  in  its  support  as  in  former  years.  In  1872,  Mr.  Greenleaf  organized  a 
com[)any  to  consist  of  150  stock  holders,  each  holding  an  eijual  amount  of  stock  for  the 
purpose  of  estal)lishing  a co  operative  industry.  About  one-half  of  the  stock  was  snb- 
sciibed,  the  works  were  built,  a farm  was  purchased,  each  stock  holder  was  deeded  one 
acre  of  land,  and  by-laws  made  so  that  no  stock  holder  could  accumulate  more  than  an 
ecpial  share  of  the  propej'ty,  (any  stock  holder  wishing  to  withdraw  could  do  so  by  selling  to 
the  corporation  and  the  stock  to  be  cancelled).  The  enterprise  failed,  principally  because  so 
many  could  not  be  of  one  mind,  and  because  of  the  panic  of  1873,  Mr.  Greenleaf  was  forced 
to  go  into  baidcrnptcy.  The  works  that  he  built  are  now  the  principal  building  of  the  Cleve- 
land, Cincinnati,  Chicago  A St.  Louis  Shops,  and  the  farm  he  bought  is  now  the  suburban 
town  of  Brightwood.  Mr.  Greenleaf  was  the  hirst  one  to  inaugurate  the  sale  of  town  lots  in 
Indianapolis,  on  terms  at  which  the  poorest  laborers  could  become  owners  of  their  own  homes. 
He  selected  a small  subdivision  in  Oak  Hill  with  which  to  try  the  experiment,  foiind  about 
thirty  families  that  were  di.stressed,  and  induced  them  to  purchase  lots  at  $125  each,  by  pay- 
ing $1(1  cash,  and  the  balance  $5  per  month,  giving  possession  on  tiie  receipt  of  $10.  Many  of 
these  houses,  at  first,  would  have  been  called  shanties,  but  they  have  been  gradually  improved 
until  now  most  of  them  are  neat  cottages,  and  best  of  all  is,  that  the  real  estate  owners  who 
refused  at  tir.st  to  sell  without  a cash  payment  large  enough  to  pay  expenses  of  foreclosure 
are  most  all  now  ready  to  sell  on  terms  as  described;  there  is  no  necessity  of  making  a deed 
until  the  full  payment  of  ground  has  been  received.  The  secret  of  the  success  is  that  the 
rent  applies  as  purchase  money.  Mr.  Greenleaf  has  built  three  factories,  first  one  the  “Green- 
leaf Machine  Works.  ” corner  Tennessee  and  Merril  Streets;  second,  “Greerdeaf  Manufacturing 
Conijiany.”  at  Brightwood;  third  one,  thepresent  “Greenleaf  Turntable  Manufacturing  Com- 
pany,” corner  Bloyd  and  Parker  Avenues,  also  fourteen  cottages  in  Brightwood,  and  eight  in 
the  city  limits.  Oak  Hill.  He  has  assisted  in  building  three  Presbyterian  churches,  “Second,” 
corner  of  Pennsylvania  and  Vermont  Streets;  Ninth,  corner  “North”  and  Penn  Avenues;  and 
“Memorial,”  corner  of  Christian  Avenue  and  Ash  Street.  To  the  last  named  he  gave  more 
time  and  cash  than  any  other  one,  paying  cash,  $5,600  into  the  building  fund.  Mr.  Green- 
leaf does  not  believe  in  sects,  but  does  believe  that  the  Christian  religion,  is  to  believe  and 
hold  to  the  person  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  that  the  real  Church,  is  his  body,  purchased 
with  his  own  Blood,  and  that  it  should  have  one  mind  with  all  members  holding  to  Jesus  as 
Head,  with  the  Holy  Spirit  the  Guide,  and  the  Bible  the  lule  of  our  lives  here. 

John  A.  Shtciuffe,  M.  D.,  of  Indianapolis,  Ind. , was  born  in  Fayette  County,  lud. , in  1845. 
His  parents  were  Joseph  M.  and  Cynthia  A.  Sutcliffe.  He  was  educated  at  Brookville  Col- 
lege and  Asbury  University,  and  graduated  from  the  first  named  institution  in  1869;  He 
afterward  received  the  degree  of  Master  of  Arts  from  Moore’s  Hill  College.  His  medical 
education  was  acquired  at  the  Ohio  Medical  College,  Cincinnati,  and  at  Bellevue  Hospital 
Medical  College,  New  York,  where  he  completed  his  course  and  received  his  medical  degree 
in  1872.  He  was  assistant  surgeon  in  Bellevue  Dls])ensary  during  the  same  year,  an  honor 
only  conferred  upon  the  most  jiroficient  graduates.  On  the  expiration  of  his  term  of  serv- 
ice in  that  capacity  he  began  the  general  practice  of  his  profession,  but  for  the  past  six 
years  he  has  confined  himself  exclusively  to  surgery  and  genito  urinary  diseases.  Since  the 
date  of  his  graduation  Di.  Sutcliffe  has  supplemented  his  education  and  training  by  taking 
two  courses  in  surgery  and  genitourinary  diseases  in  Bellevue  Hospital,  and  also  two  similar 
courses  in  the  New  York  Polyclinic.  In  1888  he  went  to  Europe,  visiting  the  large  hospi- 


V. 


A 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

JNIVERSITY  OF  ILLINOIS 


AM)  MAKIOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


317 


tals  of  Louclofu,  Paris,  Vieuua,  P.'ilin  and  Edinburgh,  where  he  reiuained  for  nearly  a year, 
taking  additional  courses  in  the  same  branches  of  his  profession,  in  order  to  better  prepaid* 
himself  for  the  practice  of  his  specialty.  Dr.  Sirtcliife  has  tilled  the  chair  of  anatomy  and 
genito  urinary  diseases  in  the  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons,  Indianapolis,  for 
several  years,  and  for  the  past  seven  years,  that  of  princij)les  and  practice  of  surgery  and 
genito  urinary  diseases  in  the  same  institution,  and  is  treasurer  of  the  faculty.  Dr.  Sutcliffe 
is  surgeon  to  the  Cincinnati,  Hamilton  <fe  Dayton  Railroad,  consulting  surgeon  to  the  city 
dispensary,  and  clinical  lecturer  at  the  city  hospital  and  St.  Vincent’s  Infirmary,  Indianapo- 
lis. He  is  an  active  member  of  the  IN^arioii  County  Medical,  the  Indianapolis  Surgical,  and 
the  Indiana  State  Medical  Societies,  and  of  the  Mississi[)pi  Valley  and  the  American  Medical 
Associations.  Dr.  Sutcliffe  was  a member  of  the  Indianapolis  Board  of  Health  for  four 
years,  and  president  of  the  same  for  two  years.  He  was  married  in  1876  to  Miss  Laura  K. 
Jones. 

John  W.  Holtzman.  Ever  since  society  was  organized  its  enemies  have  lived,  and  to 
enact  laws  calculated  to  protect  mankind  from  the  doers  of  evil  has  always  been  a serious  duty 
of  legislators.  The  philosopher  and  the  social  reformer  may  indulge  in  speculations  as  to 
the  causes  of  vice  and  lawlessness, and  the  sentimentalists  may  be  a})ologist8  for  the  criminals 
and  outlaws  of  society;  l)ut,  dealing  with  these  grave  social  problems  in  a practical  as  well 
as  a beneficent  spirit,  it  has  l)eeD  the  aim  of  our  law  makers  to  devise  such  measures  as  will 
punish  the  individual  law-breaker  as  well  as  deter  his  fellows  from  like  wrong-doing.  But 
the  fruits  of  legislative  skill  and  wisdom  as  displayed  in  our  criminal  code  and  practice  would 
be  futile — the  body  of  laws  designed  for  the  suppression  of  vice  and  crime  would  be  inert, 
but  for  the  public  sentiment  that  imparts  vitality, and  the  vigilance  of  the  prosecuting  attor- 
ney, who  faithfully  discharges  his  duties,  and  suffers  no  guilty  man  to  escajie.  The  office  of 
public  prosecutor  is  one  of  honor  and  dignity.  No  other  place  within  the  gift  of  the  people 
is  more  conspicuous  and  important.  The  office  should  be  filled  by  a lawyer  of  unquestioned 
ability  as  well  as  sterling  integrity.  In  the  election  of  John  W.  Holtzman  as  i)rosecutiug 
attorney  of  this  judicial  circuit  the  people  have  secured  an  energetic  as  well  as  a faithful 
officer.  John  W.  Holtzman  is  a tenor  to  wrong  doers,  not  only  because  it  is  his  duty  to  be 
so,  but  because  he  has  no  sympathy  with  crime  or  criminal. 

This  al)le  lawyer  and  successful  prosecutor  comes  of  a family  of  worthy  people.  He  was 
born  in  Berks  County,  Penn.,  Aj)ril  23,  1858,  being  the  son  of  Jonathan  and  Katherine 
(Moyer)  Holtzman,  natives  of  I'ennsylvania,  and  of  German  extraction.  The  ancestors  of 
our  subject  came  to  America  about  the  year  1750,  and  settling  in  Berks  County,  became  pros- 
perous farmers.  They  felled  the  virgin  forests,  and  suffered  all  the  hardshipsincident  to  the 
settlement  of  a new  country.  In  the  life  and  death  struggle  of  the  colonies  in  the  war  with 
Great  Britian  their  hearts  were  fired  with  a love  of  liberty.  These  sturdy  pioneers  of  old 
Bei'ks  shouldered  their  guns  and  fought  bravely  for  the  cause  of  freedom.  The  father  of  our 
subject  was  a farmer.  He  came  to  Indiana  about  the  yeai’  1864,  and  ]mrchased  a farm  in 
White  County.  A few  years  thereafter  he  settled  in  Tippecanoe  County;  but,  soon  tiring  of 
the  change,  he  returned  to  White  County,  where  he  lived  the  remainder  of  his  days.  He  died 
in  1883,  his  wife  having  passed  away  twelve  years  before.  They  were  the  parents  of  three 
sons  and  one  daughter,  of  whom  only  two  are  living;  Lee  and  our  subject.  When  the  latter 
came  to  this  State  with  his  j)arent8  he  was  six  years  old.  His  youth  was  spent  upon  the 
farm,  and  differed  but  little  from  that  of  other  country  lads.  Me  attended  the  country 
school  until  he  was  fourteen  years  old,  and  since  then,  with  the  same  sturdy  self  leliance 
which  now  marks  his  character,  he  has  made  his  own  way,  and  has  slowly  but  surely  come 
to  the  front.  Atnong  the  various  occupations  of  his  yoirth  and  early  manhood  was  that  of 
teaching,  a calling  that  proved  most  congenial.  Upon  his  twenty  tirst  birthday  he  received 
as  a present  a coj)}’  (if  Blackstone’s  Commentaries;  and  with  no  thought  of  becoming  a law 
yer,  but  mf*r(dy  to  gain  information,  he  perused  the  pagers  of  this  learm^d  work  with  deep 
interest.  The  study  of  this  bcjok  gave  bias  to  his  future  life;  for,  while  he  did  not  at  once 
enter  upon  the  work  of  jirejiaring  himself  for  the  legal  profession,  it  is  certain  that  the 
perii.sal  of  this  co|)y  of  Blackstone  turned  his  thoughts  in  that  direction,  and  finally  led  him 
into  the  ranks  of  the  lawyers  of  Indiana.  In  the  year  1883  he  did  begin  the  study  of  law, 
and  in  the  Allowing  year  was  admitted  to  practice.  He  was  in  1885  the  Democratic  candi 


818 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


date  for  tlie  city  council  of  Indianapolis  for  the  twelfth  ward,  and,  although  a very  young 
man,  he  made  so  vigorous  a tight  that  he  was  defeated  by  only  forty-four  votes  in  a ward 
that  was  largely  Republican.  In  the  following  year  he  was  appointed  by  the  Marion  County 
Commissioners  attorney  for  the  poor.  His  able  defense  of  Samuel  Marley,  who  was  charged 
with  the  murder  of  John  A.  Lyon,  and  the  acquittal  of  his  client,  added  to  his  growing 
reputation  as  a lawyer.  This  position  he  resigned  in  the  month  of  November,  1886,  to 
accept  the  position  of  chief  assistant  prosecuting  attorney  under  Maj.  James  L.  Mitchell.  Mr. 
Holtzman  served  in  that  capacity  until  November,  189(1,  when  he  was  elected  prosecuting 
attorney  over  his  opponent,  Maj.  Charles  L.  Holstein,  by  a larger  majority  than  was  ever 
before  given  to  any  Marion  County  candidate.  He  was  re-elected  in  1892,  when  he  again 
led  his  ticket.  Mr.  Holtzman  has  always  taken  an  active  and  prominent  part  in  politics. 
He  is  an  ellicient  organizer,  and  a forcible  speaker.  His  allegiance  to  the  faith  and  princi- 
ples of  the  Democratic  party  has  been  constant  and  enthusiastic.  But,  although  a consist- 
ent and  aggressive  Democrat,  Mr.  Holtzman  is  too  liberal  and  progressive  to  be  a narrow 
partisan.  Mr.  Holtzman  is  a prominent  Scottish  Rite  Mason,  and  a K.  of  P.  Still  a young 
man  the  future  is  before  him  bright  and  promising.  Greater  honors  no  doubt  await  him. 

John  E.  Head.  In  the  person  of  John  K.  Head  is  found  a scion  of  Kentucky  who  is  a 
successful  and  enterprising  agricnltnrist  of  Marion  County,  Itul.  He  was  born  in  Daviess 
County,  Ky.,  November  28,  1860,  where  his  parents,  J.  A.  and  Louisa  (Payne)  Head,  still 
reside,  being  among  the  leading  farmers  of  that  section.  To  them  a family  of  four  sons 
and  two  daughters  were  given ; George  A.,  John  E.,  Eugene,  Oscar,  Susie  and  Anna  Belle, 
the  latter  l)ecoming  the  wife  of  Elisha  Adams,  of  Daviess  County.  Mr.  Head,  Sr.,  and  his 
entire  family  are  devout  Catholics,  and  the  head  of  the  family  is  a supporter  of  Democratic 
principles,  but  is  not  an  aspirant  for  political  prominence.  Mr.  Head  wisely  gave  his  chil- 
dren good  educational  advantages,  and  John  E.  received  a sufficient  amount  of  schooling  to 
tit  him  for  the  practical  duties  of  life.  He  is  a man  of  tine  physicpie,  is  a fluent  and  inter- 
esting conversationalist,  and  having  been  quite  an  extensive  traveler,  and  a wide,  yet  dis- 
criminating reader,  he  makes  a pleasant  and  entertaining  companion.  After  visiting  many 
sections  of  the  country  he  decided  to  locate  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  in  1884  commenced 
his  labors  in  a clothing  store  in  Indianapolis,  styled  the  “Model.”  Previous  to  this  he  had 
been  actively  and  successfully  engaged  in  school  teaching,  but  on  account  of  ill  health  he 
gave  up  this  calling,  and  for  the  same  reason  left  the  mercantile  arena,  and  engaged  in  the 
more  healthful  and  invigorating  occupation  of  farming,  his  experience  in  this  line  being 
gained  as  a farm  laborer  for  a Mr.  Rowney  for  one  summer,  during  which  time  he  wooed 
and  won  for  his  wife  Miss  Mary  Bowser,  daughter  of  Heniy  and  Mary  A.  Bowser,  a notice 
of  whom  is  given  in  this  volnme.  Their  marriage  was  celebrated  October  18,  1887.  Mrs. 
Head  was  born  Se[)tember  1 1,  1851,  and  was  reared  on  the  farm  on  which  she  is  now  living, 
her  education  being  obtained  in  the  neighboring  schools.  She  is  a woman  of  tine  mental 
powers,  interesting  and  entertaining  in  her  conversation  and  attractive  and  agreeable  in 
manners.  (For  further  notice  of  the  Bowser  family  see  sketch  of  E.  T.  Bowser.)  To  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Head  a son  has  been  given,  William  H..  who  was  born  September  18,  1892,  but 
who  only  lived  three  months,  dying  a victim  of  pneumonia  December  18,  1892.  The  farm 
of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Head  is  located  four  miles  east  of  Indianapolis  on  Section  15,  and  consi.sts 
of  eighty-one  acres  of  line  land  well  ada[)ted  to  general  farming  and  stock  raising,  to  which 
uses  Mr.  Head  puts  it.  He  is  a wide-awake  aud  progressive  agriculturist,  keeps  pace  with 
all  improved  methods  in  his  operations,  and  is  a useful  citizen  of  his  section.  He  belongs 
to  no  fraternal  or  church  organizations  l)utsays;  “I  am  a Democrat  by  birth  and  occupation.” 
However,  he  is  conservative  in  this  respect  and  is  by  no  means  an  aspirant  for  political 
honors,  his  highest  aspiration  being  to  be  a useful  and  law-abiding  citizen,  to  which  he  has 
without  doubt  attained. 

A.  Lincoln  Leatherman,  M.  D.  Nothing  is  more  true  than  that  men  grow  from  accre- 
tions from  without  and  that  association  of  kindred  minds  results  in  the  expansion  of  ideas 
and  enlargement  of  the  horizon.  This  being  true,  what  a magnificent  field  is  afforded  the 
physician  in  Indianapolis,  where  is  gathered  so  large  a number  of  men  eminent  in  the  pro- 
fession. This  city  is  celebrated  for  the  loyalty  of  the  brethren  to  the  traditions  of  the  pro- 
fession and  at  the  same  time  for  the  progressiveness  of  the  members  in  the  noble  science. 


319 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Amonjj  those  whose  skill  isilestiueil  to  make  Ills  luime  a popular  househohl  won!,  may  he  men- 
tioaecl  Dr.  .A..  Lincoln  Leatherman.  who  was  horn  at  Versailles,  Ohio,  September  30,  1804,  a 
son  of  Godfrey  and  Emily  (Atwood)  Leatherman,  the  former  a native  of  Maryland  and  the 
latter  of  England.  The  father  followed  the  callings  of  a farmer,  architect,  contractor,  and 
builder  and  was  a man  of  many  noble  attrilnites  of  heart  and  head.  He  was  reared  to  man- 
hood in  the  State  of  his  birth,  but  about  1853  became  a resident  of  Ohio,  where  he  wooed 
and  married  his  wife.  He  is  still  a resident  of  Versailles.  The  maternal  grandfather  of 
the  subject  of  this  sketch,  Edwin  Atwood,  was  an  engine  builder  by  profession,  and  was  a 
member  of  the  old  Atwood  family  of  England.  Several  of  his  brothers  were  military  men, 
and  one  brother,  Eli  Atwood,  was  vice-admiral  and  commanded  a fleet  of  vessels  for  Great 
Britain  in  the  War  of  1812,  being  stationed  at  Halifax.  Edwin  Atwood,  in  1848,  sold  his 
engine  plant  in  England  and  with  his  family  started  for  Springfield,  111.,  but  upon  reaching 
the  city  of  New  Orleans  he  sickened  and  lingering  until  they  reached  Memphis  there  died  of 
yellow  fever.  After  his  death  his  widow  took  uj)  her  residence  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  where 
she  purchased  some  tine  property,  which  is  now  known  as  Walnut  Hills,  but  she  afterward 
sold  this  property  and  located  in  Covington,  Ohio,  where  shemade  her  home  until  her  death. 
The  early  life  of  Dr.  A.  Lincoln  Leatherman,  was  spent  on  a farm  in  Ohio,  and  in  the  public 
schools  of  his  native  county  he  was  prepared  for  college,  and  in  1881  entered  the  Ohio  Wes 
leyan  University,  in  which  he  took  a live  years’  classical  and  scientific  course.  He  then 
entered  the  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons,  the  medical  department  of  Columbia  Col- 
lege of  the  city  of  New  York  in  1888  and  was  graduated  in  1893,  after  having  taken  a 
thorough  course  of  four  years.  Dr.  Leatherman  is  essentially  a self-educated  and  self-made 
man  in  every  particular,  and  has  sj)ent  fully  $17,000  in  securing  an  education,  every  cent  of 
which  he  earned  himself  during  his  vacations  by  teaching  school  and  acting  as  salesman  for 
various  business  hoirses;  in  fact  he  Avas  not  too  fastidious  to  turn  to  labor  at  any  honorable 
employment  that  offered  a compensation.  Previous  to  graduating  in  medicine  and  during 
his  course  there  his  ability  was  recognized  by  the  faculty  of  Columbia  College  and  he  was 
made  prosector  of  anatomy  to  Prof.  Huntington  for  three  years  and  also  assisted  Dr.  Dela- 
tield,  professor  of  the  practice  of  medicine  for  two  years.  He  also  was  an  assistant  to  Dr. 
Starr,  professor  of  nervous  diseases.  At  the  time  of  his  graduation  as  a reward  of  merit,  he 
was  accorded  a trip  to  the  Columbian  Exposition  at  Chicago,  at  the  exT)ense  of  the  college. 
He  immediately  afterward  came  to  Indianapolis,  opened  an  office,  and  entered  upon  the 
practice  of  his  })rofession,  where  he  gives  every  promise  of  making  both  fame  and  fortune  for 
himself.  He  is  a member  of  the  Indiana  State  and  Marion  County  Medical  Societies  and 
Mississippi  Valley  Medical  Association  and  tins  American  Medical  Association.  -Inly  27, 
1893,  he  Avas  married  to  Miss  Dora  L.  Harter,  the  oidy  child  of  Dr.  -lacob  H.  Harter,  of 
Anderson,  Ind.  Dr.  Leatherman  is  also  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.  and  in  politics  is  a lie- 
publican.  The  Atwood  family  of  England  Avere  Episcopalians  in  religious  belief,  but  in 
this  country  they  all  became  Methodists,  of  Avhich  church  the  Doctor  and  liis  Avife  are  regu 
lar  attendants  and  members.  A brother  of  the  Doctor,  Hev.  W.  H.  Ijeatherman.  is  a minis- 
ter of  the  Methodist  Episcojial  Church  in  the  Central  Ohio  Conference,  and  is  a young 
divine  of  great  brilliance  and  prominence,  destined  to  make  his  mark  in  the  religious  Avorld. 

CiiARnES  E.  Cox,  the  Avorthy  def)uty  prosecuting  attorney  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  is 
yet  quite  a young  man  l)nt  this  is  neitlier  a crime  or  misdemeanor  and  when  it  goes  hand  in 
hand  Avith  great  natural  ability  polished  to  an  unusual  degree  by  Avide  reading  and  close 
ol)8ervalion,  it  is  as  AVorthy  of  acknowledged  resj)ect  as  is  the  head  covered  Avith  the  croAvn 
of  gray.  'I'his  re[)resentati ve  young  attorney  fli'Ht  saAV  the  light  of  day  on  a farm  in  Hamil 
ton  County,  Ind.,  Fel)ruary  21,  18()(),  and  when  six  years  of  age  lie  moved  Avilli  Ids  parents 
to  Nolilesville,  Ind.,  Avhen  he  first  attended  school.  Upon  their  removal  to  'I'ipton,  six  years 
later,  he  was  a student  in  the  schools  of  that,  town  for  four  years.  W’ith  a brain  always 
active  and  a perception  ahvays  clear  he  made  very  rapid  [irogress  in  his  books  and  when 
only  fifteen  years  of  age  mastered  the  curriculum  of  the  'I’ipton  High  School.  A year  later 
he  was  employed  as  deputy  auditor  of  'I'ipton  County,  and  Idled  that  position  very  credit 
ably  for  one  year.  After  that  he  Avent  to  the  SunlloAver  State  and  Avorlced  his  father’s  farm 
for  two  years.  In  1879  he  returned  to  Indiana  and  began  the  study  of  law  in  Indianapolis. 
Soon  afterward  he  became  assistant  law  librarian  of  the  State  Law  Jubrary  and  con 


820 


MBJMOIIiS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


tiuued  in  that  position  until  September,  1888,  when  he  was  appointed  librarian  by  the 
judges  of  the  Supreme  Court,  in  recognition  of  his  services  and  his  well  demonstrated  fitness 
for  the  office.  He  filled  that  position  in  a very  satisfactory  manner  until  September,  1880, 
when,  for  ])olitical  reasons,  he  was  displaced.  In  November  of  that  year  he  began  practic- 
ing law  in  Indianapolis,  and  in  September,  1801,  he  was  appointed  deputy  prosecuting 
attorney.  Although  still  in  the  dawn  of  the  success  which  has  attended  his  efforts  in  a pro- 
fessional way,  Mr.  Cox  has  already  given  abundant  evidence  of  the  ability  which  qualifies 
him  for  a high  place  in  the  legal  profession.  Thoroughly  master  of  himself,  with  an  inti- 
mate knowledge  of  his  case,  of  quick  perceptive  faculties,  ready  to  take  advantage  of  any 
error,  master  of  any  ])rinci])le  of  the  law  involved  in  the  case,  an  accurate  reader  of  human 
character,  of  inexhaustible  resources,  he  is  a formidable  antagonist.  On  June  10,  1884,  he 
married  Miss  Emma  M.  Cooley,  of  Inilianapolis,  and  they  have  two  interesting  children: 
Nellie,  aged  six  years  and  Samuel  L. , aged  three  years. 

Henry  Bristow  is  one  of  the  oldest  native-liorn  residents  of  Marion  County,  Ind. , and 
a member  of  a family  whose  history  was  identified  with  the  State  in  days  of  earlier  and 
simpler  style  of  living.  He  was  born  in  Perry  Township,  within  a quarter  of  a mile  of 
where  he  now  lives,  February  28,  1825,  on  a farm  of  100  acres  that  was  entered  by  his  father, 
Peyton  Bristow,  in  1821,  and  occupied  by  the  latter  in  1822.  When  the  tract  was  entered  it 
was  all  in  green  timber,  not  a bush  having  been  cut  down.  The  father  was  a native  Vir- 
ginian, born  August  29,  1778,  and  when  about  eleven  years  of  age  he  with  his  widowed 
mother  moved  to  Kentucky,  making  the  entire  trip  on  horseback  and  carrying  all  their 
worldly  belongings  in  the  same  manner.  The  mother  settled  on  Green  River  and  there 
young  Peyton  Bristow  grew  to  mature  years.  On  September  lb,  1802,  he  was  married  to 
Miss  Mary  Price  and  about  two  years  later  he  emigrated  to  Eaton,  Ohio,  where  he  worked 
at  the  shoemaker’s  trade  and  in  a store  until  1822.  He  then  came  to  Indiana  where  he 
entered  160  acres  in  Perry  Township,  Marion  County,  and  there  jiassed  the  remainder  of  his 
days,  his  death  occurring  on  Febiuary  10,  1809.  He  enlisted  in  the  War  of  1812  from 
Eaton,  Ohio,  served  all  through  the  war  and  was  granted  a land  warrant  for  his  services. 
He  was  a Democrat  in  politics  and  cast  his  first  vote  in  1799.  For  many  years  he  was  jus- 
tice of  the  peace  in  Perry  Townshiji,  and  was  postmaster  at  Olive  (now  abandoned)  for  about 
live  years.  In  his  religious  views  he  was  a Uiuversalist.  To  his  marriage  were  born  thirteen 
children  and  what  is  most  unusual  is  the  fact  that  all  of  them  grew  to  mature  years  and  mar- 
ried, despite  the  unlucky  number.  They  were  named  as  follows:  William  H. , born  1808, 
deceased;  James,  deceased,  was  born  in  1805;  Lucy,  deceased,  born  in  1806;  Margaret  E., 
born  1808,  deceased;  Evans,  deceased,  born  in  1810;  Sarah,  deceased,  born  in  1812;  Cor- 
nelius V.,  born  1814;  Marv  P.,  deceased,  born  in  1817;  Eliza  B.,  born  1819;  Peyton  P., 
born  1821;  Martha,  born  1828;  Henry,  our  subject,  and  Alfred  H.,  deceased,  born  in  1828. 
The  mother  of  these  children  died  January  28,  1870.  Their  paternal  grandfather,  Powell 
Bristow,  was  probably  born  in  Wales  about  1748  and  was  brought  to  America  by  his  parents 
soon  afterward.  Henry  Bristow  grew  to  manhood  on  his  father’s  farm  in  Perry  Township 
and  his  scholastic  training  was  received  in  the  primitive  log  school-house  of  those  early  days. 
Most  of  the  farm  was  cleared  by  the  time  our  subject  was  old  enough  to  assist  in  such  work 
and  he  only  assisted  in  clearing  about  six  acres.  He  was  married  in  1846  to  Miss  Sarah 
Sinks,  daughter  of  Noah  Sinks,  a native  of  Ohio,  and  nine  children  were  born  to  them,  seven 
of  whom  reached  manhood  and  womanhood,  as  follows;  Nancy  A.,  deceased,  married  Charles 
Harrier;  Mary  Adeline  married  Charles  Sharpless;  David  H.,  married  Clara  Cotton,  and  they 
have  two  children,  Nettie  and  Pearl;  Noah  C.  married  Alice  Landfair  and  they  have  three 
living  children,  Clarence,  Carl,  and  Hattie;  Anthony  Peyton  Bristow  married  Hester  Fowler; 
Emily,  deceased,  married  Simon  Grube  and  they  have  one  child,  Ona;  Harriet  J.  married 
John  Copsey  and  they  have  two  children,  Jessie  and  Grace;  Frances  E.  Bristow  married 
William  Webb  and  they  have  three  children,  Agnes  B.,  Richard  T.  and  Virgil;  and  Susan 
B.,  who  married  Alliert  List  and  is  the  mother  of  four  children,  Walter  H. , Wilbur,  Harry 
and  Homer.  Our  subject  was  married  the  second  time  in  1881,  to  Mrs.  Margaret  K.  Pogue, 
daughter  of  James  Little,  and  two  children  were  the  fruits  of  this  union,  Maud  A.  and  Mel- 
ford  M.  Our  subject  has  served  as  school  director  in  Perry  Township  for  a number  of  years 
and  for  eight  years  was  supervisor  of  roads  in  that  township.  Like  his  father  he  is  a stanch 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


821 


Democrat.  His  first  presidential  vote  was  cast  for  James  K.  Polk  in  1848  and  he  has  not 
missed  voting  for  a Democratic  presidential  candidate  since.  He  attends  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  but  is  not  a member  and  he  does  not  belong  to  any  secret  organizations. 
His  wife  is  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  Mrs.  Bristow  was  one  of  three 
children  born  to  her  parents,  James  and  Betsey  (Rosier)  Little.  These  children  were  named 
in  the  order  of  their  births,  as  follows:  John  married  Mary  E.  Walls  and  both  died  leaving 
two  children,  James,  deceased,  and  Hattie,  who  married  Manuel  Landfair  and  became  the 
mother  of  three  children,  Florence,  Lawrence  and  Edith;  Charles  Little  died  in  infancy; 
and  Margaret  K.,  wife  of  subject.  Mr.  Little  was  born  in  Virginia  but  of  Irish  parentage. 
He  was  a successful  tiller  of  the  soil  and  followed  that  occupation  until  his  death  in  1851, 
when  forty-five  years  of  age.  His  wife  died  in  1848  and  after  her  death  he  married  Hester 
Crunk,  who  is  also  deceased. 

Hon.  William  Hacker,  (now  deceased),  one  of  the  prominent  and  pronounced  Free 
Masons  of  Indiana,  was  born  December  5,  1810,  near  Urbana,  Ohio.  He  was  brought  to  Indiana 
by  his  parents,  John  and  Susanna  (Smith)  Hacker,  when  the  country  was  yet  an  unbroken 
forest  filled  with  Indians  and  wild  animals,  and  under  the  discouraging  circumstances  attend 
ant  to  backwood’s  life,  he  was  reared  and  educated.  His  early  life  was  jiassed  in  working 
at  his  trade,  farming  and  merchandising.  Failing  health  caused  him  to  abandon  active 
business  pursuits,  and  for  years  he  was  engaged  at  different  periods  as  secretary  of  a rail- 
road company,  justice  of  the  peace.  Masonic  lecturer  and  organizer  of  different  lodges  of  the 
Masonic  order.  In  1832  he  became  a Master  Mason,  a Royal  Arch  degree  Mason  in  184(),  and 
the  same  year  became  a council  degree  member.  In  1848  he  took  his  commandery  degrees, 
and  in  1860.  at  Indianapolis,  the  Scottish  Rite  branch  of  Masonry,  making  in  all  a total  of 
forty  degrees.  During  this  time  Mr.  Hacker  held  some  of  the  most  important  official  posi- 
tions of  the  order,  among  them  being  grand  master  and  grand  secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge; 
grand  high  priest  and  grand  secretary  of  the  Grand  Chapter;  for  twelve  years  was  an  officer  of 
the  General  Grand  Chapter  of  Royal  Arch  Masons  of  the  FTnited  States,  attaining  the  exalted 
station  of  general  grand  king;  was  grand  recorder,  and  for  six  years  the  first  presiding  officer 
of  the  Grand  Council  of  the  State;  helped  organize  the  grand  commandery  of  the  State  in 
which  he  served  as  grand  recorder  and  grand  commander.  Mr.  Hacker  was  also  one  of  the 
leading  Odd  Fellows  of  the  State,  having  served  as  conductor  in  the  Grand  Lodge,  and 
junior  warden  in  the  Grand  Encampment.  Helielonged  to  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church, 
was  an  ardent  advocate  of  the  temperance  cause,  and  after  the  disruption  of  the  Whig  party 
became  a Republican.  Mr.  Hacker  has  served  as  mayor  of  the  city  of  Shelby  vide,  was 
happily  married,  and  blessed  with  a fine  family. 

Theouore  Lovett  Sewall  was  born  in  Germantown,  Oliio,  September  20,  1858.  His 
mother,  Louise  K.  Lovett,  belongs  to  the  old  and  substantial  Lovett  family,  of  Beverly, 
Mass.  His  father,  Edmund  Quincy  Sewall,  Jr.,  belongs  to  a family  that  has  been  distin- 
guished in  Massachusetts  annals  for  two  centuries  and  a half,  including  in  its  direct  line. 
Chief  Justice  Samuel  Sewell,  the  Diarist  (died  1780),  Rev.  Joseph  Sewall  of  the  Old  South 
Church,  Boston  (died  1706),  and  a second  Chief  Justice  Samuel  Sewall  (died  1814).  The 
family  is  of  English  stock.  Mr.  Sewall  received  his  early  education  in  a private  school  at 
Wilmington,  Del.  He  entered  Harvard  College  in  1870,  and  graduated  in  1874,  being  the 
seventh  Sewell  in  a direct  line  to  receive  his  education  and  his  degree  from  this  institution. 
Mr.  Sewall  remained  in  Camliridge  two  years  longer  taking  the  course  in  the  Harvard  Law 
School,  receiving  the  degree  of  LL.  B.  in  1876.  Spending  the  summer  of  1876  in  Indi- 
anapolis, Ind.,  he  was  invited  by  prominent  citizens  of  that  place  to  ojien  a pre])aratory 
school  for  boys,  which  he  did  in  Se])tember,  1876,  naming  it  the  Indianapolis  Classical  School. 
In  1880  .Mr.  Sewall  married  May  Wright  'riiompson,  a lady  descended  from  the  Wright  and 
Brackett  families  of  New  England,  and  who  is  well  known  for  ability  in  educational  and 
reform  movements,  es])ecially,  such  as  affect  women  (see  May  Wright  Sewall).  In  1882 
-Mr.  and  Mrs.  Sewall  opened  a Girls’  Classical  School,  with  a course  of  study  conforming  to 
the  Harvard  re(|uirements  for  admission.  These  schools  were  among  the  first  private  schools 
in  the  West,  to  meet  fully  the  highest  collegiate  requiremeids  for  admission,  including 
Greek  and  mathematics  for  girls;  and  to  introduce  the  systematic  work  of  the  gymnasium, 
under  comjietent  teachers,  in  connection  with  the  other  school  work.  A girls’  boarding 


822 


OF  INDJANAPOLrS 


depart lueut  was  opened  in  188(5.  Both  institutions  have  had  more  than  a local  influence. 
The  girls’  school,  especially,  draws  pupils  from  all  sections  of  the  country,  and  has  gradu- 
ates in  all  the  prominent  woman’s  colleges  in  the  country.  In  1889  Mr.  Sewall  transferred 
the  boys’  school  to  other  liands,  and  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Sewall  have  since  then  devoted  their 
entire  time  to  the  school  for  girls.  Mr.  Sewall  received  the  degree  of  A.  M.  from  the  Indi- 
ana University,  in  1887.  He  has  done  considerable  literary  work,  and  has  lectured  fre- 
quently on  social  and  literary  subjects.  For  ten  years  he  was  the  secretary,  and,  later,  the 
president,  of  the  Indianapolis  Literary  Club.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Sewall  have  spent  four  sum- 
mers traveling  in  Eurojie. 

*Mus.  May  Wuioht  Sewall,  the  chairman  of  the  committee  on  a World’s  Congress  of 
lle})resentative  Women,  convened  under  the  auspices  of  the  World’s  Congress  Auxiliary  of 
the  World’s  Columbian  Exposition,  is  a native  of  Wisconsin;  her  parents,  however,  were 
both  from  old  New  England  families.  After  graduating  from  the  Northwestern  University 
at  Evanston,  111.,  Mrs.  Sewall  taught  public  schools  in  Michigan  and  was  soon  made  the 
principal  of  the  high  school  in  Plainwell,  in  that  State.  She  became,  later,  the  principal  of 
the  high  school  in  Franklin,  Ind.,  and  teacher  of  English  and  German  in  the  high  school 
of  Indianapolis.  From  this  position  she  resigned  in  1880,  upon  her  marriage  with  Mr. 
Theodore  L.  Sewall,  principal  of  a private  school  for  boys  in  that  city.  In  1882  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Sewall  opened  a private  school  for  girls,  known  as  the  Girls’  Classical  School,  which 
was  immediately  successful  and  has  become  widely  known.  Mrs.  Sewall’s  profession  is  thus 
that  of  a teacher,  her  specialty  being  English  literature;  her  school  duties  occupy  the  first 
and  highest  place  in  her  attention  and  demand  and  receive  a large  share  of  her  time.  From 
her  infancy  Mrs.  Sewall  was  trained  to  a strong  belief  in  the  right  of  women  to  wider  oppor- 
tunities for  education  and  to  a fuller  share  in  the  honors  and  the  profits  of  business,  pro- 
fessional and  industrial  activity  than  they  have  hitherto  enjoyed.  Her  energies  were 
enlisted  in  these  reforms  soon  after  reaching  womanhood  and  for  twenty  years  she  has  been 
a strong  ally  of  every  cause  that  2)romoted  the  advancement  of  women.  She  was  first  act- 
ively connected  with  National  Woman  Suffrage  Association,  in  which  her  power  was  imme- 
diately recognized  and  in  which  she  held  for.  many  years  the  arduous  and  responsible  office 
of  chairman  of  the  executive  committee.  She  was  one  of  the  promoters  of  the  International 
Council  of  Women,  which  convened  in  Washington  in  1888,  and  conceived  the  idea  of  per- 
jietuating  its  influence  through  peimanent  international  and  national  councils  of  women. 
In  the  organization  of  both  of  these  bodies  she  subsequently  aided.  Mrs.  Sewall  was  one  of 
the  committee  that  formulated  the  plan  for  the  general  federation  of  women’s  clubs.  She 
is  a member  of  the  Association  for  the  Advancement  of  Women,  an  honorary  member  of  the 
Union  Inteniationale  des  Sciences  ef  des  Arts,  of  Paris;  a member  of  the  American  Histor- 
ical Association,  of  Sorosis,  etc.  In  her  own  home  Mrs.  Sewall  has  played  a most  active 
part  in  the  work  of  organization  for  social  reform  and  other  purposes.  Thus  she  was  one  of 
the  founders  of  the  Indianapolis  Woman’s  Cluli,  of  the  Indianapolis  Art  Association,  of  the 
Indianapolis  Equal  Suffrage  Society,  of  the  Indiana  State  Suffrage  Society,  of  the  Indian- 
apolis Ramabai  Circle,  of  the  Indiana  l)ranch  of  the  Association  of  Collegiate  Alumnse,  of 
the  university  extension  work  in  Indianapolis  under  the  auspices  of  this  latter  society,  of 
the  Indianapolis  Local  Council  of  Women;  of  the  Indianapolis  Woman’s  Exchange,  and  of 
the  Indianapolis  Contemporary  Club.  She  also  originated  the  plan  of  the  Indianapolis 
Propylaeum,  an  incorporated  joint  stock  company  of  women,  which  has  erected  a handsome 
building  for  social  and  educational  purposes.  Mrs.  Sewall  was  appointed  by  Gov.  Hovey  a 
member  at  large  of  the  Board  of  WWrld’s  Fair  Managers  for  Indiana,  and  is  chairman  of 
the  committee  on  women’s  work  and  a member  of  the  committee  on  education  in  that 
body.  Being  president  of  the  National  Council  of  Women  and  acc^uainted  with  many  of  the 
leading  women  of  Europe  from  several  summers  spent  in  England,  France,  Germany  and 
Italy,  Mrs.  Sewall  was  made  the  chairman  of  the  committee  on  a World’s  Congress  of  Rep- 
resentative Women,  to  the  success  of  which  she  has  devoted  her  energies  and  her  time  for 
the  past  twelve  months,  spending  the  summer  in  Europe  for  the  purpose  of  explaining  to 
foreign  women  its  importance  and  its  .scope.  In  Berlin  Mrs.  Sewall  held  many  conferences 


♦fHeiuinted  from  the  Chicago  Woman’s  Xews  of  Saturday,  February  13.  l.W’.J 


823 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

with  small  groups  of  promiueut  women,  and  later  visited  Hombnrg  by  appointment  with  tlie 
Empress  Frederick,  who  granted  her  an  hour's  interview'  and  who  was  deeply  mteresUal  in 
the  work  as  outlined  by  Mrs.  Sewall.  In  Brussels  Mrs.  Sewall  addressed  the  Woman’s 
League  of  Belgium  and  in  Paris  she  gave  an  address  in  the  Mairie  St.  Sulpice  before  a 
large  company  of  leading  men  and  women.  This  address  was  widely  noticed  in  the  press  of 
Russia,  France,  England  and  Italy,  and  the  leading  facts  of  the  congress  were  thus  widely- 
disseminated.  Mrs.  Sewall  devoted  two  weeks  in  Paris  to  conferences  with  individuals  and 
organizations  in  the  interest  of  the  congress.  Mrs.  Sewall’s  public  work  is  thus,  it  will  be 
seen,  devoted  to  the  furtherance  of  organization  among  women.  She  has  alway’s  labored 
with  a broad  view,  careless  of  the  letter  if  the  spirit  can  be  secured.  Her  work  is  all  done 
above  the  plane  of  personalities  and  she  cares  little  for  the  honors  that  it  brings  her  in  com- 
parison with  the  good  of  the  cause.  She  has  worked  steadily  for  harmony  and  consolida- 
tion among  conflicting  interests,  with  an  eye  single  to  the  permanent  good.  She  labored 
earnestly-  and  successfully,  with  others,  to  accomplish  the  union  of  the  American  and  the 
National  Suffrage  As.sociatious  and  of  the  eastern  and  the  western  branches  of  the  Asso- 
ciation of  Collegiate  Alumme.  She  is  widely  known  as  a warm  friend,  a generous  and  fail- 
opponent,  sympathetic  with  all  workers  for  the  good  of  humanity  and  especially  of  women. 
Mrs.  Sewall  has  many  lectures  on  social,  educational  and  reform  topics  and  her  services  as 
a lecturer  are  widely-  sought  for.  She  is  perhaps  at  her  best  as  an  extemporaneous  sjieaker, 
her  style  being  clear,  cogent  and  eloquent,  with  full  command  of  her  subject.  As  a pre- 
siding officer  she  is  uniformly  successful,  being  dignified,  clear-headed,  impartial  and  quick 
to  seize  a point.  Mrs.  Sewall  is  also  a iirolilic  writer,  but  her  work  is  not  of  a character  to 
lie  easily  catalogued,  consisting  chiefly  of  newspaper  editorials  and  correspondence,  consti- 
tutions, programs,  reports  and  addresses  on  educational,  reform  and  social  subjects.  To 
the  various  activities  outlines  above  Mrs.  Sewall  adds  those  of  a housekeeper  who  oversees 
all  the  affairs  of  her  household  in  minute  detail.  She  is  widely  known  as  an  entertainer 
and  plays  her  full  part  in  the  social  and  even  the  fashionable  life  of  Indianapolis,  her 
Wednesday  afternoon  recejitions  being  a feature  of  the  intellectual  ami  social  life  of  the 
city.  Among  prominent  western  women  of  to-day  few,  if  any,  take  a higher  rank  than  ISlrs. 
May  Wright  Sewall,  of  Indianapolis,  Ind.  She  has  gained  this  prominence,  and  national 
recognition  as  well,  through  her  remarkable  and  rare  executive  ability.  So  sure  footed  is 
she  in  all  of  her  efforts  that  her  name  in  connection  with  any  undertaking  is  regarded 
almost  as  a talisman  of  success.  She  is  one  of  those  in  whom  action  becomes  unconscioiisly 
a syiiony-m  of  leadership,  and  by  instinct  and  by  choice  her  attention  has  been  turned 
largely  to  public  matters,  in  which  the  interests  of  numbers  are  involved.  This  has  made 
her  a marked  figure  in  nearly  all  public  movements  in  her  home  city,  in  her  State  and  in 
the  nation.  Yet  the  time  she  gives  to  those  things  is  what  for  another  woman  would  be  her 
leisure  hours.  The  usual  working  hours  of  each  day  she  devotes  conscientiously  to  her 
model  school  for  girls.  Mrs.  Sewall  is  l)y  birth  and  by  her  most  noticeable  characteristics 
and  special  sympathies  a western  woman.  She  was  born  in  Milwaukee,  Wis.,  then  a fron- 
tier settlement,  whenci*  her  parents  had  come  from  New  England.  She  received  her  early 
education  in  the  district  schools;  later  she  spent  two  years  in  a private  academy.  She  was 
afterward  for  a time  under  the  care  of  private  tutors,  who  j)repared  her  to  enter,  at  an  early 
age,  the  Northwestern  University  of  Evanston,  111.,  where  she  was  graduated  with  the 
degree  A.  B.  in  1807.  The  degree  A.  M.  was  conferred  upon  her  three  years  later.  She 
served  her  apprenticeship  as  an  educator  by  taking  j)rivate  pupils  ami  by  ftniching  in  differ 
ent  gradetl  schools  of  Michigan.  She  Wt'is  soon  called  to  morcj  advanced  work  and  lilleil 
with  success  the  j)osition  of  |)rinci[)al  successively  in  the  high  schools  of  Plainwell,  IMich., 
and  Franklin,  Ind.  In  1874  she  became  instructor  in  (ierman  in  the  high  school  at  Indian 
apolis.  In  1880  she  became  the  wife  of  Theodore  L.  Sewall,  a prominent  educator  of 
I ndianap(;li8,  and  for  several  years  gave  her  chief  attention  to  homt'  and  social  duties, 
domestic  duties  were  then  a comparatively  unknown  tield  to  Mis.  Sewall,  Imt  with  her 
characteristic  energy  and  determination  to  master  whatever  work  might  be  set  bidore  her 
she  litted  herself  for  a model  housekeejier  by  doing  all  of  her  own  work  uidil  she  had 
learned  thoroughly  all  branches  of  housekeeping.  As  a result  of  this  traiidng  her  domestic 
allairs,  to  which  she  still  gives  her  personal  supervision, run  like  clock-work  and  her  servants 


324 


MEMOIRS  OE  INDIANAPOLIS 


are  examples  of  faithfulness  and  efficiency.  In  1883  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Sewall  opened  the  Classical 
School  for  Girls  in  Indianapolis.  To  this  school  Mrs.  Sewall  gives  her  life  work  and  the 
fairest  fruit  of  her  genius.  In  its  brief  existence  it  has  become  large  and  flourishing  and 
the  cherished  plan  of  its  })rincipals,  of  making  it  a school  complete  and  thorough  in  every 
department  from  the  lowest  ])rimary  to  the  collegiate,  has  been  carried  out.  It  provides 
everything  except  a college  course,  to  which  its  senior  class  is  a stepping  stone.  Mrs.  Sew- 
all is  probably  more  widely  connected  in  an  active  way  with  local  and  national  organizations 
than  any  other  woman  in  the  country.  She  is  interested  first  of  all  in  the  advancement  and 
higher  education  of  women.  She  was  one  of  the  founders  and  a most  enthusiastic  member 
of  the  Woman’s  Club,  an  influential  literary  club  of  Indianaj)olis.  She  has  been  a moving 
spirit  in  the  Indianapolis  Ilamabai  Circle,  in  the  Indianapolis  Suffrage  Society  and  in  the 
Proi)ylfeutn,  an  organization  which  deserves  much  more  than  a passing  notice.  It  is  a 
woman’s  stock  company,  oiganized  in  1888,  which  has  recently  carried  out  its  chief  purpose, 
the  erecting  of  a handsome  club  building  for  club  meetings  and  public  entertainments,  which 
is  not  only  a useful  and  ornamental  structure  but  promises  to  be  a profitable  investment  for 
the  stockholders.  Mrs.  Sewall  is  and  has  been  from  its  beginning  the  president  of  the 
organization  and  its  success  is  largely  due  to  her  business  tact  and  skillful  management. 

Mrs.  Sewall  is  an  enthusiastic  member  of  the  Indianapolis  Ait  Association,  which 
holds  yearly  exhibitions,  and  is  exercising  a wide  influence  in  cultivating  artistic  taste. 
And  last,  but  by  no  means  least,  in  her  connection  with  local  affairs  she  was  the  first 
president  of  the  Contemporary  Club,  a literary  club  organized  a year  ago,  whose  large 
membership  includes  both  men  and  women  prominent  in  her  city  and  State.  Mrs.  Sewall 
is  a warm  advocate  of  the  political  rights  of  women,  and  has  been  for  a number  of  years 
prominent  in  the  work  of  the  Indiana  and  the  National  Equal  Suffrage  Societies.  She  is 
president  of  the  National  Council  of  Women,  vice-president  of  the  National  Federation  of 
Woman’s  Clubs,  and  one  of  the  vice-jiresidents  of  the  Association  of  Collegiate  Alumnae. 
She  is  a member  of  Sorosis,  of  the  Association  for  the  Advancement  of  Women,  of  the 
American  Historical  Society,  and  of  the  International  Council  of  Women.  In  1889  she  was 
a delegate  to  the  Woman's  Congress  in  Paris,  and  made  an  address  in  French  which 
received  praise  for  its  eloquence  from  M.  Jules  Simon  and  others.  Mrs.  Sewall  has  since 
been  made  an  honorary  member  of  the  Uiiioti.  Iiiter)intionale  des  Sciences  et  des  Arts,  Paris. 
The  latest  public  honor  done  to  Mrs.  Sewall  is  her  appointment  by  Governor  Hovey 
to  a place  on  the  Board  of  Commissioners  for  the  World’s  Fair.  If  we  add  that  Mrs. 
Sewall  is  in  frequent  demand  as  a lecturer  on  literary,  education  and  reform  subjects,  her 
almost  phenomenal  capacity  for  jmblic  work  may  be  more  fully  estimated.  But  this  is 
not  all  of  her  achievements.  Her  versatility  of  talent  and  tireless  energy  have  enabled  her 
to  do  also  a great  deal  of  literary  work.  Her  contribution  on  the  education  of  women  in 
the  Western  States  to  the  recently  published  “Woman’s  Work  in  America”  is  one  of  the 
most  interesting  chapters  in  that  wholly  interesting  and  valuable  work.  Mrs.  Sewall  is 
still  a young  and  youthful  looking  woman.  She  is  fond  of  .society  and  of  social  life,  and 
has  exerted  a wide  and  good  social  influence  in  Indianapolis.  She  presides  over  an  elegant 
and  hospitable  home,  where  her  friends  are  frequently  entertained,  and  where  many  stran- 
gers also,  men  and  women  of  note  who  visit  Indianapolis,  are  made  welcome.  Her  weekly 
informal  Wednesday  afternoon  receptions  are  always  largely  attended,  and  have  become  a 
prominent  feature  in  the  social  life  of  Indianapolis.  Probably  no  woman  in  America  so 
completely  represents  the  life  of  modern  woman  with  its  marvelous  round  of  occupations 
and  duties.  Mrs.  Sewall  is  a tine  embodiment  of  the  practical  ideas  of  the  day.  Her 
unvarying  success  is  due  largely  to  the  system  and  thoroughness  underlying  her  smallest 
as  well  as  her  greatest  undertakings,  and  to  the  religious  care  she  takes  of  her  bodily  health. 
A worker,  a thinker,  a writer,  of  virile  ability,  Mrs.  Sewall  is  withal  a most  womanly 
woman,  loving  pretty  dresses,  pictures,  books,  and  perhaps  most  of  all,  tine  china.  She 
has  a beautiful  collection,  gifts  of  friends  and  souvenirs,  wliose  history  she  delights  to  relate 
to  sympathetic  listeners.  A large  number  of  contributions  to  the  press,  on  varied  subjects, 
historical,  literary,  reform;  in  particular  contributions,  editorial  and  other,  to  the  Woman's 
Journal,  Boston ; the  A?»c/7can  Woman’ s Journal,  New  York;  the  Indianapolis  Journal: 
the  Woman’s  Tribune;  Dress;  Journal  of  Sjwxulative  Philosophy ; the  Womans  Magazine ; 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

UNIVERSITY  OF  ILLINOIS 


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AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

the -fl7'ena ,•  the  Cycle;  the  Union  Signal:  the  Indianapolis  Times;  the  Boston  Traveler; 
the  Woman's  Penny  Paper  (London,  England).  A large  number  of  pamphlets  and  mono- 
graphs, principally  on  educational  and  reform  topics,  in  particular  relating  to  organization 
and  work  among  women.  Among  these  may  be  mentioned:  Disinherited  Childhood  (pub- 
lished by  the  Moral  Education  Society,  of  Washington,  D.  C.,  1881);  Report  on  the  Position  of 
Women  in  Industry  and  Education  in  the  State  of  Indiana  (prepared  for  the  New  Orleans 
Exposition,  at  the  request  of  the  Commissioners  for  Indiana,  1885);  Women  as  Educators  (an 
address  before  the  Association  for  the  Advancement  of  Women,  New  York,  October,  1887); 
The  Domestic  and  Social  Effects  of  the  Higher  Education  of  Women  (an  address  read  before 
the  Western  Association  of  Collegiate  Alumme,  Ann  Arbor,  December,  10,  1887);  Report  on 
the  Higher  Education  for  Women  in  the  United  Slates  (read  at  the  session  of  the  Interna- 
tional Council  of  Women,  March  20,  1888;  printed  in  the  Report  of  the  proceedings);  The 
Industrial  Relations  of  Women  to  the  State  (an  address  prepared  for  the  Indiana  Board  of 
Agriculture);  Woman’s  Work  in  America  (the  cha])ter  on  the  Education  of  Women  in  the 
West;  Holt  & Co. , 1801 );  Exposition  Day  in  the  Schools  (prepared  at  the  request  of  the  Com- 
mittee on  Education  of  the  Indiana  Board  of  M’orld’s  Fair  Commissioners,  Indianapolis, 
1891;  Preliminary  Address  for  the  W’orld’s  Congress  of  Representative  Women,  Chicago, 
1892;  Form  of  Constitution  of  Local  Councils  of  Women,  Indianapolis,  1892;  Pamphlet  out- 
lining the  work  of  the  Committee  on  Woman’s  Work  of  the  Indiana  Board  of  World’s  Fair 
Commissioners,  1892;  History  of  the  Indianapolis  Art  Association  (Vouga’s  Art  Folio,  March, 
1892;  The  General  Federation  of  Women’s  Clubs  (in  the  Arena,  August,  1892);  Intro- 
duction to  a Symposium  on  Woman’s  Dress  (in  the  Arena,  September,  1892). 

Hox.  Will  E.  English,  ex-Representative  in  Congress  from  the  Seventh  Congressional 
District  of  Indiana.  The  subject  of  this  sketch,  Hon.  Will  E.  English,  is  a prominent 
Indianian,  and  is  the  only  son  of  the  Hon.  William  H.  English,  Democratic  candidate  for 
vice-president  of  the  United  States  on  the  ticket  with  Gen.  Hancock.  He  was  born  at  Lex- 
ington, Scott  County,  Inti.,  but  removed  to  Indianapolis  at  an  early  age,  where  he  has  since 
resided.  He  studied  law  and  graduated  in  the  law  department  of  the  Northwestern  Chris- 
tian University,  and  entered  practice  with  the  Hon.  John  R.  Wilson,  under  the  firm  name  of 
English  & Wilson.  He  retired  from  the  firm  at  the  end  of  five  years  in  order  to  devote  par- 
ticular attention  to  the  new  and  magnificent  structure,  known  as  English’s  Opera  House,  of 
which  he  was  proprietor  and  manager.  At  the  end  of  six  years  he  leased  the  opera  house, 
and  arranging  his  business  enteriirises  traveled  extensively  abroad  for  some  three  years, 
visiting  every  country  in  Europe  from  Norway  to  Greece,  and  various  portions  of  Asia, 
Africa,  Mexico,  Cuba,  South  America,  etc.  Mr.  English  is  a graceful  and  ready  writer,  well 
informed  and  well  read,  and  during  his  various  foreign  tours  he  wrote  a series  of  letters, 
which  appeared  in  the  Indianapolis  Daily  Sentinel,  and  attracted  general  attention,  evidenc- 
ing marked  literary  ability.  His  letters  from  the  Holy  Land,  North  Africa,  Turkey,  Egypt, 
etc.,  were  so  favorably  commented  upon  that  they  will  shortly  appear  in  book  form.  Al- 
though the  son  of  a distinguished  father  and  a member  of  one  of  the  most  prominent  fami- 
lies of  the  State,  Mr.  English  is  an  unspoiled  child  of  good  fortune.  Wealth,  iiower  and 
adulation  could  never  make  him  other  than  he  is,  a man  who  is  of  the  people,  not  above 
them,  possessing  as  he  does  the  instincts  of  democracy  to  such  a degree  that  they  are  a sec- 
ond nature  to  him,  and  his  universal  and  exceptional  ])oj)ularity  with  all  classes  is  the  best 
evidence  of  that  fact.  Fleasant,  genial,  talented  and  attractive,  with  always  a pleasant 
word  for  all,  high  or  low,  rich  or  yioor,  it  is  not  strange  that  he  should  be  so  general  a favor- 
ite. .-Vs  a natural  result  of  these  social  characteristics  he  is  connected  with  various  social 
and  lienevolent  organizations,  has  lieen  the  worshipful  master  of  Genter  Ivodge  of  Masons 
of  Indianapolis,  past  grand  ruler  of  the  B.  O.  of  E.  for  the  Ibiited  States,  and  yiast  presi 
dent  of  the  Indiana  Society  Sons  of  the  American  Revolution,  besides  being  a member  of 
the  Indiana  Historical  Society,  Indiana  Humane  Society,  Indianapolis  (Commercial  (Club,  etc. 
Mr.  English  has  for  years  been  an  active  politician  and  one  of  (he  leaders  of  the  Indian 
apolis  Democracy,  and  has  repeatedly  represented  them  in  delegate  cajiacity  in  conventions 
of  every  character  and  description  municipal,  townshij),  county.  State  and  national.  He 
began  active  jiarticipation  in  jiolitics  some  years  j)revious  to  his  majority,  and  has  been  an 
officer  in  (^very  organization  of  the  Young  Democracy  of  Indianapolis  since  that  time.  He 


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was  treasurer  of  tlie  Greeley  Club  of  1872,  president  of  the  Tildeu  Campaign  Club  of  1876, 
president  of  the  Hendricks  Club  in  1876-77,  and  president  of  the  Young  Men’s  Democratic 
Club  in  1878.  In  1875  he  vvas  the  Democratic  nominee  for  council  in  the  eleventh  ward  of 
Indianapolis,  but  declined.  In  1882  he  was  elected  chairman  of  the  Center  Township 
Democratic  convention.  In  1885  he  was  elected  chairman  of  the  Indianapolis  City  Demo- 
cratic convention.  In  1890  he  was  elected  chairman  of  the  Marion  County  Democratic  con- 
vention, and  again  in  1891  was  elected  chairman  of  the  Indianapolis  City  Democratic  con- 
vention. At  the  national  convention  of  Democratic  Clubs,  held  in  New  York,  October  4, 
1892,  Mr.  English  was  elected  vice  president  of  the  organization  and  a member  of  the 
national  committee  for  the  State  of  Indiana  for  the  ensuing  four  years. 

Mr.  English  has  been  a member  of  the  Democratic  County  Committee  of  Marion  County, 
for  over  tifteen  years  continuously,  and  has  for  years  been  a member  of  the  Democratic  City 
Committee,  of  Indiana[)olis  also,  and  in  1878  was  elected  chairman  of  the  city  committee. 
In  that  capacity  he  so  satisfactorily  conducted  the  affairs  of  the  city  campaign  at  the  spring 
election  of  1878,  that  in  recognition  of  his  ability  as  a political  organizer  and  manager,  he 
shortly  after  was  also  unanimously  chosen  to  the  position  of  chairman  of  the  Marion  County 
committee,  atul  given  the  general  management  there,  during  the  exciting  State  campaign  of 
1878.  It  was  while  holding  these  two  imjjortant  positions  that  he  was  unanimously  nomi- 
nated by  the  Democrats  of  Marion  and  Shelby  Counties,  as  their  candidate  for  Joint  Repre- 
sentative, notwithstanding  there  were  several  worthy  and  talented  competitors  for  the  nomi- 
nation. His  canvass  for  this  office  attracted  general  attention  throughout  the  State,  and 
although  the  district  was  carried  by  the  Republican  party  two  years  before  by  a majority  of 
nearly  700,  and  at  this  election,  on  the  general  ticket  by  over  200,  Mr.  English  was  elected 
leading  his  ticket  nearly  500  votes.  He  had  the  honor  of  being  the  youngest  member  of  the 
House  of  Representatives,  although  representing  the  then  largest  district  in  the  State,  and  of 
being  the  third  of  his  immediate  family  to  hold  a seat  in  that  body,  his  father  and  grand- 
father both  having  previously  been  members  of  the  House  of  Representatives.  He  served 
with  distinction  during  both  the  regular  and  extra  sessions,  and  was  a recognized  leader  of 
his  ))arty.  He  was  considered  one  of  the  best  parliamentarians  in  the  body,  and  Speaker 
Cautliorne  fre(]nently  called  upon  him  to  preside  over  the  deliberations  of  the  House.  The 
S|)eaker  appointed  him  to  the  chairmanship  of  the  standing  committee,  on  the  affairs  of  the 
city  of  Indianapolis,  and  a member  of  the  committee  to  reapportion  the  State  for  congres- 
sional and  legislative  pui-poses.  His  bill  upon  congressional  apjiortionment — “House  Bill 
No.  486’’-  })assed  both  Houses,  and  became  the  law,  after  one  of  the  most  bitter  partisan 
struggles  ever  witnessed  in  the  State  Legislature.  Mr.  English  was  also  author  of  the  popu- 
lar law  limiting  the  indebtedness  of  Marion  County,  and  various  other  bills  and  resolu- 
tions of  like  importance  were  proposed  by  him.  Among  them  were  the  first  l)ill  providing 
for  a reduction  of  official  fees  and  salaries,  the  bill  abolishing  the  unnecessary  offices  of  city 
treasurer  and  assessor,  the  bill  ju'oviding  for  a i eappraisement  of  real  estate  and  the  reduction 
of  taxation  thereon,  and  the  original  bill  providing  for  a Metropolitan  police  system  in  Indian- 
apolis. Mr.  English  was  prominently  spoken  of  as  a candidate  for  Congress  at  the  expiration 
of  his  legislative  term  in  1880,  but  declined  to  allow  the  use  of  his  name  before  the  convention 
of  that  year.  However,  at  the  succeeding  election  two  years  later,  there  was  a general  desire 
among  his  party  friends  that  he  should  become  the  Democratic  catulidatein  his  district,  and 
although  several  prominent  and  able  gentlemen  were  candidates  for  the  position.  Mr.  English 
was  unanimously  nominated  at  the  convention  held  at  Shelbyville,  May  8,  1882.  The  Re- 
publican candidate  against  him  had  the  advantage  of  being  a candidate  for  re  election, 
having  been  elected  two  years  before  by  nearly  1,000  majority.  But  in  the  face  of  this 
large  majority  to  overcome,  Mr.  English  entered  upon  a vigorous  cam}iaign,  making  a thor- 
ough personal  canvass,  besides  s})eaking  in  every  township  in  the  district.  His  ability  as  a 
canvasser  being  well  known,  his  nomination  alarmed  the  opposition,  notwithstanding  their 
[)revious  majorities  in  the  district,  and  every  effort  was  made  to  insure  his  defeat.  The 
extreme  Prohibitionists  were  particularly  aroused  against  him.  because  of  his  decided  and 
pronouiu^ed  position  upon  that  question,  and  while,  as  before,  he  received  a number  of  Re- 
publican votes  among  the  younger  men,  he  was  largely  scratched  by  the  ultra-Prohibition 
element  and  lost  some  votes  thereby  that  were  otherwise  given  to  his  party  ticket.  He, 


827 


AXD  MABIOX  COUXTY,  IXDIAXA. 

however,  was  ahead  of  his  party  vote  upon  the  local  county  tickets,  and  notwithstanding  the 
majority  to  overcome,  and  the  exceptional  tight  made  against  him,  he  carried  the  district  and 
w’as  elected  after  one  of  the  hottest  political  campaigns  ever  known  in  the  State. 

During  his  Congressional  term  at  Washington  Mr.  English,  in  the  language  of  the 
Washington  Cronicle,  made  “ a useful,  capable  and  attentive  Representative,”  always  in 
attendance  upon  the  sessions  of  the  House  and  ever  watchful  of  the  interests  of  his  constit- 
uents. Among  other  important  bills  introduced  by  him  while  in  Congress  were  those  pro- 
viding for  an  international  copyright  law,  the  issuance  of  silver  certiticates  of  small  denomi- 
nations and  the  increase  of  the  pensions  of  crippled  soldiers  and  sailors.  His  comprehensive 
report  on  the  proposed  alcoholic  liquor  traffic  commission  from  the  committee  of  which  he 
was  chairman  was  adopted  by  the  House  and  attracted  general  attention  and  much  favorable 
comment.  At  the  close  of  his  official  term  it  was  the  general  desire  of  his  Democratic  constit- 
uents that  he  accept  a renomination,  but  influenced  by  personal  considerations  he  positively 
declined  to  be  a candidate.  His  declination  was  received  l)y  the  Democracy  with  regret  and 
the  Congressional  convention  upon  assembling  at  Indianajmlis,  August  31,  1884,  to  nomi- 
nate his  successor,  unanimously  adopted  the  following  resolution  in  reference  thereto: 
“Resolved  that  we  herewith  regret  Mr.  English’s  wish  and  determination  not  to  be  a candi- 
date for  re-election  and  we  uinpialifiedly  express  our  contidence  in  him  as  a Democrat  and  a 
faithful  representative.”  To  quote  the  words  of  the  indianfq)o//s  Daily  Democrat  of  the 
following  day,  this  was  “a  high  and  well  deserved  compliment.  The  Convention  would  not 
listen  to  any  declination  and  came  very  near  nominating  him  in  spite  of  all  his  protests. 
It  was  a splendid  endorsement  given  in  a splendid  manner.”  Mr.  English  was  not  only 
thus  warmly  approved  by  his  Democratic  friends  but  his  course  in  Congress  received 
endorsement  from  many  of  his  Republican  constituents  as  well.  One  of  the  leading  Repub- 
lican papers  of  the  State  at  that  time,  the  Indianapolis  Daily  Times  said:  “He  is  fair  and 
liberal  toward  his  political  opponents  and  always  ready  to  do  a favor.  He  won  the  repu- 
tation of  being  a working  and  successful  member  of  the  Indiana  Legislature  and  we 
are  glad  to  find  him  on  the  same  line  in  Congress.”  The  able  Republican  organ  of  Han- 
cock County  the  Green  field  Republican  mid:  “ He  makes  a faithful  and  efficient  represent- 
ative and  in  his  official  duties  does  not  discriminate  against  those  who  differ  from  him  polit- 
ically. As  a business  representative  he  is  now,  as  when  a member  of  the  Indiana  Assembly, 
far  above  the  average,  and  entitled  to  the  contidence  of  his  constituents.”  Thus  Mr. 
English  left  official  position  with  kindly  words  from  both  political  friend  and  foe,  after 
never  having  suffered  defeat  in  convention  or  at  the  polls.  In  the  language  of  the  Washmg- 
ton  Free  Press  at  f he  close  of  the  Congressional  session,  “ Mr.  English  came  into  the  House 
of  Representatives  the  youngest  member  of  that  body,  going  out  with  the  good  will  and 
respect  of  the  entire  House  and  with  as  many  personal  friends  as  the  most  jiojmlar  mem- 
bers. Although  fi'eijuently  spoken  of  in  that  connection  Mr.  English  has  declined  to  be  a 
candidate  for  election  to  any  office  since  that  time,  but  has  continued  as  ever  an  active, 
zealous  worker  in  the  ranks  of  the  Democratic  party.  In  the  Presidential  campaign  of 
1892,  he  was  an  active  and  prominent  partici])ant  l)oth  l)efore  and  after  the  Presidential 
nominations.  In  the  heated  preliminary  contest  within  the  Democratic  ranks  between  the 
friends  of  the  various  aspirants  for  the  Presidency,  Mr.  English  was  one  of  the  leaders  in 
Indiana  of  the  Cleveland  following,  and  as  a result  thereof  was  selected  by  his  fellow 
Democrats  of  the  Itidianapolis  district  as  a delegate  to  the  national  Democratic  convention 
at  Chicago  over  several  well-known  and  active  comj)etitors.  He  was  one  of  the  most  prom- 
inent members  of  that  body,  having  been  chosen  in  the  organization  as  chairman  of  the 
im|)ortant  “Committee  r)n  Rules  and  Order  of  Rusiness  ” for  the  government  of  the  conven- 
tion and  having  been  later  unanimously  selected  by  the  Indiana  delegation  to  make  the 
speech  to  tin*  convention  on  behalf  of  the  State  of  Indiana  seconding  the  nomination  of 
Orover  Cleveland  for  the  office  of  President  of  the  I'nited  States. 

In  the  performance  of  this  distinguished  duty  he  ac<|uitt(‘d  himself  with  great  ciu'dit 
and  honor,  his  speech  being  generally  pronounced  by  |)ress  and  p>d)lic  to  be,  in  the  language 
(jf  the  Daily  Nen-s,  “ fjim  of  the  best  oratorical  efforts,”  delivered  before  that  magnificent 
assemblage.  The  Assori.aled  Press  declared  it  “eloquently”  rendered,  and  the  I ndiana/iolis 
liaily  Seiitinrl's  tele^ra[>hic  special  from  Chicago  voiced  tin*  general  verdict  in  the  state- 


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MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


luent  “That,  it  was  generaliy  conceded  tliat  Mr.  English  made  the  best  seconding  speech  of 
tlie  convention.”  Mr.  English  is  a young  man  of  tine  apj)earance,  and  of  great  personal 
popularity,  a (piick  and  ready  debater,  a forcible  speaker  and  an  excellent  presiding  officer, 
and  when  occasion  requires  and  he  is  called  to  preside  over  or  address  public  meetings 
or  conventions  his  capacity  is  made  most  manifest  and  his  abilities  show  to  their  best 
advantage. 

Hon.  Saml’el  H.  Buskirk  (deceased),  was  a representative  of  one  of  the  best  known 
families  of  Indiana,  one  brother  being  Judge  Edward  C.  Buskirk,  of  Indianapolis,  another 
the  late  Judge  (leorge  A.  Buskirk,  of  Bloomington,  and  himself  having  served  on  the 
supreme  bench  of  the  State.  He  was  born  January  19,  1820,  at  New  Albany,  Ind.,  receiving 
his  collegiate  education  at  the  State  University  at  Bloomington,  and  graduating  from  the 
law  department  of  that  institution  in  1841.  He  early  displayed  ability  of  a high  order  in 
his  chosen  jirofession,  but  having  a strong  liking  for  |)olitics  his  professional  and  political 
career  became  hopelessly  mixed.  In  1848-52  and  1854,  he  served  by  election  in  the  legis- 
lative assemblies  of  Indiana;  was  a candidate  for  elector  on  the  Democratic  ticket  in  1856, 
and  in  1862  65,  was  again  elected  a member  of  the  Legislature,  serving  two  terms  as  speaker 
of  the  House.  In  1870  he  was  elected  a Supreme  Court  judge,  served  one  full  term  of  six 
years,  and  during  that  time  prej)ared  and  published  “ Buskirk’s  Practice,”  a standard  work 
of  ju-actice  in  the  Supreme  Court.  At  the  time  of  his  death,  which  occurred  very  suddenly 
April  3,  1879,  he  was  a resident  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  and  actively  engaged  in  the  prac- 
tice of  law.  Judge  Buskirk  ranked  exce[>tionally  high  as  a lawyer  and  jurist;  was  a man 
of  unexceptionable  character,  and  was  the  possessor  of  the  respect  of  all  classes  regardless 
of  religious  creed  or  political  conviction. 

Gen.  John  Coburn.  Among  the  prominent  and  able  lawyers  of  the  State,  noted  for  his 
skill  in  handling  cases,  is  Gen.  John  Coburn,  who  possesses  far  more  than  the  share  of 
ability  with  which  the  average  man  is  endowed.  He  has  won  his  enviable  position  in  the  legal 
profession  by  the  exercise  of  the  talent  with  which  nature  endowed  him,  allied  to  great 
a])plication,  and  few  can  conscientiously  accept  the  praise  which  he  so  well  merits.  He  was 
born  on  West  Ohio  Street  in  what  was  then  the  village  of  Indianapolis,  October  27,  1825, 
his  parents  being  Henry  P.  and  Sarah  Coburn,  who  settled  there  in  the  latter  part  of  1824. 
His  education  was  obtained  in  the  old  County  Seminary  on  University  sipiare,  and  at  Wabash 
College,  Crawfordsville,  from  which  he  graduated  with  signal  honors  in  1846.  For  some 
time  thereafter  he  assisted  his  father  as  deputy  clerk  of  the  Supreme  Court  of  the  State, 
after  which  he  studied  law  in  his  father’s  office,  receiving  his  license  to  practice  in  1849. 
He  served  one  term  as  a representative  in  the  Legislature  in  1850  and  1851,  from  Marion 
County.  He  soon  after  formed  a partnership  with  Hon.  Napoleon  B.  Taylor,  and  was  later 
thus  associated  with  Gov.  David  Wallace.  His  ability  as  an  able  advocate  soon  became 
recognized  and  he  was  elected  judge  of  the  Common  Pleas  Court  for  the  district  composed 
of  the  counties  of  Marion,  Hendricks  and  Boone,  in  which  capacity  he  served  with  distinction 
until  September,  1861,  when  he  resigned  and  was  appointed  colonel  of  the  Thirty-third 
Regiment  of  Indiana  Volunteers  and  at  once  took  coTumand,  going  with  his  regiment  into 
Kentucky,  as  a part  of  the  army  of  the  Ohio,  afterward  known  as  the  army  of  the  Cumber- 
land. His  was  the  first  regiment  in  that  army  to  engage  in  battle,  which  was  on  October 
21,  1861.  With  his  regiment  he  participated  in  all  the  arduous  services  of  the  field,  the 
marches,  battles  and  sieges  and  was  once  captured  with  a portion  of  his  brigade,  and  for  a 
short  time  was  a captive  in  Libby  Prison.  His  record  as  a soldier  is  without  reproach  and 
his  last  service  as  such  was  in  the  Atlanta  campaign,  which  city  surrendered  to  him. 
He  commandetl  a brigade  during  the  most  of  his  service  in  the  field,  and  was  breveted  a 
Brigadier-general  for  meritorious  and  gallant  conduct  throughout  the  war.  U})OU  his  return 
home  he  resumed  the  ])ractice  of  his  ])rofession  and  in  the  fall  of  the  same  year  was  elected 
judge  of  the  circuit  composed  of  Marion,  Hendricks  and  Johnson  Counties  in  which  capacity 
he  served  with  great  credit  to  himself  and  to  the  satisfaction  of  the  public  in  general  until 
August,  1866,  at  which  time  he  resigned.  In  October  of  the  same  year  he  was  elected  a 
member  of  Congress  and  was  honored  with  a re-election  three  times,  and  served  in  all  eight 
years,  his  career  as  a Congressman  being  a brilliant  and  honorable  one.  He  was  a faithful 
and  conscientious  worker  in  the  House.  He  served  four  yeai's  on  the  committee  on  banking 


329 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

and  currency  and  for  four  years  was  chairman  of  the  committee  on  military  affairs,  and  so 
deep  and  thorough  was  his  knowledge  in  this  line  that  he  was  considered  by  many  to  be 
a most  suitable  person  to  fill  the  responsible  and  honorable  })Osition  of  Secretary  of  War. 
after  Secretary  Belknap  had  resigned.  His  greatest  and  most  successful  labors,  in  Congress 
were  those  in  which  he  struggled  against  the  attempted  contraction  of  the  currency  by  the 
retirement  of  the  greenbacks;  and  in  various  reforms  in  the  laws  governing  the  army.  He 
was  the  author  of  the  measure  providing  for  the  publication  of  the  llebellion  Records  and  of 
the  law  providing  headstones  for  deceased  .soldiers,  also  of  the  law  establishing  the  military 
prison  at  Forth  Leavenworth.  In  his  jiolitical  proclivities  he  was  a Whig,  then  became  an 
advocate  of  the  principles  of  the  Republican  party,  which  he  has  earnestly  su})ported  up  to 
the  present  time.  When  the  great  Civil  ^Var  seemed  inevitable  and  men  were  found  waver 
ing.  he  was  enthusiastic  in  his  support  of  the  Union,  and  his  powerful  and  tiery  elo<pience 
on  the  public  platform  did  much  to  arouse  the  })eople  to  a true  sense  of  the  critical  state  of 
affairs.  He  has  always  been  noted  as  a forcible  and  elocpient  writer,  as  well  as  2)ublic 
speaker,  and  has  written  numerous  able  articles  for  the  jmess,  as  well  as  addressed  the  public 
on  all  matters  of  general  interest.  His  speeches  in  Congress  on  the  various  great  sul)jects 
of  debate  would  fill  a volume;  among  which  are  those  upon  the  currency,  the  tariff,  the 
impeachment  of  President  Johnson,  army  reform,  reconstruction,  the  Kuklux  law,  and 
national  election  laws.  He  reported  in  the  winter  of  1875  the  l)ill  to  secure  honest  and  fair 
elections,  commonly  called  the  Force  Bill,  which  after  long  fillibustering.  j)assed  the  House 
in  February,  but  failed  in  the  Senate.  He  led  the  Re])ui)lican  side  and  Mr.  Randall  the 
Democratic.  In  1<S77  he  was  appointed  by  President  Hayes  one  of  the  Commissioners  to 
settle  the  vexed  cpiestions  of  land  titles  at  Hot  Springs,  in  Arkansas.  This  occupied  the 
commission  two  years,  and  resulted  in  giving  the  settlers  there — more  than  1,000 — the 
right  to  purchase  the  lots  improved  and  claimed  by  them  against  the  few  men,  three  or  four 
speculators,  who  asserted  their  right  to  the  entire  tract,  which  was  of  enormous  value.  This 
ended  satisfactorily  many  l)itter  and  bloody  controversies.  In  February,  1884,  he  was 
apj)ointed  by  President  Arthur  one  of  the  suju'eme  judges  of  Montana  territory.  He  held 
the  office  about  two  years  when  he  was  removed  by  President  Cleveland  for  offensive  j)artisan- 
ship.  The  fact  was,  that  he  was  in  Indiana  a short  time,  in  the  fall  of  1884,  and  made  a few 
speeches  iii  favor  of  Mr.  Blaine  for  jnesident.  His  malicious  jmlitical  enemies  in  Indiana 
were  instrumental  in  securing  his  removal.  Judge  Coburn  performed  his  labors  satisfacto- 
rily to  the  people  of  Montana,  doing  a vast  amount  of  l)usiness,  holding  court  night  and  day. 
He  at  once  returned  to  Indianapolis,  and  to  the  practice  of  his  profession.  Local  as  well 
as  general  politics  have  interested  him  greatly  and  he  has  wielded  a wide  influence,  and  that 
for  good,  among  the  citizens  of  the  city  in  which  his  life  has  been  spent.  His  standing 
among  its  [)eople  is  of  an  enviable  character;  having  taken  great  ])ride  in  its  prosperity  and 
progress,  which  he  has  seen  grow  fiom  an  obscure  village  to  a beautiful  and  prosperous 
city.  He  is  a believer  in  truth,  justice  and  right,  advocates  these  princi})le8  on  all  occasions 
and  in  his  long  and  useful  walk  thiougli  life  lie  has  followed  them  in  example  as  well  as  by 
precept.  Nothing  could  better  illustiate  his  faith  in  humanity  and  in  the  radical  and 
thorough  iiiifirovement  of  his  fellow  men  than  the  firm  stand  he  took  when  the  new  city 
charter  of  Indianapolis  was  adojited  in  1891,  taking  away  self  government  and  creating  a 
despotism  in  the  office  of  mayor.  He  denounced  it  as  unworthy  an  intelligent  people,  an 
abandonment  by  them  of  the  right  to  do  their  own  thinking  upon  their  own  jmblic  affairs 
and  as  a confession  of  their  inability  to  act  for  themselves  in  their  municijial  capacity.  But. 
he  said  that  this  infatuation  would  soon  vanish  as  an  ugly  dream  and  the  better  sense  of  the 
peojile  would  soon  reclaim  the  powers  of  self-governnient  and  independent  action,  and  that 
he  had  unwavering  confidence  in  the  ability  of  the  jx'Oiile  to  govern  themselves  whether  in 
the  city.  State  or  the  nation;  and  that  the  only  safe*  municiiial  government  must  rest  ujion 
the  well-paid  representatives  of  the  peojile  elected  to  act  as  couucilnuMi  and  aldermen,  and 
openly  iliscuss  every  matter  of  business.  lie  has  taken  a very  active  part  in  the  matter 
of  the  .State  soldier’s  monument,  and  in  1875  made  a long  report,  which  was  jirinled  exten 
sively  in  favor  ol  a .Memorial  Hall.  'I'his  committee  was  comjiosed  of  membiu's  from  every 
Uongressional  district  in  Ih*^  State.  Andina  similar  line  he  has  devoted  much  time  in  secur- 
ing the  improvement  of  (larfield  Bark  in  his  native  city,  lie  was  soon  after  the  close  of  the 


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MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


war  one  of  a coiumittee  of  citizens  who  organized  the  Soldier’s  Home,  collected  funds  and 
]>urchased  the  present  site  at  Kniglitstown.  After  this  the  Slate  assumed  the  charge  and 
management  by  an  act  of  the  Legislature  which  he  drafted  and  the  institution  was  delievered 
into  the  hands  of  State  officers.  Ultimately  the  soldiers  were  taken  to  the  National 
Home  at  Dayton,  and  the  Orphan’s  Home,  a grand  institution,  was  established  under  the  law. 
He  has  had  a hand  in  many  matters  for  the  ])ublic  welfare  and  continues  with  energy  and 
good  will  in  all  of  his  old  lines  of  life.  He  is  an  optimist  and  strives  for  the  coming  of  the 
belter  day  for  all  men. 

J.  P.  ^[cCoNNELn.  In  writing  a review  of  the  industries  of  Indianapolis,  there  is  no  sub- 
ject more  worthy  of  attention  than  the  city’s  carpenter  trade.  It  constitutes  an  im])ortant 
factor  in  the  city's  advancement,  and  no  man  has  done  more  in  this  ])articular  branch  than 
has  J.  P.  McConnell  whose  carpenter  and  job  shop  is  located  at  ‘27  East  Georgia  Street. 
He  gives  special  attention  to  store  and  office  fixtures  and  how  well  he  has  prospered  may  be 
seen  in  the  high  class  of  his  custom  and  the  excellent  character  of  his  work.  He  has  built 
up  a good  patronage  and  has  proven  himself  a gentleman  of  unswerving  integrity.  Mr. 
McConnell  is  a product  of  Indiana  soil,  born  in  Fayette  County,  August  8,  1841,  and  is  a son 
of  Ellis  D.  and  Nancy  (Hodkins)  McConnell,  natives  respectively  of  Ohio  and  Kentuck}'. 
Our  subject’s  j)aternal  grandfather,  Capt.  Thomas  McConnell,  was  a Virginian  who  served  as 
captain  in  the  War  of  1812.  Ellis  D.  McConnell  moved  from  his  native  State  to  Fayette 
County,  Ind. , in  1825,  or  about  that  time,  and  located  on  a farm  where  he  met  with  unusual 
success.  Formerly  a Whig  in  politics  he  joined  the  ranks  of  the  Republican  party  upon  its 
orgaidzation,  and  took  a deep  interest  in  politics.  For  many  years  he  was  a worthy  member 
of  the  Christian  Church.  His  death  occurred  February  19,  1887,  on  his  eighty-fifth  birth- 
day. His  wife  died  May  30,  1882.  Nine  of  their  twelve  children  grew  to  manhood  and 
womanhood.  J.  P.  McConnell,  our  sul)ject,  secured  a fair  education  in  the  schools  of  his 
native  county  and  partially  learned  his  trade  before  the  war.  On  December  0.  1801,  he 
enlisted  in  Company  G,  Fifty-second  Indiana,  as  musician  and  participated  in  the  battle  of 
Fort  Donelson  after  which  he  was  discharged  from  the  service  on  account  of  general  disabil- 
ity. Although  exempt  from  further  service  he  afterward  joined  the  100  days’  service  and  was 
a faithful  and  trusty  soldier.  He  had  graduated  from  Bryant  & Spencer’s  Commercial  Col- 
lege and  after  the  war  he  engaged  in  various  kinds  of  work  for  some  time.  He  was  a con- 
tractor on  the  I.  & V.  Railroad,  where  he  lost  money  and  he  was  subsequently  engaged  in 
the  patent  right  business  all  over  Illinois  and  Missouri.  After  this  he  was  in  Arkansas,  Miss- 
issippi, Tennessee  and  other  jiarts  of  the  South  for  one  year.  About  1872  he  came  to  Indian- 
apolis and  turned  his  attention  to  building.  In  1875  he  went  South  for  about  one  year;  was  in 
Chicago  in  1881  and  1883.  then  came  to  Indianapolis.  In  learning  his  trade  Mr.  McConnell 
had  instilled  into  his  mind  the  principle  to  do  good  work,  but  after  he  had  followed  this  for 
some  time  he  found  it  was  no  longer  profitable  in  building  houses,  so  he  turned  his  attention 
to  office  and  store  fixtures  which  he  makes  a specialty.  He  has  met  with  the  best  of  success 
in  this  line  of  business  and  gives  the  be.st  of  satisfaction.  In  the  year  1899  he  married  Miss 
Anga  Staats,  of  Fortville,  this  State,  but  this  happy  union  terminated  in  her  death  April  14, 
1874.  One  daughter,  now  deceased,  was  born  to  this  union.  On  Ajiril  15,  1879,  Mr. 
McConnell  married  Miss  Lilly  Ferguson,  of  Edinburg.  Although  a Republican  he  is  not  a 
strict  partisan  but  is  rather  independent  in  his  ideas. 

Geoboe  \V.  Bailey.  The  development  of  the  real  estate  market  of  Indianapolis  has 
been  upon  a scale  commensurate  with  the  importance  and  rapid  growth  in  wealth  and  popu- 
lation, equal  in  pro])ortion.  to  any  city  in  the  Union,  while  much  of  the  credit  attaching 
thereto  is  due  to  the  intelligent  efforts  and  honorable  policy  of  our  leading  and  representa- 
tive real  estate  agents.  Prominent  among  the  number  referred  to  is  Mr.  George  W.  Bailey, 
well  known  in  real  estate  circles  and  senior  member  of  the  firm  of  Bailey  & Bailey,  dealers  in 
real  estate,  rents  and  loans.  He  is  a recognized  accurate  authority  on  the  present  and  pros- 
pective values  of  real  estate  throughout  all  sections  of  the  city  and  vicinity,  so  that  the  utmost 
reliance  can  be  placed  upon  his  judgment  and  advice  by  intended  investors.  He  is  a gentle- 
man of  large  experience,  sound  judgment  and  marked  ability.  Mr.  Bailey  was  born  in 
Madison  County,  Ind,  near  Anderson,  August  4,  1841,  son  of  Lewis  J.  and  Mary  (Miller) 
Bailey,  the  former  a native  of  Kentucky  and  the  latter  of  the  Old  North  State.  When 


331 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

about  sixteen  years  of  age  the  father  removed  with  his  parents  to  Indiana  and  there  grew 
to  manhood,  becoming  a substantial  farmer  of  Madison  County.  For  years  he  was  justice 
of  the  peace,  trustee,  etc.,  discharging  the  duties  of  all  in  a manner  reflecting  credit  upon 
himself  and  his  constituents.  In  February,  1861,  he  came  to  Marion  County,  and  settled 
on  a farm  north  of  Indianapoli.«,  where  he  passed  the  remainder  of  his  days,  dying  in  1868. 
The  paternal  grandfather  of  our  subject,  George  W.  Bailey  (after  whom  our  subject  was 
named),  was  a veteran  of  the  War  of  1812,  and  the  Mexican  War.  He  was  a native  of  the 
grand  old  State  of  Virginia.  The  original  of  this  notice  was  reared  on  a farm  in  Madison 
County  and  there  remained  until  twenty  years  of  age,  receiving  his  education  in  the  common 
schools.  He  came  with  the  family  to  Indiana])olis,  February  3,  1861,  and  after  remaining 
with  his  father  on  the  farm  for  about  three  years  learned  the  painters  and  grainer's  trade 
which  he  followed  for  nearly  sixteen  years.  During  the  latter  j)art  of  the  years  he  was 
engaged  in  this  business;  he  did  nothing  in  his  line  but  imitating  wood  and  marble.  After 
engaging  in  mercantile  and  other  pursuits  for  some  time,  in  1876,  he  embarked  in  the  real 
estate  busine.ss  which  he  has  followed  almost  uninterruptedly  ever  since.  He  has  met  with 
unusual  success  in  this  occupation  and  has  acipiired  considerable  projierty.  During  the 
Rebellion  he  was  on  duty  for  about  a year  in  what  was  known  as  the  city  regiment.  Four 
of  his  wife’s  brothers  and  one  of  his  own  entered  the  army,  three  of  the  former  never  return- 
ing. two  having  died  in  Andersonville  prison.  Mr.  Bailey  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Elizabeth  iMiller.  in  January,  1865.  and  they  now  have  a jileasant  and  comfortable  home  in 
Indianapolis.  She  was  born  in  Madison  County,  Ind. , and  was  the  daughter  of  John 
and  Mary  Miller.  In  politics  Mr;  Bailey  is  Inde})endent,  voting  for  the  man  instead  of  for 
party.  Independent  in  religion  as  to  creeds,  he  is  a tirm  believer  in  redernjition  as  taught 
in  scriptures. 

Ivy  E.  AVkioht,  M.  D.  Few,  perhaps  none,  save  those  who  have  trod  the  arduous  paths 
of  the  profession,  can  picture  to  themselves  the  array  of  attributes,  physical,  mental  and 
moral,  and  the  host  of  minor  ipialities  e.ssential  to  the  making  of  a truly  successful  physician. 
His  constitution  needs  must  be  the  hardiest  to  withstand  the  constant  shock  of  wind  and 
weather,  the  wearing  loss  of  sleej)  and  rest,  the  ever  gathering  load  of  care,  the  insidious  ap- 
proach of  every  form  of  fell  disease  to  which  his  daily  round  of  duties  momentarily  expose 
him.  The  above  is  but  a few  necessary  remarks  introducing  Dr.  Ivy  E.  Wright,  who  for 
years  j)ast  has  practiced  his  ])rofession  in  Indiana,  and  who  has  ever  met  with  gratifying  suc- 
cess. He  is  a product  of  Indiana,  l)orn  in  Morgan  County  November  7,  1839,  and  is  the  son 
of  William  P.  and  Jane  (Stout)  Wright,  both  natives  of  IMorgan  County,  Ind.,  the  Wright 
family  being  pioneers  of  that  county.  The  father  of  our  subject  was  a druggist  and  mer- 
chant of  Monrovia.  Ind..  for  many  years,  but  his  death  occurred  in  Pulaski  County.  The 
original  of  this  notice  attended  the  public  schools  of  his  native  county  uidil  about  sixteen 
years  of  age,  when  he  entered  Asbury  (hiiversity,  and  took  a three  years’  scientitlc  course, 
fn  1861,  on  leaving  the  university,  he  began  the  study  of  medicine  with  Prof.  C.  H.  Cleve- 
lanrl.  and  continued  with  him  for  three  years.  In  1866  he  graduated  fiom  tlie  Eclectic 
-Medical  College  of  I’eiinsylvania  at  Philadelphia.  Prior  to  this,  in  1863,  he  began  practic- 
ing in  Rockville.  Parke  County,  Ind.,  before  graduating  as  was  the  custom  in  those  days. 
During  the  war  the  Doctor  was  assistant  surgeon  of  the  One  Hundred  and  Sixteenth  Indiana 
Infantry,  and  was  in  the  Army  of  (he  Cumberland  doing  both  hospital  :md  field  service  in  the 
regions  in  and  about  Knoxville,  remaining  in  the  service  a ytuir.  He  was  mustered  out  at- 
Eafayette,  Ind.,  in  the  latter  part  of  1864.  and  soon  after  lottattal  in  Hancock  County,  where 
he  ftratdiced  medicine  and  surgery  successfully  for  twenty  years.  In  1888  he  came  to  Indian- 
apolis. and  located  in  the  western  part  of  the  city,  where  he  has  a good  piactic.e,  ranking 
among  the  leading  tdiysicians  of  the  city.  .Miss  Etnma  Parker,  who  became  his  wife  in  1861, 
was  a native  of  Hendricks  Courdy,  Ind.,  and  the  daughter  of  Dr.  Parker,  of  Danville.  Nine 
children  have  been  born  to  Doctor  and  Mrs.  Wiight:  Vevia,  Minnie,  Grace,  Nellie,  Fred, 
Charles,  Ivv  and  Robl)i(*.  .Sturially  he  isameml)erof  the  I.  O.  O.  I'.,  of  which  he  has  served 
as  noble  grand:  he  is  also  a member  of  the  G.  R.  Politically  he  is  a Republican. 

\\  ii.i.iAM  Gikzkndannkk,  a retired  business  man,  was  born  in  Switzeiland,  January  1, 
IM-).  a son  of  .lohii  and  Anna  tMettler)  Giezendautier,  who  wei’e  also  natives  of  Switzerland. 
I’he  father  was  a baker  l)y  trade  and  carrii-d  on  that  business  on  an  extensive  scale  in  his 


332 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


native  land,  being  also  a large  manufacturer  of  soap  and  muricacid.  He  was  very  successful 
in  business,  for  lie  was  a man  of  keen  discernment  and  of  great  energy,  and  at  the  time  of 
his  death  in  the  year  1850,  he  was  possessed  of  a handsome  property,  to  which  his  children 
fell  heir  wliieh  they  also  did  to  the  honorable  name  which  he  left  behind  him.  He  was 
married  twice,  and  by  his  lirst  wife  became  the  father  of  three  children,  and  by  his  second 
wife  eight.  William  Giezendanner  was  about  live  years  old  when  his  father  died,  and  in 
18()(t  he  came  to  this  country  with  his  mother  and  went  with  her  at  once  to  Louisville,  Ky. , 
and  after  a short  sojourn  there  came  to  Indianapolis,  where  AVilliam  has  since  made  his 
home.  He  had  learned  the  baker’s  trade  previous  to  coming  to  this  country,  and  upon  his 
arrival  in  Indianajiolis  he  entered  the  employ  of  Alex  and  Jacob  Metzger,  proprietors  of  the 
largest  and  only  steam  bakery  in  the  city  at  that  time,  in  whose  employ  he  remained  about 
one  year.  He  then  became  an  employe  in  a Government  bakery  for  some  time,  and  still 
later  was  in  the  service  of  John  Weinberger  nearly  five  years.  He  next  worked  in  the  Cali- 
fornia House  for  some  time,  finally  entering  the  employ  of  George  Haas  at  the  corner  of 
Alississippi  and  Vermont  Streets,  ])urchasing  about  three  months  later  the  business  in  company 
with  Charley  Hes})elt.  This  was  in  1868,  and  the  {partnership  continued  forabouttwo  and  a 
half  years,  at  which  time  Mr.  Giezendanner  became  sole  {proprietor  of  the  business  and  con- 
ducted the  same  with  great  success  until  he  retired.  May  1,  1892.  his  son  succeeding  him  in 
the  business.  In  1876  he  erected  a handsome  brick  block  on  his  business  {property,  three 
stories  high,  42x68  feet,  at  a cost  of  over  $12,000,  and  there  c(Pnducted  one  of  the  leading 
and  best  a|P{Pointed  Ipakeries  in  the  city.  He  also  built  a two-story  dwelling  adjoining  in 
1889,  at  a cost  of  $3,500,  but  at  the  time  of  his  retirement  from  business  he  purchased  a fine 
residence  {)ro{perty  at  610  Bellefontaine  Street.  During  seven  or  eight  years  of  his  business 
career  he  carried  (Pii  a large  dry  goods  business  successfully.  He  has  ever  been  the  soul  of 
honor  in  all  his  transactions,  enter{prising,  to  be  relied  upon  on  all  occasions,  and  an  expert 
in  his  line  of  work.  He  has  been  a credit  to  the  city  of  Indianapolis  and  an  honor  to  the 
name  he  bears,  and  in  the  social  circles  of  the  place  he  is  highly  regarded  and  commands 
the  utmcpst  res{)ect.  He  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  and  the  K.  of  H. , besides  the  Indian- 
afpolis  Shooting  Society,  being  a director  and  stockholder  and  the  {present  treasurer  in  the 
latter  society.  Mr.  Giezendanner  was  married  in  1868  to  Miss  Maggie  Hofmann,  a native 
of  VV’urtemberg,  Germany,  and  a daughter  of  George  and  Hautpah  (Haynley)  Hofmann,  who 
were  also  from  the  old  country.  To  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Giezendanner  a family  of  seven  children 
were  given,  five  of  whom  are  living:  George,  William,  Charley,  Harry  and  AValter.  Those 
deceased  are  Maggie  and  Albert,  and  they  also  had  an  ado{Pted  child,  Mary,  who  was  a 
daughter  of  one  of  Mr.  Giezendanner’ s brothers,  and  who  died  in  childhood.  Mr.  Giez- 
endanner and  his  family  are  members  of  the  First  German  Reformed  Church,  and  in  poli- 
tics he  is  a stanch  Democrat,  although  he  is  by  no  means  a {Politician. 

Indianapoms  Basket  Company.  The  evolutions  in  the  industrial  world,  the  im{proved 
modes  of  manufacturing  things,  have  been  mai'velous  in  the  past  half  century  and  scarcely 
an  industry  exists  that  has  been  left  untouched  of  the  spirit  of  reform.  This  is  in  every 
essential  true  in  regard  to  the  making  of  baskets,  and  the  vast  im{Portauce  of  this  industry 
is  seen  at  a glance  when  the  various  uses  to  which  they  are  {Put  are  taken  into  consideration. 
The  city  of  Indianapolis  is  es{Pecially  fitted  for  this  industry,  for  it  is  not  only  the  capital 
and  largest  city  in  the  State,  Iput  it  is  centrally  located  in  the  center  of  the  famous  “Hard- 
wood Timber  Belt;”  has  a magnificent  railroad  system,  and  the  Indiana{Polis  Basket  Com- 
{pany  has  s{pecially  fine  shi{P{ping  facilities,  there  being  a switch  track  on  each  side  of  the 
factory.  This  com{pany  was  incorporated  January  1,  1893,  with  a ca{pital  stock  of  $14,0C0. 
fully  {paid  u{p.  This  extensive  enter{prise  gives  employment  to  about  100  hands,  the  pay-roll 
amounting  to  $500  {per  week.  During  the  busy  season  600  dozen  baskets  are  made  daily. 
sup{plying  the  markets  throughout  the  United  States,  the  annual  business  amounting  to  about 
$60,000.  The  officers  are:  Isaac  S{pringer,  president;  H.  C.  Tanner,  general  manager  and 
treasurer.  The  business  was  originally  established  in  1887  on  a small  scale,  but  by  judi- 
cious management  continued  to  increase  in  size  until  it  has  now  reached  goodly  {pro- 
{portions,  which  desirable  state  of  affairs  has  been  in  great  measure  brought  about  through 
the  energy  and  good  judgment  of  Mr.  S{pringer,  the  {president,  as  well  as  to  the  valuable 
services  rendered  by  his  daughter,  Miss  Lulu  M.  Springer.  Mr.  Springer  also  attributes 


333 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

bis  success  in  no  small  degree  to  his  inventive  genius  in  getting  machines  admirably  adapted 
to  the  prosecution  of  first-class  work,  many  of  which  in  iise,  are  those  of  his  own  invention. 
At  the  present  time  they  manufacture  a full  line  of  splint  and  bamboo  baskets,  l)erry  boxes 
and  fruit  packages.  Mr.  Springer  was  born  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  December  18,  1845,  a 
son  of  Emanuel  and  Malinda  (Staley)  Springer,  the  former  of  whom  was  born  in  Pennsyl- 
vania and  the  latter  in  Virginia.  The  father  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  from  Ohio,  and 
in  1829  settled  in  Warren  Township,  where  he  entered  eighty  acres  of  woodland,  which  he 
eventually  succeeded  in  clearing,  although  he  and  his  family  had  to  undergo  many  priva- 
tions and  hardships  while  he  was  doing  so.  In  addition  to  looking  after  his  farm  he  fol 
lowed  the  calling  of  a blacksmith,  doing  work  for  his  neighbors.  His  death  occuiTed  in 
1871,  his  widow  still  surviving  him  at  the  age  of  seventy-six  years.  The  old  log  cabin  which 
he  erected  in  1829  still  stands  on  the  old  homestead  and  is  one  of  the  oldest  buildings  in  the 
county.  Isaac  Springer  was  reared  on  this  farm,  and  in  the  common  schools  of  the  vicinity 
he  received  his  education.  When  the  war  opened,  although  but  sixteen  years  of  age,  he  was 
one  of  the  first  to  respond  to  his  country’s  call  and  became  a member  of  Company  K,  Fifty- 
second  Regiment,  Indiana  Volunteers,  on  November  29.  He  participated  in  the  following 
engagement:  Fort  Donelson,  Nashville,  Corinth,  Tupelo  and  Canton,  Miss.,  not  to  mention 
numerous  skirmishes,  some  of  which  were  quite  spirited.  For  sixteen  months  his  regiment 
was  stationed  at  Fort  Pillow  and  did  scouting  duty.  With  the  exception  of  three  months’ 
sickness  he  was  in  active  service  all  the  time,  and  was  mustered  out  Heptember  10,  1865. 
After  the  war  he  worked  on  a farm  for  about  two  years,  then  married  and  engaged  in  farm- 
ing for  himself  for  five  years.  In  1871  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  for  several  years  worked 
in  various  factories.  In  the  fall  of  1882  he  became  a member  of  the  box  factory  firm  of 
Brunson  & Springer  and  continued  thus  connected  until  January  1,  1888,  when  he  retired 
from  the  firm  and  established  the  basket  factory,  now  known  as  the  Indianapolis  Basket 
Factory,  which  is  one  of  the  best  known  establishments  of  the  kind  in  the  State.  Mr. 
Springer  was  married  January  2,  1867,  to  Miss  Ruth  M.  Callon,  a native  of  Marion  County 
and  a daughter  of  William  and  Ruth  Callon,  the  former  of  whom  was  born  in  Ohio,  of 
Irish  parents,  and  the  latter  in  Kentucky.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Springer  have  three  children: 
Nora  J.,  born  October  28,  1867,  and  died  at  the  age  of  twelve  years;  Lulu  M. , born 
August  26,  1870,  and  Edgar,  born  in  June,  1877.  Mr.  Springer  is  a member  of  the 
I.  O.  O.  F.  and  the  Chosen  Friends,  and  for  many  years  has  been  a memlter  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  having  been  on  the  board  of  trustees  ever  since  its  organi 
zation  twelve  years  ago.  He  is  also  a member  of  the  O.  A.  R. , and  in  ])olitics  is  a stanch 
Republican.  In  the  two  secret  orders  with  which  he  is  connected  he  has  passed  through  all 
the  chairs. 

Harry  C.  Tanner,  the  general  manager  and  treasurer  of  the  above  company,  was 
born  in  Lafayette,  Ind.,  November  24,  1866,  a son  of  Ford  and  Mary  A.  (Battles)  Tanner, 
the  former  of  whom  was  born  in  Stevenstown,  N.  Y. , and  the  latter  in  Boston,  Mass.  The 
father  operated  a basket  factory  in  Lafayette  for  a number  of  years,  but  in  1872  moved  to 
Chicago  and  at  the  present  time  is  traveling  salesman  for  the  Indianapolis  Basket  Company. 
Harry  C.  Tanner  may  be  said  to  have  been  brought  up  in  this  business,  and  he  is  therefore 
the  thorough  master  of  it  in  every  particular.  For  eight  years  he  was  traveling  salesman 
for  a liasket  manufactory,  covering  a territory  from  Massachusetts  to  California,  and  from 
the  (lulf  of  Mexico  to  the  great  lakes.  His  literary  education  was  obtained  in  the  |)ublic 
schools  of  Chicago.  After  residing  in  Indianapolis  for  a few  years,  he,  January  1,  1893, 
jjurchased  an  interest  in  the  Indianapolis  Basket  Company,  of  which  lie  was  made  general 
manager  and  treasurer.  He  was  married  July  9,  1890,  to  Miss  Ida  May  Haswell,  a native 
of  New  York  but  leared  and  educated  at  Eagle,  Wis. , a daughti'r  of  Nathaniel  -1.  and  Lydia 
(Barton)  Haswell,  and  to  their  union  one  child  has  been  given,  \\  . Raymond,  born  April  16, 
1892.  .Mr.  and  .Mrs.  Tanner  are  members  of  the  Tabernacle  Church,  and  in  jiolitics  ho  is  a 
Republican. 

JosKPii  A.  .McCt'iKK.  There  is  nothing  which  adds  so  much  to  the  assurance  and  security 
of  the  peojile  of  a town  or  city  as  well  lighted  streets.  Those  meditating  crime  generally  st*ek 
darkness  for  its  accomplishment,  ami  in  a well  lighted  street  much  less  of  it  is  done. 
Indianapolis  is  well  supplied  in  this  respect,  and  has  reason  to  be  proud  of  her  illuminated 


334 


MEMOIRl-i  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


.st.reels,  oil  which  oue  feels  iilmost  as  safe  as  in  liioad  da\ light.  Among  those  who  had  been 
instrumental  in  bringing  this  city  to  its  present  well  lighted  condition  is  Mr.  Joseph  A. 
McGuire,  who  is  now  the  efficient  manager  of  the  Vapor  Street  Light  Company.  This 
worthy  young  man  was  born  in  Rochester,  N.  Y. , February  14,  1861,  and  is  a son  of  Thomas 
and  Margaret  (Spoon)  McGuire,  both  of  whom  are  now  deceased.  The  father  was  a native 
of  the  Emerald  Isle,  but  emigrated  to  this  country  and  died  in  the  Empire  State.  The 
mother  was  born  in  the  Keystone  State.  Of  the  two  children  born  to  them  only  our  subject 
is  now  living.  He  attained  his  growth  in  his  native  city  and  was  thoroughly  educated  in  the 
jiublic  schools  of  the  same.  When  only  about  seven  years  of  age  he  was  left  an  orphan  and 
had  to  buffet  the  world  without  aid.  Possessed  of  much  native  intelligence  and  ability  for 
his  years,  and  a high  degree  of  integrity,  he  went  actively  to  work  at  any  honest  employ- 
ment that  would  bring  him  in  a dollar,  and  for  some  time  was  a newsboy  in  New  York  city. 
Later  he  drifted  into  the  Buckeye  State,  where  he  was  engaged  in  the  show  business  for 
about  two  years.  In  1884  he  started  with  the  Sun  Yajior  Light  & Stove  Company,  now  the 
Sun  Vapor  Street  Light  Company,  as  salesman,  and  in  1887  came  to  Indianapolis  as  man- 
ager of  this  office.  Here  he  has  made  his  home  since,  and  in  that  time  has  won  many 
warm  friends  by  his  pleasant,  agreeable  manner  and  his  fund  of  good  common  sense.  He 
has  charge  of  all  the  company’s  contract  work  and  is  on  the  road  a considerable  portion  of 
his  time.  Left  to  tight  his  own  way  in  life  at  an  early  age  his  career  furnishes  food  for 
reflection,  showing,  as  it  does,  what  may  be  achieved  by  perseverance.  Politically  he  is  a 
Republican,  and  advocates  the  princijdes  of  that  party  at  all  times. 

Willis  Smithek  is  one  of  the  old  settlers  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  is  now 
passing  the  sunset  of  his  life  in  a comfortable  and  attractive  home  within  its  borders. 
Honorable  and  upright  in  every  walk  of  .life,  his  long  career  has  been  without  a blot  or 
blemish  to  mar  its  whiteness.  Although  eighty-six  years  have  passed  over  his  head  and 
have  left  their  impress  in  his  white  hair  and  lined  features  the  man  himself  is  richer  and 
nobler  and  grander  for  the  experience  that  each  decade  has  brought  him.  He  is  a native 
Kentuckian,  born  in  Franklin,  County  July  23,  1807,  to  the  union  of  James  and  Nancy 
(O’Neal)  Smither,  both  natives  of  the  Old  Dominion,  the  father  born  about  1776.  The  lat- 
ter came  to  Kentucky  with  his  jiarents  when  a l)oy  and  settled  in  Franklin  County,  where 
he  was  married  in  1796  to  Miss  O'Neal.  Ten  children  were  born  to  them,  as  follows:  Rob- 
ert (deceased),  William  (deceased),  Sarah  (ileceased,  was  married  three  times;  first  to  a 
man  named  Wilson,  then  to  Dorsey  and  afterward  to  Taylor),  Lewis,  James,  Ezekiel,  John, 
Willis  (subject),  Wyatt  and  Coleman,  all  deceased  but  our  subject.  The  father  of  these 
children  died  about  1817  and  his  wife  followed  him  to  the  grave  about  four  years  later. 
Our  subject’s  paternal  grandfather,  Robert  Smither,  was  born  in  Virginia.  Before  the 
original  of  this  notice  was  a year  old  his  parents  moved  to  Owen  County,  Ky.,  where  the 
father  bought  fifty  acres  of  green  timber  land,  with  no  road  nearer  than  Najioleon,  Ind., 
ninety  miles  away.  The  incidents  in  the  early  life  of  Willis  Smither  were  not  materially 
different  from  those  of  other  boys  living  on  the  farms  in  that  new  country.  At  an  early 
age  he  was  taught  to  work  at  anything  necessary  for  him  to  do  and  to  make  himself  useful 
around  the  pioneer  homestead.  The  section  of  country  was  new  and  thinly  settled,  and 
without  recounting  the  particular  hardships  and  jirivations  which  the  family  experienced  it 
is  sufficient  to  say  that  but  few  enjoyed  or  suffered  a greater  variety.  Young  Smither 
attended  school  only  two  sessions  in  the  winter  and  learned  to  read  some,  but  not  to  write. 
Before  he  was  ten  years  of  age  his  father  died,  and  he,  with  his  mother  and  two  younger 
brothers — Wyatt  and  Coleman — carried  on  the  farm  until  our  subject  was  about  eighteen 
years  of  age.  Then  our  subject  went  to  Fayette  County,  six  miles  west  of  Lexington,  Ky., 
and  went  to  work  for  his  elder  brother,  John,  who  was  a blacksmith  and  gunsmith.  He 
continued  with  him  until  the  next  fall  after  the  election,  when  Gen.  Andrew  Jackson  was 
defeated  for  the  Presidency,  and  then,  with  his  brother  John,  came  to  the  “ Hoosiei' 
State.”  The  latter  bought  eighty  acres  of  laud  in  Marion  County,  Franklin  Township,  and 
our  subject  made  his  home  with  him  about  a year.  From  there  young  Smither  and  brother 
went  to  Indianapolis,  where  they  worked  at  their  trade  for  about  ten  years,  and  during 
that  time  made  the  first  cow  and  horse  bells  ever  made  in  the  State  of  Indiana.  Before 
coming  to  Indianapolis  our  .subject  had  entered  eighty  acres  of  laud  in  Marion  County,  pay- 


335 


Ai\D  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

ing  for  the  same  §1.‘25  an  acre,  and  after  leaviug  Indiaiia])o]is,  which  was  in  (he  year  1837, 
he  moved  on  this  tract,  which  he  had  leased  to  a man  and  whose  lease  he  was  compelled  to 
buv.  This  he  did  and  commenced  to  farm.  He  lived  in  a little  cabin  twenty  feet  square, 
which  he  had  built  himself  after  clearing  a small  place  for  it.  He  was  married  first  in 
November,  1829,  to  Miss  Hester  Davis,  daughter  of  James  Davis,  a native  of  Delaware, 
and  in  the  woods  of  Marion  County  this  ambitious  young  couple  began  their  career  as  pio- 
neers. For  a year  after  settling  in  the  little  log  cabin  Mr.  Smither  and  his  wife  had  no 
better  bed  than  one  made  of  clapboards  laid  across  stakes  driven  in  the  log  wall  and  floor 
of  the  cabin.  As  the  cabin  was  “ chinked”  and  not  “daubed  ” it  let  in  the  fierce  cold  of 
winter,  and  our  courageous  pioneers  saw  some  pretty  hard  times.  One  winter  night  five 
wolves  pulled  down  and  devoured  a deer  in  their  dooryard  and  badly  wounded  a dogbelong- 
i[ig  to  our  subject.  About  three  or  four  years  later  Mr.  Smither  put  up  a hewn-log  house 
about  twenty  feet  square,  one  room,  with  a kitchen  addition.  To  his  marriage  were  born 
these  children : Nancy,  died  when  about  two  years  old;  James  L.,  born  June  27,  1834, 
married  Miss  Lucretia  Newhouse,  and  died  June  6,1860;  Elizabeth  Ann,  born  September 
n,  1839,  married  Richard  Kittey,  and  died  in  Novemljer,  1890;  Mary  J.,  born  February  6, 
1841,  married  Francis  Kittey  and  is  now  a widow  of  Marion  County,  Ind. ; Sarah,  born 
November  4,  1845,  is  the  wife  of  William  Demott,  who  resides  in  Shelby  County,  Ind. ; Mar- 
tha, born  December  4.  1847,  died  in  August,  1890;  Hester  Isabel,  born  December  9,  1854, 
married  Oliver  Sloan,  of  Indianapolis.  The  mother  of  these  children  died  December  21, 
1854,  and  on  March  13,  1856,  Mr.  Smither  married  Miss  Mary  H.  Maze,  daughter  of  John 
Maze.  One  daughter,  Juliet  F.,  has  been  born  to  this  union.  Our  subject  resided  in  the 
hewn-log  cabin  until  about  1858,  two  years  after  his  second  marriage,  when  he  tore  it  down 
and  built  a one-story  frame  house  on  the  site,  and  there  resided  until  November,  1891, when 
he  moved  to  New  Bethel,  Marion  County,  Ind.  He  purchased  a little  home  in  that  town 
and  is  there  spending  the  remainder  of  his  days.  He  himself  cleared  the  eighty  acres  he 
had  entered  for  he  hired  no  work  done,  although  he  occasionally  helped  a neighbor,  who  in 
turn  helped  him.  When  he  first  moved  on  that  tract  he  had  $500,  which  he  had  received 
for  his  home  in  Indianapolis,  and  with  that  he  bought  a horse  and  also  sixty  acres  more 
land  of  the  Government,  adjoining  the  eighty  acres  he  had  first  entered,  paying  $1.25  per 
acre.  He  afterward  purchased  forty  acres  of  William  Sloan,  l)ut  sold  this  in  1884,  clearing 
$690  on  the  bargain.  Mrs.  Smither’s  father,  John  Maze,  was  a native  of  the  “ Keystone 
State”  and  was  only  twelve  years  of  age  when  he  came  with  his  parents  tt)  Kentucky.  Later 
he  settled  in  Ohio  and  afterward  in  Indiana.  He  married  Miss  Hannah  Harvey  and  they 
had  twelve  cliildren,  eleven  of  whom  grew  to  mature  years,  as  follows:  Samuel  (deceased), 
Thomas  (deceased),  Elizabeth  (deceased,  was  the  wife  of  William  Carson),  John  (deceased), 
Riley  (deceased),  Rhoda  (widow  of  Dr.  Dewitt  Cooper),  -Jane  (deceased,  was  the  wife  of 
Samuel  Gray,  not  deceased),  Isabel  (deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Hirain  H.  Hall),  Sarah  A. 
(widow  of  Joseph  Hittle),  Mary  H.  (wife  of  our  subject)  and  Cynthia  A.  (widow  of  Ogden 
Benjamen).  The  mother  of  these  children  died  in  1858  and  the  father  in  1859.  The  latter 
was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812.  Mr.  Smither  has  been  a member  of  the  Baptist  Church 
ever  since  his  early  maidiood.  In  ])olitics  he  was  formerly  an  old  line  Whig  but  lab'r 
affiliated  with  the  Democratic  party,  with  which  he  has  affiliated  ever  since.  He  has  never 
voted  outside  of  Marion  County,  Ind. 

Hos.  William  S.  Holman,  who  for  the  greater  part  of  the  past  thirty  four  years  has 
been  a repre.sentative  in  Congress  from  Indiana,  and  one  of  the  most  widely  known  men  now 
in  [inblic,  was  born  in  Dearliorn  County,  this  State,  December  6,  1822,  his  parents  being 
Jesse  L.  and  Elizabeth  (Masterson)  Holman.  His  father  was  one  of  the  pioneers  of  Indiana, 
having  settled  in  Dearborn  Coiirdy  aland  the  year  1810,  and  was  <juite  jirominently  con- 
nected with  jiublic  affairs,  at  one  time  coming  within  one  vote  of  being  elected  to  the  Ilnited 
States  Senate.  William  S.  Holman  attended  tin*  common  schools  of  his  neighborhood  in 
youth  and  for  two  years  was  a studerd  at  P’ranklin  College.  He  taught  school  for  a time, 
wedded  Aliagail  Knajip  before  attaining  his  majority,  read  law,  was  admitted  to  the  liar 
when  old  enough,  and  when  tweidv-one  was  elected  probate  judge  of  his  native  county.  In 
1849  he  was  chosen  proseciding  attorney,  elected  senatorial  det(*gate  to  the  Ckinstitntioual 
Converdion  in  1850;  in  1851  was  elected  to  the  Lower  House  of  the  State  Legislature,  and 


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MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


in  1852  was  elected  to  the  Coimuoii  Pleas  bench,  servinf^  as  such  to  the  end  of  the  term.  In 
1858  he  began  liis  Congressional  career  by  being  elected  from  the  old  fourth  district,  and 
although  the  district  has  been  twice  changed,  he  has  almost  continuously  retained  a seat  in 
Congress.  The  fact  of  Judge  Holman  having  been  so  long  in  office  speaks  in  no  uncertain 
manner  as  to  his  personal  popularity  and  the  satisfaction  helms  rendered  to  his  constituents. 
During  this  long  time  he  has  served  on  .some  of  the  most  important  committees,  and  has  been 
chairman  of  many  of  them.  For  years  he  has  been  an  earnest  advocate  of  the  theory  that 
the  Goverment’s  business  should  be  transacted  in  a purely  business  manner,  and  that  the 
distributions  of  the  public  funds  should  be  conducted  as  carefully  as  in  the  case  of  ])rivate 
methods.  All  appropriation  bills  are  caT’efully  considered  by  him  and  his  numerous  “ Mr. 
Speaker,  I object  ” has  gained  for  him  the  universal  appellation  of  the  “ Great  Objector.  ” 
Many  consider  that  his  plentiful  objections  are  caused  by  eccentricity  and  for  the  purpose 
of  securing  notoriety.  Many,  also,  proclaim  that  oftentimes  his  objections  are  needless, 
unworthy  of  the  man,  and  that  for  personal  and  party  aims  he  objects  to  the  spigot  and  over- 
sees the  leak  at  the  bunghole.  Be  this  as  it  may.  Judge  Holman  has  unquestionably  saved 
the  country  the  needless  expenditure  of  vast  sums.  His  latest  great  objection  was  his  acri- 
monious opposition  to  the  Congressional  a[)propriation  of  .f500,()()0  in  favor  of  the  World’s 
Columbian  Ex])osition  at  Chicago.  In  this  matter  he  voted  with  the  Southern  delegates  and 
in  opposition  to  the  almost  unanimous  support  of  his  colleagues  for  the  measure.  During 
the  war  he  was  a Union  Democrat  and  was  an  active  su{)porter  of  President  Lincoln’s  war 
measures.  He  is  one  of  the  most  ju’ominent  characters  now  in  public  life. 

Dk.  John  Milton  Youart  (deceased).  The  successful  physician  must  be  a man  of  pa- 
tient research,  capable  of  sustaining  study  and  large  sympathies.  Free  and  broad  should  be 
his  mind  to  seek  in  all  departments  of  human  knowledge  some  truth  to  guide  his  hand;  keen 
and  delicate  the  well-trained  sense  to  draw  from  nature  her  most  treasured  secrets,  and  un- 
lock the  door  where  ignorance  and  doubt  have  stood  sentinel  for  ages.  How  fine  his  fibre 
who  hears  the  querulous  murmur  of  the  sick  man  only  to  soothe  the  fretful  brain  w'ith  lov- 
ing kindness,  to  meet  impatience  with  cheerful  patience,  and  bring  back  the  troubled  heart 
to  peace  by  tender  symjiathy.  The  above  paragraph  is  but  an  attempt  to  sketch  one  who 
was  greatly  beloved  and  respected  in  Indianapolis  and  who  in  his  own  person  so  closely  ap- 
jiroached  the  ideal.  Dr.  John  Milton  Youart  was  born  in  Miami  County,  Ohio,  February  1, 
1828,  and  died  on  February  14,  1888.  His  father,  Samuel  It.  Youart,  was  a native  ofBally- 
mena,  Ireland,  and  when  about  eighteen  years  of  age  he  liraved  Neptune’s  tender  mercies 
and  came  to  America.  Making  his  way  to  the  Buckeye  State  he  settled  in  Miami  County 
and  began  tilling  the  soil.  He  was  married  there  to  Miss  Elizabeth  McJimsey,  who  was  a 
native  of  Ohio  and  of  Scotch  lrish  descent.  There  both  passed  the  remainder  of  their 
days.  In  his  boyhood  Dr.  Youart  was  employed  on  his  father’s  farm  and  obtained  such 
education  as  the  country  schools  afforded.  Subseipiently  his  desire  for  further  educational 
attainments  were  gratified  for  he  attended  Hanover  College,  Indiana,  and  graduated  from 
that  institution.  Having  obtained  a liberal  education  and  having  decided  to  enter  the  pro- 
fession of  medicine,  he  proceeded  to  Cincinnati,  where  for  five  years  he  was  a student  under 
the  late  Prof.  K.  S.  Newton,  in  the  study  of  medicine  and  surgery.  Dr.  Youart  also  spent 
two  years  with  an  eminent  French  professor  in  the  study  of  diseases  of  the  eye  and  ear. 
Having  completed  his  studies  he  located  at  Lafayette,  Ind.,  where  he  practiced  his  profes- 
sion for  several  years,  meeting  with  extraordinary  success.  While  a resident  of  that  city  he 
ranked  among  the  leading  citizens  and  served  the  city  in  the  capacity  of  alderman.  When 
the  Civil  War  broke  out  he  enlisted  as  assistant  surgeon  of  tlie  Fifteenth  Regiment  Indiana 
Volunteers,  and  was  soon  after  promoted  to  surgeon  in  the  army.  The  Doctor  won  special 
distinction  as  is  shown  by  the  fact  that  after  the  battle  of  Murfreesboro,  Gen.  Rosecrans,  in 
the  presence  of  the  whole  army,  dismounted  with  his  staff  at  the  hospital  and  publically 
congratulated  him  on  the  manner  in  which  he  treated  his  wounded  soldiers.  No  higher 
compliment  could  have  been  paid  to  the  skill  and  fidelity  of  a surgeon.  It  has  been  said  that 
only  one  other  operator  in  the  army  of  the  Cumberland  eipialled  him.  After  the  battle  of 
Stone  River  the  wife  of  Dr.  Youart  joined  him  and  for  three  months  contributed  her  valu- 
able services  to  the  work  of  the  hospital.  Owing  to  ill  health  the  Doctor  was  compelled  to 
resign  his  commission  in  1863,  and  the  effects  of  his  arduous  labors  during  the  war  re- 


337 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

mained  with  him  through  life  and  shortened  his  days.  Following  the  war  he  settled  in  In- 
dianapolis and  continued  to  practice  his  profession,  until  his  death,  with  the  exception  of 
one  year  when  he  held  the  professor’s  chair  in  one  of  the  largest  medical  colleges  in 
New  York,  which  position  he  resigned  on  account  of  business  complications.  In  1873 
he  was  elected  a member  of  the  school  board  and  served  in  that  capacity  in  a very 
creditable  manner  for  several  years.  On  February  4,  1856,  soon  after  locating  at  Lafayette, 
Dr.  Youart  was  married  to  Miss  Margaret  R.  Davis,  of  Lyons,  Iowa.  They  were  the  parents 
of  eight  children,  four  of  vvhom  are  living.  On  the  death  of  Dr.  Youart  the  medical  pro- 
fession lost  one  of  its  most  careful,  concientious  and  accomplished  members.  No  gentler 
hand  than  his  ever  timed  a fevered  pulse,  and  his  fame  as  a physician  survives  him  in  endur- 
ing and  symmetrical  beauty.  His  death  was  a calamity  to  his  community  and  to  the  State. 
When  considered  as  a loss  to  his  profession,  it  may  be  said  that  from  its  firmament  a star 
among  those  brightest  and  highest  overhead  has  faded  and  gone  out. 

Dr.  Joseph  D.  Youart.  The  most  important  science  bearing  upon  man’s  happiness, 
comfort  and  welfare,  is  that  of  medicine,  and  although  young  in  years.  Dr.  Youart  is  a credit 
to  the  profession.  He  is  a worthy  son  of  a worthy  sire  and  has  inherited  many  of  those 
traits  of  character  that  made  his  father  one  of  the  most  successful  physicians  of  the  State. 
Born  on  September  18,  1864,  to  the  union  of  Dr.  John  M.  and  Margaret  R.  (Davis)  Youart, 
our  subject  attained  his  growth  in  his  native  town,  Indianapolis,  and  supplemented  a com- 
mon-school education  by  attending  the  high  school,  from  which  he  graduated  in  1879.  He 
took  a four-years  course  in  the  shortest  possible  period,  sixteen  months,  and  while  in  school 
gave  much  of  his  attention  to  the  study  of  medicine,  lieing  in  the  office  with  his  father.  In 
1880  he  took  first  course  of  lectures  at  Central  College,  physicians  and  surgeons,  Indiana- 
polis, but  on  account  of  age  could  not  graduate.  He  kept  up  his  medical  studies  however 
and  graduated  from  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana  in  1892.  In  the  year  1883  he  spent 
seven  months  at  Central  Insane  Asylum,  Indiana,  studying  mental  diseases.  One  year  later 
he  was  made  deputy  coroner  of  Indianapolis  and  served  in  that  capacity  until  the  fall  of 
1885  when  he  went  to  Sun  City,  Kan.  There  he  practiced  his  profession  and  edited  the  Sun 
City  Union,  a weekly  paper.  While  there  he  also  pre-empted  and  proved  up  Government 
land.  In  1889  he  went  to  Chicago  and  was  western  editor  of  the  Press-News  Association,  a 
rival  of  the  Associated  Press.  In  1890  he  became  editor  of  the  Helena  (Mont.)  Jounial, 
owned  by  Russell  Harrison,  and  while  serving  in  that  capacity  traveled  through  Alaska  and 
the  principal  cities  of  the  West.  Returning  to  Indianapolis  in  May,  1891,  he  completed  his 
medical  course,  and  since  that  time  has  been  engaged  in  general  practice.  On  June  7,  1893, 
Dr.  Youart  was  united  in  marriage  to  May  A.  Burns,  a beautiful  and  accomplished  young 
lady,  who  was  also  a native  of  Indianapolis.  He  is  an  energetic  practitioner,  is  recognized 
throughout  the  city  as  a friend  of  and  laborer  in  the  cause  and  advancement  of  the  medical 
profession,  and  has  acquired  a flattering  reputation  as  a ])hysician.  In  politics  he  is  a Dem- 
ocrat, has  been  an  active  worker  for  his  party,  and  was  president  of  the  Young  IMens’ 
Democratic  Club  of  the  State  of  Indiana  in  1884. 

Capt.  John  B.  Witty.  The  average  citizen,  interested  as  he  may  be  in  the  progress 
of  the  city  in  which  his  interests  are  centered,  pursues  the  even  tenor  of  his  way  with  little 
thought  of  the  wonderful  improvements  that  are  going  on  about  him  in  the  methods  of 
constructing  the  miles  of  railways  that  are  so  necessary  to  the  growth  of  a metropolis,  the 
building  of  its  palaces  of  trade,  or  to  the  men  in  whose  fertile  brains  these  jilans  originated, 
or  who  devote  their  time  to  keeping  these  roads  in  good  condition.  Among  the  benefac 
tors  at  large  of  the  country  in  the  latter  respect  is  Capt.  John  B.  Witty,  who  has  been 
connected  with  different  railways  of  the  country  almost  continuously  since  the  close  of  the 
war.  He  was  born  in  Pleasant  Garden,  Putnam  County,  Ind.,  in  1836,  a son  of  William 
W.  Witty,  who  was  a native  of  Greensboro,  N.  C. ,and  came  to  Putnam  County,  Ind., 
many  years  ago,  of  which  ho  was  one  of  the  pioneer  settlers.  He  at  once  engaged  in  mer 
cantile  pursuits,  but  was  also  (piite  an  extensive  contractor  in  stone  and  brick  and  built  a 
considerable  jiortion  of  the  old  National  Road.  He  was  a man  of  excellent  business  ability, 
and  lived  to  be  eighty-tive  years  of  age,  (lying  in  1886.  Politically  he  was  always  a 
Repulilican.  His  wife  was  born  on  February  14,  1812,  in  Greensboro,  N.  C.,  and  died 
•June  27,  1888,  her  people  having  been  among  the  very  earliest  residents  of  Biilnam  Couni y. 


838 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Of  nine  children  l)orn  to  this  worthy  couple,  John  B.  was  I lie  second  in  order  of  birth,  and 
his  early  education  was  acijnired  in  the  subscription  schools  of  Putnam  County.  When 
starting  out  in  life  for  himself  it  was  as  a brakeman  on  the  old  Louisville,  New  Albany  & 
Salem  Railroad,  and  at  the  early  age  of  eighteen  years  became  a conductor  on  that  line. 
He  next  became  connected  with  the  Louisville  & Nashville  Railroad,  then  the  Memphis  & 
Charleston  Railroad,  but  in  June,  1801,  he  returned  to  Indiana,  and  at  Terre  Haute  joined 
Stewart’s  Cavalry,  Company  A,  but  afterward  became  a member  of  Comjiany  I,  Conrad 
Baker’s  regiment,  and  for  over  three  years  was  in  the  cavalry  service  of  his  country.  His 
company  was  detailed  for  body  girard  service  for  different  generals  and  at  the  close  of  the 
war  he  was  a member  of  Gen.  Grant’s  body  guard.  He  was  a participant  in  many  engage- 
ments, among  which  were  Cedar  Mountain,  Cross  Keys,  Strasburg,  Mount  Jackson,  Port 
Republic,  Culjieper  Court  House,  the  second  battle  of  Bull  Run,  Chancellorsville,  Peters 
burg,  Gettysburg,  White  Sul[)hur  S{)rings,  Hagerstown,  Md.,  Nashville,  Johnsonville,  and 
others  too  numerous  to  mention.  During  his  service  he  was  in  many  dangerous  situations 
and  had  numerous  narrow  escaj)es.  He  was  in  the  chaige  against  Fredericksburg,  Va. , on 
November  9,  1862.  with  Col.  Dahlgren,  being  one  of  his  fifty  seven  men  who  charged  500 
or  more  Confederate  cavalry.  At  the  close  of  the  war  he  was  mu.stered  out  of  the  service 
at  Gen.  Grant’s  camp,  and  was  discharged  at  Indianapolis  in  1864.  During  his  entire 
service  he  was  neither  wounded  nor  taken  prisoner.  He  then  entered  the  service  of  the 
United  States  Government,  and  was  stationed  at  Nashville,  Tenn.,  on  the  Nashville  divis- 
ion of  the  Louisville  & Nashville  Railroad,  continuing  in  the  service  of  that  road  till  1874 
as  freight  and  passenger  conductor.  In  1874  he  became  roadmaster  of  the  Elizabethtown 
& Paducah  Railroad;  was  next  in  the  same  capacity  with  the  Owensboro  & Nashville  Rail- 
road, and  was  then  on  the  Hannibal  & St.  Joseph  Railroad  as  conductor.  The  three 
following  years  he  was  on  the  Central  Branch  of  the  Union  Pacific  as  passenger  conductor, 
but  at  the  end  of  that  time  he  went  East,  and  after  a short  time  became  connected  with 
the  Wheeling  & Lake  Erie  Railroad.  For  some  time  now  he  has  ably  filled  the  position 
of  general  roadmaster  of  the  Indianapolis  Union  Railway,  and  during  this  time  has  kept 
the  road  in  the  best  of  repair,  and  has  discharged  his  duties  in  a manner  calculated  to 
give  satisfaction  to  all  concerned.  No  better  man  for  his  present  position  could  be  found 
than  Capt.  Witty,  and  of  this  fact  the  company  seems  to  be  fully  aware.  The  Captain  has 
shown  his  approval  of  secret  societies  by  becoming  a member  of  the  A.  F.  & A.  M. , in 
which  he  is  a Knight  Templar,  the  Council  of  Seven  Wise  Men,  the  K.  of  H. , and  ever 
since  its  organization  has  been  a member  of  the  G.  H.  Thomas  Post  of  the  G.  A.  R. 
Like  his  father  before  him,  he  has  always  been  a decided  Republican,  and  has  always 
labored  for  the  success  of  that  party.  On  December  20,  1864,  he  was  united  in  marriage 
with  Miss  Mary  H.  Thwaites,  of  Louisville,  Ky.,  and  to  their  union  one  child  has  been  given, 
Mabel  C.  Mrs.  Witty  was  born  in  England,  but  came  to  this  country  with  her  parents 
when  young,  and  first  settled  with  them  in  Ohio,  and  then  in  Louisville,  Ky.  Her  father 
was  a railroad  man  in  England,  being  with  the  London  & Northwestern,  and  he  was  a 
successful  builder  of  railroads.  He  became  general  roadmaster  of  the  Louisville  & Nash- 
ville Railroad,  but  spent  his  declining  years  at  the  home  of  the  subject,  where  he  died  on 
February  7,  1892,  at  the  age  of  seventy-seven  years.  In  personal  appearance  Capt.  Witty 
is  decidedly  prepossessing,  and  he  possesses  good  physicpie  and  an  excellent  constitution. 
The  success  and  honor  which  have  attended  his  walk  through  life  are  due  to  his  own  good 
(pialities  of  heart  and  head,  and  his  career  is  worthy  the  emulation  of  all  who  would  make 
a mark  in  life,  and  leave  behind  him  footprints  on  the  sands  of  time. 

William  McFarland.  The  gentleman  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  is  a grandson  of 
Robert  McFarland,  who  was  a native  Tennesseean  and  an  early  settler  of  Kentucky,  where 
he  spent  the  rest  of  his  life.  He  and  his  wife  reared  a family  of  eight  children,  five  of  whom 
were  sons  and  all  were  .soldiers  in  the  War  of  Revolution,  four  of  them  being  in  active  serv- 
ice and  the  other  the  captain  of  a company  of  home  guard.  Robert  McFarland  died  at 
an  advanced  age.  His  son,  Benjamin  McFarland,  was  born  in  Tennessee  in  1770  and 
was  afterward  married  in  Kentucky  to  Martha  Stinson,  by  whom  he  had  one  daughter, 
Martha,  who  married  William  Henderson  and  became  a resident  of  Indiana,  dying  there. 
She  left  eight  children,  two  of  whom  survive:  Harriet,  who  married  Samuel  Consley  and 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  33U 

James.  After  the  death  of  his  first  wife  ]3eiijamiii  McFarland  married  Mary  Ratcliffe,  and 
to  them  seven  children  were  born,  of  whom  Robert  died  in  infancy  and  six  grew  to  maturity; 
Jane  (deceased),  who  became  the  wife  of  John  McCollum;  Thomas  (deceased),  who  married 
Betsey  \Yycoff;  Isabel  (deceased),  who  married  George  Barnes;  Samuel  (deceased),  who  mar- 
ried Matilda  Bryan;  Eliza,  widow  of  Thomas  M.  Thomas;  William  (the  subject  of  this 
sketch).  The  father  of  these  children  was  a soldier  in  the  French  and  Indian  Wars  prior  to 
the  War  of  1812-14,  being  a noted  spy  and  scout  in  the  service  of  his  country.  William 
McFarland,  whose  name  heads  this  sketch,  was  born  in  Campbell  County,  Ky. , April  12, 
1814,  on  the  farm  belonging  to  his  father,  Benjamin  McFarland.  On  this  farm  he  was 
brought  up  to  the  age  of  twelve  years,  living  the  usual  life  of  the  farmer’s  boy  of  that 
period.  He  was  placed  in  school  at  the  age  of  six  years  and  attended  every  session  of 
school  during  the  three-months  winter  terms  until  he  was  twelve  years  old.  He  arrived  with 
his  parents  in  Indiana,  October  17,  1820,  his  father  and  two  of  his  brothers  having  come  in 
the  previous  spring.  They  entered  about  eighty  acres  of  land,  cleared  about  seven  acres  and 
planted  it  in  corn,  then  returned  to  Kentucky,  sold  their  possessions  there  and  returned  to 
Indiana  in  the  fall.  Besides  the  above  mentioned  eighty  acres,  the  father  also  entered  eighty 
acres  in  Perry  Township,  and  on  this  last  tract  they  settled  when  they  came  in  the  fall.  The 
first  thing  they  did  was  to  put  up  a cabin,  18x20  feet,  the  floor  of  which  was  made  of  ash 
logs,  split  as  tine  as  possible,  and  dressed  with  the  axe.  The  door  was  made  of  oak  clap- 
boards with  the  roof  also  of  that  material,  greased  paper  took  the  place  of  window  lights 
and  the  chimney  was  what  was  called  “cat  and  clay.”  William  remained  on  this  farm  i;ntil 
about  1854.  He  was  married  in  1839  by  Rev.  John  Richmond,  a Baptist  minister  and  physi- 
cian residing  in  Indianapolis,  to  Martha  Ann,  daughter  of  John  Chinn,  and  for  some  time 
thereafter  lived  in  a three-room  frame  house  which  had  been  put  up  on  his  father’s  fai m. 
In  1854  he  purchased  ninety- four  acres  of  land  for  |24  per  acre,  on  which  had  been  erected 
a good  hewed  log  house  and  there  he  made  his  home  for  three  years.  Not  being  2>leased 
with  the  neighborhood  he  sold  his  projierty  there  and  bought  140  acres  in  Perry  Townshij), 
paying  $50  an  acre,  which  was  $5  more  per  acre  than  was  usual.  He  paid  $2,000  and  had 
nine  years  to  pay  the  balance.  In  1871  he  erected  the  handsome  two-story  frame  hoiise  in 
which  he  now  resides,  but  at  the  ju-esent  writing  has  a beautiful  home  almost  completed  in 
Indianapolis  where  he  expects  to  spend  his  declining  years.  He  was  first  a Whig  in  j)olitics 
but  for  many  years  has  been  a Republican  and  has  voted  for  every  Republican  candidate  for 
jiresident  since  the  time  of  Fremont.  He  has  been  a member  of  the  Baptist  Church  since 
1839,  in  which  he  served  as  deacon  since  1801.  A family  of  eleven  children  were  born  to 
them,  as  follows:  Carey  A.,  who  married  Margaret  Graber  (deceased),  has  five  children — 
Edna,  Guy,  Aggie,  Elizabeth,  and  Fay;  Mary  E.,  who  married  Rev.  Edward  S.  Riley,  a 
Baptist  minister,  by  whom  she  has  one  daughter — Margaret;  Appoline  A.;  John  L.,  who 
married  Ella  Stargel  and  has  two  children — Edith  M.  and  Charles;  Arteraesia;  Benjamin  F. 
who  is  married  to  Selina  Ewan;  William  H.  who  married  Belle  Smock  and  has  five  children 
-- Hoxanna,  Laurence,  Nancy  G.,  Parvin,  Martha  C. , Louella  A.;  Melissa  Isabella,  who 
married  Charles  Collins,  has  four  children — Clarence,  Frederick,  Mary  and  Leo;  Margaret 
M.  and  Lily  P.  Carey  A.,  the  eldest  son,  served  three  years  in  the  Federal  army  in  the 
Seventieth  Indiana  Regiment,  of  which  ex-President  Harrison  was  Colonel. 

John  H.  Rothert.  The  calling  of  the  Tiierchant  is  one  of  the  oldest,  as  well  as  one  of 
the  most  honorable  of  all  lines  of  industry.  Exchange  and  barter  are  two  of  the  woj'ld’s 
most  important  factors  and  without  these  the  jmblic  would  indeed  find  thetnselves  in  a sad 
plight.  .Above  all  it  is  necessary  that  the  line  of  goods  should  bo  ])ure  and  the  merchant 
relial)le,  two  features  combined  in  the  mercantile  career  of  John  H.  Rothert,  dealer  in  prime 
groceries,  flour  and  feed.  Mr.  Rothert  is  a i)roduct  of  Louisville,  Ky.,  where  he  was  born 
November  4,  1843,  a .son  of  Harmon  and  Katherine  (Faselage)  Rothert,  natives  of  Germany, 
who  came  to  America  when  young  and  located  in  Kentucky,  where  Harmon  Rothert  died 
when  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  three  years  of  age.  The  mother  survived  her  husband 
a number  of  years  and  died  in  Bartholomew  County,  Ind.  At  about  the  age  of  seven  years 
John  H.  was  brought  by  his  mother  to  this  State  and  his  youthful  days  were  spent  on  a farm 
in  Bartholomew  County,  considerably  to  the  exclusion  of  school  advantages.  During  the  war 
he  was  engaged  in  railroading,  and  at  one  time  enlisted  in  the  Third  Indiana  Cavalry,  but 


840 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


was  afterward  rejectetl  and  began  clerking  in  a grocery  store,  where  he  remained  for  about 
live  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  opened  an  establishment  of  his  own  on  Virginia 
Avenue  and  has  carried  on  a successful  business  for  over  twenty  years,  his  stock  being  valued 
at  about  $2,000.  He  purchased  the  property  where  he  is  now  doing  business  and  erected 
thereon  a good  two-story  brick  building  in  1881,  and  there  he  keeps  constantly  on  hand  a 
tine  grade  of  general  groceries  which  net  him  about  $1,000  annually.  Mr.  llothert’s  suc- 
cess has  been  entirely  due  to  his  own  efforts,  and  in  addition  to  his  business  property  of  two 
lots,  he  owns  four  other  lots,  on  two  of  which  are  two  houses  each,  which  he  rents,  the  two 
other  lots  being  vacant,  his  entire  pi'operty  interests  in  the  city  being  valued  at  $20,000.  He 
was  married  in  1872  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Stolte,  a native  of  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  by  whom  he  has 
children  as  follows:  Katie,  William,  John,  Clara  (dead),  Fred,  Lizzie  and  Kosa.  Mr.  Roth- 
ert  is  a nieml)er  of  the  German-American  Protestant  Association,  the  Turner’s  Society,  and 
politically  is  a Democrat,  in  local  atfairs  voting  for  the  one  he  considers  the  best  man  for  the 
office.  He  and  his  family  attend  the  Zion  Evangelical  Society,  of  which  he  and  his  wife 
are  earnest  and  consistent  members. 

William  J.  Roach.  This  successful  wholesale  lumber  dealer  is  a member  of  the  well 
known  firm  of  Roach  & Clark  of  Indianaiiolie,  Ind.  He  was  born  in  Warren  County,  Ohio, 
August  4,  1841,  a son  of  William  H.  and  Eliza  ( Worley)  Roach ; who  were  also  natives  of 
the  Buckeye  State.  The  paternal  grandparents  were  Virginians  but  were  early  settlers  of 
Ohio,  were  tillers  of  the  soil  and  in  their  religious  belief  were  member  of  the  Quaker  faith. 
The  maternal  grandparents  wereof  Scotch  descent  and  the  grandfather,  Walling  Worley,  was 
a soldier  in  the  W'^ar  of  1812.  William  H.  lioach  followed  in  his  father’s  footsteps  and  be- 
came a farmer.  He  was  called  from  life  in  1857  and  his  widow  still  survives  him  and  is  re- 
siding in  Indianapolis  at  the  advanced  age  of  eighty  years.  To  this  worthy  couple  a family 
of  six  children  were  born,  three  sons  and  three  daughters,  five  of  whom  are  living  at  the 
present  time.  On  the  old  home  farm  in  Warren  County  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  reared, 
his  education  being  obtained  in  the  common  schools  in  the  vicinity  of  his  rural  home.  He  re- 
mained under  the  shelter  of  the  jiarental  roof,  assisting  his  father  in  the  duties  of  the  farm, 
until  he  was  about  twenty-five  years  of  age,  at  which  time  he  engaged  in  the  livery,  and  saw- 
mill business  at  Morrowtown,  Ohio,  following  these  occu])ations  with  reasonable  success 
until  four  years  had  elapsed,  at  which  time  he  came  to  Indianajiolis,  arriving  in  the  month  of 
March,  18j70.  He  at  once  engaged  in  the  sale  of  saw  dust,  and  operated  several  wagons 
throughout  the  city.  This  proved  to  be  a profitable  business,  and  he  continued  it  for  about 
ten  years;  then  turned  his  attention  to  the  wholesale  lumber  business  as  a member  of  the  firm 
of  Endley  & Roach,  which  partnership  continued  about  live  years.  The  firm  then  became 
Roach  & Clark  and  as  such  still  continues.  These  gentlemen  are  doing  a protitable  busi- 
ness and  carry  a stock  of  goods  valued  at  about  $15,000,  their  annual  sales  amounting  to 
some  75,000.  They  ship  their  goods  to  St.  Louis,  Chicago,  Boston,  Buffalo  and  many  other 
eastern  cities,  their  product  being  obtained  principally  throughout  the  States  of  Indiana  and 
Kentucky.  While  a resident  of  Morrowtown,  Ohio,  Mr.  Roach  took  an  active  part  in  the 
political  affairs  of  that  section  and  served  in  the  capacity  of  Deputy  Sheriff  and  constalile  for 
nearly  ten  years.  Since  locating  in  Indianapolis  he  has  prospered  financially  and  is  the 
owner  of  a considerable  amount  of  real  estate  besides  his  tine  residence  property.  On 
November  4,  1861,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Jane  Hyser,  a native  of  Warren  County,  Ohio, 
and  a daughter  of  William  and  Elizabeth  (Jeffries)  Hyser,  early  settlers  of  Warren  County, 
Ind.,  the  father  having  been  a soldier  of  the  War  of  1812.  To  this  union  four  children 
ivere  born;  Lizzie  B. , Clyde  C. ; Harry  D.,  who  was  killed  in  tiie  lead  mines  in  Missouri, 
May  18,  1892,  of  which  he  was  superintendent  at  the  time,  and  Helen.  Clyde  C.  was  a 
member  of  Richardson’s  Zouaves  for  live  years  and  held  the  rank  of  captain.  The  mother 
of  these  children  died  April  20,  1884,  having  been  a noble  wife  and  mother,  and  a devout  and 
consistent  member  of  the  Presbyterian  Church  for  many  years  of  her  life.  Mr.  Roach’s 
second  marriage  was  celebrated  June  6,  1887,  Mrs.  Anna  (Jack)  Hyser,  becoming  his  wife, 
she  having  also  been  born  in  Warren  County.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Roach  are  members  of  the 
Memorial  Presbyterian  Church,  in  which  Mr.  Roach  has  been  a deacon  for  many  years.  In 
politics  he  has  ever  been  a stanch  Republican. 


341 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Adrial  Sylvanus  Kingsley.  The  geiitleiuan  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  was  born 
in  Erie  County,  N.  Y.,  twenty  miles  from  Buffalo,  February  1,  1818,  a son  of  Sabin  and 
Betsey  (Abbot)  Kingsley,  the  former  of  whom  was  a native  of  Huntington,  Rutland  County, 
Vt.,  and  the  latter  of  Concord,  N.  H.  ; she  being  a relative  of  the  Abbotts  of  New  England, 
w’ell  known  writers.  The  mother  was  born  in  a block  house.  Mr.  Kingsley  was  a tiller  of 
the  soil,  and  this  occupation  followed  after  his  removal  to  Indiana,  which  was  in  a very 
early  day.  They  went  down  the  Ohio  River  on  a raft,  leaving  Pittsburgh  in  November, 
1818,  and  before  reaching  their  destination  passed  through  many  hardships  and  perils.  At 
the  end  of  six  weeks  they  arrived  at  Cincinnati  (January  1,  l8l9),  and  on  account  of  ice 
between  Pittsburgh  and  Cincinnati  landed  only  once.  They  settled  in  Switzerland  County, 
Ind.,  in  January,  1819,  and  resided  there  until  their  removal  to  Indianapolis  in  March, 
1855,  in  which  city  the  father  died  on  February  25,  1865.  He  was  a strong  Abolitionist, 
and  upon  his  death  bed,  among  the  last  words  he  uttered  were,  that  he  had  only  one  desire 
and  that  was  to  live  to  see  the  Rebellion  put  down.  His  widow  survived  him  until  February 
3,  1881.  The  youthful  days  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch  were  marked  by  many  thrilling 
adventures,  for  the  State  of  Indiana  was  in  its  jirimitive  condition  at  that  time,  and  until 
he  w’as  thirty-five  years  of  age  he  lived  on  farms  twenty  years  half  a mile  from  the  town  of 
Jacksonville.  In  the  spring  of  1854  he  removed  to  Aurora,  Ind.,  and  in  the  spring  of  the 
following  year  to  Indianapolis.  He  had  obtained  a common  school  education  in  his  youth, 
and  after  reaching  a suitable  age  taught  school  in  Switzerland  County  for  a number  of  years, 
and  under  the  shades  of  Hanover  College,  and  had  among  his  pupils  some  men  who  have 
become  eminent  in  the  affairs  of  the  State  and  nation.  Upon  locating  in  Indianapolis  he 
opened  a boarding-house,  and  during  the  live  years  that  he  conducted  this  establishment  he 
became  well  known  as  one  of  the  best  hotel  men  of  the  city.  Succeeding  this  he  engaged 
in  the  dairy  business,  and  in  April,  1877,  established  the  creamery,  which  business  he  is 
operating  in  a highly  successful  manner  at  the  present  time.  On  November  16,  1840,  he 
was  united  in  marriage  to  Roxy  J.  Aldrich,  a native  of  Montgomery  County,  N.  Y. , and  to 
their  union  eight  children  have  been  given;  Mary  E.  J.  (deceased),  Harriett  E.,  widow  of 
C.  J.  Shawver;  Royal  A.;  Mary  E.  J.,  wife  of  James  A.  Johnson,  of  Dakota;  Loriug  B. 
S.  (deceased),  Loring  B.  S.  (another  child,  deceased),  Charles  E.  A.  and  Frank  E.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Kingsley  celebrated  their  golden  wedding  about  three  years  ago,  at  which  time  all 
the  family  were  present.  Although  Mr.  Kingsley  is  ({uite  advanced  in  years,  he  is  yet  hale 
and  hearty  and  carries  on  an  active  Imsiness.  He  has  a tine  mind  and  is  a frequent  con- 
tributor to  new.sj)aj)ers,  being  an  interesting  writer  of  the  early  history  of  Indiana,  in  which 
State  he  has  lived  for  seventy-tive  years.  He  is  a strong  temjierance  man,  and  as  early  as 
1832  began  alone  to  promote  temperance  work  by  refusing  to  drink  whisky,  and  in  1847 
aided  in  the  organization  of  a division  of  the  Sons  of  Temperance  in  Jacksonville,  Ind.  On 
coming  to  Indianapolis  he  united  with  the  division  here  and  was  one  of  its  most  active  mem- 
bers while  it  was  in  existence.  He  l)ecame  a member  of  the  Ba|)tist  Church  at  the  age  of 
fifteen  years,  and,  although  not  a member  of  any  church  organization  Jit  the  present  time, 
is  a moral  and  upright  Christian  gentleman.  In  politics  he  was  originally  a Whig,  but 
cast  his  first  presidential  vote  for  Martin  Van  Buren  in  1840.  He  was  a strong  Abolitionist 
and  an  ardent  sympathizer  in  that  cause,  and,  owing  to  his  pronounced  ideas  in  this  particu- 
lar, he  was  subjected  to  many  threats  and  insults,  and  at  one  time  his  life  was  threatened. 
Since  the  organization  of  the  Republican  j)arty  he  has  been  one  of  its  stanch  supporters. 
While  a resident  of  Switzerland  County,  in  1852,  he  was  the  nominee  of  the  Free  Soil 
{)arty  for  county  treasurer,  receiving  forty-tive  votes,  the  entire  strength  of  the  party  in  the 
county  at  that  time.  Mr.  Kingsley  is  a man  of  unblemished  reputation,  and  his  honorable 
walk  through  life  points  its  own  moral  to  the  rising  generation. 

Charles  E.  Heinrichs.  The  name  aliove  mentioned  is  one  well  Unown  in  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  and  the  possessor  of  it  was  born  at  Osnabnu-k,  Cerinany,  July  25,  1819,  his 
[larents  being  Henry  and  Johanna  (Hoffman)  Heinrichs,  the  former  of  whom  died  when  Charles 
E.  was  very  small,  and  his  mother  in  her  nativi*  town  at  tlie  age  of  sixty-eight  years.  She 
was  first  married  to  Ernest  Boiiky,  who  was  a Urussian  oflicer,  and  was  killed  at  the  liattle 
of  Waterloo.  Her  son  liy  this  husband,  Ernest  Ropky,  Jr.,  came  to  ludiana|)olis,  where  he 
died  leaving  a widow  and  tliree  children , tlie  former  of  whom  soon  followed  her  husband  to 


342 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


the  grave.  Charles  E.  Heiiiriclis  was  educated  iu  the  schools  of  his  native  land,  paying  for 
his  education  by  liis  own  labor,  and  at  the  age  of  sixteen  he  left  school,  and  entered  a 
tobacco  factory,  in  which  he  worked  for  thirteen  years,  supporting  his  mother  with  his  earn- 
ings, but  he  soon  realized  the  fact  that  if  he  wished  to  lay  up  any  money  he  must  look  else- 
where for  it.  He  was  at  that  time  engaged  to  Amelia  Bosse,  and  lacking  funds  of  his  own, 
he  borrowed  $40  of  her,  which  she  had  saved  from  her  earnings  with  which  to  commence 
house-keeping,  and  set  sail  for  America,  landing  at  New  York  December  2,  1847,  with  not  $1  in 
his  )>ocket.  He  at  once  went  to  an  old  German  tavern  keeper,  named  Bick,  of  whom  he  bor- 
rowed $10,  which  took  him  to  Delaware  County,  N.  Y.,  and  during  that  winter  he  secured 
employment  in  a tan  yard.  He  then  worked  in  a brick  yard  in  Newport,  Ky. , but  owing  to 
the  dishonesty  of  the  man  for  whom  he  worked  he  was  cheated  out  of  his  summer’s  wages. 
He  then  pawned  his  watch  and  a suit  of  clothes,  and  sent  for  his  sweetheart,  who  embarked 
for  the  United  States  in  the  fall  of  1848.  One  month  after  her  arrival  they  were  married, 
and  for  two  years  thereafter  the  table  from  which  they  ate  was  a trunk,  birt  they  saved  in 
the  meantime  $200.  This  brought  (hem  to  Indianapolis,,  and  after  working  three  months  in 
a brick  yard  he  and  another  man  bought  a yard  of  their  own,  and  during  that  summer  they 
made  about  $500.  The  following  winter  he  worked  for  Col.  Blythe  in  his  pork  packing 
house,  and  in  the  spring  of  1853  he  rented  a little  house  and  opened  a grocery  store,  in  the 
care  of  which  he  was  assisted  by  his  good  wife.  In  this  manner  they  cleared  about  $1,000  a 
year  until  1801,  when  they  opened  an  establishment  at  Cumberland,  their  capital  at  that 
time  amounting  to  about  .$6,000.  Mr.  Heinrichs  finally  traded  his  city  property  for  a farm 
of  110  acres,  to  which  he  added  from  time  to  time  until  he  became  the  owner  of  about  800 
acres.  He  recently  .sold  200  acres  in  Marion  County,  and  is  now  engaged  in  managing  his 
fine  farm  of  400  acres,  and  looks  after  his  live  houses  and  lots  in  Indianapolis,  which  he 
rents.  The  most  of  his  land  is  now  rented,  and  he  simply  oversees  his  extensive  interests. 
Six  sons  and  one  daughter  blessed  this  union:  Charles  E. , born  in  1851,  is  a carpenter  by 
trade;  William  F.,  born  in  1855,  is  an  attorney;  Ernest  Edward,  born  February  25,  1858, 
is  a resident  of  Cumberland;  John  H.,  born  in  1860,  is  a stenographer  of  ability,  and  the 
other  children  died  in  childhood  and  infancy.  Mr.  Heinrichs  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F., 
the  Germania  Lodge,  of  the  F.  & A.  M , has  been  a life-long  Democrat,  and  is  a member  of 
the  Lutheran  Church,  as  was  his  worthy  wife,  who  de])arted  this  life  December  4,  1890,  at 
the  age  of  seventy-one  years.  Their  son  Ernest  Edward  is  a young  merchant  of  enterprise 
and  intelligence,  and  the  people  of  the  section  in  which  he  resides  repose  in  him  the  utmost 
confidence,  for  he  has  ever  proven  the  soul  of  honor  in  his  transactions  with  them,  and 
thoroughly  understands  their  wants.  He  has  the  management  of  the  old  established  general 
mercantile  house,  which  was  founded  by  his  father,  and  the  business  is  conducted  on  sound 
and  upright  principles.  Ever  since  his  school  days  Ernest  E.  has  been  connected  with  mer- 
cantile life,  the  most  of  his  time  being  in  his  father’s  store,  and  in  this  manner  he  became 
admirably  qualified  for  the  responsible  position  he  occupies.  It  has  ever  been  his  ambition 
to  grow  up  an  honorable  and  successful  business  man,  and  that  he  has  reached  the  goal  of 
his  ambition  cannot  be  doubted  when  the  large  patronage  he  has  is  taken  into  consideration. 
He  was  born  in  Indianapolis,  and  received  the  rudiments  of  a primary  schooling  there,  which 
he  completed  at  Valparaiso  and  Moore’s  Hill  Colleges,  and  before  succeeding  his  father  in 
business  he  was  traveling  salesman  for  a boot  and  shoe  house  of  Columbus,  Ohio.  February 
27, 188 1, he  was  married  to  Rosabel  Buchanan, daughter  of  John  Buchanan, a prominent  farmer 
of  Warren  Township,  this  county,  a sketch  of  whom  appears  in  this  work.  Mrs.  Heinrichs 
is  an  intelligent  and  talented  little  lady,  possesses  fine  conversational  powers,  is  her  hus- 
band’s right  hand  in  many  ways,  and  also  “looketh  well  unto  the  ways  of  her  household.” 
They  have  two  children:  Harry  H.,  born  December  12,  1881,  and  Bertha  L..  born  October 
30,  1884.  Mr.  Heinrichs  is  a member  of  Capital  Lodge,  No.  124,  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  Indian- 
apolis, and  politically  is  known  as  a conservative  supporter  of  the  Democratic  party.  He  is 
a gentleman  wide  awake  to  his  own  interests,  and  to  the  welfare  of  any  deserving  enterprise, 
yet  is  so  fair  and  honorable  withal,  so  public  spirited,  generous  and  honorable,  that  his  name 
is  highly  respected  wherever  known,  and  he  counts  his  friends  by  the  score. 

James  T.  Eaglesfield,  a member  of  the  well-known  firm  of  William  Eaglesfield  Com- 
pany, is  one  of  the  young  business  men  of  Indianapolis.  Connected  with  him  in  business  is 


343 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Alouzo  E.  Robbins,  who  is  not  actively  associated  with  the  Viasiness  but  is  superintendent  of 
the  Toledo  division  of  the  Hocking  Valley  Railroad  with  headquarters  at  Columbus,  Ohio. 
They  established  their  business  at  their  present  location  in  1H86,  handling  lumber  and 
almost  all  kinds  of  building  material,  adding  to  their  business  in  1890  a well-e(piipped 
planing  mill,  and  at  present  have  ample  facilities  for  everything  in  the  lumber  and  building 
business,  carrying  a stock  of  from  |10,000  to  $15,000  and  having  an  annual  business  of  from 
$80,000  to  $90,000.  James  T.  Eaglesheld  was  born  in  Clay  County,  Ind.,  in  1850.  William 
Eaglesfield,  his  father,  was  a native  of  Hamilton  County,  Ohio,  born  in  1815,  and  his  parents 
having  died,  he  came  to  Indianapolis  in  1822  with  his  uncle,  Caleb  Scudder,  a cabinet  maker, 
and  they  were  among  the  first  settlers  of  Indianapolis,  the  old  house  being  on  the  corner  of 
Market  and  Tennessee  Streets,  opposite  the  State  House.  He  went  to  school  here  and  has 
many  stories  and  reminiscenses  to  relate  of  the  old  times.  In  1835  he  went  to  Putnamville, 
Ind.,  where  he  married  Miss  Margaret  E.  Townsend,  a native  of  Kentucky.  Some  eight  or 
ten  years  later  they  went  to  Clay  County,  where  Mr.  Eaglesfield  operated  a saw-mill  and 
engaged  in  the  lumber  business.  In  1 8(10  he  went  to  Terre  Haute,  where  he  carried  on  a 
prosperous  business  till  1875.  His  connection  with  the  timber  interests  of  the  State  through 
so  long  a time  made  him  an  acknowledged  authority  on  all  subjects  relating  to  it.  He  died 
in  1888,  leaving  a memory  of  a long  life  well  spent.  His  wife,  though  well  advanced  in 
years,  continues  in  fair  health  and  finds  a comfortable  home  among  her  children  in  Indian- 
apolis. James  T.  Eaglesfield  has  been  reared  in  the  lumber  Imsiness,  and  received  an  educa- 
tion in  the  .schools  of  Terre  Haute,  Ind.,  and  at  Ann  Aabor,  Mich.  He  is  a member  of  the 
Commercial  Club  which  has  contributed  so  much  to  the  advancement  of  the  city. 

John  W.  Combs.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  is  one  of  the  old  settlers  of  Marion  County, 
Ind. , having  resided  here  for  sixty-six  years,  and  during  all  that  time  his  career  has  been 
above  reproach.  All  his  life  has  been  passed  in  the  Hoosier  State,  his  birth  occurring  in 
Dearborn  County,  January  4,  1824,  to  the  union  of  Jesse  and  Lititia  (Walton)  Combs,  the 
former  a native  of  Laurel  Hill,  Penn.,  born  March  29,  1787,  and  the  latter  of  Virginia,  born 
August  12,  1792.  The  parents  resided  in  Pennsylvania  until  about  1818  when  they  moved 
to  Hartford,  Ind.,  and  after  making  their  home  there  for  ten  years,  or  until  1828,  moved  to 
Indianapolis.  There  both  passed  the  remainder  of  tlieir  days.  Three  children  were  given 
them,  as  follows:  Nancy,  born  April  8,  1814,  married  Oliver  IMorris,  of  Indianapolis  (she 
is  now  deceased),  William  Franklin,  born  July  14,  1816,  was  married  tirst  to  Adelia  Lumen 
and  afterward  to  Miss  Ellen  Mitchell,  and  John  Watson,  our  sulqect.  The  father  of  these 
children  was  in  the  War  of  1812  and  was  stationed  at  Fort  Meigs,  in  the  northern  part  of 
the  State,  under  Oen.  William  Henry  Harrison.  John  W.  Combs,  the  subject  of  this  sketch, 
was  about  four  years  of  age  when  he  moved  with  his  parents  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and 
here  he  has  since  resided.  In  this  county  his  scholastic  training  was  received  and  here 
he  has  since  jesided,  honored  and  respected  by  all.  On  February  27,  1847,  he  was  married 
to  Miss  Emma  Cole,  daughter  of  Allen  and  Adeline  Cole,  of  Hamilton  County,  Ind.  P'our 
children  have  been  bcjrn  to  Mr.  and  i\Irs.  Combs;  Teressa,  l)orn  June  26.  1848,  single  and 
at  home;  Annetta  L.,  born  January  27,  1850,  died  May  20,  1851;  William  F.,  born  April 
29.  1852,  marri(*d  Miss  May  Cory,  and  is  now  at  home;  and  Geoige  W.,  born  IMarch  10, 
1859,  married  Miss  Carrie  Kregelo,  who  died  February  11,  1892.  Mr.  Combs  is  a public- 
spirited  man  and  lakes  an  active  interest  in  all  good  work.  He  has  held  a number  of  public 
offices  in  the  township  and  is  well  informed  in  ])olitics  and  the  affairs  of  the  county.  For 
eighteen  years  he  was  justice  of  the  peace,  has  been  township  assessor  two  terms,  and  notary 
|)ublic  for  eight  years.  He  now  owns  a tine  farm  adjoining  the  town  of  Oaklandon,  this 
county. 

Mf{s.  Sarah  T.  Bolton  (deceased).  The  pictures(jue  ty])e  of  women  to  which  IMrs.  Sarah 
T.  Bolton  l)elonged  is  fast  f)assing  away,  and  soon  it  will  become  merely  traditional  in  this 
part  of  the  country.  As  the  years  go  on  this  type  recfales  fiirther  and  farther  by  tlu' 
advancement  of  civilization.  Sarah  Tittle  Barrett,  the  eld<>st  child  of  Jonathan  B.  and 
Esther  (Pendleton)  Barrett,  was  a native  of  New'port,  Ky.,  born  Decemtxu'  18,  181  1.  Her 
ancestors  were  of  good  lineage,  her  grand])arents  being  distinguished  l)y  their  al)ility  and 
for  their  patrifjtic  services.  \Vhen  Sarah  was  a little  girl  she  came  with  her  parents  to 
Indiana  to  reside.  Her  reminiscences,  (pioted  from  her  life,  written  by  the  late  .1.  W. 


MEMOim  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


3U 

Gordon,  were  to  this  effect:  “As  there  was  no  road  for  wheels,  we  were  obliged  to  travel  on 
horseback.’’  They  accomplished  their  journey  in  safety  and  reached  their  home,  which  was 
a log  cabin  with  puncheon  floor  and  all  the  rude  furniture  of  the  pioneer.  It  was  at  this 
time  that  the  first  inspiration  of  poetical  thought  came  to  the  little  girl,  who  in  later  years 
became  the  jioetess  whose  Tiame  and  verse  are  known  to  the  world  around.  Amid  the  rude 
life  of  the  early  settler  Sarah  passed  her  youth,  sharing  the  duties  of  the  household.  She 
had  no  educational  advantages.  She  learned  to  cook,  sew,  knit  and  wash.  None  could 
afford  to  be  idle.  But  in  that  life  she  established  good  habits  of  mind  and  body, 
and  in  it  were  laid  the  foundations  for  a noble  character.  When  Sarah  was  quite  a 
young  woman  the  family  moved  to  Madison,  that  the  children  might  be  educated.  She 
was  much  behind  children  of  her  own  age,  but  it  was  an  incentive  to  her.  She  advanced  rapidly 
and  was  soon  among  the  foremost  in  the  school.  Hon.  Jeremiah  Sullivan  allowed  her  the 
use  of  his  library,  and  this  delighted  her.  Sarah  T.  Barrett’s  first  jmblished  poem  a2>peared 
in  the  Madison  Banner  when  she  was  about  fifteen.  From  that  time  on  until  she  was  mar- 
ried she  wrote  nearly  every  week  for  the  newspapers  of  Madison  and  Cincinnati.  She 
attracted  the  attention  of  literary  people  by  her  productions  and  in  this  way  became 
ac(piainted  with  Nathaniel  Bolton,  who  owned  a paper  in  Madison,  and  this  led  to  their 
marriage  October  81,  1881.  They  removed  to  Indianapolis  and  Mr.  Bolton  went  into  busi- 
ness with  his  step-father.  Judge  Smith.  They  established  the  Indianapolis  Gazette,  the  first 
newspaper  ever  published  in  the  State  capital.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bolton  settled  upon  the  tract 
of  land  upon  which  the  hospital  for  the  insane  now  stands.  They  moved  into  the  town  for 
awhile,  where  a daughter  was  born  to  them,  and  then  went  back  to  the  farm,  where  a son  was 
born.  At  this  date  Mr.  Bolton  planted  the  trees  that  now  line  the  land  from  the  national  road 
to  the  hospital.  So  many  peo])le  stopped  at  their  house  that  they  finally  decided  to  make  it 
public,  and  a sign  “Tavern  by  Nathaniel  Bolton  ’’  was  raised.  Mrs.  Bolton  attended  to  all 
the  housework.  Here  parties  were  given  at  every  meeting  of  the  General  Assembly,  and 
among  those  who  were  there  were  Robert  Dale  Owen,  Jesse  D.  Bright,  Michael  G.  Bright 
and  others.  In  October,  1840,  Col.  Richard  M.  Johnson,  Vice-President  of  the  United 
States,  visited  there  and  a grand  reception  was  given.  Mrs.  Bolton  wrote  a poetical  address 
for  the  occasion.  There  was  no  great  occasion  from  that  day  to  the  time  of  her  death  that 
she  did  not  write  poetically  upon  the  subject.  Her  power  of  imitation  was  very 
strong,  and  it  is  said  her  poem  on  “ Poe’s  Death  ” in  the  style  of  his  “ Raven  ’’  equalled  his 
own  immortal  verses  in  rhythmic  measure  and  poetic  thought.  In  1847  Mr.  Bolton  was 
elected  State  librarian,  and  at  that  time  the  general  supervision  of  everything  pertaining  to 
the  State  House  devolved  on  the  librarian,  and  Mrs.  Bolton  assisted  him  in  his  work.  There 
was  great  need  of  carpets  for  the  Senate  chamber  and  House  of  Representatives,  as  the  Legis- 
lature  would  soon  convene.  Mrs.  Bolton  went  to  Cincinnati  and  purchased  some,  and  after 
their  arrival  there  was  no  one  to  sew  them.  Mrs.  Bolton  did  this  work.  While  thus 
engaged  she  planned  and  wrote  a poem,  “ Paddle  Your  Own  Canoe,”  wdiicli  has  l)een  trans- 
lated into  many  languages  and  sung  all  round  the  globe.  A verse  from  it: 

“Nothing  great  is  liglitly  won. 

Nothing  won  is  lost. 

Every  good  deed  nobly  done 
Will  repay  the  cost. 

],eave  to  Heaven  in  humble  trust 
All  you  will  to  do. 

But  if  you  succeed  you  must 
Paddle  your  own  canoe.” 

Mrs.  Bolton  wrote  fifteen  songs  which  were  long  popular,  and  yet  she  was  never 
enriched  one  dollar  by  them.  “ I Cannot  Call  Her  Mother  ” and  “A  Reply  to  Katy  Darling  ” 
were  among  them.  Mrs.  Bolton  accompanied  her  husband  to  Switzerland,  where  he  was 
appointed  a consul,  and  while  there  she  traveled  extensively.  Mr.  Bolton  was  taken  ill 
abroad  and  only  lived  to  reach  home.  He  died  in  1858.  Love  of  country  was  always  an 
inspiration  with  Mrs.  Bolton,  and  no  poem  of  the  war  did  more  to  rally  the  friends  of  the 
Union  than  her  “Union  Forever,”  written  in  March,  1861.  She  was  a woman  of  keen 
intellectual  powers,  which  she  retained  to  the  last.  She  had  the  eccentricities  of  genius,  and 


345 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

these  were  as  interesting  in  their  way  as  lier  more  conventional  moods.  The  music  of  her 
imagination  has  snug  to  many  another  heart.  In  1880  “The  Life  and  Poems  of  Sarah  T. 
Bolton  ’’  was  compiled  by  Hon.  J.  \V.  Gordon.  Some  of  her  best  poems  are  not  included — 
one  especially,  “ The  Wentworths.  ” Some  of  her  poems  are  as  popular  and  well  known 
as  scriptural  stories,  but  often  the  name  of  the  writer  none  who  repeat  them  could  tell.  To 
the  knowledge  of  her  friends,  no  writing  of  hers  was  ever  rejected  l)y  a publislier.  Her  sym 
pathetic  nature  found  expression  in  lines  at  all  times.  The  songs  she  sang  will  ever  be 
conspicuous  in  the  literary  annals  of  the  Hoosier  State.  She  was  not  a believer  in  any  par- 
ticular creed.  Her  death  occurred  August  4,  1803.  Of  two  children  born  one  son,  James 
P.,  only  survives  her. 

J.\coB  H.  Sl.\ter.  The  entire  life  of  Mr.  Slater  has  been  passed  in  ceaseless  activity, 
and  has  not  been  without  substantial  evidences  of  success,  as  will  be  seen  when  this  sketch 
is  finished.  He  is  a splendid  type  of  the  enterj)rise,  industry  and  self  reliance  so  noticeable 
in  the  Indianapolis  business  man  and  it  is  a pleasure  to  introduce  him  to  the  readers  of  this 
volume.  He  was  born  in  Blackford  County,  Ind.,  October  17,  1848,  and  his  father, 
Thomas  Slater,  was  one  of  the  early  settlers  of  this  State  who  left  homes  of  comfort  in  the 
East  to  brave  the  perils  and  hardships  of  the  pioneer  life  in  the  great  West.  But  few  of 
these  old  settlers  are  remaining  but  occasionally  one  is  met  with  who  has  survived  the 
storms  and  ravages  of  time,  but  his  silvery  locks  and  faltering  footsteps  tell  us  that  ere  long 
he  will  “ pass  to  that  bourne  from  whence  no  traveler  returns.”  Thomas  Slater  left  Ohio 
for  Blackford  County,  Ind.,  when  sixteen  years  of  age,  and  when  that  county  was  an 
almost  unbroketi  wilderness.  In  184t)  he  married  Miss  Mary  A.  Hart,daughter  of  a neigh- 
bor who  had  emigrated  from  Pennsylvania  about  the  same  time.  Having  earned  a small 
sum  of  money  by  hard  work  and  economy,  he  purchased  eighty  acres  of  land,  which  was  at 
that  time  very  cheap,  erected  a log  cabin  and  began  the  work  of  clearing  up  a farm.  At 
that  time  tiie  very  best  of  timber  was  almost  valueless,  there  being  no  way  of  disjiosing  of 
it,  and  the  best  of  walnut  was  sometimes  split  into  rails  or  burned  in  log  heaps.  The  eighty 
acres  of  timber  were  finally  converted  into  a splendid  farm  to  which  from  time  to  time  Mr. 
Slater  added  a few  more  acres.  He  was  a man  of  more  than  ordinary  ability  and  almost 
without  the  aid  of  schools  he  obtained  a moderate  education  ter  which  he  added  a fair  knowl- 
edge of  law.  In  1801)  he  sold  his  farm  and  located  in  Montpelier,  the  same  county,  where 
lie  practiced  law  successfully  until  his  death  in  181)‘2,  having  reached  the  age  of  seventy 
three  years.  He  could  well  be  called  a [lioneer  for  he  built  the  first  frame  house  and  tauglit 
the  first  school  in  the  county.  His  son.  Jacob  H.  Slater,  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  born 
a few  months  after  the  above  mentioned  cabin  was  erected  and  consecpiently  knows  some- 
thing about  the  hardships,  dangers,  pleasures  and  disadvantages  of  pioneer  life.  His  parents 
thoroughly  impressed  upon  his  mind  the  imjxutance  of  an  education  but  his  opportunities 
in  that  direction  were  very  limited.  The  public  schools  usually  consisted  of  one  term  of  two 
or  tliree  months  each  year,  taught  by  very  inexperienced  and  sometimes  very  ignorant  teach 
ers  and  as  his  time  was  needed  on  the  farm  for  the  most  part,  most  of  his  ('ducation  was 
received  in  the  evenings  at  home.  He  often  took  a book  to  the  field  when  plowing  and  would 
study  diligently  while  the  horses  were  resting.  In  this  manner  he  obtained  what  was  then 
considered  a fair  common  school  education  and  when  sixteen  years  of  age  he  obtained  a 
teacher’s  certificate.  His  first  term  consisted  of  fifty-five  days  and  with  the  money  thus 
olJained  he  attended  a graded  .school  at  the  county  seat,  for  three  months  during  the  early 
spring.  For  the  next  five  years  he  taught  during  the  winter,  attended  school  away  from 
home  one  term  and  worked  on  the  farm  the  remainder  of  the  year.  Having  obtained  a fair 
education  in  that  way  he  spent  two  years  in  the  West  and  returned  home  in  1871.  He  then 
embarked  in  merchandising  but  later  drifted  into  the  insurance  business.  Starting  in  this 
l)usiness  at  the  bottom  of  the  laddei’  he  mastered  its  details  until  by  gradual  promotion  he 
l)ecame  the  trusted  special  agent  of  one  (J  New  A’ork  city’s  largest  tiro  insuiance  compa 
nies.  Having  a desiie  to  bo(!ome  a professional  man  he  abandoned  traveling  and  for  about 
five  years  studied  and  practiced  law  with  his  fatlnu'.  In  1874  he  married  Miss  Ida 
B.  Shull,  daughter  of  Dr.  (1.  Q.  Shull,  a |)iominent  and  wealthy  resident  of  the 
same  village.  One  son  is  the  r(*sult  of  this  union,  Guy  E-  Slater,  whose  birth 
occurred  August  2f),  1875.  'I’lic  continued  ill  health  of  his  wife  compclh'd  Mr. 


346 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Slater  to  abandon  the  law  practice  in  1880  and  he  began  seeking  for  a climate 
better  snited  to  her  constitution.  The  following  six  years  of  his  life  were  full  of  trouble 
and  sadness.  In  1887,  accompanied  by  his  son,  Mr.  Slater  returned  to  his  native  State  and 
very  soon  received  several  flattering  offers  to  again  engage  in  his  chosen  profession. 
About  this  time  the  princijile  of  building  and  loan  associations  on  an  extensive  basis,  was 
becoming  ])0{)ular  with  the  public  and  as  Mr.  Slater,  during  his  insurance  experience,  had 
devoted  a large  amount  of  time  and  study  to  the  actuarial  or  mathematical  principles  of  that 
science,  he  at  once  became  deeply  interested  in  this  popular  system.  After  carefully  master- 
ing its  varied  principles  and  plans,  testing  them  by  all  the  known  rules  of  mathematics,  he 
determined  to  locate  in  Indianapolis  and  make  it  his  life’s  work.  In  1889  he  formulated  the 
|)lans  and  organized  the  Fidelity  Building  and  Savings  Union,  with  a board  of  directors  com- 
posed largely  of  State  officers.  Two  years  later  he  also  organized  the  Fraternal  Building 
and  lioan  Association  in  both  of  which  associations  he  has  ever  since  held  official  positions 
arid  has  been  prominently  identified  with  their  management.  His  long  business  experience 
and  energy,  united  with  the  keen  business  foresight  of  his  chosen  associates,  has  placed  these 
associations  among  the  strong  financial  institutions  of  the  country,  commanding  to  a large 
degree  the  confidence  of  the  ])ublic  in  almost  every  neighborhood  of  the  State.  The  second 
marriage  of  Mr.  Slater  occurred  October  13,  1890,  to  Miss  Mary  E.  IMcDowell,  a very  intelli- 
gent young  lady  born  in  Newburg,  N.  Y.,  July  16,  1862,  but  for  a number  of  years  a 
resident  of  Indianapolis.  Immediately  after  marriage  they  established  their  home  on  North 
-lersey  Street,  and  there  they  now  reside.  In  church  matters  Mr.  Slater  is  not  very  active. 
He  joined  the  Methodist  Church  when  twelve  years  of  age  and  upon  leaving  his  native 
village  he  carried  witli  him  a card  from  his  minister  which  he  has  not  as  yet  deposited  with 
any  organization.  While  he  is  somewhat  liberal  in  his  views  regarding  the  several  orthodox 
churches,  his  j)reference  would  probably  be  slightly  in  favor  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church.  In  politics  he  is  a Republican  and  during  his  early  manhood  he  entered  actively 
into  the  work  of  several  campaigns  but  never  as  a candidate  for  office.  He  was  accorded 
considerable  ability  as  a forcible  and  logical  speaker  both  on  the  stump  and  before  courts 
and  juries  while  practicing  law.  During  recent  years  he  has  been  so  thoroughly  interested 
and  active  in  his  varied  business  interests  that  the  only  attention  given  to  ])olitics  is  to  care- 
fully study  the  principles  of  the  parties  and  cast  his  vote.  He  takes  some  interest  in  frater- 
nal and  benevolent  orders,  being  a member  of  Centre  Lodge,  F.  & A.  M.,  of  Indian- 
apolis and  past  chancellor  of  Pythagoras  Lodge,  No.  380,  K.  of  P.  He  also  holds  a com- 
mission as  colonel  and  A.  D.  C.  on  the  staff  of  the  major-general  of  the  Uniform  Rank,  K. 
of  P.  of  the  world.  Mr.  Slater  is  a man  of  strong  convictions  but  has  no  hobbies.  He  is 
proud  of  the  fact,  however,  that  he  has  never  taken  a drink  of  whisky  as  a beverage  in  his 
life  and  does  not  think  it  essential  to  our  happiness. 

Joshua  H.  Van  DE>tAN.  This  progressive  tiller  of  the  soil  probably  enjoys  the  dis- 
tinction of  having  lived  continuously  on  one  farm  longer  than  any  other  inhabitant  of 
Marion  County,  Ind.  His  parents,  John  and  Mary  (Heizer)  Van  Deman,  were  natives  of 
the  Keystone  State,  but  in  childhood  were  taken  to  Ro.ss  County,  Ohio,  where  they  made 
their  home  until  1819,  when  they  came  to  Fayette  County,  Ind.,  and  about  1826  took  up 
tbeir  residence  in  Marion  County,  where  the  father  entered  the  land  in  Warren  township, 
at  the  intersection  of  the  Michigan  with  other  roads,  locally  known  as  “Five  Points.”  He 
spent  the  rest  of  his  days  on  this  farm  with  his  family,  and  there  was  called  from  life  in 
1867.  In  1848  he  deeded  this  land  to  his  son,  Joshua,  who  has  lived  on  the  place  ever  since 
be  was  one  year  old.  This  worthy  old  couple  became  the  parents  of  three  sons  and  two 
daughters:  Samuel  H. ; John  E. ; Joshua;  Eliza  J.,  who  died  at  the  age  of  twenty-four  years, 
and  Rebecca  A.  When  John  Van  Deman  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  it  was  almost  a 
wilderness,  but  being  of  a sturdy  disposition  and  greatly  desirous  of  securing  a home  for  his 
family,  the  life  of  a pioneer  had  no  terrors  for  him,  and  he  at  once  set  energetically  to  work 
to  clear  the  eighty  acres  of  land  which  he  had  entered,  in  which  he  was  assisted  in  later 
years  by  his  children.  He  eventually  entered  two  more  eighty-acre  tracts,  and  thus  t)ecame 
the  owner  of  249  acres  of  fine  farming  land.  He  was  a Whig  in  politics  and  died  March 
27.  1867,  his  wife  having  passed  fiom  life  in  December,  1858.  Joshua  H.  Van  Deman  was 
born  March  27,  1825,  in  Fayette  County,  Ind.,  and  was  married  on  September  29, 


4* 


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OF  THE 

UNIVERSITY  OF  ILLINOI' 


347 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

1858,  to  Miss  Lucinda  Dennv,  daughter  of  Theodore  Y.  and  Elizabeth  Denny,  a sketch 
of  whom  appears  elsewhere  in  this  work.  To  the  marriage  of  Mr.  ami  Mrs.  Van 
Deman  two  sous  were  given,  Ordo  L.  and  Roy  L.  He  and  his  wife  are  members 
of  the  Missionary  Baptist  Church  at  New  Bethel,  and  politically  he  is  a Ke{)ublican. 
He  is  a wide  awake  and  intelligent  farmer,  always  up  with  the  times  in  agricultural  appli 
ances  and  methods,  and  is  recognized  as  a man  of  probity  and  correct  business  methods.  By 
his  thrift  and  industry  he  has  accumulated  an  estate  which  places  him  among  the  list  of 
“fore  handed”  and  he  has  the  respect  of  all  citizens  throughout  his  section.  Mr.  Van 
Deman  is  building  a modern  and  comfortable  home  in  the  city  of  Indianapolis  where  he 
exi)ects  to  remove  and  enjoy  the  fruits  of  his  industry. 

Joseph  L.  Fisher.  In  reviewing  the  iiulu.strial  enterprises  of  Indianapolis,  it  is  the 
aim  of  this  history  to  mention  those  men  who  are  the  best  representatives  of  each  separate 
calling  and  which  contribute  most  to  its  reputation  as  a source  of  snpjdy.  Among  those 
business  men  of  the  city  who  are  worthy  of  distinct  mention  is  Joseph  L.  Fisher,  who  is 
engaged  in  general  contracting.  He  was  born  on  the  Ritsinger  farm  in  Ferry  Township, 
Marion  County,  December  15,  1833,  a sou  of  David  and  Elizabeth  (Hodges')  Fisher,  both  of 
whom  died  when  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  a child.  David  Fisher  and  his  wife  were 
among  the  pioneers  of  this  section  and  he  was  the  second  ])erson  to  establish  a tannery  in 
this  section  of  the  country,  and  one  of  the  first,  if  not  the  very  first,  missionary  Baptist 
churches  in  the  county  was  organized  at  his  house.  Frio?’  to  his  removal  to  this  section  in 
1820  he  had  been  a resident  of  Ohio.  His  wife  was  a native  of  Virginia,  and  they  were 
married  in  Kentucky.  Joseph  L.  Fisher  was  the  tenth  of  their  eleven  children,  and  after 
the  death  of  his  parents  he  made  his  home  with  an  elder  brother  who  sent  him  to  such 
schools  as  were  held  in  the  vicinity  where  he  acquired  a fair  common-school  education.  At 
the  early  age  of  thirteen  years  he  started  out  to  make  his  own  way  in  the  world,  and  in  order 
to  clothe  and  feed  himself  he  turned  his  hand  to  anything  honorable  that  he  could  find  to 
do,  but  tailored  piincipally  for  the  farmers  in  the  vicinity  until  his  marriage,  when  he  began 
farming  on  his  own  account  in  Ferry  Township,  and  did  some  gravel  contract  work  on  the 
Madison  Road.  In  18t)9  he  was  appointed  sujierintendent  of  the  county  asylum,  which 
position  he  held  for  three  years,  then  moved  back  to  the  farm  of  172  acres  which  he  had 
purchased  near  Southport,  where  he  made  his  home  until  1874,  then  came  to  Indianapolis, 
since  which  time  he  has  done  nearly  all  kinds  of  contract  work,  such  as  excavating,  building 
foundations  for  buildings,  the  stone  work  on  bridges,  and  Jias  paved  several  of  the  streets  of 
Indianapolis.  He  did  the  stone  work  on  twelve  or  thirteen  bridges  in  Hendricks  County, 
three  in  Hancock  County,  two  in  Crawford  County,  one  in  Miami  County,  one  in  Boone 
County,  and  several  in  Marion  County,  all  this  work  being  characterized  by  tirmiiess  and 
durability.  Before  he  had  attained  his  majority  he  spent  one  summer  in  Clark  County,  III., 
but  since  that  time  he  has  been  a resident  of  Indianapolis.  He  has  helped  to  make  the  place 
what  it  is  both  by  his  influence  and  labor,  and  is  ))ublic  spirited  to  a degree,  being  ever  ready 
to  lend  liis  assistance  to  any  good  work.  He  has  at  times  given  employment,  to  from  twenty  live 
to  125  men,  and  in  his  line  of  human  endeavor  he  has  gained  an  excellent  re))utaliou.  He 
was  married  in  1854  to  Martha  J.  McCollum,  of  this  county,  to  which  marriage  a family  of 
four  children  have  been  given:  two  sons  being  the  only  survivors;  John  1).,  who  is  at  home 
with  his  parents,  and  Ezra  .Morton,  who  is  chief  clerk  of  the  Aniline  Works  of  the  city. 
When  a l)oy  of  fifteen  he  entered  the  employ  of  the  I.  B.  A W.  Itailroad  in  the  auditor’s 
office,  and  afterward  became  traveling  auditor  of  that  road.  He  held  the  same  jmsition  on 
the  I,  nion  Facific  stationed  at  Omaha,  after  which  he  engaged  in  the  real  estate  business  in 
'I’opeka  Kan.  After  a time  he  entered  the  auditor’s  otlice  of  the  Atchison,  Topeka  A Santa 
f'e  Railroad,  aiul  was  then  connected  in  the  same  capacity  with  the  St.  Ijouis  Railroad,  and 
later  was  with  the  St.  Faul  A iVrinnea|)olis  Railroad,  then  with  the  I'nioii  Facific  Road,  but 
on  account  of  poor  health  he  gave  up  his  position,  returned  home  and  securial  employment 
in  tlie  Cerealiii  Works  of  this  |)lace.  Mr.  I^'isher  is  a member  of  t he  Commercial  Club  and 
the  .Marion  CInl),  and  is  a stanch  Republican.  He  has  long  been  a communicant  of  the  South 
Baptist  Cliurch.  ilitis  interested  in  secret  betievolent  ordiU's,  as  is  attested  by  his  member 
ship  in  Logan  Lodge,  No.  o75,  of  tin*  .Masonic  fraternity,  and  of  Olive  Branch  Lodge,  No. 
2,  K.  of  I’.  riiH  fall  of  18‘.l3  .Mr.  Fisher  was  appoint(*d  st  reid  r(*|)airer  by  the  board  of  pub 
lie  works,  and  is  now  filling  that  position  in  a liighly  satisfactory  and  efficient  manner. 


348 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Alexander  M.  Hannah.  For  many  years,  or  since  his  location  in  this  county,  the 
reputation  Mr.  Hannah  has  enjoyed  has  been  not  only  that  of  a substantial  and  progressive 
farmer,  but  of  an  intelligent  and  thoroughly  posted  man  on  all  the  current  events  of  the  day. 
Although  now  in  his  seventy-third  year  time  has  dealt  leniently  with  him  and  he  is  still  in 
the  enjoyment  of  comparatively  good  health,  and  if  possible  takes  a deeper  interest  in  all 
public  affairs  than  he  did  in  more  youthful  days.  He  is  a son  of  the  Hoosier  State,  born 
in  Wayne  County,  September  17,  1821,  on  a farm  belonging  to  his  father,  and  when  our 
subject  was  two  years  of  age  his  father  was  elected  sheriff  of  Wayne  County,  and  moved  to 
Centreville.  In  this  city  young  Hannah  remained  until  sixteen  years  of  age,  attending  a 
seminary  there,  and  then  entered  the  employ  of  M.  K.  Hiatt,  at  Milton,  Ind.,  to  learn 
the  harness-maker’s  trade.  He  remained  with  Mr.  Hiatt  four  years,  became  proficient 
in  his  trade,  and  then  returned  to  Centreville,  Ind.,  where  he  attended  school  one  year. 
Later  he  opened -a  shop  there,  carried  this  on  two  years  with  fair  success,  and  then 
went  to  Cambridge  City,  where  he  continued  his  former  occupation  until  the  spring  of  1850. 
He  was  then  seized  with  the  gold  fever  and  started  overland  for  California.  He  left  St. 
-Joe,  Mo.,  with  a company  of  about  150,  called  the  “Express  Company.”  This  company 
furnished  the  conveyances,  meals,  etc.,  and  the  passengers  paid  $200  each.  The  trip  lasted 
about  four  months  but  our  subject  left  the  company  at  Salt  Lake  City,  where  it  abandoned 
the  enterprise,  and  he  bought  one  fourth  interest  in  a team  going  through — four  mules  and  a 
wagon — and  he  and  a man  named  Hughes  bought  half  interest  in  a wagon  and  two  extra 
mules,  and  started.  In  August  they  landed  at  Sutter’s  Mill,  and  Mr.  Hannah  at  once  com- 
menced j)lacer  mining  which  he  continued  for  two  years,  making  $125  per  day  for  six 
months.  After  that  he  started  a ranch  in  Calaveras  County,  and  raised  barley,  vegetables, 
etc.,  but  finally  sold  his  half  of  the  ranch  for  $4,000,  and  soon  after  started  home.  He  went 
by  way  of  Nicaraugua,  Now  York  and  Indianapolis,  his  father  residing  in  the  latter 
place.  Soon  after  he  entered  the  office  of  the  Indiana  Central  Railroad  Company  to  look 
after  freight  bills,  and  was  thus  engaged  for  six  months,  when  he  purchased  240  acres  of  his 
father,  Samuel  Hannah,  in  Perry  Township,  and  moved  on  the  farm.  He  was  not  married 
and  he  employed  a family  to  keep  house  for  him.  Two  years  later,  or  in  1858,  he  erected 
a large  brick  house  in  which  he  resided  alone  until  1872,  when  he  was  married  to  Miss 
Elizabeth  Jackson,  daughter  of  Samuel  Jackson  of  Illinois.  On  this  farm  he  has  made  his 
home  ever  since.  When  he  purchased  the  farm  where  he  now  lives  about  forty  acres  were 
])artially  cleared,  and  since  then  he  has  cleared  150  acres.  Later  he  bought  forty  acres  of 
the  Demott  heirs,  again  forty  acres  and  still  later  ten  acres  and  then  twenty  acres,  making 
350  acres  that  he  has  bought  and  now  owns.  Annually  he  raises  about  1,200  bushels  of  wheat 
and  he  now  has  three  crops  in  his  barn  (1803).  He  also  has  about  sixty  acres  in  corn,  from 
ten  to  twenty  acres  in  oats,  and  from  150  to  300  tons  of  hay  annually.  In  his  political 
views  Mr.  Hannah  has  ever  been  a Republican.  He  is  not  a member  of  any  church  but  con- 
tributes to  all  of  them  and  pays  his  <|uarterage  as  regularly  as  any  of  the  members.  He  is 
public  spirited  and  interested  in  all  enterprises  for  the  good  of  the  county,  and  no  man  is 
more  highly  esteemed.  Samuel  Hannah,  father  of  subject,  was  a native  of  Delaware,  born 
December  1,  1789.  When  six  years  of  age  he  moved  with  his  parents  to  Brownsville,  Penn. , 
thirty  miles  above  Pitt.sburgh,  and  there  grew  to  manhood.  On  July  11,  1811,  he  was  mar- 
ried to  Miss  Eleanor  Bishop,  and  subsequently,  with  his  wife  and  two  children,  went  to  Cin- 
cinnati by  ffatboat,  and  thence  by  wagon  to  Warren  County,  Ohio.  In  1817  he  settled  in 
Wayne  County,  Ind.,  and  in  December,  1823,  he  was  elected  sheriff.  Two  years  later  he 
resigned  because  as  a Quaker  he  was  opposed  to  the  collection  of  fines  for  refusal  to  do  mil- 
itary duty.  In  August,  1825,  Mr.  Hannah  was  elected  to  the  Legislature  but  declined 
re  election.  In  1826  he  was  elected  justice  of  the  peace  and  served  four  years,  acting  as 
president  of  the  board  until  1829.  Previous  to  that  he  was  appointed  post-master  at  Centre- 
ville, by  President  Adams  and  held  that  office  until  removed  by  President  Jackson,  in  1829. 
He  was  one  of  three  commissioners  appointed  by  the  Legislature  to  locate  the  Michigan  Road 
from  the  Ohio  River  to  the  Lake,  and  to  select  the  lands  secured  to  the  State  by  treaty  with 
the  Indians,  held  as  the  Upper  Wabash  in  1826.  In  1830  Mr.  Hannah  was  elected  clerk  of 
Wayne  County,  Ind.,  and  served  in  that  capacity  for  seven  years.  In  1843  he  was  again 
elected  to  the  Legislature  and  in  1846  he  was  elected  by  the  Legislature  treasurer  of  the 


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349 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

State,  serving  in  that  responsible  position  for  three  years.  After  his  election  to  this  office 
he  removed  to  Indianapolis,  and  there  resided  until  his  death,  with  the  excejjtion  of  two 
years  spent  at  Ceiitreville,  during  the  Imilding  of  the  Indiana  Central  Railroad.  In  March, 
1851,  he  was  chosen  first  president  of  the  company  but  resigned  in  July  following.  The 
same  summer  he  was  elected  treasurer  of  the  Indianapolis  ct  Bellefontaine  Railroad  Company. 
In  May,  1852,  he  accepted  the  office  of  treasurer  of  the  Indiana  Central  Railroad  Company, 
and  held  that  position  until  January,  1804,  when  he  retired  from  active  life.  He  died  Sep- 
tember 9,  1869,  when  nearly  eighty  years  of  age.  He  was  married  July  11,  1811,  to  Miss 
Eleanor  Bishop,  as  before  mentioned,  daughter  of  Joseph  Bishop,  and  eleven  children  were 
born  to  their  union : Anna,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Solomon  Meredith;  Eliza,  deceased, 
was  the  wife  of  John  S.  Newman;  Sarah,  deceased,  married  Rev.  Dr.  F.  C.  Holliday;  Ellen, 
deceased,  married  John  M.  Ross;  James  died  unmarried;  Alexander  M.  (subject),  who  mar- 
ried Elizabeth  M.  Jackson;  Israel,  deceased,  unmarried;  Henry  R.,  deceased,  was  the 
husband  of  Jerusha  Kane;  William  P.,  who  married  Margaret  A.  Dunham  and  Thomas 
and  Septimus,  both  died  unmarried.  The  mother  of  these  children  died  September  26,  1864. 
James  Hannah,  grandfather  of  our  subject,  was  a native  of  Delaware  and  a Quaker  in  his 
religious  belief.  His  ancestors  came  from  Wales. 

John  Thomas  Park  is  decended  from  substantial  Virginia  stock,  for  in  that  State  his 
father  and  grandfather  were  born.  Samuel  Park,  his  grandfather,  was  born  in  1767  and 
died  in  1825.  His  grandmother,  Martha  Park,  was  also  born  in  Virginia,  her  birth  occur- 
ring in  1778  and  her  death  in  1851.  William  Park,  father  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  was 
l)orn  in  1793,  married  Henrietta  Thomas,  of  Kentucky,  and  in  1840  immigrated  westward, 
finally  settling  in  Morgan  Count}',  Ind  , where  he  died  nine  years  later.  To  himself  and 
wife  a family  of  eight  children  were  given,  of  whom  Samuel  R.  Park  was  one.  Upon  reaching 
maturity  the  latter  took  for  his  first  wife  Mary  McNabb,  by  whom  he  became  the  father  of 
one  daughter,  Mary  S.  McKinsey,  and  for  his  second  wife  espoused  Mary  Gurley,  by  whom 
he  had  one  son,  Alphonso.  The  second  child  born  to  William  Park  was  Mary,  who  became 
the  wife  of  H.  T.  Swearengin  (deceased),  by  whom  she  had  live  children.  Benjamin  and 
Alexander  were  twin  brothers.  The  latter,  who  is  now  deceased,  married  Mary  Edwards,  by 
whom  he  had  five  children,  and  Benjamin  married  Mary  McNabb,  by  whom  he  had  six  chil 
dren.  Elizabeth  Jane,  the  next  child  born  to  William  Park,  is  now  deceased,  but  became 
the  wife  of  W.  R.  Harrison,  by  whom  she  became  the  mother  of  one  son,  Walter  J.  John 
Thomas,  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  comes  next;  then  Henrietta,  who  married  -loseph  Crop- 
land, by  whom  she  had  six  children.  William  P.,  who  first  married  Susan  Swearengin,  who 
bore  him  six  children,  and  for  his  second  espoused  Roxanna,  a sister  of  his  first  wife  and 
widow  of  Robert  Ray.  The  mother  of  these  children  was  born  in  Kentucky  in  1860,  and  died 
in  Morgan  County,  Ind.,  in  1878.  She  was  a woman  of  much  intelligence  and  sound,  good 
sense,  and  she  and  her  worthy  husband  endeavored  to  instill  noble  princii)les  in  the  hearts 
of  their  children,  and  that  their  precept  and  examirle  was  heeded  cannot  be  doubted  in  look- 
ing over  the  honorable  and  useful  careers  of  their  children.  John  Thomas  Park  first  saw 
the  light  of  day  in  Mason  County,  Ky. , November  27,  1836,  and  in  1840  he  came  with  his 
parents  to  Indiana,  and  settled  on  a partially  cleared  farm  of  160  acres  which  his  father  had 
purchased.  Here  he  was  bi’ought  up,  receiving  the  education  incident  to  that  {)eriod,  that 
is  he  attended  school  for  about  three  months  out  of  the  year  until  he  was  about  twenty  years 
old,  one  of  his  insti’uctors  being  Hon.  Franklin  fjanders.  In  1862  he  was  united  in  mar 
riage  with  Maria  E.  Baxter,  daughter  of  Peter  1).  and  .Martha  Baxter,  her  birlh  having 
occurred  in  Ohio,  and  after  his  marriage  Mr.  Park  farmed  on  rented  land  in  Morgan 
County  until  1873,  when  he  came  to  Marion  County  and  settled  on  120  acres  of  land  which 
he  had  purchased  the  previous  year,  about  sixty  acres  of  which  were  cleared  and  on  which  a 
house  had  been  erected.  Here  he  lived  until  about  1886,  when  he  sold  out  and  bought,  170 
acn;s  of  A.  C.  Remy,  about  thirty  acres  of  which  tract  were  heavily  covered  with  timber,  the 
remainder  being  under  cultivation.  On  the  improved  portion  of  this  land  the  subject  of  this 
sketch  raises  the  usual  farm  [)roducts,  such  as  wheat,  corn,  oats,  hay,  etc.,  and  he  also  gives 
some  attention  to  the  raising  of  horses,  cattle  and  hogs.  .Mr.  Park  is  a Democrat  in  his 
political  proclivities,  and  cast  his  first  vote  for  James  Buchanan  for  president.  A family  of 
seven  children  wer(j  born  to  himself  and  wife,  but  one  die<l  in  infancy.  'I’hose  living  are: 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


8r)0 


Walter  K.,  who  married  ]3ell  C.  Kinnan  ami  lias  tliic'e  children,  Ralph,  Roy  and  Charley; 
Baxter  D.,  who  married  Mary  A.  Burge;  Otto,  William,  Vasque,  and  Martha,  the  unmarried 
members  of  which  family  still  remain  under  the  shelter  of  the  parental  roof. 

George  W.  Larimore.  Among  the  most  intelligent  and  highly  respected  families  of 
Marion  County,  Ind.,  we  may  well  note  this  one,  whose  beautiful  farm  is  located  in  Wash- 
ington Township.  Mr.  Larimore  was  born  January  IS,  1818,  in  the  Old  North  Carolina 
State,  and  with  the  exception  of  about  a year  spent  there,  he  has  ever  resided  in  this  State, 
and  his  histor}'  has  run  along  the  same  lines  chronologically  with  that  of  the  Hoosier  State. 
He  is  a son  of  Daniel  M.  and  Mary  (Brooks)  Larimore,  both  natives  of  North  Carolina,where 
they  were  married  in  1810.  To  this  union  were  born  ten  children,  five  sons  and  five  daugh- 
ters, all  of  whom  are  now  deceased  with  the  exception  of  our  subject  and  his  brother, 
A.  J.  Ijarimore,  who  is  married,  has  a family  of  five  children,  and  resides  in  Jefferson 
County,  Ind.  Our  subject’s  brothers  were  Joseph,  Daniel  M. , Janies  and  Andrew  J. , 
and  the  sisters  were  Jane,  Nancy,  Mary,  Catherine,  and  one  who  died  in  infancy.  The 
father  of  these  children  was  a farmer  by  occupation.  He  was  an  upright  citizen,  and  a 
man  possessed  of  an  unlimited  amount  of  good,  practical  common  sense.  The  incidents 
in  the  early  life  of  our  subject  differed  very  little  from  those  of  other  boys  who  were 
reared  on  farms.  As  soon  as  old  enough  he  became  familiar  with  the  duties  of  farm  life, and 
in  common  with  other  boys,  attended  school  in  his  neighborhood,  principally  in  the  winter 
seasons.  After  reaching  mature  years  he  was  married  to  Miss  Malvina  Hammond,  their 
nuptials  being  celebrated  January  b,  1835.  Her  parents,  Jonathan  and  Martha  (Pepper) 
Hammond,  were  natives  of  Maryland,  where  they  were  married.  To  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Laiimore 
were  born  nine  children,  who  were  named  as  follows:  James  M.,  born  August  2,  183t); 
Marcelia  J.,  born  November  80,  1888;  Mary  A.  E.,  born  July  22,  1840;  Sophronia  M.,  born 
May  4.,  1842;  Daniel  M.,  born  February  5,  1844;  Thomas  J.,  born  January  22,  1846; 
WiUiam  W.,born  March  25,  1849;  Jonathan  >S.,  born  March  29,  1858,  and  Martha  E.,  born 
March  28,  1857.  All  the  children  are  now  decea.sed  except  Daniel  and  William.  The  former 
married  Henrietta  McCarthy,  and  now  lives  in  Indianapolis.  William  married  Louella 
Smith,  and  resides  with  his  father  on  a farm  just  north  of  Indianapolis.  He  had  but  one 
child  born  to  his  marriage  Hattie,  who  died  at  the  age  of  nine  months.  The  father  of  our 
subject  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812,  and  served  throught  the  entire  war. 

Christian  F.  Wiese.  Prominent  among  the  leading  agriculturists  of  Franklin  Town- 
ship, and  no  less  so  as  a citizen,  stands  the  name  of  Christian  F.  Wiese,  whose  birth  occurred 
in  Prussia,  Germany,  December  18,  1888,  his  parents  being  Christian  and  Mary  (Schakl) 
Wiese,  also  of  Prussia.  Not  being  satisfied  with  the  financial  prospects  in  the  “Fatherland” 
they  converted  their  effects  into  ready  money  and  embarked  for  the  United  States,  landing 
at  Baltimore,  Md.,  in  1850,  from  which  place  they  came  direct  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and 
[Uirchased  eighty  acres  of  land  in  Franklin  Township.  Under  their  thrifty  management 
this  farm  came  soon  to  be  regarded  as  one  of  the  best  improved  in  that  section.  Here  the 
death  of  the  father  occurred  December  10,  1878,  at  the  age  of  seventy-five  years,  the  mother 
surviving  him  until  May  27,  1885,  having  passed  the  eighty  fifth  mile.stone  of  her  life,  both 
having  been  members  of  the  German  Zion  Church  for  many  years.  Their  only  surviving 
child  is  Christian  F.  Wiese  who  lent  his  aid  as  boy  and  man  to  improving  the  home  place, 
considerably  to  the  detriment  of  his  educational  advantages,  his  only  knowledge  of  the  world 
of  books  being  acquired  at  night  school.  He  has  a naturally  fine  mind,  however,  and  his 
views  on  all  subjects  relating  to  agricultural  pursuits  and  on  topics  of  general  interest  are 
sound  and  jiractical.  June  11,  1865,  he  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Carrie,  daughter 
of  Henry  and  Marie  (Rohlfing)  Blase,  natives  of  Prussia,  Germany,  Avhere  Mrs.  Wiese  was 
born  March  17,  1846.  In  1856  her  parents  with  their  family  left  their  native  land  for  Amer- 
ica and  although  the  husband  and  father  was  accidentally  killed  while  at  sea,  the  mother 
came  on  with  her  family  and  eventually  settled  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  became  the  wife  of 
Fred  Struckman,  who  worked  in  a hardware  store  at  Indianapolis,  by  whom  she  is  the  mother 
of  one  daughter,  Mary,  who  married  Henry  Vehling  of  Indianapolis.  After  his  marriage 
Mr.  Wiese  took  up  his  residence  on  the  old  homestead  where  he  lived  for  eight  years,  then  made 
his  home  in  Indianapolis  for  nine  years,  three  years  of  which  time  he  was  a member  of  the 
police  force  of  the  city,  in  which  position  he  acquitted  himself  with  honor.  He  left  the  force 


351 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

with  a good  record  atid  removed  with  bis  family  back  to  the  farm,  where  he  has  since  resided. 
He  has  a handsome  residence,  surrounded  by  a well  kept  lawn  and  line  cement  walks,  and 
everything  about  the  place  indicates  that  a man  of  thrift  and  energy  is  at  the  helm.  His 
entire  place  is  a model  of  careful  farming  and  shows  that  his  views  are  of  a decidedly  prac- 
tical nature.  He  and  his  wife  have  a family  of  eight  children;  Mary,  born  August  7,  1807; 
Christina,  born  August  1 1,  1869;  Charles,  born  September  18,  1871;  Henry,  born  October 
10,  1873;  Carrie,  born  December  14,  1876;  Christian  H..  born  November  29,  1878;  Ella, 
born  December  21,  1880,  and  Clara,  born  October  9,  1883,  all  of  whom  are  living  with  the 
exception  of  Christian  H.,  who  on  July  25,  with  a brother,  was  lighting  a lire  in  a pasture, 
which  started  from  the  spark  of  a passing  engine  on  the  Big  Four  Railroad,  but  a thunder 
shower  coming  up  he  took  refuge  from  the  rain  under  a cottonwood  tree,  against  which  he 
rested  his  head.  The  tree  was  struck  by  lightning,  the  current  passing  from  it  through 
Christian’s  body  killing  him  instantly.  He  was  carried  to  the  hou.se  by  his  brother  Henry 
who  was  near  him  but  all  efforts  to  revive  him  were  fruitless  and  his  untimely  death  only 
proved  the  truth  of  the  saying  that  “Death  loves  a shining  mark,”  for  he  was  a very  prom 
ising,  upright  young  man,  genial  in  disposition,  energetic  and  faithful.  Mr.  Wiese  and  all 
his  family  are  members  of  the  German  Lutheran  Church,  and  he  is  a Democrat  in  his  polit- 
ical views.  He  had  a sister,  Christina,  who  became  the  wife  of  Andy  Franke,  and  after  his 
death  married  his  brother  Henry.  She  bore  her  first  husband  three  children:  Mary,  Charles 
(who  died  at  the  age  of  ten  years)  and  Ella. 

Iredell  Sawyer,  who  came  to  this  section  many  years  ago,  was  born  in  Guilford 
County,  N.  C.,  April  22,  1816,  being  the  eldest  living  child  born  to  John  and  Sallie  (Tansy) 
Sawyer,  both  natives  of  the  old  North  State,  the  father  born  in  1793.  The  parents  were 
married  in  1815,  and  in  1825  they  came  to  the  Hoosier  State,  where  they  passed  the  remain- 
der of  their  days,  the  father  dying  in  1876.  Six  children  were  born  to  their  marriage,  all 
of  whom  reached  mature  years:  Iredell,  subject;  Reny,  widow  of  John  Jessup,  who  was  the 
son  of  Timothy  Jessup;  Eli,  who  lived  in  Missouri,  but  disappeared  during  the  Civil  War, 
has  not  been  heard  from  since;  Nathan,  deceased,  who  married  Betsey  Roberts;  Betsy, 
widow  of  Nimrod  Landers,  and  John,  who  married  Phoebe  Lindley.  James  Sawyer,  the 
grandfather  of  these  children,  was  born  in  North  Carolina  in  1772.  The  parents  of  our 
subject  first  located  in  Hendricks  County,  this  State,  and  there  resided  for  four  or  five  years. 
From  there  they  moved  to  Morgan  County,  settled  near  the  Marion  County  line,  and  resided 
on  rented  land  for  about  seven  years.  They  then  moved  back  to  Hendricks  County,  and  the 
father  entered  eighty  acres  of  land,  on  which  he  lived  until  his  death.  The  scholastic 
training  of  our  subject  was  limited,  for  he  attended  school  very  little  in  his  native  State,  and 
but  little  more  after  coming  to  Indiana.  When  his  father  returned  to  Hendricks  County, 
our  subject,  wlu;  was  about  twenty-two  years  of  age,  remained  in  Morgan  County  in  the  employ 
and  on  the  farm  of  William  Landers,  father  of  Jackson  and  Hon.  Franklin  Landers.  He 
remained  with  Mr.  Landers  for  five  or  six  years,  hauling  wheat  to  Cincinnati  and  corn  to 
Indianapolis,  and  for  this  received  $16  ptw  month.  On  February  28,  1839,  he  was  mariied 
to  .Miss  Mary  Eliza  Dollarhide,  daughter  of  John  and  Winifred  (Koontz)  Dollarbide, 
and  our  subject  made  his  home  with  the  widowed  mother  of  his  wife,  and  carried  on  her 
farm  of  HK)  acres  for  some  time.  He  then  purchased  seventy  acres  of  the  heirs  and  his  wife 
inherited  ten  acres.  The  first  land  our  subject  purchased  was  two  acres  of  Dana  Kime,  on 
which  he  put  up  a little  log  cabin.  Into  this  he  moved,  and  the  first  winter  it  had  no  door, 
only  a cpiilt  hung  U[)  to  keep  out  the  cold.  He  and  his  wife  lived  in  this  for  three  years  and 
he  then  moved  on  his  mother-in  law’s  farm.  The  next  tract  of  land  he  purchased  was  forty 
acres  in  .Marion  County,  for  which  he  paid  $25  an  acre.  After  this  he  purchased  sixty  six 
acres,  and  then  16(1  acres,  paying  for  the  latter,  during  war  times.  $75  per  acre.  Sometime 
[)reviouH  to  this  Mr.  Sawyer  l)ought  forty  acres  for  $1,600.  In  188t)  lie  bought  130  acres, 
and  afterward  eighty  acres.  He  has  cleared  about  fifty  acres,  and  has  clean'd  out  under 
liriish  and  stumps  on  100  acres  of  land.  He  has  a good  residence,  and  everything  about 
his  place  indicates  to  the  beholder  that  an  experienced  hand  is  at  the  helm.  In  politics  Mr. 
Sawyer  is  a Democrat,  and  cast  his  first  vote  for  Andrew  Jackson.  He  has  remained  with 
that  fiarty  ever  since.  He  was  brought  up  in  the  (Quaker  faith,  his  father  being  also  of  that 
belief.  Mr.  and  .Mrs.  Sawyer  have  had  three  children,  as  follows;  Nancy  il.  (who  was  born 


352 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


November  2(),  1839,  aiul  was  manied  lo  Henry  J.  Wilson,  November  29,  1891,  is  the  mother 
of  live  children:  Flora,  John  Lida,  William  and  Jesse),  John  Evans  Sawyer  (born  December 
4,  1844,  died  November  19,  1861,  unmarried)  and  Iredell  D.  Sawyer  (who  was  born  August 
13,  1850,  was  married  September  13,  1871,  to  Miss  Mary  E.  Plummer,  daughter  of  Thomas 
and  Nancy  (Moon)  Plummer,  and  is  the  father  of  three  children;  John  T.,  Viola  E.  and 
Hurbie. 

John  Conroy.  The  sons  of  Ireland  are  well  represented  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and 
they  hold  conspicuous  places  in  many  pursuits,  which  make  that  county  a substantial  star 
in  the  galaxy  of  Indiana’s  many  interesting  counties.  John  Conroy,  who  is  one  of  the  promi- 
nent dairymen  of  the  same,  is  a descendant  of  Irish  ancestors  on  both  sides  of  the  house  and 
no  doubt  inherited  from  these  ancestors  the  push  and  enterprise  which  have  characterized 
his  efforts  through  life.  His  parents,  Luke  and  Mary  (McDonough)  Conroy,  were  natives 
of  the  Emerald  Isle  and  were  there  reared  and  married.  In  that  country  the  mother’s  death 
occurred,  and  about  1865  the  father  crossed  the  ocean  to  the  United  States  and  died  here 
the  same  year.  He  was  a man  possed  of  many  sterling  (pialities  and  was  well  known  for  his 
upright,  honorable  career.  He  and  wife  were  the  parents  of  six  children,  who  were  named 
as  follows;  Catherine,  married  William  McDee,  and  now  resides  in  New  York;  Mary,  mar- 
ried Martin  Otis  and  makes  her  home  in  the  Empire  State,  as  does  Patrick,  the  third  child; 
Mridget,  the  fourth  child,  married  a Mr.  Ward,  and  is  also  a resident  of  New  York;  Thomas 
passed  his  life  in  Ireland  and  is  now  deceased,  and  John,  our  subject.  The  latter  learned 
the  shoemaker’s  trade  in  his  father’s  shop  in  Ireland  and  followed  it  in  that  country  and  this 
for  forty  years.  He  then  abandoned  it  to  engage  in  the  dairy  business.  From  1860  to  1890 
he  worked  at  his  trade  in  Indianapolis,  but  since  the  latter  date  he  has  operated  a fine  dairy 
in  the  eastern  part  of  the  city.  He  has  met  with  much  success  in  this  business  enterprise 
and  is  reliable  and  trustworthy.  During  the  Civil  War  Mr.  Conroy  was  in  the  navy  of  the 
United  States.  He  was  on  duty  on  the  Mississipj)i  River  and  was  in  some  pretty  hot  places 
from  1863  to  the  close  of  the  war.  He  is  a member  of  the  Major  Anderson  Post,  G.  A.  R. , 
and  a member  of  the  Catholic  Church.  Industrious  and  enterprising,  Mr.  Conroy  is  highly 
respected  by  all  who  know  him.  All  his  property  has  been  accumulated  by  years  of  patient 
toil  and  he  is  now  being  rewarded  by  substantial  results.  He  selected  his  wife  in  the  person 
of  Miss  Eliza  Feeley,  daughter  of  James  and  Honore  (W’atters)  Feeley,  and  their  union  was 
solemnized  in  the  year  18154.  He  and  wife  have  no  children 

Darius  M.  Purman,  M.  D.  Even  in  a city  as  large  as  Indianapolis  it  does  not  take 
long  for  a man  with  exceptional  ability  to  become  well  known  in  any  art  or  profession  in 
which  he  may  be  engaged,  and  perhaps  in  regard  to  the  medical  profession  this  is  more  pro- 
nounced than  in  any  other.  The  prominent  young  physician  whose  name  heads  this  sketch 
impresses  even  those  who  meet  him  in  a casual  way  as  a man  who  thoroughly  understands 
his  profession,  and  feels  thoroughly  at  home  in  the  position  which  he  occupies.  He  has 
made  no  mistake  in  his  calling.  The  unusual  success  he  has  achieved  is  the  logical  seijuence 
of  talent  rightly  used,  together  with  energy  and  industry  never  misapplied.  Dr.  Darius  M. 
Purman  was  born  in  Allen  County,  Ind.,  January  28,  1856.  and  is  a son  of  Samuel  and 
Rosanna  (Champer)  Purman,  the  former  a native  of  Virginia  and  of  Scotch  descent,  and  the 
latter  of  Ohio  and  of  German  origin.  The  father  settled  in  the  Buckeye  State,  Carroll 
County,  at  an  early  date  and  engaged  in  merchandising  which  he  continued  until  1856.  He 
then  moved  to  Indiana,  but  after  a residence  there  of  only  one  year,  returned  to  Ohio 
where  he  engaged  extensively  in  stock  raising.  In  1868  he  again  came  to  Indiana,  and  in 
this  State  passed  the  remainder  of  his  days,  his  death  occurring  in  1887.  He  was  a pros- 
perous man  and  was  the  owner  of  several  thousand  acres  of  land  in  the  Hoosier  State.  In 
1874  he  established  the  Caledonia  Stave  Company  at  Baltimore,  Ohio,  the  largest  of  the 
kind  in  the  world,  but  he  subsequently  sold  his  interests  and  retired  from  active  business. 
He  was  very  generous  and  charitable,  and  in  time  of  need  many  were  the  recipients  of  his 
kindness.  He  paid  out  many  thousand  dollars  as  security  debts.  Although  he  had  limited 
educational  advantages  in  youth,  and  started  out  in  life  as  a shoemaker  with  limited  means, 
he  was  possessed  of  wonderful  business  acumen,  and  was  successful  in  all  his  enterprises. 
A great  worker,  always  engaged  in  some  enterprise  to  further  his  vast  interests,  his  death 
was  directly  due  to  hard  work.  The  original  of  this  notice  was  reared  in  his  native  county, 


358 


AND  MAHIOK  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

and  supplenaented  a good,  practical  education  received  in  the  pnl)lic  schools  by  taking  a 
course  in  Taylor  University,  at  Tort  Wayne.  Immediately  after  this  he  began  the  study  of 
medicine  at  the  latter  place  with  Dr.  B.  S.  Woodworth,  and  in  1S74  entered  the  College  of 
Physicians  and  Surgeons  of  Indianapolis,  graduating  two  years  later.  After  this  he  located 
at  Fort  Wayne  and  practiced  his  profession  there  for  six  years.  In  1882  he  came  to  Indian 
apolis.  He  is  one  of  the  busiest  of  this  busy  class  of  men,  and  is  well  and  fully  prepared  to  meet 
any  professional  demand  that  maybe  made  upon  him,  and  met  with  flattering  success  from  the 
start.  Previous  to  coming  to  Indianapolis,  in  1878,  he  attended  Bellevue  Hospital,  New 
York,  for  a year.  The  Doctor  is  medical  director  of  the  Masonic  Life  Insurance  Company,  a 
position  he  has  held  seven  years,  and  he  is  a thirty-second  degree  member  of  the  Masonic 
fraternity,  being  a member  of  the  Indianapolis  Consistory.  He  is  also  a member  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  K.  of  P. , of  Indiana.  In  the  year  1881  he  was  married  to  Miss  Mary  White, 
a native  of  Kokomo,  Ind.,  and  daughter  of  Elijah  F.  and  Al)bie  li.  (Thornton)  White.  Dr. 
Purman  and  wife  have  one  child,  named  Thomas  Harvey.  In  politics  the  Doctor  is  a stanch 
Republican  and  an  active  worker  for  that  party. 

^^TLLI.\M  Hadley  (deceased).  In  the  midst  of  the  failures  and  disasters  of  life,  it  is  a real 
pleasure  to  review  the  career  of  a man  whose  efforts  were  crowned  with  success,  and  whose  life 
has  been  as  honorable  in  every  particular,  as  that  of  William  Hadley.  We  all  have  strivings 
after  a high  ideal,  but  an  ideal  alone  is  of  little  value  if  not  re-enforced  by  the  example  of 
those  who,  like  ourselves  have  human  frailties,  yet  have  been  enabled  to  so  overcome  them  as 
to  lead  lives  of  usefulness,  integrity  and  true  godliness.  William  Hadley  was  born  near 
Siler’s  Mills,  North  Carolina,  June  30,  1823,  but  in  early  childhood  moved  with  his  parents 
to  a farm  near  Mooresville,  Morgan  County,  Ind.,  and  assisted  in  cultivating  this  farm  until 
twenty-one  years  of  age.  During  this  time  he  secured,  under  adverse  circumstances,  such 
academic  advantages  as  the  times  afforded.  Later  he  became  principal  of  the  Sulphur 
Sj)ring8  Academy  and  organized  a business  college  at  Plainfield,  Ind.,  the  first  in  the  State. 
In  1851  he  embarked  in  manufacturing  in  Indianapolis,  and  was  the  operator  and  owner  of 
the  Underhill  Flouring  Mills  and  was  also  a pioneer  in  the  wholesale  grocery  trade  in  that 
city,  the  firm  name  being  Taylor,  Wright  & Hadley.  He  was  one  of  the  organizers  and  au 
active  worker  and  member  of  the  Friends  Church,  being  for  many  years  a teacher  in  the 
Sunday-school.  For  a number  of  years  he  was  very  prominent  in  anti-slavery  work,  as  he 
was  in  all  other  enterprises  of  a benevolent  and  philauthrojiic  character.  In  1879  he  engaged 
in  the  fire  insurance  business  and  continued  this  successfully  until  his  death  in  1889.  We 
find  no  one  more  worthy  of  mention,  or  whose  long  life  of  usefulness  is  more  worthy 
to  be  chronicled  than  this  gentleman,  whose  honesty  and  iidegrity  were  proverbial  in 
the  community.  Iti  jmlitics  he  advocated  the  principles  of  the  Rejmblican  party. 
From  1857  to  1858  he  was  elected  a meml)er  of  the  city  council  and  in  1864  he  was 
elected  city  assessor,  serving  continuously,  being  elected  for  eight  successive  terms  every 
two  years  at  the  popular  elections.  He  was  one  of  the  founders  of  the  Colored  Orj)hau  Asy- 
lum in  Indianapolis  and  i)resident  of  its  board  of  directors.  Probably  no  man  in  the  city  was 
more  favorably  known  as  an  active,  diligent  and  straightforward  business  man.  In  1848  he 
married  Miss  Hannah  T.  Wright,  a lady  of  culture  and  refinement. 

Da.  Ja(;ob  Buehleu.  The  physician  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  is  a native  of  Ger 
many,  born  February  14,  1852,  and  is  a son  of  Karl  and  Margueretta  (Schwarz)  Buehler.  also 
natives  of  that  country.  The  father  received  a liberal  education  in  his  native  couidry  and 
became  a civil  engineei’,  being  employed  by  the  German  Government  in  that  capacity  for  a 
number  of  years,  but  died  in  1861  at  the  early  age  of  thirty-seven  years.  His  wife  survives 
him  and  resides  in  Germany.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  reached  mature  years  in  his  native 
country  and  secured  a high-school  education.  When  eighteen  years  t)f  age  he  volunteered 
in  the  military  service  and  remained  in  the  same  from  1879  to  1872,  when  he  received 
metlals  from  Germany  and  Baden  and  also  received  dii)lomaa.  During  service  he  leceived 
much  instruction  in  a medical  way  and  this  was  of  much  benefit  when  he  began  to  take  up 
me<licine  as  a profession.  He  remained  in  his  iiid.ive  country  uidil  1882  and  then  (‘ame  to 
America.  With  the  exception  of  a short  stop  in  Kansas  Gity  Dr.  Buehhu'  came  diiect  to 
1 ndianapr>lis  where  he  has  resided  since.  In  1883  he  began  the  study  of  nu'dicine  with  Dr. 
E.  F.  Hodges,  and  the  same  year  entered  the  .Medical  Gollege  (jf  Indiana,  whore  he  took  two 


354 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


courses  duriuf);  1883  auil  1885.  He  had  to  rely  entirely  on  his  own  lesources  and  had  to 
earn  the  money  to  tit  him  for  his  profession.  On  this  account  and  for  other  reasons  he  was 
unable  to  graduate  in  medicine  until  the  spring  of  1891,  when  he  left  the  Indiana  Medical 
College  with  the  degree  of  M.  D.  He  has  carried  on  a successful  practice  since.  Dr. 
Buehler  is  a member  of  the  Sydenham  Society  of  the  college.  In  October,  1875,  the  Doctor 
was  married  to  Miss  Anna  Hoenig,  a native  of  Baden,  Oermany,  and  they  have  one  daughter. 
Socially  the  Doctor  is  a K.  of  H. , and  [)olitically  is  independent,  casting  his  vote  for  the 
man,  irrespective  of  party. 

Henry  F.  Habeney.  Few,  if  any,  of  the  various  and  many  branches  of  commercial 
activity  that  contribute  to  the  general  aggregate  of  trade  in  the  city  of  Indianapolis  are  of 
greater  importance  than  the  manufacture  of  boxes.  A deservedly  popular  and  prosperous 
man  engaged  in  this  line  of  business,  and  one  who  has  always  maintained  a very  enviable 
reputation  for  turning  out  first  class  goods  and  for  honorable,  straightforward  dealings  is 
Henry  F.  Habeney.  At  first  he  commenced  on  a small  scale  but  he  is  now  at  the  head  of  a 
flourishing  establishment  where  employment  is  given  to  eighteen  hands  and  an  annual  busi- 
ness of  $35,000  is  done.  This  has  been  accomplished  not  without  close  application  and 
attention  to  business  by  Mr.  Habeney,  who  is  a man  of  more  than  ordinary  business  acumen. 
This  gentleman  was  born  in  Indianapolis,  May  10,  1853,  and  is  a son  of  Henry  F.,  Sr.,  and 
Christiana  (Limberg)  Hebeney,  natives  of  Germany.  The  father  crossed  the  ocean  to 
America  in  1840  and  came  direct  to  Indianapolis  via  Madison,  where  he  was  first  engaged  in 
the  construction  of  Bee  Line  Bail  road.  Later  he  followed  the  construction  of  wells  very 
successfully  for  a number  of  years  and  resided  in  Indianapolis  until  his  death,  July  24, 
1874.  The  mother  of  onr  subject  came  to  America  in  1848  and  was  married  in  Indianapo- 
lis to  Mr.  Habeney.  Six  children  were  born  to  them,  three  of  whom  died  in  infancy.  The 
others  were  named  as  follows:  Louis  A.,  died  June  24,  1892;  Henry  F.  (subject),  and 
Amelia  who  married  A.  H.  Russe.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  received  his  scholastic  train- 
ing in  the  private  and  public  schools  of  Indianapolis  and  subsequently  took  a course  in  com- 
mercial college.  For  over  seven  yeais  after  finishing  his  education  he  was  employed  by 
Schrader  6c  Bro.  in  the  Queensware  and  crockery  business,  and  continued  thus  until  1877 
when  he  embarked  in  business  for  himself.  He  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  boxes 
and  from  small  beginnings  lias  reached  his  present  enviable  position,  all  by  his  own  ex- 
ertions. In  May,  1893,  Mr.  Habeney  was  elected  councilman  at  large  to  fill  the  unex- 
pired term  of  a deceased  member.  The  election  took  place  without  his  knowledge  or 
consent  and  he  served  the  city  faithfully  during  the  remainder  of  the  term.  During  the 
election  of  October,  1893,  he  was  a candidate  for  that  office  on  the  Democratic  ticket 
but  the  entire  Democratic  ticket  was  defeated.  Mr.  Habeney  is  a member  of  the  K.  of 
H.  and  is  a Master  Mason  and  has  passed  all  the  official  chairs  of  the  former  organi- 
zation. He  is  also  a member  of  the  Independent  Turner  Society,  German  Orphan  So- 
ciety, and  has  been  a member  of  the  board  of  the  latter  for  ten  years.  He  has  served 
as  president  two  terms,  vice-president  two  terms,  and  at  present  is  chairman  of  the  finance 
committee.  Mr.  Habeney  is  also  a member  of  the  German  Park  Association,  formerly 
Indianapolis  Shooting  Target  Association,  and  is  a director  of  the  Standard  and  Globe 
Building  and  Loan  Associations.  In  choosing  his  companion  for  life  Mr.  Habeney  selected 
Miss  Emma  S.  Voigt,  a native  of  Indianapolis  and  the  daughter  of  Henry  W.  and  Sophia 
Voigt,  and  their  union  was  solemnized  in  February,  1878.  Five  children  have  been  born 
to  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Habeney — Willie,  Bertha,  Henry  F.,  Albert,  and  one  unnamed.  Mr. 
Habeney  and  wife  are  worthy  and  consistent  members  of  the  German  Evangelical  Zion 
Church. 

Prof.  Thomas  Carr  Howe,  one  of  Marion  County’s  prominent  educators,  is  a gentle- 
man of  rare  culture  and  attainments,  and  discharges  his  duties  with  highly  commendable 
zeal  and  ability.  He  is  a native  of  the  Hoosier  State,  born  in  Charleston  August  5,  1867, 
and  was  there  reared  and  attended  the  schools  until  seventeen  years  of  age.  He  then 
entered  Butler  University,  in  the  third  preparatory  class,  and  graduated  in  1889  with  the 
degree  of  A.  B.  After  that  he  took  the  position  of  assistant  language  teacher  in  the 
university,  and  held  that  position  one  year,  or  until  the  spring  of  1890,  when  he  was 
elected  to  the  Armstrong  Chair  of  Germanic  Languages,  created  in  that  year  and  endowed  by 


355 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Lis  father-in-law,  Addison  F.  Armstrong,  of  Kokomo,  Ind.  He  has  tilled  that  chair  since, 
and  to  the  entire  satisfaction  of  all  concerned.  Prof.  Howe  was  married  in  June,  1890,  to 
Miss  Jennie  E.  Armstrong,  daughter  of  A.  F.  Armstrong,  and  he  and  his  liride  left  immedi- 
ately for  Europe,  where  the  Professor  was  in  the  University  of  Berlin  for  two  years,  study 
ing  Germanic  philology.  He  is  a member  of  the  Delta  Tau  Delta  fraternity.  He  is  not 
much  of  a politician  but  voted  for  Harrison.  Robert  L.  Howe,  father  of  the  Professor, 
like  many  of  the  prominent  men  of  the  county,  was  a native  of  the  Buckeye  State,  born  in 
Clinton  County  in  1833.  He  was  a minister  in  the  Christian  Church.  In  1860  he  came 
to  Indiana  and  followed  his  ministerial  duties  in  Clark  County  for  eighteen  years.  In  the 
fall  of  1884  he  came  to  Irvington,  Ind.,  to  educate  his  children,  and  was  a resident  of 
this  town  until  his  death,  March  22,  1892,  having  been  in  the  ministry  over  thirty  years. 
He  was  married  May  24,  1866,  to  Miss  Elizabeth  E.  Carr,  daughter  of  Joseph  and  Nancy 
(Drummond)  Carr,  and  three  children  were  given  them:  Thomas  C. , our  subject;  William 
D.,  unmarried,  a graduate  of  Butler  University  in  the  class  of  1893;  and  Carrie  R.,  at 
home.  Thomas  Howe  the  grandfather  of  our  subject,  was  a native  of  Pennsylvania. 

James  Shea.  That  “ Honesty  is  the  best  policy  ” is  clearly  demonstrated  in  the  success 
of  those  hrms  that  pursue  a straightforward  way  of  doing  business.  The  favor  of  the  pub- 
lic will  rest  upon  those  who  merit  its  confidence  by  dealing  fairly.  Few  indeed  are  those 
who  so  well  deserve  a high  place  in  public  opinion  as  James  Shea,  for  he  has  been  in  busi- 
ness in  this  country  but  a short  time  and  has  built  up  a trade  in  the  general  mercantile 
business  which  is  meeting  his  most  sanguine  expectations.  He  was  born  in  County  Kerry, 
Ireland,  May  1,  1857,  his  father  being  Cornelius  Shea,  also  a native  of  County  Kerry, 
Ireland,  where  he  followed  the  occupation  of  farming  throughout  life  and  there  eventually 
drew  his  last  breath.  The  early  educational  training  of  James  Shea  was  accpiired  in  the 
Isle  of  Erin,  many  of  his  evenings  at  home  being  spent  in  pursuing  the  paths  of  learning. 
Upon  commencing  the  battle  of  life  for  himself  he  went  to  Wales  and  began  working  in  the 
iron  works  of  that  country,  but  later  made  his  way  to  the  city  of  London,  where  he  secured 
a position  of  conductor  on  a street  car,  which  occupation  he  followed  for  seven  years.  At 
the  end  of  this  time  the  United  States  became  the  goal  of  his  ambition,  and  after  crossing 
the  broad  Atlantic  he  came  directly  to  Indianapolis,  in  the  suburbs  of  which  place  he  turned 
his  attention  to  farming  and  gardening,  his  efforts  in  this  line  meeting  with  reasonable  suc- 
cess. Later  he  began  making  his  home  in  West  Indianapolis  and  began  extensively  to 
engage  in  the  building  business  and  in  all  has  put  uj)  about  thirty-seven  houses,  nearly  all 
of  which  were  for  himself.  This  branch  of  human  endeavor  continued  to  occupy  his  time 
and  attention  for  a considerable  period,  and  owing  to  his  keen  discernment  and  shrewd  bnt 
always  honorable  business  management  it  proved  an  exceedingly  profitable  source  of  revenue. 
In  l890  he  laid  in  a stock  of  general  merchandise  and  opened  his  present  establishment 
and  as  he  has  conducted  it  on  strict  business  principles  and  with  the  utmost  integrity  he  is 
fully  entitled  to  the  success  that  he  has  won  and  which  is  constantly  growing  under  his  wise 
and  honorable  commercial  policy.  He  deserves  much  credit  for  the  way  in  which  he  has 
bent  the  force  of  circumstances  to  his  will,  for  upon  his  arrival  in  this  country  he  had  little 
or  no  money  and  was  a stranger  in  a strange  land.  It  is  through  his  energy  that  he  has 
made  what  he  has  and  by  his  unswerving  determination  to  treat  his  patrons  fairly  and  with 
consideration.  He  was  married  in  London  about  1880  to  Miss  Georgia  Caroline  P’ranklin, 
a native  of  Hampshire,  England,  but  he  was  called  upon  to  mourn  her  death  March  16, 
1893.  She  bore  him  three  sons  and  two  daughters,  one  of  the  latter  being  deceased.  Mr. 
Shea  is  a member  of  the  Catholic  Church  and  socially  belongs  to  the  Ancient  Order  of  Hiber 
Ilians.  Since  coming  to  the  United  States  Mr.  Shea  has  identified  himself  with  the  inter- 
ests of  his  ado[)ted  country  and  has  proven  himself  a useful  and  law  abiding  citizen. 

Thomas  Tali.kntike.  Ability,  when  backed  by  enterprising  business  measures  and  pro- 
gressive ideas,  will  accomplish  more  than  any  other  professional  or  commercial  re(|uirement. 
Prominent  among  those  of  foreign  extraction  who  have  allied  their  commercial  and  financial 
interests  to  those  of  the  American  people,  and  whom  the  adopted  country  has  reason  to  feel 
proud  of,  for  their  ability  and  many  estimable  ipialities,  is  Thomas  Tallentire,  the  well 
known  contractor  of  Indianapolis.  He  was  born  in  New  Castle,  on  Tyne,  England,  Novem 
ber  17,  1848,  and  is  the  son  of  Thomas  Tallentire,  Sr.,  also  a native  of  New  Castle.  The 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


85f) 

elder  Talleiitire  learned  the  blacksmith’s  trade  in  his  native  country  and  came  to  this  country 
in  1850  or  1851.  He  tirst  located  in  New  York  city,  but  subsequently  moved  to  New 
Albany,  lud.,  later  Lafayette  and  tinally  to  Indianapolis  where  he  has  since  made  his  home. 
He  has  been  connected  with  the  Big  Four  Railroad  for  thirty  years  and  during  a good  portion 
of  that  time  he  was  foreman  of  the  blacksmith  shops  at  Bright  wood.  Politically  he  is  a 
Republican  and  socially  he  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  and  the  Encampment,  having 
been  a delegate  several  times  to  the  Grand  Lodge.  Thomas  Tallentire,  Jr.,  was  only  about 
two  or  three  years  of  age  when  his  parents  came  to  America,  and  as  a result  all  his  recollec- 
tions are  of  this  country.  He  attended  the  high  schools  at  Lafayette,  Ind.,  and  tinished  in 
the  academy  at  that  place,  under  Prof.  Jennings.  When  seventeen  years  of  age  he  left 
school  and  began  learning  the  blacksmith’s  trade  under  his  father,  serving  a four  years’ 
apprenticeship.  Later  he  turned  his  attention  to  making  car  and  engine  8])rings  for  the 
Big  Four  Road  and  still  later  he  entered  the  city  engineer’s  office  under  S.  H.  Shearer.  He 
filled  various  positions  in  that  office  and  was  first  assistant  engineer  for  about  two  years. 
After  that,  until  recently,  he  was  street  contractor  in  partnership  with  Joseph  L.  Fisher. 
In  1872  Mr.  Tallentire  decided  that  it  was  not  good  for  man  to  live  alone  and  married  Miss 
Maggie  Lowry,  of  Logansport,  this  State,  a very  pleasant  and  amiable  lady.  Like  his  father 
our  subject  advocates  the  j)rinci|)les  of  the  Republican  party  and  wields  considerable  influence 
in  the  community.  He  is  a member  of  Lafayette  Lodge,  No.  55,  I.  O.  O.  F. 

J.vMES  Swain,  retired.  In  recounting  the  forces  that  have  combined  to  make  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  what  it  is,  more  than  a passing  reference  must  be  paid  to  the  life  and  labors  of 
James  Swain,  of  whom  it  may  be  truthfully  said  that  no  one  has  done  more  to  lay  the  foun- 
dation of  the  country’s  prosperity  deep,  and  to  build  upon  them  surely  and  well.  He  is  a 
native  of  Englaiul,  born  in  Leicester,  Leicester  County,  March  2,  1820,  but  nearly  all  his  life 
has  been  ])assed  on  this  side  of  the  ocean.  His  father  died  when  he  was  an  infant,  and  young 
Swain  remained  with  his  mother  until  sixteen  years  of  age,  receiving  a fair  education  in  the 
common  schools.  The  mother  then  went  to  live  with  a daughter,  and  our  subject  concluded 
that  he  would  cross  to  America,  and  make  fame  and  fortune  in  the  ‘dand  of  the  free  and  the 
home  of  the  brave.”  He  had  a married  sister,  Sarah,  wife  of  George  Balaam,  living  in 
Daviess  County,  Ky.,  and  in  October,  1880,  he  sailed  from  Liverpool.  After  a stormy  pas- 
sage of  sixty-three  days  he  landed  in  New  York,  where  he  remained  about  a month,  but  went 
from  there  to  Philadelphia,  where  he  found  employment  for  about  six  months.  In  May  he 
left  for  Pittsburg,  and  thence  soon  after  for  Evansville,  and  walked  across  the  country  to 
Daviess  County,  Ky. , where  his  sister  resided.  For  about  a year  he  remained  with  his  sis 
ter,  and  then  went  to  Evansville,  where  he  remained  for  a year  learning  the  cooper’s  trade. 
After  that  he  entered  the  office  of  Jacob  Page  Chapman,  who  was  then  publishing  the  South- 
western Senthiet,  and  remained  with  him  a year.  At  that  time  Chapman  and  his  brother, 
George  A.,  who  had  been  publishing  a paper  at  Terre  Haute,  came  to  Indianapolis,  and  our 
subject  accompanied  them.  They  started  the  Indiunapolis  Sentinel,  and  carried  this  on  for 
some  time,  or  until  they  sold  out.  At  that  time  they  presented  our  subject  with  a fine  gold 
watch,  suitably  inscribed,  as  a testimonial  of  their  appreciation  of  his  fidelity  and  ability. 
They  sold  out  to  Austin  H.  Brown,  with  whom  our  subject  continued  until  Mr.  Brown,  who 
was  appointed  county  auditor  and  State  printer,  sold  out.  Then  Mr.  Swain  and  John  G. 
Doughty  took  the  contract  for  the  State  printing  under  Brown,  Jiaying  him  a commission, 
the  firm  name  being  Doughty  & Swain.  This  continued  for  four  or  five  years,  and  was  the 
best  opportunity  our  subject  had  yet  had  to  make  money.  In  1857  Mr.  Swain  was  appointed 
first  deputy  post-master  under  John  M.  Talbot,  who  was  appointed  by  President  Buchanan, 
and  our  subject  served  until  May,  1861,  when  he  took  a trip  with  his  family  to  England. 
Coming  back  in  August,  1861,  he  engaged  in  the  hat  business  in  Indiana})olis  for  a short 
time,  and  afterward  clerked  for  a fast  freight  line  for  a year  or  two.  He  then  retired  from 
active  business,  and  made  his  home  in  Indianapolis  until  1881,  when,  on  account  of  his  wife’s 
health,  he  moved  to  Southport,  in  Marion  County,  and  there  he  now  resides.  He  has  ever 
advocated  the  principles  of  the  Democratic  party,  and  his  first  vote  was  cast  for  Polk  and 
Dallas.  Socially  Mr.  Swain  is  an  Odd  Fellow.  He  is  now  one  of  the  trustees  of  Southport, 
which  position  he  has  held  for  six  years,  and  he  is  a public-spirited  and  influential  citizen. 
He  attends  the  Presbyterian  Church,  in  which  his  wife  holds  membership,  and  contributes 


857 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

liberally  of  his  meaDs  to  its  support.  He  was  married  in  1846  to  Miss  Mary  Isabelle  Parr, 
daughter  of  James  Parr,  a native  of  Maryland,  and  the  fruits  of  this  union  was  one  son, 
George,  whose  birth  occurred  in  1847.  The  latter  is  now  in  the  office  of  the  IvdiavapoNs 
News.  William  Swain,  the  father  of  our  subject,  was  a native  of  Lancaster,  England,  and 
there  passed  his  entire  life.  He  married  Miss  Ann  Shenton,  who  bore  him  eight  children, 
our  subject  being  the  only  one  now  living.  Mr.  Swain  is  social  and  genial,  and  is  well  liked 
by  all  acquainted  with  him. 

Okval  L).  Cosler.  There  is  probably  no  one  who  deserves  more  credit  for  the  upbuild- 
ing of  North  Indianapolis,  one  of  the  most  beautiful  suburbs  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  than 
does  Orval  D.  Cosier,  who  was  born  nine  miles  west  of  Shelbyville,  Shelby  County,  Ind. , 
January  16,  1853,  a sou  of  William  H.  and  Elizabeth  A.  (Ender)  Cosier.  The  former  was 
a native  of  Ohio  and  the  latter  of  Kentucky,  and  both  were  taken  to  Shelby  County,  Ind.,  by 
their  parents  when  William  H.  was  a young  man,  and  when  Elizabeth  T.  was  at  the  age  of  six 
years.  There  they  grew  up,  were  educated  and  eventually  married.  After  their  union  they 
settled  on  a woodland  farm  in  Shelby  County,  which  by  hard  work  the  father  succeeded  in 
clearing  and  on  which  he  lived  until  February  14,  1870,  when  he  became  a resident  of  Indian- 
apolis and  here  died  on  September  9,  1884,  at  the  age  of  sixty-five  years,  his  birth  having 
occurred  September  26,  1819.  His  widow  still  survives  him,  at  the  age  of  seventy  years,  and 
is  a resident  of  North  Indianapolis,  her  birth  having  occurred  on  March  10,  1823.  Mr.  Cos- 
ier was  as  successful  as  the  average  farmer,  but  having  a large  family  never  became  very 
wealthy,  and  after  taking  up  his  residence  in  Indianapolis  invested  some  of  his  money  in  a 
grocery  establishment,  but  after  being  in  that  business  for  a few  months  sold  the  store.  After 
this  he  began  to  manufacture  boots  and  shoes  and  had  a general  repair  store,  and  was  engaged 
in  this  business  at  the  time  of  his  death.  While  a resident  of  Shelby  County  he  held  some 
few  minor  positions.  He  and  his  wife  were  for  sometime  members  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  but  shortly  before  his  death  Mr.  Cosier  united  with  the  Christian  Church,  in  which 
faith  he  died.  Mr.  Cosier  and  his  wife  were  of  German  descent,  her  father,  Emanuel  Ender, 
having  been  born  on  the  River  Rhine,  in  Germany,  He  was  a highly  educated  man  and 
could  converse  in  seven  different  languages.  He  was  schooled  for  a Catholic  priest  by 
his  parents,  but  not  desiring  to  be  a priest  he  left  Germany  and  came  to  America.  Orval 
D.  Cosier  was  one  of  eleven  children,  seven  of  whom  are  now  living,  and  he  was  the  sixth 
member  of  the  family  in  order  of  birth.  He  received  his  education  in  the  schools  of 
Shelby  County  and  when  a young  man  of  seventeen  years  came  to  Indiana])oli8  in  June, 
1870,  having  remained  in  Shelby  County  until  that  time  in  order  to  finish  the  term  of 
school  to  which  he  was  going  when  his  parents  moved  to  Indianapolis  in  February  of 
that  same  year.  Orval  D.  Cosler’s  first  emiJoyment  was  at  Walter’s  Stave  Factory,  at 
which  place  he  only  worked  two  days,  refusing  to  work  so  hard  for  the  small  wages 
received.  He  then  worked  for  a time  at  the  carpenter’s  trade,  and  in  the  broom-corn 
culture  for  Mr.  Bradshaw.  After  his  father,  ^^’illiam  H.  Cosier,  bought  the  grocery  store, 
Orval  D.  Cosier  clerked  for  his  father  in  the  store  until  it  was  sold  by  his  father.  At 
that  time  he  began  again  learning  the  trade  of  a carpenter  and  after  becoming  proficient 
worked  at  this  trade  in  Indianajiolis  for  ten  or  eleven  years.  At  the  end  of  this  time  he  com- 
menced contracting  and  continued  the  business  for  seven  years,  during  which  time  he  built 
many  handsome  buildings  throughout  the  county,  including  one  church,  also  superintending 
the  building  of  the  North  Indianapolis  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  About  this  time  Orval 
D.  (Josler  was  employed  in  the  county  treasurer’s  office  for  two  years.  Although  he  was  a 
Republican  and  H.  W.  Miller,  the  treasiirer.  was  a Democrat,  ]\Ir.  Cosier  was  preferred  to 
a Democrat.  Such  was  the  high  esteem  by  which  i\Ir.  Miller  held  Mr.  Cosier.  He  remained 
at  the  office  during  Mr.  Miller’s  term  of  office,  at  the  end  of  which  time  Mr.  Miller  projiosed 
to  and  did  go  on  Mr.  Cosler’s  bond  for  $2,()()(),  and  signed  a jietition,  as  did  many  other 
Democrats  and  also  Republicans,  asking  that  Mr.  Cosier  be  retained  by  his  successor,  who 
was  also  a Democrat,  but  such  pledges  had  been  made  that  it  made  it  impossible  to  grant 
their  desire.  At  the  end  of  which  time,  being  a good  financier,  he  began  buying  lots  and 
building  houses  in  North  Indianajiolis  and  jilacing  them  on  the  market  for  sale;  and  being 
unusually  su(!cesaful,  in  three  years  he  has  liecome  the  owner  of  a farm  worth  $5,900,  six  miles 
from  the  city  of  Iudiana|)oli8,  and  built  a handsome  two-story  eleven  room  dwelling  on  th(>  cor 


358 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


iier  of  Racier  and  Francis  Streets,  North  Indianapolis,  for  his  liome,  which  he  now  occupies. 
In  all  in  North  Indianapolis  he  has  built  about  forty-three  dwellings;  also  four  double 
dwellings  which  would  equal  eight,  making  a total  of  fifty-one  dwellings,  almost  all  of 
which  have  been  sold  at  a satisfactory  profit.  He  also  holds  some  property  as  trustee.  He 
has  been  a professed  Christian  since  1871,  at  which  time  he  united  with  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church,  under  the  pastorate  of  the  Rev.  Frost  Craft,  then  pastor  of  Third  Street 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  Indianapolis,  and  has  been  one  of  its  most  liberal  supporters 
and  active  workers  ever  since.  He  was  one  of  the  prime  movers  in  the  building  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  North  Indianapolis,  has  been  a teacher  in  the  Sabbath- 
school  all  the  time,  and  also  served  in  the  capacity  of  superintendent  a number  of  years,  and 
also  was  present  and  helped  organize  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  and  Sabbath-school 
at  North  Indianapolis,  and  has  for  some  years  and  does  at  present  hold  a local  preacher’s 
license.  March  9,  1881,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Alice  Shook,  of  Indianapolis,  by  whom  he 
has  four  children:  Edna  Alice,  Russell  Orval,  Myron  Curtis  and  Ruth.  Mr.  Cosier  is  a 
Republican,  and  although  a stanch  supporter  of  his  party  has  never  been  an  aspirant  for 
office.  Mr.  Cosier  began  life  a poor  boy,  at  the  age  of  seventeen  coming  to  Indianapolis 
with  $20,  giving  half  of  that  amount  to  his  father;  he  was  very  industrious  and  economical. 
During  the  first  few  years  after  his  marriage,  he  not  being  able  to  hire  help  for  his  faithful 
wife,  and  her  health  not  being  good,  he  would  work  all  day  at  his  trade  and  his  wife  would 
attend  to  her  household  duties  and  at  night  he  and  his  wife  would  do  the  washing,  and  often 
other  work  which  his  wife  could  not  do  would  be  done  at  night,  and  in  the  evening  and 
before  breakfast  he  would  hoe  in  the  garden  and  then  do  a day’s  work.  So  determined  were 
they  to  get  a start  in  life,  and  not  having  any  conveyancy,  they  would  walk  for  miles  to  visit, 
go  to  work  or  do  trading,  but  now  have  their  horse  and  carriage  and  a handsome  barn  at 
their  present  home  in  which  to  keep  them.  He  has  never  belonged  to  any  secret  order  or 
union  and  is  opposed  to  strikes.  Mr.  Cosier  built  his  first  house  about  one  year  before 
his  marriage,  doing  almost  all  the  work  alone,  not  being  able  to  hire  help,  doing  some  of  the 
painting  by  moonlight.  He  lived  in  this  house  about  one  year  after  his  marriage  and  then 
sold  the  property  for  $600  cash  and  moved  to  Indianapolis;  but  he  and  his  wife  not  being 
satisfied  returned  to  North  Indianapolis  and  built  a five-room  cottage  on  Francis  Street, 
afterward  adding  a sixth  room,  at  which  place  he  lived  until  November,  1892,  when  he 
moved  to  his  handsome  two-story  residence,  corner  Rader  and  Francis  Streets,  North  Indian- 
apolis. Mr.  Cosier  is  a thorough  business  man,  pushing  his  business  for  all  there  is  in 
it,  honest  in  all  his  dealings.  Men  with  whom  he  transacts  business  have  perfect  confidence 
in  him.  This  is  one  of  the  main  pillars  on  which  his  success  rests;  he  always  feels  that  he 
should  be  as  firmly  bound  by  his  word  as  by  his  note.  At  the  time  of  Mr.  Cosier’ s mar- 
riage to  Miss  Alice  Shook,  he  was  worth  about  $600,  and  while  he  has,  through  his  industry 
and  excellent  financiering,  grown  to  be  worth  about  $10,000,  yet  he  does  not  desire  to  take 
any  honor  or  glory  to  himself.  He  feels  as  though  he  has  just  put  forth  the  effort  and  the 
Lord  has  given  the  increase,  and  to  Him  he  desires  to  give  all  the  honor  and  glory,  for  to 
Him  it  belongs. 

William  N.  Roberson.  It  is  a pleasure  to  chronicle  the  history  of  a man  whose  life 
has  been  one  of  honor  and  usefulness,  and  although  he  is  considerably  past  the  zenith  of 
his  career,  Mr.  Roberson  has  accumulated  a fortune  that  enables  him  to  enjoy  most  thor- 
oughly the  comforts  and  conveniences  of  life.  In  spite  of  his  advanced  years,  Mr.  Rober- 
son still  keeps  up  the  active  and  industrious  life  that  brought  him  in  such  substantial 
rewards,  and  many  men  much  younger  than  he  display  less  activity,  mentally  and  phys 
icallj^  than  does  our  worthy  subject.  Mr.  Roberson  owes  his  nativity  to  Tennessee,  born  in 
Washington  County,  near  Jonestown,  October  23,  1816,  and  made  his  home  there  until  he 
was  in  his  sixteenth  year.  He  then  came  with  his  parents,  David  and  Mary  (Roberts) 
Rol>erson,  to  Indiana.  Previous  to  this,  while  residing  in  his  native  State,  he  learned  to 
read  and  write,  but  after  coming  to  Marion  County,  Ind. , there  were  few  schools  outside 
of  Indianapolis.  For  the  first  year  after  settling  in  this  new  State  our  subject  did  not  go 
to  school,  but  the  next  year  he  went  quite  steadily,  boarding  with  his  brother  and  paying 
$1  per  week.  In  two  weeks  after  starting  to  school  Mr.  Roberson  had  made  such  rapid 
progress  in  his  studies,  especially  arithrnetic,  for  which  he  seemed  to  have  a natural  taste,  that 


359 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

he  led  the  rest  of  the  scholars.  Unfortunately,  after  twenty-four  days  in  the  school  room, 
he  was  obliged  to  quit  and  carry  out  his  contract  of  clearing  one-half  mile  of  the  old  Central 
Canal.  His  teacher,  Mr.  Cook,  told  him  when  parting,  that  in  many  years’  experience  he 
had  never  seen  his  (our  subject’s)  ecjual  in  figures.  In  1831  the  mother  of  Mr.  Roberson 
died,  and  about  a year  later  the  father,  too,  passed  away.  For  two  years  after  coming  to 
the  State  our  subject  worked  out  on  farms  by  the  month,  receiving  |8  per  month,  and  then 
got  a sub  contract  from  the  State  to  dig  a ditch.  This  took  one  summer,  and  he  then  got 
a contract  to  dig  one-half  mile  of  the  old  Central  Canal,  as  spoken  of  above.  This  canal 
was  in  Madison  County,  and  on  finishing  the  same  young  Roberson  and  Andrew  Wilson 
repaired  damages  done  by  a storm  on  an  arm  of  the  old  Central  Canal  in  Indianapolis. 
This  took  one  summer,  and  after  that  Mr.  Roberson  bought  100  acres  where  he  now  lives, 
paying  $15.50  per  acre.  This  was  covered  with  green  timber,  and  no  improvements  had 
been  made.  Prior  to  this  he  had  bought  eighty  acres  in  Belmont,  now  West  Indianapolis, 
and  resided  on  the  same  four  years.  After  buying  the  100  acres  he  erected  a log  cabin  on 
the  same,  and  resided  in  this  about  a year.  Later  he  embarked  in  the  saw  mill  business 
with  Andrew  Wilson,  and  they  had  three  saw  mills  in  different  parts  of  the  county. 
This  business  Mr.  Roberson  carried  on  for  five  years,  and  then  sold  out  and  returned  to 
his  farm,  which  he  began  immediately  to  clear.  Of  the  100  acres  Im  has  cleared  sixty 
five  acres,  and  has  it  under  a good  state  of  cultivation.  In  1852  he  bought  80  acres  in 
Wayne  Township,  and  in  1800  he  purchased  82  acres  adjoining  his  present  farm.  Still 
later,  in  1872,  he  bought  120  acres  in  Wayne  Township,  and  in  1878  lie  bought  80  acres 
adjoining  his  present  farm.  He  also  bought  140  acres  in  Morgan  County.  Mr.  Roberson 
was  first  married,  in  1841,  to  Miss  Sarah  Johnson,  daughter  of  David  Johnson,  and  four 
children  were  born  to  them,  all  of  whom  died  young.  On  November  11,  1852,  our  sub- 
ject married  Miss  Nancy  Flanagan,  daughter  of  James  Flanagan,  and  became  the  father  of 
seven  children,  .six  of  whom  are  living  at  the  present  time:  Ella  married  Charles  Kreit- 
line,  and  is  the  mother  of  two  children,  Charles  and  Louella;  James  married  Miss  Ida 
Kemptou,  and  has  three  chihlren,  Bessie,  Elsie  and  William;  Joseph  married  Eva  Foltz, 
and  they  have  three  children,  Grace,  Harry  and  Hazel;  Anna  married  Clarence  DuBose, 
and  has  two  children,  Gertrude  and  Edith;  Nicholas  married  Nancy  Pearson;  and 
Harry  married  Maud  Maun,  and  is  the  father  of  one  child,  Mabel.  In  his  political  views 
ou I' subject  is  a Democrat  and  his  first  vote  was  cast  for  Martin  Van  Buren.  He  has  been 
a member  of  the  church  since  1848,  and  is  still  an  active  worker  in  the  same.  He  is 
kind  hearted,  genial  and  courteous,  and  is  always  cheerful  and  contented.  No  man  is 
better  liked  in  the  community.  His  father  is  also  a native  of  Washington  County,  Tenn., 
born  in  1785,  and  in  that  State  he  was  married  to  Miss  Mary  Roberts.  Nine  children 
were  the  fruits  of  this  union,  eight  of  whom  grew  to  mature  years,  as  follows:  Charles, 

Maria,  Rose  A.,  Sarah.  Nicholas.  Keziah,  Sophia  and . Charles,  the  eldest  child, 

was  born  September  15,  1808,  and  married  Miss  Mary  Johnson.  Eight  children  were  born 
to  this  union:  Maria  (deceased)  married  Gabriel  Sylvester,  and  they  had  one  son;  Rose  A. 
(deceased)  married  a Mr.  Hatton,  by  whom  she  had  two  children;  Sarah  married  William 
Renison,  and  they  have  one  son;  Nicholas  (our  subject);  Keziah  (deceased)  married  a Mr. 
(-'atterson,  and  tliey  had  a good-sized  family;  and  Sophia  (deceased)  married  David  Der- 
ringer and  became  the  mother  of  three  living  children.  The  father  of  the  above  mentioned 
cliildren  was  cayJain  of  the  Light  Horse  Company  in  the  War  of  1812.  He  was  a member 
of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  Charles  Roberson,  grandfather  of  our  subject,  was 
l)orn  in  Tennessee  in  17()5,  and  owned  and  operated  a.  grist-mill  in  Washington  County 

for  many  years.  He  married  ^^iss  Polly  and  they  became  the  j)arents  of  three 

daughters  and  one  son.  His  death  occurred  at  the  advanced  age  of  ninety-three  years. 
Our  subject’s  great-grandfather  on  the  father’s  side  was  l)orn  in  the  Highlands  of  Scotland. 

Dick  Wennino.  Nothing  is  more  true  than  that  good  management,  fair  dealing  and 
application  to  business  will  result  in  jirofit  to  the  parties  at  interest.  Failure  rarely  if  eviu- 
comes,  uidess  as  the  secjuent  of  negligence,  rash  spi^culation  or  dishonesty.  'I'he  field  of 
l)usines8  is  large  and  unusually  rif)e  unto  the  harvest;  active  work(*rs  are,  as  a rule, 
rewarded  with  the  highest  success.  Mr.  Wenning  is  engaged  in  a most  important  calling, 
that  of  the  vegetable  grower,  and  makes  a sjiecialty  of  raising  all  kinds  of  early  varieties  for 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


a no 

t lie  market.  He  has  eight  acres  of  land  at  950  Madison  Avenue,  all  of  which  is  devoted  to 
this  line  of  work,  and  that  this  has  been  a profitable  business  is  fully  attested  when  it  is 
known  that  he  has  erected  one  of  the  handsomest  brick  residences  in  the  outskirts  of  the  city 
of  Indianapolis,  surrounding  which  are  neatly  and  tastefully  laid  out  grounds.  Mr.  Wen- 
ning  was  born  in  Germany,  April  ‘2,  1833,  a son  of  Barney  Wenning,  who  died  in  his  native 
land  in  1880  at  about  the  age  of  seventy  years.  The  mother  also  died  there  at  about  the 
same  age.  In  the  jnxblic  schools  of  the  land  of  his  birth  Dick  Wenning  obtained  a practical 
and  useful  education,  and  when  old  enough  began  learning  the  weaver’s  trade  in  a factory 
near  his  home,  where  he  continued  until  he  had  attained  the  age  of  twenty-six  years.  The 
United  States  had  for  some  time  offered  great  attractions  for  him  and  here  he  determined  to 
seek  his  fortune,  and  accordingly  in  1859  he  bade  adieu  to  home  and  friends  and  crossed 
the  ocean  to  this  country,  coming  very  soon  after  to  Indianapolis.  Shortly  after  this  he 
went  to  Cincinnati,  where  he  remained  about  one  year,  then  returned  to  Indianapolis  with  but 
little  cash  capital,  but  with  a strong  determination  to  make  his  way  in  the  world  and  to  earn 
a living  if  hard  work,  push  and  determination  could  accomplish  it,  little  dreaming  of  the 
success  that  was  to  be  his.  He  soon  secured  employment  at  farming  and  gardening  in  the 
employ  of  Nicholas  McCarty,  by  which  means  he  secured  sufficient  money  to  purchase  his 
jxresent  property  in  1869.  This  land  he  at  once  began  to  till,  and  knowing  that  in  every 
large  city  vegetables  are  always  in  demand,  he  wisely  decided  to  devote  his  land  to  this 
branch  of  agriculture,  and  time  has  shown  the  wisdom  of  his  judgment.  His  vegetables  are 
always  fresh  and  sound,  and  at  his  stall  in  the  market  house  he  always  keeps  on  hand  a 
large  supply  which  he  sells  reasonably,  and  his  customers  can  always  rely  upon  fair  deal- 
ing and  prom[)t  attention.  He  was  married  in  the  city  of  Cincinnati,  two  years  after  com- 
ing to  the  United  States,  to  Miss  Minnie  Cook,  also  a native  of  Germany,  and  to  their  union 
a family  of  eleven  children  were  given,  five  of  whom  are  living.  Mr.  Wenning  and  his  wife 
are  members  of  the  German  Reformed  Church,  in  which  Mr.  Wenning  was  for  many  years 
an  elder,  and  in  which  he  has  always  taken  a deep  interest.  Politically  his  sympathies 
have  always  been  with  the  Democratic  party,  and  he  .supports  it  on  all  occasions.  He  is  in 
every  respect  a self-made  man,  for  he  has  had  nothing  but  his  own  energy,  persistence  and 
grit  to  rely  on,  and  these  formed  the  basis  of  his  capital  upon  which  to  begin  business. 

Edward  M.  Pumphrey.  There  are  few  cities  in  the  central  part  of  the  United  States 
which  offer  so  inviting  a field  of  activity  to  the  contractor  and  builder  as  does  Indianapolis. 
The  rapid  growth  of  the  business  interests  of  the  city,  with  its  accompanying  growth  of 
population  and  increase  of  wealth,  has  created  a demand  for  finer  and  more  elegant  resi- 
dences, a larger  number  of  substantial  business  blocks,  while  the  extension  of  the  city  on  all 
sides  necessitates  the  erection  of  suburban  residences.  In  this  connection  there  is  no  man 
better  qualified  to  meet  the  demands  of  the  hour  than  Edward  M.  Pumphrey,  contractor  and 
builder,  who  has  been  familiar  with  the  calling  to  which  his  attention  is  now  devoted  from 
early  manhood.  He  is  a native  Hoosier,  born  in  Putnam  Coxinty,  August  16,  1860,  a son  of 
L.  M.  R.  and  Virginia  (Winter)  Pumphrey,  the  former  of  whom  was  born  in  Wheeling, 
West  Va.  In  1803  he  went  to  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  and  in  1835  moved  to  Glen’s  Valley.  Mor- 
gan County,  Ind. , where  he  located  on  a farm  and  established  one  of  the  first  mills  ever 
erected  on  White  River.  He  named  the  town  of  Glen  Valley  and  became  post-master  of  the 
])lace,  getting  his  commission  from  Gov.  Noble,  making  a very  efficient  and  trustworthy 
official.  In  addition  to  the  occupations  above  mentioned  he  wastjuite  extensively  engaged  in 
dealing  in  stock,  in  fact,  was  a man  of  great  push  and  enterprise,  keenly  alive  to  his  own 
interests,  but  strictly  honorable  and  charitable  withal,  and  in  every  sense  of  the  word  a 
model  American  citizen.  He  built  one  of  the  first  Madison,  Ind.,  distilleries  in  the  State  and 
has  been  an  active  business  man  all  his  life  and  although  now  over  ninety  years  of  age,  he  is 
yet  quite  active.  In  1856  or  1857  he  moved  to  Putnam  County,  Ind.,  and  there  still  makes 
his  home.  His  wife  was  of  French  descent  and  died  in  1876,  while  in  his  veins  flows  sturd}’’ 
German  blood.  Edward  M.  Pumphrey  was  the  fourth  of  five  children  born  to  the  marriage 
of  his  parents,  and  in  the  schools  of  Putnam  County  his  initiatory  education  was  secured, 
but  he  afterward  finished  his  education  in  Asbury  University.  When  a mere  lad  he  learned 
the  carpenter’s  trade,  for  his  tastes  seemed  to  point  in  that  direction,  but  also  from  child- 
hood he  has  had  a passion  for  flowers,  and  at  the  age  of  fifteen  or  sixteen  took  up  flori- 


o' 


361 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

culture,  with  the  expectation  of  makinir  it  his  life  work.  He  went  to  Chicago  and  entered 
the  employ  of  Miller  <fc  Hunt,  florists,  and  during  the  three  years  that  he  was  with  this  Arm 
he  mastered  every  detail  of  the  business  and  upon  his  removal  to  Indianapolis  began  follow- 
ing it  on  his  own  responsibility,  but  after  a time  turned  his  attention  to  contracting,  which 
calling  has  occupied  his  attention,  uninterruptedly,  up  to  the  present  time.  He  has  built 
many  private  residences  throughout  the  city  and  suburbs,  and  many  of  the  most  beautiful 
structures  in  this  line  which  to-day  ornament  the  fashionable  quarters  are  due  to  his  ability 
as  a builder.  He  has  also  built  some  of  the  most  noted  business  buildings  of  this  city,  among 
which  may  be  mentioned  the  llentsch  Block  on  Virginia  Avenue,  which  was  built  by  Mr. 
Pumphrey  out  of  St.  Lawrence  marble,  pressed  brick  and  terra  cotta.  The  Pantzer  Sani- 
tarium on  Michigan  and  New  Jersey  Streets,  and  other  buildings  of  equal  note,  testify  to  his 
skill  and  knowledge  of  his  calling.  He  is  prepared  to  enter  into  contracts  for  the  erection 
of  stores,  factories,  mills,  residences  of  any  kind  or  size  in  either  wood,  stone  or  brick,  and 
his  work  is  always  sure  to  l)e  substantially  and  thoroughly  done.  His  well  directed  efforts 
have  done  much  to  adorn  the  city  and  in  each  and  every  one  of  his  operations  he  has  been  the 
sold  of  honor.  Mr.  Pumphrey  has  Iieen  prominent  in  social  as  well  as  business  circles,  and 
is  a member  of  Indianapolis  Lodge,  No.  50  K.  of  P. , and  Fifty-sixth  division  Uniform 
Hank.  On  December  24,  1884,  he  was  united  in  marriage  Avith  Miss  Bertha  Lout,  a 
ilaughter  of  Christian  Lout,  and  in  their  pleasant  home  they  dispense  a generous  and  extended 
hospitality. 

\\’iLLi.\M  Kkaas.  Among  the  contractors  and  most  expert  and  successful  exjiouents  of 
the  art  of  brick  masonry  may  be  mentioned  William  Kraas,  Avho  is  a native  Cerman,  his  birth 
occurring  in  1852.  He  possesses  the  most  worthy  characteristics  of  the  (Terman  people,  for 
he  is  strictly  honorable,  is  energetic,  intelligent  and  persevering,  having  inherited  these 
worthy  (pialities  from  his  father,  Fred  Kraas,  who  came  to  this  country  in  1872  and  followed 
the  occupation  of  brick  laying  and  contracting,  a calling  to  which  he  had  given  his  attention 
ipiite  extensively  in  his  native  land.  He  was  called  from  life  in  this  city  in  1880  at  the  age 
of  sixty-seven  years.  William  Kraas  was  educated  in  the  land  of  his  birth  and  tliere  also 
served  an  apj)renticeship  at  the  carpenter’s  trade,  but  perfected  himself  in  it  after  coming  to 
the  United  States.  After  working  with  Henry  Beerman  for  thirteen  years  he  formed  a part- 
uershij)  with  John  (iruman  and  together  they  erected  hundreds  of  handsome  buildings  in 
this  city  and  numerous  liusiness  blocks,  among  which  were  the  Gem  Laundry,  the  Shriever 
building,  the  Baschman  residence,  Clug,  Kuhn,  McBride  aiul  others.  Since  being  associated 
these  gentlemen  have  given  employment  to  hundreds  of  men  and  have  done  a business  of 
great  magnitude  and  profit.  About  twelve  years  ago  Mr.  Kraas  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Loui.sa  Triselmann,  who  was  also  born  in  Germany,  and  to  their  union  a son  and  two 
daughters  have  lieen  given,  two  sons  being  deceased,  both  dying  at  about  the  age  of  four 
years.  Mr.  Kraas  is  a member  of  the  Builders  Fxchange,  the  Contractors  Association,  the 
Indianapolis  Planing  Mill  Company,  and  socially  belongs  to  the  K.  of  H.,  the  Turners’  Society 
and  Beneticiary  Association.  When  he  came  to  the  city  of  Indianapolis  IMr.  Kraas  could  not 
speak  the  English  language,  but  notwithstanding  this  drawliack,  he  has  made  a success  of 
everything  he  has  undertaken  and  is  now  in  good  circumstances.  His  associate  in  business, 
•lohn  Gruman,  was  born  in  Germany  thirty  years  ago  and  when  a young  man  seventeen 
years  of  age  he  came  to  the  United  States  and  began  learning  the  carpenter’s  trade  under 
Conrad  Bender,  became  an  exceptionally  skillful  mechanic,  and  his  connection  with  IMr. 
Kraas  was  harmonious  and  successful.  He  was  married  to  Miss  Annie  Metzker,  of  this 
city,  liy  whom  he  became  the  father  of  two  children,  whom  he  left  orphaned  at  his  death 
in  November,  18112.  He  was  a member  of  the  Builders  Exchange,  the  Contractors  Associa 
tion  and  in  the  conduct  of  his  business  affairs  was  shrewd,  juactical  and  eflicient.  He 
[)OHsesse<l  many  fine  traits  of  character  and  was  <>xce|)tionally  successful  in  handling  lh«‘ 
men  in  his  employ.  He  and  .Mr.  Kraas  made  one  of  the  solid  coni racting  firms  of  the  city, 
and  his  death  was  a source  of  much  regret  to  all  who  knew  him.  Since  that  lime  IMr. 
Kraas  has  lieen  in  business  alone. 

Diktiucii  F.  Stkoiimkykh.  Very  few  jiersons  are  now  in  existence  who  can  remember 
the  old  fashioned  liake  ovens  that  were  useil  in  formi'r  years,  being  built  in  the  ground  and 
sustained  by  piles  of  brick,  beneath  which  fires  were  Imilt  and  the  tempting  breadstiiffs 


362 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


})iled  for  bakiug.  This  has  all  changed  now  and  the  result  is  the  modern  bakery  with  its 
massive  ovens  and  scores  of  busy  men.  The  name  of  Strohmeyer’s  bakery,  at  222  West 
Washington  Street,  is  widely  known  in  this  connection.  Dietrich  F.  Strohmeyer  bears  the 
honor  of  having  been  born  in  Germany,  his  birth  occurring  April  22.  1868,  and  he  is  the 
son  of  Henry  and  Lotta  ( Roemke)  Strohmeyer,  who  passed  their  entire  lives  in  the  old 
country,  the  former  dying  in  1875  and  the  latter  in  1889.  The  father  followed  the  occu- 
pation of  a farmer  and  was  fairly  successful  in  this  pursuit.  Dietrich  F.  Strohmeyer 
reached  mature  years  in  his  native  country,  received  his  education  there  and  at  an  early  age 
l)ecame  familiar  with  the  duties  of  the  farm.  He  was  left  fatherless  at  the  early  age  of 
seven  years  and  from  his  fourteenth  year  on  was  obliged  to  hoe  his  own  row  in  life.  Many 
ami  varied  were  his  experiences.  For  two  years  he  was  a sailor  in  the  North  Sea,  about  the 
English  and  French  coasts,  and  he  did  not  come  to  America  until  1886,  when  he  went 
diiect  to  Indianapolis.  After  taking  a course  in  a commercial  college  in  this  city  he 
engaged  in  the  bakery  business,  which  he  has  carried  on  very  srrccessfully  up  to  the  pres- 
ent time,  the  firm  name  at  jrresent  being  Strohmeyer  A Beck.  Socially  our  subject  is  a 
member  of  the  K.  of  P.  and  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  in  religion  a Protestant  and  politically  is  a 
Republican.  He  does  an  annual  business  of  about  $12,000  and  supplies  Indianapolis  with 
Hist  class  goods.  He  is  a young  man  of  enterprise  and  acknowledged  ability  in  his  trade 
and  has  already  proven  a valuable  acquisition  to  the  business. 

Thomas  J.  Christian.  Indianapolis  has  always  been  considered  a great  center  for  hard- 
wood lumber.  From  its  yards  lumber  has  lieen  taken  for  shipment  to  all  parts  of  the  United 
States  as  well  as  Europe.  Very  prominent  among  those  engaged  in  the  hardwood  lumber 
business  is  Thomas  J.  Christian,  a gentleman  whose  hustling  abilities  are  well  recognized 
in  this  city,  as  well  as  through  the  United  States,  in  which  he  ranks  as  one  of  the  most  worthy 
representative  people  engaged  in  industrial  life.  He  was  a member  of  the  Hrm  of  J.  E.  & 
T.  J.  Christian,  which  was  established  in  1891,  which  dealt  exclusively  in  hardwood  lumber. 
From  this  establishment  shipments  have  been  made  everywhere  that  hardwood  lumber  is 
used.  Our  subject  became  sole  proprietor  of  the  business  in  1892,  and  has  since  increased 
the  business  to  a very  large  extent.  He  was  born  in  Indianapolis,  October  15,  1867,  his 
father,  W.  F.  Christian,  being  a leading  contractor  and  builder  of  this  city  for  many  years, 
who  has  for  some  years  been  retired.  In  the  city  of  his  birth  Thomas  J.  was  reared,  and  in 
the  public  schools  of  the  same  he  received  a thorough  and  practical  education,  which  has 
Htted  him  for  the  active  business  life  he  has  led  since  reaching  man’s  estate.  Upon  leaving 
school  he  entered  the  employ  of  his  uncle  in  1887,  to  learn  the  lumber  business,  and  con- 
tinued with  him  until  he  was  taken  into  partnership  in  1891,  and  as  above  stated  he  has 
been  alone  in  this  business  since  1892.  On  September  17,  1890,  he  was  united  in  marriage 
with  Miss  Catherine  Holmes,  a native  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  and  a daughter  of  W.  C. 
Holmes,  by  whom  he  is  the  father  of  one  child:  Wilmer,  who  was  born  Tanuary  17,  1893. 
Mr.  Christian  is  a member  in  good  standing  of  the  F.  & A.  M.,  in  which  he  has  attained 
to  the  chapter,  and  politically  he  is  a Democrat  in  principle  but  in  local  affairs  is  not  parti- 
san. He  is  a loyal  adherent  to  the  law  of  probity,  and  in  all  his  transactions  he  has  proven 
himself  a gentleman  of  honorable  principles,  and  possesses  the  full  trust  of  his  patrons. 

Charles  Warren  Fairbanks  is  a native  of  Unionville  Centre,  Union  County,  Ohio,  his 
birth  occurring  May  1 1,  1852.  He  is  a son  of  Loreston  M.  and  Mary  A.  (Smith)  Fairbanks, 
who  were  natives,  respectively,  of  Barnard,  Vt. , and  Green  River,  Columbiana  County,  N. 
Y.,  who  immigrated  to  the  Darby  Plains,  in  Union  County,  Ohio,  late  in  the  decade  of  the 
thirties.  A mechanic  by  occupation,  Loreston  M.  Fairbanks  pursued  the  avocation  of  wagon 
maker  for  a number  of  years,  but  later  engaged  in  farming  near  Unionville  Centre,  where 
the  immediate  subject  of  this  sketch  was  born.  The  youth  and  early  manhood  of  Charles 
\V.  Fairbanks  were  passed  in  assisting  with  the  work  on  the  home  farm  and  in  attending  the 
district  school,  and  later  he  entered  the  Ohio  Wesleyan  University,  at  Delaware,  Ohio,  which 
graduated  him  in  1872,  when  twenty  years  of  age.  During  his  senior  year  he  edited  the 
college  paper  known  as  the  Western  Collegian,  and  prior  to  his  graduation  he  began  the 
sludy  of  the  law.  Upon  completing  his  course  at  college  he  resumed  his  legal  studies  with 
much  diligence,  and  early  in  1874  was  admitted  to  the  bar  by  the  Supreme  Court  of  Ohio. 
While  prosecuting  the  study  of  his  chosen  profession,  and  to  aid  him  in  so  doing,  he  served 


363 


AND  MABION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

as  Associated  Press  agent  at  the  cities  of  Pittsburg  and  Cleveland.  Two  events  of  much 
importance  occurred  to  Mr.  Fairbanks  in  the  year  1874,  being  his  marriage  with  Miss  Cor- 
nelia, daughter  of  Judge  P.  B.  Cole,  of  Marysville,  Ohio,  and  his  locating  for  the  jjractice 
of  law  in  Indianapolis,  Ind.  Mrs.  Fairbanks  is  a graceful  and  accomplished  lady,  a gradu- 
ate of  the  same  college  as  her  husband,  and  is  the  mother  of  live  children.  Mr.  Fairbanks 
for  many  years  has  been  a trustee  of  the  Ohio  Wesleyan  University,  and  gives  with  an 
unsparing  hand  for  the  good  of  his  alma  mater.  He  takes  a keen  interest  in  all  matters  of 
a public  nature,  lends  his  aid  in  advancement  of  public  enter juises,  assists  all  measures  cal 
culated  to  improve  the  conditions  of  his  neighbors,  and  is  invariably  found  aiding  every 
movement  that  tends  to  alleviate  the  sufferings  or  elevate  the  conditions  of  mankind.  He 
has  been  an  active  director  of  the  Consumers  Gas  Trust  Company,  created  by  the  citizens 
to  secure  cheap  fuel,  and  is  a trustee  of  the  Meridian  Street  Methodist  Episcopal  Church, 
although  a member  of  no  religious  denomination.  IMr.  Fairbanks  is  a member  of  many 
literary  clubs  and  societies,  has  delivered  numerous  addresses  before  universities  and  public 
assemblies,  and  in  all  has  attained  deserved  distinction.  Notable  among  his  speeches  is  the 
address  delivered  on  behalf  of  the  board  of  trustees  of  the  Ohio  Wesleyan  University  upon 
the  installation  of  the  Rev.  Dr.  James  W.  Bashford  as  president.  Other  addresses  that 
have  attracted  much  attention  are  those  on  “ Nihilism"  and  ‘‘  Paternalism  in  Government," 
etc.  Mr.  Fairbanks  has  never  held  nor  sought  political  preferment,  and  has  declined  many 
offers  to  enter  public  life,  preferring  to  devote  himself  to  his  family  and  profession.  An 
unswerving  advocate  of  the  doctrines  of  the  Repul)lican  party,  his  services  have  been  much 
in  demand  in  Indiana  and  in  other  States.  In  1892  he  was  chairman  of  the  Republican 
State  Convention,  arid  delivered  an  address  which  was  published  as  “ The  Campaign  Key- 
note.’’  In  1893  he  was  unanimous  choice  of  the  Republicans  for  United  States  Senator  in 
opposition  to  the  Hon.  David  Turpie,  who  was  the  Democratic  choice.  Upon  the  return 
of  President  Harrison  to  Indiana[)olis  at  the  exftiration  of  his  term  of  office  Mr.  Fairbaidvs 
delivered  the  formal  address  of  welcome  on  behalf  of  the  citizens  of  Indiana. 

Gen.  Ben.i.^min  Harkison.  ex- President  of  the  United  States,  is  a grandson  of  the  famous 
hero  of  Tijjpecanoe,  Gen.  William  Henry  Harrison,  the  ninth  President  of  the  United  States. 
His  l)irth  occurred  at  North  Bend,  Ohio,  August  29,  1833,  and  his  early  education  was  ac- 
(piired  under  the  tutelage  of  a private  instructor.  At  fourteen  years  of  age  he  was  sent  to 
Cary’s  Academy,  near  Cincinnati,  where  he  remained  two  years,  then  entered  Miami  Univer- 
sity, at  Oxford,  which  graduated  him  in  1852.  Having  a juedilection  for  legal  pursuits  he 
became  a disciple  of  Blackstone  at  Cincinnati,  and  early  in  1854  located  for  the  |)rofession  at 
Indianapolis.  Early  in  his  professional  career  Mr.  Harrison  exhibited  to  a marked  degree 
those  cliaracteristics  which  afterward  made  him  famous  as  a great  lawyer,  and  it  was  not 
long  until  he  found  himself  the  j)ORsessor  of  a large  and  fairly  lucrative  j)ractice.  The  fall 
of  1860  he  was  elected  re|)orter  of  the  Su))reme  Court  of  the  State  and  during  his  incumbency 
of  this  office  j)ublished  volumes  XV  and  XVI  of  State  iteporter.  The  war  coming  on,  IMr. 
Harrison  deemed  that  his  country’s  welfare  should  become  his  first  consideration,  and  accord 
ingly  resigning  from  his  lucrative  position  he  recruited  Company  A,  of  the  Seventh  Regiment 
of  Indiana  Infantry  and  immediately  went  into  active  service.  He  remaiiu'd  in  the  service 
of  tlie  Government  until  the  close  of  the  war,  when  he  was  mustered  out  as  brevet  brigadier 
general.  He  led  his  command  in  the  l)attle  of  Resaca,  participated  in  the  capture  of  Cass 
ville,  t)atlles  of  New  Ho[)e  and  Golgotha  Churches,  Kenesaw  Mountain  and  Peach  Tree  Creek, 
at  the  latter  of  which  his  gallantry  so  pleased  Gen.  Hooker  that  he  wrote  to  the  Secretary  of 
War  “to  call  the  attention  of  the  (lepartment  to  the  claims  of  Col.  Benjamin  Harrison,  of  the 
Seventieth  Indiana  Volunteers,  for  |)romotion  to  the  rank  of  brigadier  general  of  volun- 
teers.’’ Partici|)ating  at  the  Grand  Review  at  Washington,  Gen.  Harrison  returned  home 
and  resumed  legal  f)ursuits.  In  1876  he  was  the  unanimous  choice  of  the  Re])id)licans  for 
governor  of  Iinliana,  but  was  defeated  at  the  polls.  In  1879  he  was  H])|)oinled  by  President, 
Hayes  as  a mend)er  of  the  Mississippi  River  commission;  was  chairman  of  the  Indiana  dele- 
gation to  the  Republican  national  convention  in  1880,  and  on  the  ballot  that  nominated 
Gen.  Garfield  for  the  I’residency,  cast  the  entire  vote  of  his  State*  for  the  successful  candi 
date.  .After  this  (from  1881  tf)  1887),  he  l)ecame  Uniteal  States  Senator  and  Ixicame  one  of 
the  most  e-onspicuous  figures  in  the  nation.  In  1888  he  was  nejiuinateel  by  the  national 


304 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Hepiiblicau  convention,  at  Chicago,  for  the  Presidency  of  the  United  States.  During  the 
catni)aign  he  made  numerous  addresses,  and  although  he  had  a vigilant  enemy  to  combat, 
ready  to  distort  or  misconstrue  his  utterances,  he  did  so  remarkably  well  that  not  a single 
point  was  raised  against  him.  His  four  years  of  administration  marked  an  era  of  prosperity 
for  tlie  country,  and  at  the  national  convention  of  1892  held  at  Minneapolis,  he  was  re- 
nominated on  the  first  ballot.  At  the  succeeding  election  he  was  defeated  for  a second  term 
l)y  Mr.  Cleveland,  and  has  since  resided  at  Indianapolis.  Mr.  Harrison,  while  a student  at 
college,  met  and  loved  Miss  Caroline  L.  Scott,  who  became  his  wife  in  1853,  and  two  children, 
l)oth  living,  have  blessed  their  union.  The  saddest  event  in  the  life  of  Mr.  Harrison  was  the 
death  of  ]\Irs.  Harrison  in  1892. 

Wesley  Allen,  M.  D.  Among  those  of  Marion  County,  Ind. , who  successfully  follow 
the  “healing  art,’’  as  a profession  is  Dr.  Wesley  Allen,  who  was  born  on  a farm  belonging 
to  his  father,  Joseph  Allen,  consisting  of  160  acres  located  two  and  a half  miles  northwest 
of  We.st  Newton,  on  March  26,  1836.  On  this  farm  he  made  his  home  until  he  was  about 
twenty-four  years  of  age,  his  early  educational  advantages  having  been  received  in  the 
early  snbscrijJion  schools  of  his  native  township,  from  the  time  he  was  eight  years  old  until 
iie  reached  the  age  of  nineteen.  He  then  entered  the  “Friends’  Boarding  School  ” located 
at  Kichmond,  Iml  , now  known  as  Earlham  College,  which  he  attended  one  winter  session  of 
six  or  seven  months,  and  one-half  of  a summer  session.  He  then  commenced  the  study  of 
medicine  in  the  office  of  Dr.  Jesse  Ileagan,  in  West  Newton,  Ind.,  continuing  his  studies  two 
years.  In  1858  he  taught  one  summer  term  in  the  common  schools  in  M’est  Newton  and  in 
August,  1861,  commenced  the  practice  of  his  profession  there,  at  the  solicitation  of  his  many 
friends  and  neighbors,  before  he  had  graduated  from  any  school  of  medicine.  After  a time 
he  commenced  attending  lectures  in  the  Indiana  Medical  College,  from  which  he  afterward 
graduated,  some  of  his  classmates  becoming  eminent  medical  practitioners.  After  complet- 
ing his  legal  studies  he  returned  to  West  Newton  and  there  has  since  made  his  home,  a 
period  of  about  thirty-two  years.  He  has  met  with  distinguished  success  in  the  practice  of  his 
noble  but  arduous  profession,  and  is  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society,  the 
State  Medical  Society,  and  the  Mississippi  Valley  Medical  Association.  He  was  rejected  for 
military  service  during  the  Civil  War  on  account  of  a slight  lameness.  He  is  a member  of  and  a 
trustee  in  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  and  politically  has  always  been  a Republican  and 
has  ever  taken  an  active  interest  in  local  politics.  He  was  married  October  20,  1861,  to  Rebecca 
A.,  daughter  of  Jesse  and  Ann  (Whitson)  Jones,  and  to  their  marriage  three  children  were 
born  as  follows;  Orpha;  Alice,  who  married  Lawrence  V.  Buskirk,  of  Bloomington,  Ind., 
of  which  city  he  is  now  (1893)  mayor,  has  one  son,  Allen  V.,  and  one  child  who  died  in 
infancy.  The  mother  of  these  children  died  December  23.  1878,  and  Belle,  the  daughter  of 
Homer  and  Mary  (Paynter)  Snodgrass,  natives  of  Indiana,  became  his  wife,  to  which  union 
was  born  one  son,  Wesley,  whose  birth  occurred  February  1,  1886.  Joseph  Allen,  the 
father  of  Dr.  Allen,  was  born  in  Shenandoah  County,  Va.,  August  14,  1794,  of  Quaker  stock, 
and  there  he  was  brought  up  and  received  the  education  common  to  that  time,  which  was 
mainly  in  the  Quaker  Church.  He  was  married  near  Xenia,  Ohio,  in  April,  1815.  to  Eliza- 
beth Cadwallader,  a native  of  Virginia,  born  February  21,  1797,  a daughter  of  Moses  and 
Mary  Cadwallader.  He  farmed  in  the  vicinity  of  Xenia  until  1824,  then  came  to  Indiana 
where  he  entered  160  acres  of  land  in  Decatur  Township,  Marion  County,  on  which  he  lived 
until  within  a short  time  of  his  death  which  occurred  in  1878.  At  the  time  of  his  purchase 
this  land  was  covered  with  green  timber,  and  his  principal  possessions  consisted  of  a horse, 
a sack  of  flour  and  a (!ow,  having  spent  his  entire  amount  of  money,  consisting  of  $100,  in 
paying  for  his  first  eighty  acres.  Of  this  farm  he  and  his  sons  cleai'ed  100  acres.  He  was 
an  old  line  Whig  in  politics,  then  became  a Republican  and  supported  this  party  until  his 
death.  He  was  a member  of  the  Quaker  Church  and  in  this  faith  reared  his  children, 
eleven  of  whom  grew  to  maturity:  Mary  (deceased)  married  Wilson  Barnett  and  left  four 
children;  Allen,  Louisa,  Eli  and  Preston;  Solomon  first  married  Annie  Cox  and  afterward 
Mary  A.  Forsha,  by  whom  he  had  two  children:  Linton  and  Asbury;  Preston  (deceased) 
married  Susannah  Jessup,  by  whom  he  had  three  children:  Maria,  Dr.  J.  Quincy  and  Etta; 
Sallie,  widow  of  Layton  Mills,  has  four  children:  Elijah,  Lizzie,  Lona  and  Joseph;  Ellen 
(deceased)  became  the  wife  of  Israel  ComjJon  and  had  six  children;  Elijah,  Eliza  J.,  Sam- 


305 


AND  .VARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

uel,  Jasper,  Wesley  and  Sallie;  Hnldab,  first  married  Elijah  Mills  and  after  his  tleath 
became  the  wife  of  Levi  Ballard,  by  whom  she  had  six  children:  Amos,  Laura,  Emma,  Ella, 
Edward  and  Lizzie;  Moses  married  Mary  Jones  (deceased),  by  whom  he  has  three  children: 
Jesse,  Flora  and  Emma;  Joseph  married  Esther  Wilson,  and  to  them  three  children  were 
given:  James,  Elmer  and  Frederick;  Dr.  Wesley,  the  subject  of  this  biography;  Eliza,  who 
married  Rollin  Hospins,  with  two  children  survives  him,  the  names  of  the  latter  being  Dr. 
Walter  and  Horace;  and  William,  who  married  Mary  Constable,  has  one  son,  Charles.  The 
mother  of  these  children  was  called  from  life  October  31,  1870,  and  their  father  November 
y,  1878.  The  paternal  grandfather  of  Dr.  Allen,  Jackson  Allen,  was  a Virginian,  who  was 
born  about  1705.  He  lived  in  his  native  State  until  a few  years  before  his  death,  which 
occurred  at  the  home  of  his  son,  Solomon,  in  Parke  County,  Ind.  He  was  a Quaker  and  was 
married  to  Sarah  Bond  by  whom  he  had  12  children:  Joseph,  Solomon  (deceased),  Wesley, 
Benjamin,  Sallie  (Critz),  Harmony  (Bates),  Rebecca  (Woolman),  Mary  (Moody),  Alice 
(Sanders),  Anna  (Laird),  Edward  Allen,  and  Ruth  (Cox). 

Laban  Hakding.  Although  Marion  County,  Ind.,  is  well  known  for  the  energy,  enter- 
prise and  push  of  its  farmers,  Laban  Harding  stands  in  the  van  in  this  industry,  and  has 
shown  much  wisdom  and  good  judgment  in  the  conduct  of  agricultural  affairs,  and  through 
his  own  endeavors  has  won  an  enviable  reputation.  He  is  a native  of  the  Hoosier  State,  born 
in  Fayette  County,  near  Connorsville,  October  8,  1817,  and  at  an  early  age  became  familiar 
with  the  duties  of  farm  life.  He  was  born  on  the  farm  belonging  to  his  father,  the  same 
having  been  entered  by  his  grandfather  in  1810,  and  remained  on  the  same  until  live  years 
of  age  when  he  moved  with  his  pai'ents  to  Marion  County,  Ind.  His  father,  Ede  Harding, 
was  born  in  Washington  County,  Ky.,  in  1793,  and  in  1800  moved  with  his  parents  to  But- 
ler County,  Ohio.  There  he  remained  until  1810  when  he  came  to  Fayette  County,  Ind., 
and  there  resided  until  1822  when  he  moved  to  Marion  County,  this  State.  In  the  latter 
county  he  made  his  home  until  within  a year  or  so  of  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1875,  and 
died  at  the  home  of  his  daughter,  Mrs.  Sarah  Ray,  of  Hendricks  County,  Ind.  He  affiliated 
with  the  Democratic  party  up  to  the  campaign  of  1840,  when  he  voted  for  Harrison  and  was 
a Whig  until  the  formation  of  the  Republican  party,  with  which  he  W'as  ever  afterwaid  iden 
titled.  He  was  drafted  into  the  War  of  1812,  but  was  discharged  on  account  of  deafness. 
For  many  years  he  was  a worthy  member  of  the  Baptist  Church,  and  was  active  in  his  sup 
port  of  all  worthy  enterprises.  To  his  marriage  were  born  seven  children,  five  of  whom 
survive  as  follows:  Laban  (our  subject),  Lavina  (wlio  married  tirst  John  McCray,  and  after 
his  death,  Ambrose  Hume,  by  whom  she  had  six  children),  Oliver  (married  Miss  Lavina  Cox, 
who  bore  him  seven  children),  John  (married  Miss  Luna  Brown  and  they  have  three  chil- 
dren), and  Sarah  (who  married  first  Harrison  Ray,  by  whom  she  had  two  children,  and  after 
his  death  married  Robert  Spear).  The  mother  of  these  children  died  in  1850  and  the  father 
subsequently  married  Rebecca  Oowdy,  nee  Berm.  Robert  Harding,  grandfather  of  our  sub 
ject,  was  born  in  Washington  County,  Penn.,  about  1760,  and  was  married  in  that  State  to 
Martha  Wade.  Soon  after  he  emigrated  to  Kentucky  and  in  1808  moved  from  thereto  But- 
ler County,  Ohio,  and  thence  to  Indiana,  in  1821.  There  his  death  occurred  the  same  year 
at  the  home  of  his  son,  Ede,  father  of  our  subjerd,  in  Fayette  Ckrunty.  He  was  a soldier  in 
the  Revolutionary  War,  as  were  also  four  of  his  brothers.  He  was  the  father  of  a large  fam 
ily  of  cliildren,  thirteen  of  whom  grew  to  mature  years:  John,  Ruth,  Avis,  Martha,  Nancy, 
Mary,  Jemima,  Elikum,  Ede,  Rol)ert,  Samuel,  Israel  and  Lal)au.  He  was  of  English  extrao 
tion.  The  youthful  days  of  our  subject  were  passed  on  tlie  farm  of  117  acres  juirchased  by 
his  father  in  Wayne  Township,  and  he  received  his  scholastic  training  in  the  old-fashioned 
log  school-house  of  that  period,  attending  three  months  in  the  year,  and  going  a distance  of 
three  miles.  He  remained  under  the  parental  roof  until  twenty  one  years  of  age  and  assisted 
his  father  in  the  grist  mill.  On  December  21,  1837,  he  was  married  to  IMiss  •leiuima  McCray, 
daughter  of  Samuel  and  Elizabeth  (Lucas)  .McCray,  and  soon  after  movcal  on  a farm  in 
Wayne  T(.»wnship.  This  farm  consisted  of  sixty  tive  acres,  principally  green  timbi'r,  and  for 
this  he  j)aid  SI  1 per  acre.  Mr.  Harding  remained  on  this  farm  until  l866  and  then  moved 
to  his  present  farm  which  consists  of  106  acres.  Since  then  ho  has  added  to  the  original 
tract  until  ho  now  owns  225  acres,  a good  portion  of  which  is  well  improved  and  well  culti 
vated.  In  his  political  views  he  is  a Repul)lican  and  cast  his  first  presidential  vote  for  W. 


800 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


H.  Han  ison.  He  ia  a member  of  the  Baptist  Church  and  an  earnest  worker  in  the  same. 
Of  the  eleven  children  born  to  his  marriage,  all  lived  to  mature  years  except  Eliza  A.,  who 
died  when  eight  years  of  age.  The  remainder  are  as  follows:  John,  enlisted  in  Company 

I,  Seventh  llegiment  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry,  and  served  three  years  (he  held  the  rank 
of  corf)oral  when  mustered  out;  at  Chancellorsville  he  was  wounded  by  a piece  of  shell  and 
ilied  from  the  effects  of  the  same  at  his  home  in  November,  1805;  he  was  single);  Samuel 
E.  (single),  died  in  1802;  Mary  E.  (deceased),  was  a popular  and  well  known  teacher  of 
Wayne  Township,  having  followed  that  profession  in  the  township  for  twenty-two  years; 
Nancy,  married  Charles  Montgomery  and  they  have  eight  children,  Ella,  Myra,  Mary, 
(xeorge,  Samuel,  Sarah,  Flora  and  Kate);  Elmira,  married  Christian  Myers  and  died  in  1808; 
William  Newton  married  Mary  McConnell,  and  they  have  one  child,  William;  Minerva, 
married  John  McClelland  and  became  the  mother  of  six  children  (Raymond,  Eleanor,  Her- 
bert, Jemima,  John  and  Louise);  Kate;  Henry,  married  AlmaDuzan  and  is  the  father  of  one 
child,  George  Laban,  and  Louella,  married  Thomas  Craig. 

Fhiulip  J.  Roller.  In  giving  a history  of  the  prominent  citizens  of  the  Western  States 
the  biographical  department  of  this  work  would  be  incomplete  without  mentioning  the  gen- 
tleman whose  name  heads  this  sketch,  for  he  is  deservedly  ranked  among  its  prominent 
farmers  and  stock  men.  He  first  saw  the  light  of  day  April  20,  1838,  in  Coshocton  County, 
Ohio,  and  his  parents,  Andrew  and  Barbara  (Sandels)  Roller,  were  natives  of  Germany, 
coming  to  this  country  about  1835.  This  worthy  couple  were  the  jjarents  of  ten  children 
eight  sons  and  two  daughters  — four  of  the  sons  dying  in  childhood.  The  remainder  of 
the  children  grew  to  mature  years  and  were  named  as  follows:  Caspar,  married  Mrs. 
Elizabeth  Ermans;  Phillip  J.,  subject;  William  H.,  married  Miss  Margaret  Gashbaugh; 
George,  married  Miss  Anna  Roof;  Elizabeth,  became  the  wife  of  John  Roof,  and  Mary  Ann, 
single,  died  at  the  age  of  twenty-two.  Our  subject  grew  to  mature  years  in  his  native 
county,  secured  a fair  education  and  when  grown  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Emily 
Richcreek,  daughter  of  George  W.  and  Eliza  (Mansheld)  Richcreek.  Their  nuptials  were 
celebrated  November  27,  1801,  and  to  this  happy  union  seven  children  were  born — all  sons, 
none  of  whom  are  married  and  all  now  at  home  or  at  school  except  the  second,  Decatur,  who 
died  in  infancy.  Thej’^  were  named  as  follows:  William  J.,  born  November  7,  1862;  Er- 
nest, l)orn  June  10,  1867;  Andrew,  born  February  11,  1869;  George,  born  April  10,  1872; 
Benjamin  F.,  born  July  1,  1876,  and  Manford,  born  December  13,  1879.  The  old  adage 
that  “ in  unity  is  strength  ” is  not  better  illustrated  than  in  this  family.  The  parents 
started  in  life  with  limited  means  and  have  reared  this  family  of  bo3's,  tive  of  whom  have 
reached  man’s  estate  and  are  over  six  feet  in  height  and  weigh  about  200  pounds 
each.  They  are  all-  strong  temperance  men,  are  Democrats  iti  politics  and  in  church  mat- 
ters have  a leaning  toward  the  Methodists.  These  brothers  have  clung  together  and  have 
l)ecome  the  owners  of  922  acres  of  land,  each  acre  of  which  is  worth  flOO.  Besides  this 
they  have  a good  bank  account  and  are  classed  among  the  substantial  men  of  the  country. 
The  Richcreek  family,  of  which  Mrs.  Roller  is  a member,  came  originally  from  England 
and  settled  in  America  at  a very  early  date.  The  first  branch  of  this  family  to  take  root  in 
American  soil  was  David  Richcreek,  who  ci'ossed  the  ocean  from  England  and  settled  near 
Philadelphia,  Penn.,  about  1760.  David  married  Miss  Mary  Penn,  a direct  descendant  of 
William  Penn,  and  three  children  were  the  fruits  of  this  union:  Thomas,  David  and  Phil- 
lip. David  settled  near  Philadelphia,  Phillip  made  his  home  in  the  Old  Dominion  and 
Thomas  came  to  Ohio.  The  latter  reared  a family  of  three  sons  and  tive  daughters.  The 
sons  were  named  James,  David,  George  W.  (father  of  Mrs.  Roller),  and  the  daughters  were 
Nancy,  Maria,  Susan,  Casander  and  Leanor.  George  W.  Richcreek  married  Miss  Eliza 
Mansfield  and  eight  sons  and  three  daughters  were  born  to  them,  as  follows:  Absalom 
(deceased);  Mahala,  married  J.  Chamberlin  and  now  resides  in  Joplin,  Mo.;  Emily,  married 
our  subject;  Jared  C.,  married  Miss  Minnie  Kountz  and  makes  his  home  in  Montana,  Kan.; 
Edward  A.,  married  Miss  Frances  Baker  and  resides  in  Labette  County,  Kan.,  where  he  is 
now  probate  judge;  Benjamin  F.,  married  Mary  J.  Wilkinson  and  resides  in  Remington, 
Ind. ; Jesse,  married  Miss  Payne  and  lives  in  Great  Bend,  Kan.;  Anna  L.,  married  William 
R.  Moore  and  resided  in  McCune,  Kan.,  until  her  death,  in  January,  1892.  The  next  two. 
children  were  twins — Hiram  and  Howard.  The  former  is  married  and  resides  at  Decatur, 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  367 

III.,  aacl  the  latter  married  Miss  Effie  Crabtree  and  resides  near  Paris,  111..  The  mother  of 
these  children  died  in  February,  1882. 

William  Haeberle.  Few  among  the  many  excellent  meat  markets  and  groceries  that 
attract  the  eye  in  Indianapolis,  have  secured  a more  enduring  hold  on  public  favor  and  confi- 
dence than  the  establishment  conducted  by  William  Haeberle.  It  is  one  of  the  best  equipped 
stores  of  its  kind  in  the  city,  where  patrons  can  always  rely  upon  getting  a very  superior 
article,  satisfactory  treatment  and  prompt  attention.  Mr.  Haeberle  was  born  in  Germany  in 
February,  1863,  is  a young  man  of  pleasing  manners,  and  combines  push,  enterprise  and 
excellent  business  qualities,  and  has  before  him  a promising  future.  His  parents,  Gotlieb 
and  Frederika  Haeberle,  were  natives  of  the  old  country,  but  crossed  the  ocean  to  America  in 
1881  and  settled  in  Indianapolis.  They  were  the  parents  of  ten  children  of  which  seven  are 
living,  as  follows;  Gotlieb,  married  Miss  Mary  Branchle  and  is  now  living  in  Indianapolis; 
Frederika,  married  Adolph  Lentz  and  is  also  a resident  of  this  city;  Christian,  married  Caro- 
line Off  and  is  a resident  of  this  city;  Christiana,  married  Carl  Meiser  and  makes  her  home 
in  Germany;  Carrie,  married  John  Beyer  of  this  city;  Fredrick,  married  Miss  Amelia  Kiefer 
and  lives  in  Indianapolis;  and  William,  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  The  latter  was  about 
eighteen  years  of  age  when  he  came  with  his  parents  to  Indianapolis.  He  was  married  in 
February,  1885,  to  Miss  Anna  Kiefer,  daughter  of  Jacob  and  Frederika  Kiefer,  both  natives 
of  Germany.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kiefer  came  to  America  when  single  and  were  married  in  Indi- 
anapolis. Three  children  have  been  born  to  our  subject  and  wife:  Frederika,  born  August 
15,  1886;  Alma,  born  December  21,  1888;  and  Lula,  born  May  21,  1889.  Our  subject 
learned  the  butcher’s  trade  and  for  some  time  has  been  engaKed  in  that  business.  For  seven 
years  he  has  been  in  business  for  himself  and  has  a tine  grocery  store  and  meat  market  on 
Brookside  Avenue  and  Jujiiter  Street,  this  city.  In  recognition  of  the  class  of  people  he 
caters  to  Mr.  Haeberle  has  made  it  his  aim  to  keep  only  the  superior  meats  and  the  freshest 
and  best  groceries.  His  parents  are  living  but  his  wife’s  father  and  mother  are  both  deceased. 
To  the  latter  couple  were  born  five  children,  as  follows:  William,  single  and  residing  in 
Kansas;  Annie,  wife  of  our  subject;  Jacob,  single,  residing  in  Indianapolis;  Louis,  single 
and  lives  in  this  city;  and  Amelia,  married  Fredrick  Haeberle,  brother  of  our  subject,  and 
lives  in  Indianapolis. 

Fred  W.  Pape,  blacksmith  and  wagon-maker  at  83  Prospect  Street,  Indianapolis,  is  a 
mechanic  skilled  and  experienced  in  his  line  of  business.  His  career  has  been  distinguished 
for  enterprise  and  ujirightness  and  he  is  well  liked  in  the  community.  Possessed  of  more 
than  the  average  skill  in  his  business,  the  fickle  goddess  of  fortune  seems  to  smile  benignly 
on  him  and  his  aspirations,  and  he  has  gained  a large  and  permanent  patronage.  Born  in 
Germany,  March  7,  1866,  he  is  a son  of  William  and  Christina  (Hahne)  Pape,  natives  also 
of  the  Old  Country,  where  they  were  reared  and  married.  Six  children  were  liorn  to  tliis 
estimable  couple,  as  follows;  William,  married  Miss  Helena  Hiindling  and  resides  in  Indian 
apolis;  Christina,  married  William  Bodenberg  and  makes  her  home  in  this  city;  Fred  W. 
our  subject;  Henry,  deceased;  Charles,  single  and  resides  in  this  city,  and  Henry,  now  de 
ceased.  The  father  of  these  children  was  a soldier  in  the  German  army  and  participated  in 
the  French  War  in  1870  and  1871.  He  went  through  without  being  wounded  but  lost  his 
health  and  died  soon  after  the  war  closed.  After  his  death,  or  in  1885,  the  mother  came  to 
America  and  here  her  death  occurred  one  year  later.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  passed  his 
lioyhood  and  youth  in  his  native  country  and  was  there  educated.  He  learned  the  black 
smith  trade  in  Germany,  and  for  six  years  has  followed  that  in  connection  with  wagon  mak 
ing  in  Indianapolis.  .Success  has  crowned  his  efforts.  In  the  year  1887  he  was  married  in 
Indianapolis  to  Miss  Minnie  Holtz,  daughter  of  August  Holtz,  of  this  city,  and  two  children 
have  blessed  this  union : Walter,  born  in  1889,  and  Alfred,  born  in  1892.  Both  are  living 
and  are  bright,  intelligent  little  fellows.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Pape  are  members  of  the  German 
Lutheran  Church. 

Ei.i  Heiny.  This  gentleman  was  born  in  Stumptown  (now  New  Danville),  Lancaster 
County,  Penn.,. July  8, 1822,  and  about  1827  was  taken  by  his  parents  to  May  town,  l-*enn. , about 
seven  or  eight  miles  from  his  birtlqilace.  Two  years  later  they  removed  to  Carroll  County, 
Ohio,  where  the  father  purchased  forty  acres  of  green  timber  land  and  on  this  place  they 
lived  for  some  three  or  four  years.  They  continued  to  reside  in  this  county  until  Eli  was 


308 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


about  fourteen  years  of  age  llien  moved  to  NWayne  County,  Cliio,  and  purchased  120  acres 
of  land  on  which  they  lived  two  years  then  sold  out  and  returned  to  Carroll  County  where 
the  parents  again  purchased  eighty  acres  of  green  timber  land  and  the  father  with  the 
assistance  of  his  five  sons  started  to  clear  it.  They  sold  out  on  the  day  that  William  Henry 
Harrison  was  elected  President,  loaded  their  goods  on  a wagon  and  started  for  Indiana,  but 
on  their  way  out  of  the  county,  passed  the  polls  and  although  he  and  his  eldest  sons  were 
Democrats  and  an  attempt  was  made  to  prevent  them  from  casting  their  ballot  they  were 
determined  to  exercise  their  right  of  franchise  and  succeeded  in  casting  their  vote  for  the 
Democratic  candidate.  They  then  proceeded  on  their  way  and  at  the  end  of  three  weeks 
reached  their  destination  which  was  Hamilton  County.  There  the  father  purchased  120 
acres  of  land,  for  which  he  paid  $000,  and  set  about  the  arduous  labor  of  clearing  his  land, 
his  iron  constitution  standing  him  in  good  stead  amid  the  hardships  and  privations  of  pio- 
neer life.  Until  a log  house  could  be  erected  the  family  lived  in  a rented  log  house  in  the 
vicinity,  then  moved  into  their  own  house  in  the  spring  of  1841,  which  at  that  time  was  con- 
sidered a substantial  and  convenient  residence.  The  house  was  built  of  hewed  logs,  with 
clapboard  roof,  puncheon  floor,  etc.,  and  here  Eli  made  his  home  i;ntil  his  marriage  in  the 
spring  of  1848,  although  from  the  time  he  attained  his  majority  he  labored  for  himself 
among  the  various  farmers  of  the  neighborhood,  receiving  for  his  services  about  $7  per 
mouth.  He  chopped  cordwood  for  25  cents  a cord,  averaging  about  two  and  a half  cords  a 
day,  and  considei-ed  that  he  was  doing  well  to  earn  that  much.  He  also  drove  hogs  from 
Noblesville,  Ind.,  to  Peru,  and  from  Noblesville  to  Cincinnati,  for  Hl^  cents  a day  in 
trade,  being  compelled  to  return  home  on  foot.  He  was  allowed  $2  for  expenses  on  the 
trip  to  Cincinnati,  a journey  that  lasted  ten  days,  and  on  one  trip  saved  $1  of  that 
money.  The  Wabash  River  had  to  be  forded,  as  there  was  no  bridge,  and  many  times  he 
had  to  wade  the  river  in  December  when  the  water  was  almost  at  freezing  point.  This 
was  in  1844  and  Mr.  Heiny  used  to  cheer  himself  up  with  singing  the  campaign  songs 
that  were  so  popular  in  that  day.  In  March,  1848,  he  was  united  in  wedlock  to  Catherine, 
daughter  of  Henry  Brenneman,  a native  of  Pennsylvania,  in  which  State  she  was  also  born 
and  in  the  same  little  village  in  which  Mr.  Heiny  first  saw  the  light  of  day.  Immediately 
after  his  marriage  he  rented  103  acres  of  land  of  his  father-in-law  in  Perry  Township, 
Marion  County,  having  become  ac<juainted  with  Mr.  Brenneman  while  selling  clocks  in 
Marion  and  adjoining  counties,  a business  he  had  carried  on  for  about  six  months,  prior  to 
the  death  of  his  father,  at  which  he  earned  about  $12  a month  and  expenses.  He  continued 
to  rent  land  for  about  ten  years,  at  the  end  of  which  time  Mr.  Brenneman  deeded  the  farm 
to  him  and  his  wife.  There  was  an  old  one-story  brick  house  on  the  place  and  a round  log 
stable,  but  eight  years  later,  in  185(5,  his  father  in-law  put  up  for  him  a big  two-story  frame 
house  in  which  he  and  his  family  have  lived  ever  since,  although  excellent  additions  of  brick 
have  been  made.  At  the  time  he  located  on  the  farm  only  about  twenty-three  acres  were 
cleared  but  he  has  since  cleared  about  forty  acres,  twelve  of  which  were  quite  heavily  cov- 
ered with  sugar  maples  and  black  walnut  trees.  The  former  trees  he  cut  into  cordwood 
which  he  sold  for  $1.50  a cord  and  the  walnut  trees  he  split  into  rails  and  the  refuse  he 
burned.  In  1850  he  purchased  eighty  acres  of  land  in  Hamilton  County  for  $700  and  three 
or  four  years  later  he  sold  this  land  for  $1,500.  In  1856  he  bought  300  acres  in  Center 
Township,  Marion  County,  for  $7,000,  borrowing  $1,000  to  pay  down  and  giving  a mortgage 
for  the  rest.  As  the  payments  came  due  he  met  them  and  six  years  later  he  sold  the  land 
for  $17,000,  half  of  which  went  to  his  brother-in-law,  who  purchased  the  place  with  him. 
In  18(55  he  bought  167  acres  in  Perry  Township,  paying  therefor  $14,100,  and  he  is  also  the 
owner  of  some  valuable  property  in  Indianapolis  on  South  Meridian  Street  and  State  Street. 
He  has  always  been  a Democrat  politically  and  in  1876  was  nominated  i)y  that  party  to  the 
important  office  of  county  treasurer,  but  he  was  defeated,  as  was  the  balance  of  the  ticket, 
and  for  the  same  position  he  was  again  defeated,  with  his  ticket,  in  1882,  although  on  both 
occasions  his  friends  declared  him  elected.  In  1888  he  was  made  the  nominee  for  State 
representative,  without  solicitation  on  his  part,  and  with  his  ticket  was  triumphantly  elected. 
He  gave  his  hearty  support  to  all  Democratic  measures  and  the  good  of  his  .section  was 
always  his  first  thought,  in  fact,  he  made  an  able  and  influential  legislator.  Seven  children 
have  been  born  to  himself  and  wife,  two  of  whom  (twin  boys)  died  in  infancy.  The  five 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  3(39 

who  grew  up  are  as  follows:  Benjainiu  F. : Isaac  M. , who  married  Mary,  daughter  of  Johu 
Anderson,  has  two  children — Charles  and  Mabel;  Henry  H. ; Levi  Clinton,  and  Charles  W. 
Mr.  Heiny’s  father,  Jacob,  was  born  in  Pennsylvania  in  1795  and  for  some  time  kept  tavern 
in  Lancaster  and  Maytown.  He  was  a cooper  by  trade  but  did  not  follow  it  a great  deal. 
He  died  in  Hamilton  County,  lud.,  in  1847,  aged  fifty-two  years,  having  been  married  in 
Pennsylvania  in  1818  to  Catherine  Gall,  to  whom  were  born  eight  children,  of  whom  Isaac 
died  in  infancy.  The  following  grew  to  maturity;  Henry,  who  died  April  15,  1863,  aged 
forty-four  years  two  months  and  nine  days,  married  Annette  Stichter,  of  Noblesville,  Ind. ; 
Eliza  (Forre)  lives  in  Clarksville,  Ind.;  Eli  (the  subject  of  this  sketch);  Christian,  of  Hamil- 
ton County,  Ind.,  married  Barbara  Heiuy,  a distant  relative;  George  is  a resident  of  Indian- 
ola,  Iowa,  and  is  married;  Jacob  died  May  29,  1873,  aged  forty -seven  years  and  twenty  days, 
unmarried;  Maria  married  Isaac  M.  Caylor,  of  Clarksville,  Ind.  Elizabeth  Heiny,  grand- 
mother of  subject,  whose  maiden  name  was  Stern,  was  born  in  Lancaster  County,  Penn. , 
June  6,  1776,  and  died  February  8,  1856,  aged  seventy-nine  years  seven  mouths  and  twenty- 
three  days.  The  grandfather  John  Heiuy  was  born  in  Lancaster  County,  Penn. 

Martin  Seerley.  He  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  is  a native  of  Frederick  County, 
Md.,  where  he  was  born  November  15,  1818,  being  taken  by  his  parents  to  Lancaster  County, 
Penn.,  in  1824,  which  place  continued  to  be  his  home  until  the  fall  of  1836,  when  he  came 
to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  soon  after  which  his  father  entered  forty  acres  of  land  in  Hancock 
County,  but  never  lived  on  it.  He  was  a sicklesmith  by  trade,  but  had  lost  his  eyesight 
before  leaving  Pennsylvania,  therefore  never  afterward  working  at  this  occupation.  After 
the  arrival  of  the  family  in  this  section  Martin  and  his  brother  rented  eighty  acres  of  land 
on  Fall  Creek  which  they  tilled  two  years,  then  rented  eighty  acres  on  White  River  in  Wash- 
ington Township,  which  they  farmed  eight  years,  after  which  they  rented  a 160-acre  tract  in 
Center  Township  for  eight  years.  In  1855  Martin  purchased  eighty  acres  of  Jesse  Grace 
in  Decatur  Township,  about  one-half  of  which  was  cleared  and  in  which  they  moved,  set- 
tling in  a little  log  house  which  had  been  erected  thereon.  In  1870  he  purchased  fifty-two 
acres  more,  and  in  1872  made  an  additional  purchase  of  sixty  acres,  and  in  1877  of  forty 
acres.  Of  this  land  thirty  acres  are  in  timber,  twenty-five  or  thirty  acres  are  cleared, 
and  200  acres  are  under  cultivation,  averaging  about  eighteen  bushels  of  wheat  to  the  acre. 
Mr.  Seerley  has  always  been  a Republican  in  his  political  views,  and  his  first  vote  was  cast 
for  James  K.  Polk,  notwithstanding  the  fact  that  his  father  was  a Democrat.  He  belongs 
to  the  English  Lutheran  Church,  in  which  he  is  an  elder,  and  at  various  times  has  helil 
township  offices.  October  31,  1844,  he  was  married  to  Elcinda,  daughter  of  Daniel  and 
Elizabeth  Bower,  by  whom  he  became  the  father  of  eight  children,  Martin  L.,  who  married 
Mary  B.,  daughter  of  John  M.  Chamberlain,  by  whom  he  has  seven  children;  Sarah  F., 
Elizabeth,  John  M.,  Thomas  W.,  Nellie  B.,  Indiana  and  Victoria;  Silas,  who  married  Rhoda 
B. , daughter  of  Thomas  F.  Armstrong,  has  two  children:  Mary  M.  and  William  E.  ; Julia 
A.,  w’ho  married  Jonathan  Foltz,  has  four  children,  Gertrude,  Bertha  F.,  Mary  B.  and 
Sarah;  Joseph  D.  married  Ruth  E. , daughter  of  John  Scott,  and  has  two  children:  Jessie 
and  Ruth  Etta:  Mary,  who  married  Elijah  S.  Miller,  and  has  three  children,  Albert  N., 
Harry  and  Lulu  P. ; and  Sarah  C.,  who  married  Perry  F.  Hurd,  by  whom  she  has  a daugh- 
ter, Mary  E.  Two  children  born  to  Mr.  and  Mrs,  Seerley  died  in  infancy.  -Joseph  Seerley, 
the  father  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  liorn  in  Pennsylvania  in  1782,  and  was  brouglit 
up  in  the  State  of  Ids  birth.  He  was  married  in  1817  to  Elizabeth,  daughter  of  George  P. 
Brown,  and  died  in  Indiana  in  1842,  having  lieen  an  active  jiarticipant  in  the  War  of  1812. 
His  family  consisted  of  six  children,  five  of  whom  lived  to  grow  U|>:  Martin;  Thomas,  who 
married  Eliza  A.  Smith,  by  whom  he  liecame  the  father  of  three  children;  Homer  H.,  -John 
J.  and  Frank  N. ; William,  who  married  Mary  Messersmith,  became  the  father  of  ten  chil 
dren:  Marcellus,  Bayard,  Horace,  Frank,  Elwood  1).,  Charles  T.,  William,  Flora,  Grace  and 
Ida;  El  izabeth,  widow  of  Peter  Blue,  has  nine  children:  Indiana  (who  married  Nelson 
Chamberlain),  Rometa,  Rachel,  Charles,  (who  married  a Miss  Lewis),  Alliert,  Cortez  and  Ivato 
(twins),  George  and  l>lanche.  'The  grandmother  of  these  children  died  in  1869  at  the  age  of 
seventy  nine  years  and  ten  months.  'I’lie  grandfather,  Joseph  Seerley,  was  born  about  1766. 
Itaniel  Bower,  the  father  of  Mrs.  Martin  Seerley,  was  born  in  Frederick  County,  Md.,  l*'eb 
ruary  I,  1866,  and  was  married  there  in  1821  to  Elizabeth,  daughter  of  Jacob  Ringer, 


870 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


and  in  1888  they  came  to  Indiana,  and  after  one  year’s  residence  in  New  Harmony  came  to 
Marion  County,  Ind. , where  they  lived  until  their  respective  deaths,  October  21,  1852,  and 
December  23,  1872.  Mr.  Bower  was  a farmer,  andhadlon^  been  a member  of  the  Lutheran 
Church.  To  himself  and  wife  eight  children  were  given,  the  following  of  whom  lived  to 
maturity;  Elcinda  ( Mr.s.  SeerleyJ ; Louisa;  Mahala  C.  ; Luther,  who  married  Rebecca  Smith, 
and  is  now  dead;  Ann  E.,  married  Samuel  Harper;  Emeline,  who  became  the  wife  of  Jacob 
Van  Valkenburg,  and  is  now  no  more.  The  maternal  grandfather  of  Mrs.  Seerley  was  Jacob 
Ringer,  who  emigrated  to  America  in  his  early  manhood.  He  was  born  about  1775,  was 
married  about  179b,  and  became  the  father  of  four  children;  Barbara  (deceased),  who  mar- 
ried Conrad  Ringer;  Katharine  (deceased),  who  married  Henry  Werstler;  Daniel,  who 
married  Elizabeth  Ringer;  and  Jacob  (deceased),  who  married  Maria  Snay.  Mr.  Bower 
died  about  the  year  1848. 

Adam  Scott.  It  is  with  true  interest  that  the  biographer  takes  up  his  pen  to  speak  of 
those  worthy  citizens  whose  active  lives  have  ceased  on  earth  but  whose  influence  extends 
still  and  will  continue  to  extend  among  all  who  knew  them.  This  truth  is  doubly  true  when 
such  a man  has  established  for  himself  and  his  children  a reputation  for  integrity,  character 
and  ability.  Adam  Scott  was  born  in  Jedborough,  Scotland,  March  81,  1825,  and  was  one  of 
the  oldest  and  best  known  c.ontractors  and  builders  of  Indianapolis.  His  death,  which  oc- 
curred June  lb,  1898,  was  the  result  of  an  acute  attack  of  pneumonia,  coupled  with  heart 
complications.  In  1850,  when  this  city  was  com])aratively  a village,  Mr.  Scott  settled  in 
Indianapolis,  and  sitice  that  time,  until  his  death,  he  constantly  resided  here.  For  many 
years  he  was  of  the  firm  of  Scott  A Nicholson,  and  carried  on  an  immense  business  on  Ken- 
tucky Avenue,  where  the  plans  for  some  of  the  best  buildings  in  the  State  were  jirepared. 
Of  late  years  he  was  with  Charles  Pierce,  one  of  the  most  extensive  public  contractors  in  the 
United  States.  The  first  work  done  in  Indianapolis  l)y  Mr.  Scott  was  the  building  of  the 
stone  work  utilized  in  the  Deaf  and  Dumb  Asylum,  and  he  afterward  constructed  the  Marion 
County  Court  House,  the  Bates  House  and  other  of  the  most  substantial  buildings  in  the 
city.  His  fame  as  a builder  was  not  confined  to  his  home,  and  the  magnificent  custom  houses 
at  Atlanta,  Ga. , and  Birmingham,  Ala.,  were  constructed  under  his  supervision.  In  1888 
he  retired  from  business,  but  was  not  content  to  spend  the  remainder  of  his  days  in  idle- 
ness and,  as  above  stated,  he  formed  a partnership  with  Charles  Pierce  A Co.,  with  which 
company  he  was  prominent  in  the  erection  of  the  court-house  at  Mirncie,  Anderson  and 
Evansville.  After  the  completion  of  the  Evansville  edifice,  Mr.  Scott  again  retired  from 
business  pursuits  and  lived  a quiet  life  with  his  family  until  his  death.  In  character  his 
true  old  Scotch  blood  was  always  apparent  and  his  honest,  straightforward  principles  were 
the  pride  of  his  life.  There  was  no  pretense  or  humbug  aboiit  him.  He  was  what  he  ap- 
peared to  be,  an  honest  man,  whose  sympathies  were  always  with  the  p.eople.  He  was  a 
stanch  Republican  in  politics,  but  took  no  man  to  task  on  account  of  an  opposite  political 
belief.  The  Masouic  Adcocate  \n  speaking  of  him  says;  “It  was  our  privilege  to  know  him 
for  many  years,  and  for  the  last  few  years  to  enjoy  an  intimate  friendship  that  often  brought 
us  together.  We  have  never  known  a more  candid,  consistent,  upright  man,  nor  one  who 
followed  the  golden  rule  more  closely  in  all  his  intercourse  with  others.”  He  was  a charter 
member  of  Pentalpha  Lodge,  No.  5b4,  A.  F.  A A.  M.,  and  also  a thirty-second  member  of  the 
Scottish  Rite.  For  many  years  he  was  a member  of  the  English  Lutheran  church,  and  a 
deacon  in  the  same  for  some  time.  He  was  twice  married. 

Harry  M.  Mayhew.  To  follow  out  the  lines  of  trade  centering  in  a provision  store 
would  call  for  considerable  experience  of  one’s  mental  powers.  The  dealer  in  the  necessi- 
ties of  life  must  needs  be  a man  of  great  discrimination  and  superior  judgment  and  these 
essential  (qualities  are  possessed  in  an  eminent  degree  by  Harry  M.  Mayhew,  who  has  a well 
located,  well  supplied  and  admirably  conducted  establishment  in  North  Indianapolis,  which 
was  established  three  years  ago  on  a limited  scale,  but  which  at  once  leaped  into  popular 
favor  and  is  now  one  of  the  well- patronized  business  houses  of  that  portion  of  the  city. 
He  was  born  at  Shelbyville,  Shelby  County,  Ind.,  December  22,  1858,  his  father,  Frank 
Mayhew,  having  been  born  in  Cincinnati,  in  which  city  he  learned  the  trade  of  a carriage 
painter.  He  afterward  moved  to  Shelbyville  and  still  later  to  Waldron,  Ind.,  where  he 
died  at  the  untimely  age  of  thirty-five  years,  at  which  time  his  son,  Harry  M.,  was  a small 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  371 

child.  He  was  a member  of  an  Indiana  regiment  during  the  Civil  War  and  was  a man  of 
much  public  spirit  and  enterprise.  Harry  M.  Mayhew  was  educated  in  the  2)nb]ic  schools 
of  Shelbyville  and  while  growing  up  learned  the  trade  which  his  father  had  followed — that 
of  cari'iage  painting.  He  also  has  two  brothers  that  followed  in  their  father’s  footsteps  and 
all  are  substantial  residents  of  North  Indianapolis.  After  becoming  proficient  in  his  trade 
he  followed  the  calling  of  a carriage  painter  for  eight  years,  starting  in  business  with  no 
capital,  but  his  success  was  assured  from  the  start  for  he  possessed  the  necessary  energy, 
push  and  intelligence,  and  was  not  slow  to  grasp  at  any  opportunity  that  came  in  his  way. 
He  has  always  been  keenly  alive  to  his  own  interests,  but  he  has  never  taken  advantage  of 
others’  necessity,  and  as  a natural  consequence  he  has  numerous  warm  friends  and  his  estab- 
lishment is  well  patronized.  He  has  been  a resident  of  North  Indianapolis  for  the  past 
eleven  years,  having  located  in  this  section  when  there  was  no  town  whatever.  He  has 
seen  the  place  grow  and  develop  into  a town  of  '2,000  or  more  inhabitants  and  to  become 
one  of  the  most  desirable  suburbs  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis.  Mr.  Mayhew  is  married  to 
Miss  Liunie  Fonts,  of  Indianapolis,  by  whom  he  has  one  bright  and  promising  little  son — 
Russell. 

Dr.  Shadrach  L.  Ferree.  One  of  the  old  and  honored  medicine  men  and  citizens  of 
Indianapolis  is  Dr.  Shadrach  L.  Ferree.  This  gentleman  was  born  in  Clermont  County, 
Ohio,  July  14,  1830,  and  is  a son  of  Moses  and  Keziah  (Medearis)  Ferree.  His  father  was 
a native  of  Kentucky  and  was  one  of  the  early  settlers  of  Rush  County,  Ind.,  having  located 
there  as  early  as  1835,  and  made  his  home  there  during  the  balance  of  his  life,  which  ter- 
minated May  5,  1863.  He  was  a careful  and  successful  farmer  and  a good  business  manager 
and  man  of  affairs,  as  is  evidenced  by  the  fact  that  when  he  located  in  Rush  County  he  pos- 
sessed himself  of  160  acres  of  unimproved  but  favorably  situated  land,  which  he  improved 
and  built  on  until  it  was  one  of  the  finest  farms  in  the  county,  besides  rearing  and  helping 
his  children  in  various  ways,  and  otherwise  accumulated  a tine  property.  His  wife,  who  was 
a native  of  Ohio,  survived  him  until  April  25,  1885,  and  died  at  Greensburg,  Ind. , aged 
eighty-three  years.  Of  the  twelve  children  of  this  worthy  couple,  two  of  their  sons,  Rich- 
ard C.  and  Charles  M.  Ferree,  twins,  served  the  Union  cause  in  the  Civil  War  and  the 
former  was  killed  at  Resaca,  the  latter  afterward  becoming  a well-known  citizen  and  cap- 
italist of  Kansas  City,  Mo.  When  his  parents  removed  to  Rush  county  Dr.  Ferree  was  tive 
years  old.  He  was  reared  in  the  old  jjioneer  way  upon  his  father’s  primitive  farm  and 
gained  his  early  education  in  the  common  schools,  by  three  or  four  months’  attendance  dur 
ing  the  winter  seasons,  his  services  being  required  by  his  father  during  the  balance  of  the 
year,  for  those  were  days  when  help  was  scarce  and  ready  money  was  not  plenty,  and  about 
every  member  of  every  family,  from  the  youngest  to  the  eldest,  was  obliged  to  assume  some 
])art  of  the  burden  of  providing  for  the  sustenance  and  welfare  of  the  family.  At  the  age 
of  twenty,  l)eing  dissatisfied  with  the  education  he  had  been  enabled  to  obtain,  he  so  man- 
aged to  study  a year  in  the  academy  at  Knightstown,  and  later  was  enal)led  to  be  a student 
for  two  years  thereafter  at  Asbury  University  at  Greencastle,  Ind.  After  leaving  the  last 
mentioned  institution,  lie  was  for  two  years  engaged  successfully  in  the  drug  business  at 
Colnml)U8,  Ind.,  and  during  that  time  took  up  and  jmrsued  the  study  of  medicine  to  the 
point  when  he  was  obliged  to  dispose  of  his  drug  store  in  order  to  return  home  and  com- 
jilete  his  professional  education.  This  he  did,  and  in  due  time  we  find  him  located  at 
Greenwood,  busily  engaged  in  the  practice  of  medicine  and  surgery.  In  1861,  after  two 
years  there,  he  removed  to  London,  Ind.,  and  there  resided,  practicing  and  constantly  study- 
ing his  profession  until  1880.  Meantime,  in  I860,  he  attended  the  Indiana  Medical  Ckdlege, 
graduating  therefrom  in  1870,  one  of  the  first  to  receive  the  degree  of  M.  D.  from  that  institu- 
tion. In  1880  he  txjok  up  his  residence  in  Indiaiuqiolis  where  he  has  since  (Mijoyed  a profitable 
and  constantly  widening  [irofessional  popularity.  He  is  a member  of  the  Marion  (fount v 
Medical  Society  and  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society,  and  is  in  everyway  influent  ial  and 
useful  in  his  profession  as  well  as  a citizen.  Dr.  Ferrei;  was  married  June  13,  1861,  to 
Fmmeret  E.  Loomis,  a native  of  New  York,  and  a daughter  of  Major  Riiel  and  Eleanor 
(Haven)  Loomis.  .Major  Loomis  began  service  in  the  Uivil  War  with  the  rank  of  ca])tain 
and  was  |)romoted  for  merit  to  major  of  the  Fifth  Indiana  Cavalry.  Later,  he  gave  u])  his 
life  to  his  country  at  the  battle  of  Marietta.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Ferree  have  had  five  children. 


372 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


only  two  of  whom  are  living;  Leslie  C.  and  Edgar  L.  Ferrte,  both  of  Kansas  City,  where 
the  first  is  engaged  in  the  real  estate  and  loan  business  and  the  latter  holds  a responsible 
position  in  the  custom  house.  Since  the  organization  of  the  Republican  party,  in  1850,  Dr. 
Ferree  has  been  a Republican,  having  cast  his  vote  for  Glen.  Fremont,  and  for  every  snbse- 
(juent  nominee  of  his  party  for  the  PTesidency  down  to  Benjamin  Harrison.  He  and  his 
wife  are  members  of  the  Methodist  Episcojnil  Church. 

Charles  H.  Schad.  There  is  no  branch  of  business  more  important  in  the  whole  list  of 
occupations  than  that  of  the  druggist.  A prominent  and  representative  establishment  devoted 
to  this  branch  of  industry  is  that  of  Mr.  Charles  H.  Schad,  who  now  carries  on  a successful 
drug  trade  at  344  East  Washington.  He  served  an  apprenticeship  and  remained  with  his 
employer  ten  years,  after  which  he  branched  out  for  himself,  since  whiqh  time  he  has  con- 
ducted the  business  with  gratifying  success.  He  carries  stock  valued  at  over  |6,000,  does 
retail  business,  and  manufactures  many  specialties  in  the  drug  line.  He  at  all  times  carries 
a complete  line  of  pure  drugs,  medicines,  patent  mixtures,  perfumery,  toilet  articles,  fancy 
goods  and  the  usual  druggist’s  sundries.  Special  attention  is  paid  to  the  compounding  of 
physicians’  prescriptions  and  family  receipts,  the  same  being  put  up  with  care,  dispatch 
and  accuracy.  Mr.  Schad  was  born  in  Indianapolis  September  21,  1855,  and  is  of  Ger- 
man descent,  his  father,  Mathias  Schad,  being  a native  of  Germany.  The  elder  Schad  left 
his  native  country  for  this  in  1852  and  located  in  Indianapolis,  Ind.  His  wife,  whose  maiden 
name  was  Christina  Weishaar,  was  also  a product  of  the  old  country,  where  they  were  mar- 
ried. Mathias  Schad  was  a merchant  tailor  and  carried  on  the  business  a number  of  years. 
His  death  occurred  in  December,  18S3,  after  a long  life  of  usefulness.  The  mother  had 
passed  away  several  years  j)reviously.  Six  childien  were  given  them  and  are  now  living. 
The  original  of  this  notice  was  reared  in  Indianapolis  and  received  his  education  in  the 
schools  connected  with  the  German  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  also  the  public  schools  of 
the  city.  When  a small  boy  he  sold  daily  pa])ers  in  the  streets  of  the  city  and  later  entered 
a drug  store.  Although  he  commenced  life  for  himself  without  any  means,  by  industry  and 
perseverance  he  has  amassed  considerable  property  and  is  ihjw  one  of  the  leading  business 
men  of  the  city.  He  is  highly  esteemed  for  his  courteous  manners  and  strict  integrity  and 
has  met  with  well  deserved  success.  He  is  a member  of  the  State  Pharmaceutical  Associa- 
tion, County  Association,  and  is  thoroughly  posted  in  all  matters  relating  to  the  drug  trade. 
He  has  shown  his  appreciation  of  secret  organizations  by  becoming  a member  of  the  Masonic 
fraternity.  Mr.  Schad  was  married  April  31,  1879,  to  Miss  Mary  Payne,  a native  of  Lan- 
caster, Ky.,  and  to  this  union  have  been  born  three  children:  Carl  H.,  Gertrude  A. 
and  Clarence  R.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Schad  are  members  of  the  Episcopal  Church.  Mr.  Schad 
advocates  the  principles  of  the  Republican  party  and  has  been  active  in  the  best  interests 
of  his  party  in  bis  ward,  serving  on  election  board,  etc. 

Charles  A.  Dale.  People  who  have  real  estate  for  sale  should  appreciate  the  impor- 
ance  of  placing  it  with  an  agent  who  is  thoroughly  acquainted  with  the  business  and  has 
business  connections  that  enable  him  to  reach  the  purchaser  prom[)tly  and  secure  as  early  a 
transfer  of  the  property  as  consistent  with  the  best  interests  of  the  owner.  Prospective 
purchasers  shoiild  also,  when  they  wish  to  buy,  consult  with  an  agency  that  is  well 
ac(juainted  with  values  and  has  the  reputation  of  dealing  honorably  with  all  parties  to  a 
contract  in  every  instance.  Such  an  agency  as  this  will  be  found  in  Charles  A.  Dale,  who,  at 
his  conveniently  located  office,  is  prepared  at  all  times  to  exhibit  an  excellent  line  of  property, 
as  well  as  to  enter,  on  his  books,  any  additional  business  that  may  be  offered  him.  He 
transacts  all  business  on  the  principle  that  he  expects  in  the  future  to  deal  with  the  same 
parties  again.  He  does  such  business  in  his  line  as  may  be  offered  him,  and  since  embark- 
ing in  the  business  in  1891  he  has  built  up  a business  that  is  not  only  extensive  but  also 
profitable.  Charles  A.  Dale  was  born  in  Tipton,  Tipton  County,  Ind.,  February  10,  1866, 
son  of  James  I.  N.  and  Zerelda  (Lee)  Dale.  James  I.  N.  Dale  was  a native  of  Ohio,  born 
in  1828,  and  was  an  extensive  constructor  and  brick  manufacturer  at  Tipton,  Ind.,  for  several 
years,  where  he  had  located  during  the  earlier  period  of  his  life.  He  was  a lover  of  art  and 
music  and  was  considered  one  of  the  finest  musicians  of  Tipton  County.  In  politics  he  was 
an  ardent  Republican,  and  for  many  years  he  was  a consistent  member  of  the  Presbyterian 
Church.  His  death  occurred  in  1869.  His  wife,  who  is  a native  of  Kentucky  and  a distant 


373 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

relative  of  Gen.  Lee,  survives  him  and  resides  with  her  son,  Charles  A. , in  Indianapolis. 
The  latter  passed  his  boyhood  days  in  his  native  town  until  attaining  the  age  of  fourteen, 
when  his  mother  removed  to  Jouesville,  where  he  continued  his  studies  toward  acquiring  a 
good  practical  education,  such  as  the  schools  of  that  section  and  period  afforded.  Later  the 
family  removed  to  Virginia,  III.,  whei'e  he  learned  the  carpenter’s  trade.  In  1884  Mr.  Dale 
returned  to  Jouesville  and  in  company  with  his  brother-in-law  made  a trip  to  Kansas,  after 
which  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  began  work  at  his  trade.  Possessed  of  energy  and  good 
business  and  executive  ability  he  soon  began  contracting  and  building  on  his  own  account. 
Meeting  with  deserved  success,  he  was  enabled  to  carry  a considerable  supply  of  lumber,  and 
eventually  extended  his  business  operations  until  he  was  operating  a planing  mill  and 
general  lumber  business  on  an  extensive  scale.  At  this  period  an  unfortunate  and  serious 
accident  happened  to  an  employe  operating  a machine  in  the  planing  mill,  which  resulted 
in  a suit  and  judgment  for  damages,  and  required  all  the  property  Mr.  Dale  had  accumu- 
lated to  adjust  the  matter.  He  then  removed  to  Seattle,  Wash.,  where  he  became  manager 
of  a large  lumber  company  which  had  been  placed  in  the  hands  of  a receiver.  Upon  his 
return  to  Indianapolis  in  1891,  he  engaged  in  his  present  business,  and  is  now  at  the  head  of 
the  firm  of  Charles  A.  Dale  & Co.,  which  under  his  management  is  rapidly  coming  to  the 
front  as  one  of  the  most  reliable  real  estate  firms  in  Indianapolis.  Mr.  Dale  was  instru- 
mental in  organizing  the  Farm  and  Lot  Savings  and  Loan  Association,  and  is  secretary  and 
director  of  the  same,  the  object  of  which  is  to  operate  principally  among  farmers,  enabling 
them  to  borrow  money  and  pay  for  farms  on  the  same  plans  as  building  and  loan  associations. 
In  May,  1893,  he  assisted  in  the  organization  of  the  Personal  Property  Savings  and  Loan 
Association,  and  is  secretary  and  director  of  the  same,  it  being  the  only  one  of  the  kind  in 
the  United  States,  whose  object  is  to  loan  to  responsible  parties  money  on  personal  property. 
Mr.  Dale  is  a member  of  the  Plymouth  Church.  In  politics  he  is  generally  independent, 
voting  for  the  man  whom  he  considers  best  fitted  for  the  office. 

Dr.  Charles  B.  Knerr.  Among  the  promising  young  physicians  of  Indianapolis  stands 
the  name  of  Charles  B.  Knerr  who  was  born  February  10,  1854,  in  Reading,  Penn.,  of  which 
city  his  father,  Levi  P.  Knerr,  was  also  a native.  The  latter  was  a machinist  by  trade,  at  one 
time  was  master  mechanic  and  had  chargeof  Philadelphia  Navy  Yards.  He  served  as  lieutenant- 
colonel  of  a Pennsylvania  Volunteer  Regiment  in  the  Mexican  War,  and  was  on  duty  from  begin- 
ning to  finish.  He  married  Miss  Mary  A.  Miller,  a native  also  of  the  Keystone  State,  and 
in  that  State  both  received  their  final  summons,  the  father  dying  May  24,  1876,  and  the  latter 
in  March,  1887.  Both  were  highly  respected  by  all  ac(|uainted  with  them,  being  honorable, 
upright  citizens.  The  original  of  this  notice.  Dr.  Charles  B.  Knerr,  received  his  scholastic 
training  in  the  common  schools  and  later  learned  the  machinist’s  trade,  following  locomo- 
tive work  for  twenty  years.  In  1877  he  came  to  Indiana  and  located  at  Lafayette,  where  he 
worked  at  his  trade  until  1880,  after  which  he  apj)eared  in  Indianapolis.  Here  he  had 
charge  of  the  Pan  Handle  Tool  Room  until  1889,  at  which  date  he  began  the  study  of  medi- 
cine with  Dr.  M.  G.  Martin.  He  entered  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana,  and  graduated 
from  the  same  in  March,  1891,  immediately  after  which  he  located  in  Indianapolis,  where 
he  has  since  carried  on  a successful  practice,  which  has  enabled  him  to  purchase  pro})erty,  and 
erect  a residence  and  office  thereon.  He  has  already  acquired  a flattering  re|)utation  as  a 
physician,  has  proved  himself  a man  of  ability  and  energy,  and  is  universally  liked  in  the 
city.  He  is  a member  of  the  Indiana  State  and  Marion  County  Medical  Societies,  and  is 
also  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.,  and  Chosen  Friends.  He  was  married  July  15,  1883  to 
Miss  Lenora  Btmson,  a native  of  southeastern  Iowa  and  the  daughter  of  Aaron  and  Mary 
(Keeling)  Benson,  natives  of  Shelby  County,  Ind.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Knerr  are  the  ])arents 
of  two  children,  DeWitt,  born  April  14,  1887,  and  Willard,  born  September  17,  1890.  They 
are  members  of  the  East  Washington  Street  Presbyterian  Church,  and  in  politics  Dr.  Knerr 
is  an  Inde[)Bndent  Republican. 

\N  ILLIAM  liuscH.MANN,  deceased.  The  j)rudent  way  and  careful  methods  of  ’I'entonic  set 
tiers  are  conspicuous  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  where  so  many  re))reRentalives  of  the  German 
race  have  settled,  and  William  Buschmaim  was  no  exce|)ti()n  to  the  rule.  Honest  and  upright 
in  every  particular  no  man  held  a higher  place  in  the  estimation  of  the  peojile  than  he.  He 
was  born  in  liielefeld,  Prussia,  in  1824,  and  there  grew  to  mature?  yearsand  recf'ived  his  edu 


374 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


cation.  During  his  yontb,  and  before  the  days  of  railroads,  he  drove  four-horse  merchandise 
wagons  throughout  Germany,  and  he  derived  much  pleasure  in  recalling  those  days  later  in 
life.  Prior  to  coming  to  America  he  worked  in  Berlin  six  years  as  an  engineer;  he  also  served 
in  the  German  Prussian  Army  three  years,  and  during  the  Rebellion  of  1848.  In  1852  he 
emigrated  to  America,  and  came  direct  to  Indianapolis,  where  he  secured  employment  with 
the  late  Judge  Morrison.  While  in  the  em])loy  of  the  Judge  he  planted  a tree  upon  the 
[)roperty  fronting  what  was  then  the  Ft.  Wayne  road,  now  Central  Avenue;  he  subsequently 
became  the  owner  of  the  ju’operty,  and  until  the  day  of  his  death  took  special  care  of  the 
tree.  Mr.  Buschmann  finally  engaged  in  business  for  himself,  and  owned  and  carried  on  suc- 
cessfully the  first  store  on  the  old  bluff  road.  Later  he  became  a clerk  for  Henry  Severin, 
and  was  finally  taken  in  as  a partner,  the  firm  being  kpown  as  Henry  Severin  & Co.  In  1870 
he  erected  a large  and  handsome  brick  block  on  Ft.  Wayne  Avenue,  where  he  carried  on  an 
extensive  and  j)rosperous  business  until  1891.  He  then  retired,  and  turned  his  interests  over 
to  his  son,  William  F.  He  was  unusually  successful  in  business,  and  owned  much  valuable 
property,  the  most  prominent  l)eing  the  Buschmann  Block  on  Ft.  Wayne  Avenue,  Wash- 
ington Street  Block,  occupied  by  Sander  & Recker;  the  block  on  Central  Avenue,  occupied 
by  Lewis  Meier  & Co.,  Bi’oad  Ripple  Park,  besides  several  farms  and  other  property  about 
t he  city.  He  was  one  of  the  oldest  and  best  known  German  citizens  of  Indianapolis,  and  was 
known  for  his  charity  and  liberal  deeds.  It  can  be  said  of  him  that  no  deserving  person  ever 
applied  to  him  for  helji,  and  was  turned  away  empty  handed.  He  was  a member  of  the  Zion 
German  Lutheran  Church  many  years,  and  a most  generous  contributor  to  its  support.  In 
politics  he  was  a stanch  Republican,  although  he  was  never  active  in  political  affairs.  His 
<leath  occurred  July  5,  1893,  and  the  county  then  lost  one  of  its  most  valued  citizens.  Mr. 
Buschmann  was  married  in  1802  to  Miss  Caroline  Froelking,  who  died  in  1880,  and  unto 
them  were  born  six  children,  all  of  whom  survive  them, viz. : Louis  F.  and  Charles  L.,  of  the 
firm  of  Lewis  Meier  & Co. ; William  F.,  who  succeeded  his  father  in  business;  Emma,  the 
only  daughter,  is  at  home;  August  W.,  a clerk  in  his  brother’s  store;  Harry  C.,  a student  at 
Perdue  University,  and  George  11  , now  in  the  Indianaj)olis  High  School.  Mr.  Buschmann 
instilled  into  the  youthful  minds  of  his  children  the  principles  of  honesty  and  uprightness, 
and  his  last  words  to  them  were:  “Children  be  honest,  do  your  duty,  and  stay  together.’’ 
These  children  all  possess  excellent  business  (pralifications.  The  eldest  son,  Louis  F.,was 
born  in  1 ndianaj)olis  September  28,  1803,  and  was  educated  in  the  German  English  schools 
of  that  city.  Later  he  attended  the  Commercial  College,  and  then  entered  the  employ  of 
Henry  Schwinge  as  salesman  in  the  tea  business.  Three  years  later  he  was  employed  by  M. 
O’Connor  ACo. , wholesale  grocers,  as  bill  clerk,  and  afterward  became  city  salesman  for  this 
firm.  In  January,  1887,  he  became  a member  of  the  firm  of  Lewis  Meier  & Co.,  manufact- 
urers of  shirts.  j)auts  and  overalls.  This  is  an  extensive  business,  350  hands  are  employed, 
and  an  annual  business  of  $225,0(111  is  done.  Mr.  Buschmann  is  traveling  salesman  for  the 
house.  He  was  married  in  1880  to  Miss  Franciska  Endelmeyer,  of  Indianapolis,  and  they 
have  two  children,  Frank  W.  and  Louis  Edmund.  Mr.  Buschmann  is  a Scottish  Rite  Mason, 
thirty-second  degree,  and  a member  of  the  Mystic  Shrine,  also  a member  of  the  Commercial 
Club.  In  [politics  he  is  a Democrat. 

Levi  H.  Fesslek.  While  it  is  of  rare  occurrence  for  the  man  who  is  by  natural  bent 
and  training  a farmer,  to  adojit  any  other  calling,  when  he  does  so  he  usually  rises  to  success 
in  it,  because  his  whole  life  has  been  based  upon  the  principle  of  integrity,  with  the  firm 
conviction  that  in  all  the  avenues  of  trade  honesty  should  be  the  ruling  spur.  Surely  no 
person  is  better  fitted  for  the  arduous  task  of  the  wholesale  and  retail  dealer  in  dairy  prod- 
ucts, because  it  is  part  of  the  farmer’s  duty  to  provide  dairy  products.  The  wholesale  milk, 
cream  and  dairy  product  establishment  under  the  proprietorship  of  Levi  H.  Fessler,  of  North 
Indianapolis,  is  one  of  the  very  essential  business  houses  there.  This  gentleman  was  born 
in  Berks  County,  Penn.,  July  -1,  1852,  a son  of  Isaac  and  Catherine  (Heid)  Fessler.  The 
paternal  ancestors  originally  came  from  Switzerland,  several  generations  ago,  and  located  in 
Berks  County,  Penn. , where  Isaac  Fessler  died  when  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  but  a 
child.  His  widow  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  with  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  being 
now  in  her  seventy-seventh  year.  Levi  H.  is  the  youngest  of  their  six  children  and  after  the 
death  of  his  father  4ie  was  bound  out  to  a farmer  in  his  native  county  and  there  grew  up 


375 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

with  no  advantages  or  pleasures,  and  compelled  to  labor  early  and  late  with  no  compensation. 
Notwithstanding  these  disadvantages  he  thrived  both  physically  and  mentally,  and  in  1866 
he  determined  to  come  west  and  for  some  time  was  a resident  of  Hillsboro,  111.  In  1868  he 
came  to  Indianapolis,  and  having  prior  to  that  time  been  engaged  in  farming,  he  had  handled 
considerable  stock  and  had  learned  to  like  that  branch  of  the  business,  but  for  some  time 
after  his  arival  here  he  followed  other  pursuits.  For  three  years  he  was  in  Gibson  & Co.’s 
mill,  and  for  two  years  was  with  the  Indiana  Hominy  Mills,  after  which  he  was  employed  by 
the  gas  company  as  superintendent  of  their  lamps,  and  during  the  eight  years  that  he  was  in 
this  business  had  entire  charge  of  their  stock.  Upon  leaving  the  employ  of  this  company, 
although  his  capital  was  limited,  he  started  in  a business  that  he  had  always  desired  to  fol- 
low— that  with  which  he  is  now  connected — in  North  Indianapolis,  but  at  the  end  of  three 
years  located  on  the  Armstrong  homestead  where  he  has  since  lived.  He  has  a large  herd 
of  milch  cows,  which  is  made  up  of  Jersey  and  other  graded  stock,  and  his  patronage  has  so 
increased  that  he  has  now  a wide  patronage,  which  most  desirable  and  satisfactory  state  of 
affairs  lias  been  brought  about  by  always  giving  his  customers  pure  milk  and  by  the  most 
honorable  dealing.  He  is  doing  well  financially  and  has  the  satisfaction  of  knowing  that 
what  he  now  has  has  been  acquired  by  his  own  good  management  and  energy.  Politically 
he  is  a decided  Republican  and  he  has  for  years  been  a devoted  member  of  the  First  Presby- 
terian Church,  On  first  coming  to  North  Indianapolis  he  assisted  in  organizing  the  Mission 
Sunday-school,  in  which  he  became  a teacher  and  superintendent.  He  has  for  many  years 
been  a member  of  Capitol  Lodge  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  but  aside  from  this  belongs  to  no  secret 
organization.  December  19,  1871,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Mary  A.  Hiudley,  a daughter  of 
Robert  Hindley,  who  was  born  in  Manchester,  England,  and  who,  upon  coming  to  the  United 
States,  located  in  Philadelphia,  of  which  place  he  has  been  a resident  for  thirty  years.  Mrs. 
Fessler  was  born  in  Philadelphia  where  her  father  plied  his  trade  of  carpet  weaving  and 
designing,  being  thoroughly  accjuainted  with  the  weaving  of  all  kinds  of  woolen  goods. 
He  \vas  a man  of  much  intelligence  and  from  the  time  he  settled  in  this  country  he  identi- 
fied himself  with  her  every  interest  and  made  a useful,  law-abiding  citizen.  The  union  of 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Fessler  resulted  in  the  birth  of  two  sons  and  a daughter. 

Hon.  Ovid  B.  Jameson  is  a native  of  Indianapolis,  where  he  was  born  July  17,  1854, 
his  father  being  Dr.  P.  H.  Jameson,  who  for  over  half  a century  was  an  active  practitioner 
of  the  city  of  Indianajiolis,  and  is  acknowledged  to  be  one  of  the  most  eminent  of  his 
calling.  He  is  a man  who  has  deeply  interested  himself  in  the  affairs  of  his  section,  and 
has  rendered  valuable  aid  to  the  city  as  a member  of  the  council,  in  which  he  was  a leader 
in  many  important  measures,  and  to  the  State  as  a member  of  the  board  of  commissioners  of 
State  benevolent  institutions,  in  which  capacity  he  served  eighteen  years,  a considerable  por 
tion  of  this  time  as  president.  Dr.  Jameson  has  been  jiresident  of  the  State  Medical  Society; 
was  for  many  years  jiresident  of  the  board  of  Butler  University,  and  in  various  other  ways 
manifested  his  interest  in  the  progress  of  his  ju'ofession.  In  1850  he  wooed  and  won  for  his 
wife  Maria,  daughter  of  Ovid  Butler,  founder  of  the  university  of  that  name.  Ovid  B. 
Jameson  inherited  many  of  the  most  commendable  traits  of  his  worthy  parents,  and  wisely 
made  the  most  of  the  opportunities  that  came  in  his  way.  His  early  education  was 
obtained  in  the  |)ublic  schools  of  Indianapolis,  after  which  he  entered  Butler  University, 
and  at  a still  later  period  finished  his  education  at  Heidelberg  and  Berlin,  Germany,  his 
absence  on  foreign  soil  lasting  from  1879  to  1876.  T’jmri  his  return  to  his  native  land  he 
began  the  study  of  law  with  John  M.  Judah,  now  of  Memj)hi8,  Tenn,  and  after  being 
admitted  to  the  bar  in  1879,  he  at  once  entered  upon  a prosperous  jirofessional  career  that 
has  since  known  no  diminution.  He  is  considered  unexcelled  authority  ujion  real  estate 
titles  of  Marion  County,  as  well  as  titles  throughout  the  State,  and  almost  from  the  first  has 
had  a large  practice  involving  real  estate  law  and  the  validity  of  titles.  He  has  made  a 
specialty  of  this  liranch  of  his  practice,  and  his  services  have  fre(|uently  be«‘n  called  into 
requisition  both  by  liome  and  foreign  corporations,  and  in  the  caj)acity  of  counselor  has 
passed  upr)n  real  estate  of  immense  valin*,  and  his  opinion  has  seldom  been  found  at  fault. 
He  has  directed  the  expenditure  of  immense  sums  of  money,  and  his  knowledgt'  of  the 
law  and  the  security  of  tenures  made  him  a wise  and  safe  counselor.  A (mnsiderable 
demand  has  also  been  made  for  commercial  law  and  collections,  and  to  this  branch  of  his 


376 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


|)ractice  Hr.  Jameson  has  also  given  much  attention,  but  he  is  well  posted  on  all  branches 
of  civil  law.  He  was  honored  by  an  election  to  the  State  Legislature  in  1885,  as  a repre- 
sentative from  Marion  County,  and  made  an  able,  intelligent  and  conscientious  legislator. 
On  November  10,  1886,  he  led  to  the  altar  Miss  Mary  Booth  Tarkington,  a daughter  of 
Judge  John  S.  Tarkington,  and  they  have  a pretty  and  comfortable  home  on  Pennsylvania 
Street. 

Theodoue  F.  Smcther.  The  desirability  of  a perfect  and  durable  roof  is  generally 
admitted.  During  the  last  twenty  years  more  unsuccessful  experiments  have  been  made  in 
new  rooting  materials  than  in  any  other  line,  and  the  lesson  to  be  drawn  from  this  is  to  deal 
only  with  those  who  have  proved  the  reliability  of  their  rooting,  and  are  thoroughly  responsi- 
ble. Such  a person  we  find  in  Mr.  Smither,  whose  facilities  for  supplying  the  wants  of  his 
patrons  in  this  direction  are  of  the  most  perfect  character,  while  the  promptness,  efficiency 
and  i-eliability  which  characterizes  every  transaction,  renders  him  worthy  of  every  confidence. 
Mr.  Smither  is  a native  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  born  eight  miles  east  of  Indianapolis,  July 
25,  1844,  and  was  educated  in  the  public  and  private  schools  of  that  county  and  in  the  city  of 
Indianapolis,  to  which  latter  place  he  came  with  his  parents  when  about  nine  years  of  age. 
He  attended  .school  when  sixteen  years  of  age,  and  then  commenced  clerking  in  the  con- 
fectionery store  of  Phil  Haynes,  of  Indianapolis.  There  he  remained  about  two  years,  and 
then  in  June.  1861,  enlisted  in  Company  I,  Twenty  sixth  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry  as  a 
private,  continuing  as  such  in  that  company  and  regiment  until  December,  1861,  when  he 
was  discharged  on  account  of  ill  health.  Returning  to  Indianapolis  he  clerked  for  Mr. 
Haynes  for  some  time  and  later  entered  into  the  employ  of  the  Adams  Express  Company, 
remaining  with  the  same  until  the  100-day  troops  were  called  for  in  1864.  He  then  enlisted 
in  Company  B,  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-second  Volunteer  Infantry  as  corporal,  and  served 
his  time.  During  his  first  period  of  service  Mr.  Smither  was  in  an  engagement  at  Lexing- 
ton, Mo.,  and  fought  bravely  for  the  old  flag.  Returning  from  the  army  he  was  later 
employed  by  the  American  Express  Comjiany,  located  at  Indiana])olis,  and  a year  later  he 
was  appointed  mail  agent  on  the  I.  C.  &,  L.  Railroad  (now  Big  Four),  and  continued  as  such 
for  about  a year.  .Ifter  that  he  was  employed  by  the  Merchants  Union  Express  Company, 
and  remained  with  that  company  until  about  a year  later  when  the  company  consolidated 
with  the  American,  and  our  subject  remained  with  the  consolidated  company  about  four 
years.  Then,  about  1870,  Mr.  Smither  went  to  Lyon  County,  Kan.,  and  engaged  in  farm- 
ing, continuing  to  till  the  soil  for  about  four  years.  Returning  to  Indianapolis  he  engaged 
in  the  roofing  business  in  1876,  and  this  he  has  since  carried  on  very  successfully.  He  is  a 
man  of  business  experience  and  ability,  and  one  with  whom  it  is  a pleasure  to  deal.  He  is  a 
member  of  the  Builders  Exchange,  and  in  1885  was  elected  to  the  Indianapolis  city  council 
from  the  fourth  ward  on  the  Republican  ticket,  serving  two  years.  In  1887  he  was  elected 
from  the  same  district  to  the  board  of  aldermen,  and  served  until  the  board  was  abolished 
by  the  Legislature.  Socially  he  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.,  Lodge  No.  56,  Indianapolis, 
and  in  his  religious  views  he  is  a Baptist.  In  March,  1871,  Mr.  Smither  was  married  to 
Miss  Lizzie  A.  Weaver,  daughter  of  Alexander  AVeaver,  of  Lyon  County,  Kan.,  and  the 
fruits  of  this  union  were  four  children,  two  of  whom  survive:  Ida  M. , wife  of  Fred  J. 
Wright,  of  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  and  Edna  H. , who  graduated  from  an  Indianapolis  public 
school  in  1898  when  sixteen  years  of  age.  Mr.  Smither  was  one  of  thirteen  children  born  to 
the  marriage  of  John  Smither,  a native  of  Kentucky.  The  latter  caine  to  Indiana  when  a 
young  man  and  died  in  1878,  when  seventy-seven  years  of  age.  Nine  of  his  children  grew 
to  mature  years  and  seven  now  survive. 

Frank  Prange.  Many  years  of  hard,  earnest  endeavor  in  pursuing  the  occupation  to 
which  he  now  gives  attention,  coupled  with  strict  integrity,  honesty  of  purpose  and  liberality 
in  all  directions,  has  I'esulted  in  placing  Mr.  Prange  among  the  truly  respected  and  honored 
millers  of  this  section.  No  man  has  been  more  the  architect  of  his  own  fortune  than  he, 
for  at  the  age  of  seven  years  he  branched  out  to  fight  life’s  battles  for  himself,  and  has  had 
to  hoe  his  own  row  from  that  time  to  this.  He  is  a native  of  Germany,  born  in  Westphalia, 
November  10,  1834,  and  received  his  education  in  that  country.  He  worked  out  for  farmers 
as  soon  as  able,  and  remained  in  his  native  country  until  twenty  years  of  age,  when  he 
decided  to  become  an  American  citizen.  Upon  reaching  the  United  States  he  came  direct  to 


377 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Indianapolis,  Ind.,  and  begfan  working  for  the  old  Peru  Railroad,  first  as  a section  hand. 
Five  years  later  he  was  made  watchman  in  the  Pern  depot  and  subse<juently  commenced 
teaming,  following  that  for  sixteen  years.  In  the  year  1880  he  engaged  in  the  milling  busi- 
ness on  Pearl  Street,  remained  therefor  about  twelve  years  and  then  established  liimself  in 
the  same  business  on  Davidson  Street.  His  unusual  success  may  be  attributed  to  his  making 
the  finest  flour  in  the  market,  by  sustaining  the  uniformity  of  its  brands,  by  offering  custom- 
ers the  best  terms,  and  by  treating  every  one  who  has  business  relations  with  him  in  a 
courteous  and  proper  manner.  In  the  year  1855  Mr.  Prange  was  married  to  Miss  Sophia 
Thine,  a native  of  Germany,  who  came  over  from  the  native  land  at  the  same  time  he  did, 
and  their  union  has  been  blessed  by  the  birth  of  four  children,  as  follows:  W.  F.  Prange; 
Louisa,  w'ife  of  Charles  Plinesick,  of  Lafayette,  Ind.,  AVilliam,  and  Emma,  widow  of  Chris. 
Stolhonn.  Our  subject’s  second  marriage  occurred  in  1865  to  Miss  Mollie  Diekman,  a native 
of  Germany,  who  bore  him  four  children,  three  of  whom  are  living:  Charles,  Henry  and 
Lena.  Mr.  Prange  is  a worthy  member  of  the  German  Lutheran  Church,  and  in  politics 
adheres  to  the  principles  of  the  Democratic  party.  He  has  never  sought  office,  preferring 
to  give  all  his  attention  to  the  milling  business.  He  is  a stock  holder  in  the  Home  Brewing 
Company  of  Indianapolis,  and  is  one  of  the  prominent  business  men  of  the  place.  His 
father,  William  Prange,  was  a native  of  Germany  and  there  passed  his  entire  life,  an  honored 
and  respected  citizen. 

Ch.vrles  E.  Thornton.  A man’s  life  work  is  the  measure  of  his  success,  and  he  is 
truly  the  most  successful  man,  who,  turning  his  powers  into  the  channel  of  an  honorable  pur 
pose,  accomplishes  the  object  of  his  endeavor.  He  who  weds  himself  to  a great  princijde 
lays  the  foundation  of  a successful  life.  In  the  study  of  every  man's  life  we  find  some 
mainspring  of  action  — somethitig  that  he  lives  for.  In  Charles  E.  Thornton  it  seems  to 
have  been  an  ambition  to  make  the  best  use  of  his  native  and  acquired  powers  and  to  develop  in 
himself  a true  manhood.  A native  of  Putnam  County,  Ind.,  he  was  born  July  8,  1855,  to 
the  marriage  of  Daniel  T.  and  Nancy  H.  (Darnall)  Thornton,  the  father  a native  of  Virginia, 
and  the  mother  of  the  Blue-Grass  State.  The  father  of  Mr.  Thornton  was  reared  in  Kentucky, 
and  in  1846,  when  twenty-nine  years  of  age,  came  to  Indiana,  where  he  followed  merchandis- 
ing for  many  years  at  Bainbridge.  Later  he  engaged  in  agricultural  |mrsuits,  ami  for 
twenty-eight  years  was  director  of  the  First  National  Bank  of  Greencastle,  Ind.  To  his 
marriage  were  born  three  children,  as  follows:  IMary  E.,  died  in  1856;  James  L.,  business 
manager  of  the  Sedalia  (Mo.)  Democrat,  and  Charles  E.,  our  subject.  The  mother  of 
these  children  died  in  1858,  and  in  1866  Mr.  Thornton  married  Miss  Malinda  I.  Chenowith, 
of  Columbus,  Ind.,  who  now  survives.  IMr.  Daniel  T.  Thornton  died  in  I86‘2.  The  original 
of  this  notice  received  all  the  advantages  of  a thorough  education.  After  leaving  the 
common  schools  of  Putnam  County  he  was  for  some  time  in  Bainbridge  Academy,  and 
later  graduated  at  Butler  Eniversity  in  1878.  After  leaving  that  institution  he  returned 
home  and  taught  school  for  a time.  On  account  of  failing  health  he  went  to  farming, 
and  continued  this  three  years.  In  1888  he  came  back  to  Indiana{)olis  and  embarked  in  the 
hardware  and  agricultural  implement  business  with  IM.  D.  Darnall,  and  continued  this  until 
1886,  when  he  formed  a partnership  with  Col.  Josej)!)  -Moore,  of  Indianapolis,  under  the 
firm  name  of  Moore  A Thornton,  and  for  seven  years  they  were  among  the  most  prominent 
and  successful  firms  of  I'nited  States  claim  attorneys  of  Indiana.  In  danuary,  1868,  he  sold 
out  to  his  partner  and  accepted  the  j)osition  of  ])resident  of  the  Indiana  Society  for  Savings, 
one  of  the  most  prosj)erou8  of  the  State  Building  ami  Loan  -Associations,  and  devotes  his 
entire  time  tc;  the  interests  of  the  society.  He  is  a trustee  of  Butler  I'niversity,  the  leading 
(•olleg<»  of  the  Christian  Church,  located  at  Irvington,  a suburb  of  Indianapolis.  Affable  in 
Ids  manners,  courteous  in  his  address,  firm  in  his  convictions,  faithfnl  in  his  attachments  and 
true  in  his  [)rinciples,  .Mr.  Thornton  is  one  of  the  city’s  most  worthy  citizens.  Socially  he  is 
a meinl)er  of  the  Indianapolis  Lodge,  No.  56),  K.  of  P.,  and  of  the  Indiana  Division,  No,  56, 

I informed  Rank  of  the  K.  of  P.  He  is  also  a trustee  of  the  New  Castle  Hall,  of  the  K.  of 
B.,  now  building;  also  a member  of  the  .Marion  ( Re|)ublican)  Club;  presideid  of  the  Rock 
ville  Electric  Light  (t  Bower  Comjiany.  and  a member  of  the  Sigma  Chi  Greek  fraternity. 
He  is  also  a member  of  the  Christian  Church,  and  is  president  of  the  board  of  deacons 
of  the  Third  Christian  (Jhurch,  Indianapolis.  In  the  month  of  October,  1876,  he  was 


378 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


inairied  to  Miss  Eva  M.  Houston,  daughter  of  Judge  S.  M.  Houston,  of  Springfield,  Mo. 
Four  children  have  been  given  them,  Edgar,  Mary,  Margaret  and  Cornelia.  In  his  political 
views  Mr.  Thornton  is  a Republican,  and  takes  an  active  interest  in  the  affairs  of  his  party. 

Edward  Schmidt.  Biography  should  be  written  for  the  sake  of  its  lessons,  that  rnen 
everywhere  may  place  themselves  in  contact  with  facts  and  affairs,  and  build  themselves  up 
to  and  into  a life  of  excellence,  not  in  any  sphere  but  in  their  own  rightful  place,  where 
they  may  keep  and  augment  their  individuality.  To  record  in  some  respects  the  details  of 
such  a life  is  jiurjiosed  in  the  following  history  of  Edward  Schmidt.  This  gentleman  is  a 
nalive  of  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  born  May  10,  1859,  and  when  an  infant  was  brought  by  his 
parents  to  Indianapolis,  Ind.  He  grew  to  manhood  in  that  city  and  received  a good  practical 
education  in  the  German-English  schools  there.  Later  he  attended  the  high  school  there 
and  in  1872,  went  to  Hoboken,  N.  J.,  where  he  attended  college  for  about  two  years.  There 
he  laid  the  foundation  for  his  subsecjuent  prosperous  career.  After  finishing  at  that  college 
he  went  to  Leijisic.  Germany,  and  there  attended  college  for  about  a year  and  a half.  He 
then  returned  to  Indianajiolis  and  entered  his  father’s  brewery  where  he  remained  until  the 
brewery  was  sold  to  the  English  syndicate.  This  was  in  1888,  and  since  that  time  Mr. 
S(!hmiilt's  time  has  been  employed  in  looking  after  his  large  interests.  Since  the  year  1888 
he  has  traveled  a great  deal,  and  in  1893  he  completed  a trip  around  the  world.  Politically 
-Mr.  Schmidt  is  a Democrat  and  is  deeply  interested  in  the  welfare  of  his  party.  In  1885  he 
was  elected  to  the  Legislature  and  served  in  an  efficient  and  • satisfactory  manner  for  two 
years.  He  is  a young  man  yet,  in  the  vigor  of  his  manhood,  and,  much  as  he  has  already 
achieved,  his  history,  if  he  lives,  lies  largely  in  the  future. 

Henry  Lane  Bruner.  A man’s  life-work  is  the  measure  of  his  success,  and  he  is  truly 
the  most  successful  man  who,  turning  his  powers  into  the  channel  of  an  honorable  purpose, 
accomplishes  the  object  of  his  endeavor.  He  who  weds  himself  to  a great  principle,  lays 
1 he  foundation  of  a successful  life.  In  the  study  of  every  man’s  life  we  find  some  main 
spring  of  action,  something  he  lives  for.  In  Mr.  Henry  Lane  Bruner  it  seems  to  have  been 
an  ambition  to  make  the  best  use  of  his  native  and  aocjuired  powers,  and  to  develop  in  him- 
self a true  manhood.  A native  of  Illinois,  born  near  Galesburg,  January  10,  1861,  our  sub- 
ject is  the  son  of  Rev.  Francis  M.  and  Esther  (Lane)  Bruner,  the  latter  the  daughter  of 
Ira  Lane  who  was  born  in  South  Carolina.  Rev.  Francis  M.  Bruner  is  a native  of  the  Blue 
Grass  State  but  was  reared  in  Illinois,  where  he  graduated  at  Knox  College,  Galesburg. 
He  is  a minister  in  the  Christian  Church  and  has  been  preaching  since  his  graduation  in 
1857,  a |)eriod  of  nearly  forty  years.  He  held  the  rank  of  captain  in  the  Federal  service 
during  the  Rebellion,  but  otdy  for  about  one  year,  when  he  was  discharged  on  account  of  ill 
health.  A ])rominent  man  wherever  he  makes  his  home,  he  has  held  many  official  positions, 
and  rejnesented  Warren  County  in  the  Illinois  Legislature.  To  his  marriage  were  born  several 
chil  dren,  seven  of  whom  now  survive:  Mary,  wife  of  W.  A.  Seevers  of  Oskaloosa,  Iowa;  Henry 
L , our  subject;  Celeste,  wife  of  D.  F.  Givens  of  Des  IMoines,  Iowa;  Frank  M. , and  his  twin 
sister,  Fannie,  who  is  the  wife  of  Samuel  G.  Jeffrey  of  Albany.  N.  Y. ; Jessie,  wife  of  Dr.  H. 
A.  Mynassian,  ]irofessor  in  the  college  at  Eureka,  111.,  and  Bessie.  The  paternal  ances- 
tors of  these  children  came  from  Germany  and  first  settled  in  Maryland.  The  youthful  days 
of  our  subject  were  passed  in  Galesburg,  and  he  received  his  primary  education  at  Mon- 
mouth, 111.  Later  he  took  a preparatory  course  at  Oskaloosa  College,  and  then  went  through 
the  Freshman  year  at  Monmouth  College.  In  1 880  he  graduated  at  Abingdon  College,  at 
Aliingdon,  111.,  with  the  degree  of  A.  B.  and  was  valedictorian  of  his  class.  Leaving  Abing- 
don Mr.  Bruner  went  to  the  Sheffield  Scientific  school,  of  Yale  University,  remained  there 
one  year,  and  then  began  teaching  at  Abingdon  College,  where  he  remained  three  years. 
From  there  he  went  to  Eureka,  111,  and  there  had  the  chair  of  natural  science,  holding  that 
position  for  three  years  when  failing  health  obliged  him  to  give  it  up.  He  discontinued 
teaching  then  until  the  fall  of  1891.  when  he  accepted  the  chair  of  biology  and  geology  in 
Drake  University,  Des  Moines,  Iowa.  In  1892  he  came  to  Butler  LTniversity,  Irvington, 
where  he  has  since  held  the  same  chair.  He  was  given  the  degree  of  A.  M.  by  Eureka  Col- 
lege. Prof.  Bruner  is  a worthy  member  of  the  Christian  Church.  He  was  married  in 
1899,  to  Miss  Carolyn  L.  Aumock,  daughter  of  Dr.  W.  S.  Aumock  of  Colorado  Springs, 
Colo.  One  child,  Harold  Aumock,  was  born  to  this  union. 


379 


A^il)  MARIOX  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

William  Sloan.  This  worthy  farmer,  like  many  of  the  best  citizens  of  the  county,  is  a 
native  of  the  Empire  State,  born  November  6,  1807,  and  is  a splendid  type  of  the  enterprise, 
industry  and  self  reliance  of  the  early  Indiana  pioneer.  His  long  life  of  industry  and  use 
fulness  and  his  record  for  iutegrity  and  truehearted  faithfulness  in  all  the  relations  of  life 
have  given  him  a hold  upon  the  community  which  all  might  well  desire  to  share.  His 
parents,  George  and  Mary  (Story)  Sloan,  were  natives  of  the  Keystone  State,  where  they 
were  married.  Seven  children  were  born  to  this  union,  as  follows:  Nellie  (deceased),  was 
tlie  wife  of  Robert  Smith;  Thomas  (deceased);  Polly  (deceased),  was  the  wife  of  -Joseph 
Herestich;  Peggy  (deceased),  was  the  wife  of  -John  Harris;  John  (deceased),  and  William, 
The  father  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812.  He  died  about  18-55,  aged  sixty-hve  years. 
Our  subject  moved  with  his  parents  to  Ohio  in  1817,  and  settled  with  them  in  Clermont 
County,  where  his  father  bouglit  sixty  acres  of  improveil  land  and  100  acres  of  wild  laud 
adjoining.  He  remained  on  his  father’s  farm  until  about  of  age,  when  he  married  i\Iis.s 
Deborah  Stausburg,  a native  of  New  Jersey,  and  subsequently  purchased  a small  farm  of 
twenty  five  acres  in  Clermont  County.  He  remained  on  this  al)ont  two  years,  and  then 
returned  to  his  father’s  farm,  where  he  remained  until  1833,  when  he  and  his  wife  and  two 
children  started  for  Indiana,  the  trip  occupying  two  weeks.  He  located  in  Montgomery 
County  and  bought  eighty  acres  of  laud,  twenty-live  acres  of  which  were  improved,  and  })aid 
for  the  same  $400.  On  this  tract  were  300  sugar  trees,  and  one  week  during  the  tirst  season, 
he  got  thirty-six  barrels  of  sugar  water.  Mr.  Sloan  remained  on  this  tract  four  years  and 
then  sold  it  for  $()00.  He  returned  to  Clermont  County,  Ohio,  and  rented  a house  in  Clarks- 
ville, wliere  he  made  his  home  for  nearly  a year,  working  during  that  time  in  Eli  Hale's 
pork-house.  Then  he  again  moved  to  Indiana  and  located  in  Marion  County  within  a mile 
of  where  he  now  lives,  and  there  Iiought  lOO  acres  of  land,  making  the  purchase  in  Feliruary 
wlien  the  ground  was  covered  with  snow.  He  paid  $1,00(1  down,  and  turning  in  two  horses, 
a wagon  and  a side-saddle  for  $400;  he  gave  his  note  for  the  remainder,  which  was  -flOO. 
When  the  snow  disappeared  IMr.  Sloan  discovered  that  most  of  the  land  was  jioor,  but  he 
lived  there  for  four  or  live  years.  He  then  sold  it  for  -$1,000,  and  rode  horseback  to  Louis- 
ville, Ky..  to  see  about  purchasing  tlie  Voorhees  farm,  which  comprised  200  acres,  and 
which  was  within  a mile  of  liis  place.  He  bought  the  farm  in  Louisville,  paying  $2,050  for 
it,  and  there  lieing  no  house  on  this  tract  he  was  compelled  to  remain  on  his  old  place  about 
a year.  He  then  moved  (o  Oie  Voorhees  farm  and  farmed  the  same  for  four  or  five  years, 
when  he  bought  eighty  acres  known  as  (he  Major  John  Bell's  farm,  paying  for  the  same 
$2,30(1.  After  this  he  purchased  eighty  acres  adjoining  of  the  railroad  company,  paying  for 
the  same  $1,40(1,  and  at  once  moved  on  the  eighty  acres  known  as  the  Bellow’s  farm,  on 
which  was  a story  and  a half  frame  house.  This  house  stood  right  on  the  Michigan  road, 
tlien  the  great  thoroughfare  of  travel,  and  he  kept  tavern  for  thirty  years.  At  the  same 
time  he  kept  his  farms  in  a flourishing  condition  and  added  to  them  until  about  the  begin- 
ning of  the  war,  when  he  owned  750  acres.  He  ke))t  tavern  up  to  about  1870,  when  he  gave 
it  up  and  elected  a handsome  brick  house  just  liack  of  the  old  tavern,  which  was  (hen  torn 
down.  Since  that  time  he  has  followed  farming.  His  first  wif(“  died  in  August,  1883,  leaving 
him  ten  children,  one  having  died  in  infancy.  Those  who  lived  to  mature  years  were  named 
as  follows:  I>y<lia  -J.,  wife  of  John  McMullen,  of  Boone  County,  Ind.  ; -Julia  Ann,  died  in 
1892.  Slie  was  the  wife  of  John  E.  Jones,  of  Montgomery  County,  Ind.;  Jackson,  died  in 
188(1;  Alfred,  died  in  1885;  Gilman,  of  Putnam  County,  Ind. ; Eliza,  Avife  of  William  Coffee, 
of  Indianapolis;  Silvina  ().,  wife  of  George  Leonard,  of  Indianapolis;  Sarah,  wife  of  -John 
J’ike,  of  .Marion  County,  Ind.;  Oliver  15.,  of  Indianapolis,  and  Jjafayette,  of  Marion  County. 
In  Eelirnary,  1884,  Mr.  Sloan  mairied  Miss  Mary  1’’.  McNiel,  daughter  of  John  and  Mary 
(Cook)  .McNiel,  and  now  lives  with  hei'  on  his  farm  in  Maricai  County.  Our  snl)ject  has  been 
a Democrat  in  his  political  views  all  his  life,  and  he  voted  for  Gen.  -Jackson  when  the  latter 
was  elected,  lie  has  voted  for  every  Democratic  pri-sidenl  sine**  that  time.  IMrs.  Sloan’s 
father,  John  15.  .McNiel,  was  a native  of  l'’ayette*  County,  Ind.,  born  in  1812,  and  he  was  a 
farmer  all  his  life.  He  was  peaceful  ami  never  had  a lawsuit  in  his  life.  lie  was  the  father 
of  sixteen  children,  thirteen  of  whom  w<;r<^  daughters  and  the  remainder  sons.  Pour  of 
these  childien  difsl  in  infancy,  and  the  following  grew  to  niaturi^  years:  Sarah  JC  died  in 
1889;  George  K.  <lied  in  1878  (he  enlisted  in  the  J'lighth  Indiana  Infantry,  and  served  all 


380 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


t.lirough  the  llebellion);  Daniel,  resides  in  Wabash  County,  Ind.  (he  was  a soldier  in 
the  Seventy-tifth  Indiana  Infantry  Ilegiment,  and  was  all  through  the  war);  Martha 
A.,  is  the  wife  of  William  Low,  of  Wabash  County,  Ind.;  Mary  F.,  wife  of  our  subject; 
Matilda,  died  in  1801;  Caroline,  died  in  1802;  Vantory  Y.,  is  the  wife  of  Calvin  McLaugh,- 
lin,  of  Marion  County,  Ind.;  Margaret  R.,  wife  of  Philip  Love,  of  Marion  County;  Della, 
wife  of  Harry  Worthington,  Kansas  City,  Mo.;  John  Charles,  of  Marion  County,  and  Lola 
J.,  wife  of  W.  B.  Harris,  of  Indianapolis.  The  mother  of  these  children  was  a native  of 
IventiU'ky,  and  died  in  1880.  The  father  passed  away  the  following  year. 

CuAULES  ScHii.i.iNCi.  As  another  evidence  of  the  intelligence  and  usefulness  of  the 
(Jerman  class  of  western  citizens,  we  are  glad  of  the  opportunity  of  presenting  this  sketch. 
Its  subject  needs  no  eulogy,  and  Ave  give  a “plain  unvarnished”  sketch  of  his  life,  believing 
that  there  is  in  it  matter  of  pride  to  his  own  Fatherland  people,  and  certainly  enough  to 
instruct  and  encourage  young  men  beginning  life  under  difficulties.  Mr.  Schilling  was  born 
in  Miuden,  Germany  (Westphalia),  April  3,  1835,  to  the  marriage  of  Frederick  and  Maria 
(Slenceker)  Schilling,  both  natives  of  the  old  country,  where  they  passed  their  entire  lives. 
They  were  the  parents  of  live  children,  of  whom  our  subject  and  Henry,  are  the  only  ones 
living.  The  mother  died  when  Charles  was  but  seven  years  of  age,  and  the  father  received 
his  final  summons  about  18()6.  The  early  days  of  our  subject  were  passed  on  a farm  in  his 
native  country  and  he  attended  the  schools  of  that  country  about  three  years  only.  From 
the  age  of  seven  to  twenty-one  he  worked  around  on  different  farms  herding,  etc.,  and  from 
the  age  of  seven  to  fourteen  he  received  for  his  services  about  5 cents  a day.  This  small 
amount  he  was  obliged  to  turn  over  to  his  father  to  buy  rye  for  bread.  One  memorable  year 
rye  was  worth  14.50  a bushel  and  anything  almost  was  used  to  make  bread.  The  family 
had  no  meat,  and  ])otatoe8,  with  the  bread  above  mentioned,  was  about  all  the  food  they  had. 
Even  of  this  bread  they  fre(|uently  did  not  get  enough  to  satiety  their  hunger.  When  four- 
teen years  of  age  young  Schilling  began  to  receive  wages,  or  what  was  considered  wages  at 
that  time  in  the  old  country,  and  the  first  year  he  received  about  $5  in  money  and  from  $3 
to  ifl  in  goods,  such  as  linen  for  clothes.  The  second  year  his  wages  were  raised  to  the  large 
sum  of  $fi  per  year,  the  third  year  to  $7,  and  the  fourth  year  to  111.  After  that  he  got  |14 
per  year  and  then  1 18,  and  aside  from  this  about  the  same  amount  of  goods  as  above 
mentioned.  Certain  that  he  could  better  his  condition  he  started  to  America  in  1857,  the 
land  of  promise  to  thousands  of  his  countrymen.  His  brother,  Henry  Schilling,  had  pre- 
ceded him  abcjut  eighteen  months,  and  was  living  in  Indianapolis,  working  in  a brick  yard. 
He  had  written  our  subject  to  c‘ome  as  soon  as  possible.  After  a voyage  lasting  eleven  weeks 
and  four  days,  three  weeks  of  which  were  fair,  the  vessel  reached  the  city  of  New  York  and 
our  subject  landed  without  a cent  and  in  debt  |5  to  a friend  who  came  over  with  him.  This 
friend  had  advanced  that  amount  to  pay  his  passage,  the  ticket  then  costing  $35.  This  same 
friend,  Henry  Bochemyre,  who  died  about  1870,  came  on  to  Indianapolis  with  our  subject 
and  paid  his  fare  there.  The  next  day  our  subject  began  working  in  the  brick  yard  where 
his  brother  was  employed,  and  received  the  sum  of  90  cents  per  day,  very  good  wages 
indeed  he  thought.  For  thirteen  years  Mr.  Schilling  delved  in  the  brick-yard  in  summer 
and  the  warehouse  in  the  city  in  winter,  and  aside  from  this  chopped  wood,  got  out  logs  and 
worked  at  any  kind  of  honorable  employment  he  could  find.  After  this  for  five  years  at  one 
stretch  he  worked  in  the  old  Bellefontaine  freight-house,  and  then  bought  a team  and  began 
to  haul  brick.  This  he  continued  for  one  year  and  then  sold  a little  property  he  had  bought 
from  his  savings.  This  property,  consisting  of  four  acres  in  four  lots,  situated  in  Dunlap’s 
Addition,  brought  him  the  sum  of  $5,000,  having  paid  out  for  it  about  $2,400.  Later  he 
took  the  money  and  bought  eighty  acres  of  land  of  John  Potter  in  Franklin  township, 
iMarion  County,  Ind.,  on  Avhich  there  was  a one-story  house,  smoke-house,  wood-house  and 
barn.  In  1884  he  bought  fifty  four  acres  more  and  of  the  134  acres,  about  thirty-six  acres 
Avas  timber.  The  remainder  is  tillable  land.  Mr,  Schilling  has  raised  600  bushels  of  wheat 
in  one  season  and  from  fifteen  to  twenty-five  and  thirty  acres  of  corn.  In  the  year  1861 
Mr.  Schilling  married  Miss  Anna  Myer,  daughter  of  Christopher  Myer,  Avho  lived  near  Sey- 
mour, Ind.  To  this  marriage  were  born  nine  children,  as  follows:  Elizabeth,  died  at  the 
age  of  tAventy-two  years  and  seven  months:  Fred;  Anna,  wife  of  Andy  Waterman,  of  Marion 
County,  Ind.;  Matilda;  Charles;  Christopher;  Ida;  Clara;  Amelia,  and  one  son  who  died  at 


381 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

the  age  of  ten  days,  miuatoed.  In  his  political  views  IMr.  Schilling  is  a stanch  Democrat 
and  has  always  affiliated  with  that  party.  He  is  a member  of  the  Zion  German  Church  hut 
is  not  a member  of  any  secret  organization. 

John  Frederick  Henry  Schillino.  This  worthy  representative  of  a succe-ssful, 
thoroughgoing  and  industrious  Geiman  farmer,  came  originally  from  Germany,  born  in 
Westphalia,  Minton,  July  13,  1830.  His  parents,  Frederick  and  Maria  (Slenceker)  Schill- 
ing, were  natives  of  Germany',  and  there  passed  their  entire  lives.  Our  subject  remained  with 
his  parents  until  fourteen  years  of  age,  but  commenced  working  for  different  farmers,  herding, 
etc.,  when  seven  years  of  age.  He  received  as  compensation  from  |4  to  $7  per  year  and  $3  or 

$4  in  clothing.  When  fourteen  ymars  of  age  he  went  to  live  with  an  uncle,  Daniel , 

and  remained  with  him  until  twenty-three  years  of  age,  never  receiving  a cent  of  wages,  only 
his  board  and  clothes,  and  working  all  day  and  a good  share  of  the  night.  When  twenty- 
one  years  of  age  he  was  liable  to  service  in  the  army  but  on  account  of  poor  health  he  was 
allowed  to  return  home.  After  this  he  worked  for  different  farmers  near  his  home,  receiv- 
ing S21  per  year,  a pair  of  boots  and  linen  for  clothing.  Until  twenty-three  years  of  age  he 
continued  thus  employed  and  then  his  health  having  improved  he  was  taken  into  the  army 
and  served  seven  months.  On  April  (>,  1855,  he  was  mari’ied  to  Miss  Caroline  Burgman, 
daughter  of  Frederick  Burgman,  who  lived  near  our  subject,  and  on  April  10,  of  the  follow- 
ing year  he  and  his  ymung  wife  took  passage  for  America.  This  voyage  lasted  eight  weeks 
and  two  days  and  ended  by  landing  our  subject  and  wife  into  the  great  city  of  New  York. 
They  remained  there  one  night  and  then  turned  their  faces  toward  the  setting  sun,  arriving 
in  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  three  days  later.  He  had  |14  left  of  the  $202  with  which  he  had 
started  from  home  and  shortly  after  reaching  Indianapolis  he  got  employment  in  Charles 
My'er’s  brick  yard.  At  first  he  received  90  cents  a day,  but  a mouth  later  his  wages  were 
advanced  to  $1  a day.  He  remained  with  Mr.  Myers  about  fifteen  years  during  the  summer, 
and  during  the  winter  months  chopped  wood,  worked  in  the  pork-house,  freight  depot,  etc. 
After  this  he  worked  two  years  for  Fred  Sanders  in  the  latter’s  brick  yard,  and  as  wages 
advanced  during  the  war,  he  received  as  high  as  $2.25  per  day.  Then  he  rented  eighty 
acres  of  land  in  Perry  Township,  Marion  County,  paying  $350  per  year  rent,  and  resided  on 
this  for  over  ten  years.  In  1879  he  bought  eighty  acres  in  Franklin  Township,  Marion 
County,  but  did  not  move  on  the  same  until  1880.  On  this  he  has  remained  ever  since. 
There  were  sixty  acres  cleared,  on  it  was  a one-story  frame  house  of  three  rooms,  a barn 
and  a wood  house.  For  this  farm  he  paid  $4,000.  In  1883  he  added  twenty  acres  to  the 
original  tract,  paying  $55  jier  acre  for  it,  and  this  comprises  his  holdings  in  the  way  of 
land.  The  additional  twenty  acres  were  cleared  with  a little  frame  house  and  a log  barn  on 
it.  In  the  year  1892  our  sul)ject  raised  thirty-live  acres  of  wheat,  twenty  five  bushels  to 
the  acre,  and  many  acres  of  corn,  averaging  forty  to  sixty  bushels  to  the  acre.  Mr.  Schill 
ing  is  an  ardent  Democrat  in  politics  and  since  his  first  presidential  vote  for  James  Buchanan, 
he  has  never  missed  voting  for  a Democratic  Presidential  candidate.  The  father  of  Mrs. 
Schilling  was  a soldier  in  the  French  War  and  died  in  1847,  when  forty  two  years  of  age, 
his  daughter,  Caroline,  being  about  twelve  years  of  age  at  that  time.  Mrs.  Burgman  fol 
lowed  her  husband  to  the  grave  eleven  weeks  later.  They  were  the  parents  of  five  children, 
four  of  whom  grew  to  mature  years;  Dora,  wife  of  Frederick  Kodenbeck,  of  Germany;  Car- 
oline, wife  of  our  subject;  Frederick,  who  died  in  Indianapolis  in  1878  (he  married  Miss 
Louisa  Klasing  and  left  these  children:  Louisa,  Matilda  and  Lizzie);  Henry  ]4urgman,  who 
married  Miss  Kliza  Gates  and  l)ecame  the  father  of  six  children  (Caroline,  who  married 
Frank  liobertson;  Frederick,  who  married  Anna  Snowden;  William;  Ella;  Louis  and  Charles). 
Henry  Burgham  resides  in  Center  Townshi)),  Marion  County,  Ind.  'J’o  our  subject’s  mar 
riage  were  liorn  eight  children,  four  sons  and  four  daughters,  one  of  the  daughters,  Ijouisa, 
dying  when  about  fourteen  months  old.  'I’he  remaining  childrtm  are  named  as  follows: 
Lena,  wife  of  Christofiher  Achgill,  of  Fraiddin  Township,  this  county;  Louisa,  widow  of 
William  Shakel,  has  three  chihlren : Henry.  Ella  and  Carrie;  Charles,  first  married  Miss 
Lfuiisa  Jorms,  l)y  whom  he  had  one  daughter:  Mamie.  Foi'  his  second  wife  he  selected 
Miss  Hannah  Chowa,  who  bore  him  one  son:  Charles;  lOmma  L. , married  'riiomas  Cochran, 
and  has  one  son:  Edward;  Henry,  married  Miss  lu’zzie  Cummins,  and  has  one  daughter: 
Lulu;  Christojffier  and  Frederick. 


382 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Augitst  EniRACiir.  Atiioii^  (host*  of  our  (Tt(‘riiian  oitizeiis  who  have  developed  a high 
order  of  ability  in  connection  with  the  agricnltnral  affairs  of  Marion  County,  and  whose  rare 
personal  and  social  ipialities  have  given  them  a deserved  and  added  2)rominence, Mr.  August 
Elbracht  is  conspicnons.  With  steady  jnirpose,  energy  and  a full  comprehension  of  the 
many  duties  of  his  occupation,  he  has  pushed  to  the  front  and  is  an  honor  to  his  native 
country  as  well  as  to  the  land  of  his  adoption.  Perha])s  no  class  of  people  who  have  found 
homes  upon  the  shores  of  America  have  done  more  to  build  up  her  interests  or  contribute 
more  to  her  commercial  importance  and  national  prosperity  than  the  sturdy,  honest-hearted 
and  industrious  Germans.  Mr.  Elbracht  was  born  in  Holle,  Germany,  in  1824,  and  came  to 
America  in  1800,  when  about  thirty-tive  years  of  age.  His  elder  brother  had  preceded  him 
to  this  country  two  or  three  years,  our  subject  remaining  at  home  with  his  father  and  assist- 
ing on  the  farm  owned  by  the  latter.  Our  subject  had  an  elder  sister  who  had  married 
Henry  Eickhoff,  and  resided  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  upon  landing  in  this  country  he 
immediately  directed  his  steps  there.  Previous  to  our  subject’s  landing  in  America  the 
father  became  restive,  bade  adieu  to  home  and  friends,  and  pitched  his  household  tent  in 
Franklin  Township,  Madison  County,  Ind.,  where  he  bought  100  acres  of  land.  When  our 
subject  crossed  over  he  brought  his  mother  and  they  immediatelj'  moved  into  the  little  log 
house  of  the  farm.  The  father  died  on  this  farm  about  1801  and  the  mother  about  1867. 
The  former  paid  $10  per  acre  for  the  100  acres.  In  the  year  1852  August  Elbracht  was 
united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Lena  Mempna  and  the  fruits  of  this  union  were  ten  children, 
two  of  whom,  a son  and  daughter,  died  in  infancy.  The  eight  now  living  are  named  as  fol- 
lows; Chris,  Christine  (wife  of  Charles  Boggemeyer),  Mary  (wife  of  Fred  Schmidt),  Minnie 
(wife  of  William  Tettebach),  Henry,  Charles,  Edward  and  Louisa.  Our  subject  and  his  wife 
are  worthy  members  of  the  German  Lutheran  Church  and  are  interested  in  church  work. 
He  is  a Democrat  in  his  political  views.  In  1871  Mr.  Elbracht  erected  a good  story  and  a 
half  house  on  his  farm  and  there  he  resides  with  his  worthy  companion  and  the  children  who 
are  at  home.  During  the  year  1893  he  raised  400  bushels  of  wheat  and  had  twenty  acres  in 
corn.  His  father,  Francis  Elbracht,  left  him  the  farm  he  had  bought  when  tirst  coming  to 
this  country,  and  since  then  our  subject  has  made  many  improvements.  His  mother’s  maiden 
name  was  Mary  Fierling  who  bore  her  husband  these  children:  Lottie  (the  widow  of  Henry 
Eickhoff),  Minnie  (widow  of  Alex.  Metzger),  Katie  (^deceased,  was  the  wife  of  William  Metz- 
ger), Christopher  (who  came  to  America  and  was  never  heard  of  but  once  afterward),  and 
August  (our  subject). 

Joseph  Hittle,  deceased.  The  name  wliicli  is  here  given  was  for  many  years  counted 
as  among  the  leading  farmers  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  although  he  has  now  passed 
from  earth’s  activities  is  is  but  just  and  satisfactory  that  his  life’s  narrative  be  recounted 
among  those  who  have  done  excellent  service  in  subduing  the  wilderness  and  bringing  it 
into  its  present  splendid  condition  physically,  morally  and  socially.  Born  in  Ohio  October 
26,  1819,  he  was  brought  to  Hush  County,  Ind.,  when  seven  years  of  age,  the  names  of  his 
father  and  mother  being  Isaac  and  Margaret  (Aron)  Hittle.  The  father  was  a native  of  the 
Keystone  State  and  there  grew  to  manhood,  learning  the  miller’s  trade  in  youth.  After 
reaching  mature  years  he  emigrated  to  the  Buckeye  State  and  was  there  married  to  Miss 
Aron.  About  1826  he  and  his  estimable  wife  moved  to  Rush  County,  Ind.,  and  he  there 
entered  160  acres  of  land  on  which  he  resided  until  his  death  in  1861.  He  was  a soldier  in 
the  War  of  1812,  and  a man  highly  esteemed  in  the  community  in  which  he  lived  for  his 
many  estimable  qualities.  Of  the  five  children  born  to  his  marriage,  three  grew  to  mature 
years,  as  follows:  Joseph,  died  October,  1892;  Michael,  who  lives  on  the  old  homestead  in 
Rush  County,  married  Miss  Rebecca  Carson,  who  bore  him  two  children,  only  one  now  liv- 
ing, William.  His  second  union  was  with  Miss  Eliza  Monroe  and  they  had  seven  children; 
Margaret,  John,  Homer.  Jose])h,  Alice,  Ocie  and  Arthur.  John  Hittle,  the  third  child  born  to 
our  subject,  resides  in  Wabash  County,  Ind.  His  tirst  wife  was  Adeline  Kindel  by  whom  he 
had  six  children,  one  only  surviving,  Margaret.  His  second  marriage  was  with  Miss  Emma 
Nixon,  who  died  without  issue.  He  was  the  third  time  Tuarried.  Our  subject’s  early  scho- 
lastic advantages  did  not  amount  to  much,  for  as  soon  as  able  he  was  put  to  work  on  the 
farm,  160  acres,  which  his  father  had  entered  in  Rush  County.  On  this  farm  he  remained 
until  twenty-eight  years  of  age,  and  then,  on  May  18,  1848,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Sarah  A. 


8S3 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Maze,  daughter  of  John  Maze,  a native  of  Pennsylvania,  horn  in  1780.  After  his  marriage 
our  subject  remained  on  his  father’s  farm  engaged  in  milling  and  blacksmithing  until  1850, 
when  he  and  his  family  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.  He  bought  120  acres  and  of  this 
about  twelve  acres  had  been  partially  cleared.  Here  began  their  struggle  for  a home  and 
for  sometime  they  lived  in  a log  cabin,  but  only  until  Mr.  Hittle  could  erect  a frame,  one- 
story  house  of  three  rooms.  In  this  the  enterprising  young  couple  made  their  home  until 
about  1875  when  a house  of  seven  rooms  was  erected.  There  Mr.  Hittle  died  in  1892,  and 
there  his  widow  now  resides  with  her  daughter,  Mary  E.,  who  married  Andrew  Toon.  Mr. 
Hittle  never  belonged  to  any  secret  organization,  nor  to  any  church,  though  his  parents  were 
Presbyterians.  His  career  impressed  upon  his  children  and  his  many  friends  the  example 
of  a noble  and  honorable  life,  which,  although  it  was  fraught  with  hard  labor  and  patient  in- 
dustry, was  a model  of  the  sterling  qualities  that  characterized  a man  who  lived  nearer  to 
nature  in  its  purity  than  to  the  artifices  of  society.  His  death  was  the  occasion  of  universal 
sorrow,  for  all  felt  the  loss  sustained  by  the  departure  of  such  a man.  He  was  a Democrat 
in  politics,  although  he  never  took  an  active  part  excei^t  to  vote  his  ticket.  His  marriage  was 
blessed  by  the  birth  of  two  children.  Isaac,  his  son,  was  married  first  in  1809  to  Miss  Emma 
Parrish,  daughter  of  King  Parrish  of  Hancock  County,  Ind  , and  by  her  became  the  father  of 
four  children : Carrie  E.,  Oscar  L.,  Claudie  O.  and  John  G.  Isaac  Hittle’ s first  wife  died 
in  1880,  and  his  second  wife  was  Miss  Lucy  E.  Brown,  daughter  of  Samuel  Brown.  Three 
children  were  born  to  this  union:  Della  M. , Charles  J.  and  Chester  A.  Our  subject’s  second 
child,  Mary  E.,  married  Andrew  Toon,  son  of  Lewis  Toon,  and  they  have  one  son,  Joseph 
K.  John  Maze,  father  of  Mrs.  Hittle,  was  born  January  1,  1780,  in  Pennsylvania,  and  in 
1792  moved  to  the  Blue-Grass  State.  From  there  he  moved  to  Ohio,  thence  to  Indiana,  then 
to  Arkansas  and  then  back  to  Indiana,  dying  in  Marion  County  May  1,  1855.  He  married 
Hannah  Harvey  and  they  had  twelve  children,  eleven  of  whom  grew  to  mature  years.  (See 
sketch  of  Willis  Smither). 

John  Demott.  No  name  is  more  familiarly  known  in  Marion  County  than  that  of 
Demott,  and  it  is  so  thoroughly  interwoven  with  its  history  that  a work  of  this  character 
would  be  incomplete  without  frecjuent  reference  to  some  member  of  the  family.  The  man 
from  Kentucky  has  always  been  a potential  element  in  the  civilization  and  development  of 
Indiana.  No  better  blood  ever  infused  pioneer  life;  no  sturdier  arm  ever  set  about  the  task 
of  subduing  the  wilderness,  and  no  less  vigorous  mental  activity  could  have  raised  a great 
commonwealth.  John  Demott  was  born  in  the  Blue  Grass  State,  IMercer  County,  December 
24,  181  3,  on  his  father’s  farm.  His  parents,  Peter  and  Mary  (Terhune)  Demott,  were  natives 
of  New  Jersey  and  Kentucky  respectively,  the  former  born  about  1700.  When  but  a boy 
Peter  Demott  came  with  his  father,  Lawrence  Demott,  to  Kentucky,  and  the  latter  entered 
1,400  acres  of  laud.  Peter  served  in  the  War  of  1812.  He  married  Miss  Terhune,  daugh 
ter  of  Garrett  Terhune,  of  Kentucky,  and  the  fiuits  of  this  union  were  thirteen  children, 
eleven  of  whom  grew  to  mature  years,  as  follows:  Lawrence,  deceased,  was  the  husband  of 
Polly  Davis,  also  deceased;  Katie,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Simon  Smock,  also  deceased; 
Dosia  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Henry  Bonte,  now  deceased;  Polly,  deceased,  was  the  wife 
of  Thomas  Henderson,  now  deceased;  Margaret,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Abram  Vannice, 
decea.sed;  Sallie  was  the  wife  of  Daniel  Stuck,  and  both  are  now  deceased;  Peter  married 
Jane  Hunter,  and  both  are  deceased;  Ann  married  Philip  French,  deceased,  and  they  lived 
in  Gibson  County,  Ind.  ; John  Demott,  subject,  and  Lucinda,  married  Jesse  Turpen,  and 
they  reside  in  .Missouri.  J’he  mother  of  these  children  died  May  27.  18(52.  When  about  ten 
years  of  age  our  subject  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  with  his  father,  who  entered  Kit) 
acres  of  land  in  Franklin  Township,  paying  for  the  same  $1.25  an  acre.  He  and  his  father 
made  the  triji  on  horseback  and  two  or  three  days  afterward  returned  home,  the  distance 
being  between  180  and  200  miles.  The  father  thought  nothing  of  riding  sixty  or  sixty  tive 
miles  a day  over  the  roughest  kind  of  roads  and  through  the  woods  and  swamps.  On  his 
return  our  suliject  began  farming  on  the  old  homestead  of  1(50  acres,  whicli  was  just  opposite 
the  noted  Cave  Springs.  He  received  meager  educational  advantages — not  more  than 
eighteen  montlis  altogetlier  and  got  as  far  as  the  rule  of  three  in  arithmetic.  He  was  about 
eighteen  years  of  age  when  his  father  died  and  he  remained  on  the  farm  with  his  sisters, 
Ann  and  Lucinda,  until  about  thirty  years  of  age.  On  March  l(5,  1843,  he  was  married  to 


384 


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M ifis  INIaiy  E.  Bates,  and  in  tlie  fall  of  (he  same  year  he  and  his  bride  moved  to  Trimble 
County,  Ky.,  where  he  bought  160  acres  of  laud  for  $400.  This  land  was  among  the  hills 
of  the  Ohio  lliver  and  he  had  a beautiful  view  of  the  river  and  Madison,  lud.  A large  part 
of  this  land  was  cleared  and  he  began  raising  corn,  wheat  and  hogs,  remaining  on  the  same 
until  October,  1854,  when  he  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  where  his  father  had  entered 
TOO  acres.  The  latter  had  also  entered  480  acres  in  Johnson  County,  Ind.  John  Demott 
settled  on  a tract  of  100  acres  in  Section  3,  Range  4,  Franklin  Township,  Marion  County, 
the  same  being  allotted  to  him  on  his  father’s  death.  Previous  to  settling  on  his  farm  per- 
manently he  had  visited  it  several  times  and  had  clearings  made  and  a house  erected,  so  that 
his  family  could  move  right  in.  On  this  farm  they  settled  and  here  Mr.  Demott  has  made 
his  home  ever  since.  He  has  cleared  about  seventy  acres,  besides  finishing  clearing  the 
twenty  acres  he  had  jiartially  cleared  previous  to  settling  upon  it.  Among  the  first  men  to 
work  for  him  was  J.  L.  Carson,  late  auditor  of  Shelby  County,  Ind.,  who  split,  hauled  and 
laid  up  5,0(10  oak  and  walnut  rails  for  our  subject.  To  Mr.  Demott’s  marriage  were  born 
eight  children,  one  of  whom,  Peter,  died  in  infancy.  Those  who  lived  to  mature  years  were 
named:  William  Merritt,  born  February  7,  1844,  married  Miss  Sarah,  daughter  of  Willis 
Smither,  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  they  now  reside  in  Shelby  County,  this  State;  James 
Peter,  born  May  34,  1847,  resides  in  Lebanon,  Ind.  He  married  Miss  Alice  Vandiver,  daugh- 
ter of  James  Vandiver,  of  Marion  County,  Ind.;  John  Thomas,  born  January  27,  1849, 
married  and  resides  in  Marion  County,  Ind. ; Jane  M.,  born  February  0,  1850,  married 
iSamuel  Parsons  and  died  when  her  first  child,  a daughter,  was  about  four  years  old.  The 
child  died  soon  after;  Simon  S.,  born  January  19,  l852,  died  in  Missouri,  unmarried;  Ohio 
C.,  born  May  10,  1854,  married  Miss  Mollie  Hendershot,  and  they  reside  in  Indianapolis, 
lud.;  (ieorge  C.,  born  March  25,  1857,  married  Miss  Belle  Hawkinger,  and  resides  in 
Marion  County,  Ind;  and  Eliza  Ruth,  born  October  24,  1859,  married  Jacob  Keruer,  and 
resides  in  Franklin  Township,  Marion  County,  Ind.  The  mother  of  these  children  died  July 
30,  1800,  and  our  subject  has  never  married  again.  In  early  manhood  Mr.  Demott  was  a 
Whig  and  a great  admirer  of  Henry  Clay.  Later  he  cast  his  vote  with  the  Democratic  party, 
with  which  he  now  affiliates.  In  early  life  he  was  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  but  his  name  was  taken  off  the  church  books  because  of  his  supposed  affiliation  with 
the  Southern  cause.  In  spite  of  all  this  he  has  contributed  liberally  to  build  and  maintain 
all  the  churches  in  his  neighborhood,  excepting  the  new  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  to 
replace  the  one  he  belonged  to.  When  asked  for  some  timber  for  the  church  he  quietly 
informed  the  committee  that  it  would  never  do  to  put  “ butternut  ” timber  in  that  church. 
They  took  the  hint  and  withdrew. 

Andrew  Collins.  For  many  years  this  highly  honored  pioneer  of  Franklin  Township 
has  lieen  identified  with  the  interests  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  his  settlement  here  dating 
from  1840,  and  during  that  time  his  career  has  been  above  reproach.  He  enjoys  the  reputation 
of  being  a substantial  and  progressive  farmer,  and  has  also  been  considered  an  intelligent 
and  thoroughly  posted  man  on  all  the  current  topics  of  the  day.  Although  now  in  his  eighty- 
second  year  time  has  dealt  leniently  with  him  and  he  is  still  in  the  enjoyment  of  compara- 
tively good  health,  and  takes  as  deep  an  interest  in  all  public  enterprises  as  in  his  more 
youthful  days.  Mr.  Collins  was  born  in  Hamilton  County,  Ohio,  August  5,  1812,  fourteen 
miles  northwest  of  Cincinnati,  to  the  marriage  of  Ephraim  and  Catherine  (Scott)  Collins. 
The  elder  Collins  was  born  in  Maryland  about  1777  and  was  married  in  Pennsylvania  to 
Miss  Scott  who  bore  him  six  children,  five  of  whom  reached  mature  years,  as  follows:  Mary 
(deceased),  married  James  Chambers  and  they  had  one  child,  Isaac.  She  died  in  1891; 
Charles  (deceased),  married  first  Patsy  Powell  and  afterward  Agnes  Blair,  )iee  Johnson.  He 
had  two  children,  Katherine  and  Mary  J.,  by  the  first  union  and  six  by  the  last,  Charles, 
Isaac,  Willard,  Susan  and  Della.  Robert  Collins  (deceased),  was  the  husband  of  Susan 
Stephens  who  liore  him  one  child,  James;  Sarah  (deceased),  was  the  wife  of  William  Columby 
by  whom  she  had  four  children,  three  now  living,  Charles,  Elizabeth  and  Susan;  Isaac  Col- 
lins (deceased),  married  Sarah  Dane  and  they  became  the  parents  of  two  children,  Mary  and 
Ephraim,  both  deceased;  and  Andrew  Collins,  our  subject.  The  mother  of  these  children 
died  about  1873,  when  quite  aged,  over  four  score  years.  The  father  served  in  the  War  of 
1812.  Robert  Collins,  grandfather  of  our  subject,  was  born  in  Maryland,  but  when  a young 


885 


AKT)  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

man  emigrated  to  Ohio,  and  died  in  that  State  when  onr  subject  was  a small  boy.  It  is  supposed 
that  the  grandfather  serveil  iu  the  llevolutionary  ^\'ar,  and  that  he  was  of  Irish  parentage. 
He  was  almost  one  hundred  years  old  at  the  time  of  his  death.  The  original  of  this  notice 
grew  to  manhood  in  his  native  county  but  received  limited  educational  advantages,  the 
schools  at  that  time  being  subscription  schools.  He  attended  only  three  or  four  sessions  of 
three  months  each,  but  as  he  was  apt  in  figures  and  in  that  time  went  past  the  double  rule 
of  three  in  Pike’s  Arithmetic.  The  old  Webster  spelling  book  was  used  then.  Mr.  Collins 
was  married  January  30,  1834,  to  Miss  Susan  Hill,  daughter  of  John  Hill,  of  Ohio,  and  up 
to  the  time  of  his  marriage  had  resided  on  his  father’s  farm.  After  that  important  event 
took  place  he  moved  to  a little  tract  of  twenty-five  acres  in  Hamilton  County,  Ohio,  owned  by 
his  wife’s  grandmother,  and  tilled  the  soil  there  until  1840  when  he  came  to  Marion  County, 
Ind.  He  settled  on  eighty  acres  in  Section  Twelve,  Range  Four  east,  Franklin  Township, 
which  his  father  had  entered,  paying  $1.25  per  acre,  and  which  he  deeded  to  oirr  subject, 
the  patent  being  signed  by  Andrew  Jackson,  President.  On  this  tract  of  land  our  subject 
erected  a log  cabin,  sixteen  feet  scprare,  and  commenced  the  arduous  labor  of  clearing  the 
forest.  He  lived  in  this  cabin  for  about  ten  years  after  which  which  he  put  up  a one-story 
frame.  Later  he  added  another  story  and  lived  in  this  until  about  1883  when  the  house  was 
destroyed  by  fire.  On  the  same  site  he  erected  a one-story  frame  of  four  rooms  and  now 
resides  in  this.  Three  children  were  born  to  his  marriage,  Ludisa,  Elijah  and  JohnH.  The 
eldest  child.  Ludisa,  was  l)orn  November  9,  1834,  and  married  Lewis  Toon.  She  became 
the  mother  of  five  children,  as  follows:  Andrew,  who  married  Mary  Hittle;  Carrie,  who 
married  Warren  Adams;  Emma,  who  married  Marion  Swarts;  'Susan,  who  married  Edward 
(iuss;  and  Richard.  The  second  child  of  our  subject,  Elijah,  was  born  June  24,  1838. 
He  married  Emily  Tolan  and  they  became  the  parents  of  three  children:  Susan  married 
Robert  Moore;  Charles  married  Mary  Maze;  and  Ollie.  Our  subject’s  third  child,  John  H., 
was  born  May  15,  1843.  He  married  Miss  Rebecca  Cress  and  they  have  two  children,  Rob- 
ert H.,  who  married  Carry  Smith,  and  Nettie  Collins.  Elijah  Collins,  son  of  our  subject, 
was  drafted  into  the  army  in  1863  but  did  not  serve  long.  John  H.  Collins,  the  other  son, 
enlisted  in  1862  and  served  until  close  of  hostilities.  He  was  in  the  last  battle  that  occurred 
before  Lee’s  surrender.  In  his  political  views  onr  subject  was  a free-soil  Whig  but  later  on 
espoused  the  cause  of  the  Republican  ])arty  of  which  he  has  since  been  a warm  advocate. 
His  first  vote  was  cast  for  Gen.  Jackson  and  when  the  Republican  party  nominated  John  C. 
Fremont,  he  voted  for  him  as  he  did  for  Abraham  Lincoln.  Mr.  Collins  is  a member  of  the 
United  Brethren  Church  which  he  has  attended  for  over  sixty  years,  and  he  was  licensed  to 
exhort.  He  has  served  as  class  leader  and  superintendent  of  the  Sunday-school  for  several 
years,  and  is  a man  highly  esteemed  in  the  community. 

William  Woodforo  White.  It  is  always  a pleasure  to  deal  with  the  history  of  one  who 
is  a member  of  one  of  tho.se  grand  old  families  who  have  for  generations  been  distinguished 
for  jiatriotism,  heroism,  and  the  strong  characteristics  which  have  made  them  prominent 
wherever  they  have  settled.  William  Woodford  White  is  one  of  the  early  pioneers  of  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  and  is  descended  from  an  old  and  prominent  Virginia  family.  His  father, 
Nathaniel  White,  was  a native  of  the  Old  Dominion,  but  in  early  manhood  emigrated  to 
Kentucky,  and  was  there  married  to  Miss  Margaret  McFarland.  There  were  children  born 
to  this  union  as  follows:  Green  (deceased);  Louisa  (deceased),  was  the  wife  of  William 
Alston;  Thor.sy  (deceased),  was  the  wife  of  Andrew  Moorhouse;  Milton  (deceased);  Ann 
(deceased),  was  the  wife  of  Alfonso  Bryan;  William  W.,  our  subject;  Hattie  (deceased),  was 
the  wife  of  Perry  Ransdell,  and  The  father  of  these  children  died  in 

1812.  Grandfather  White  was  a native  of  Scotland,  and  from  his  sturdy  Scotch  ances- 
tors our  subject  no  ilonbt  inherits  his  perseverance  and  industry.  William  W.  White  was 
born  in  Jessamine  County,  Ky.,  February  25,  1809,  and  although  nearly  eighty-live  years 
of  age  is  iu  the  enjoyment  of  comparatively  good  health.  When  about  two  years  of  age 
he  was  left  fatherless  and  his  mother  soon  afterward  movetl  to  Harrison  County,  Ky., 
where  she  had  a brother  living.  From  there  she  moved  to  Boone  County,  Ky. , where  slu' 
bought  fifty  acres  and  her  older  sons  put  up  a cabin  on  the  tract  and  commenced  to  clear  the 
forest.  On  this  farm  they  resided  for  twelve  years  and  then  moved  to  Marion  County,  Ind., 
where  our  subject’s  elder  brother,  .Milton  White,  had  settled  on  Uitt  acres  of  land,  a short  time 


386 


MEMOIRS  OE  INDIANAPOLIS 


before.  Tliis  land  the  latter  had  bought  with  the  proceeds  of  the  sale  of  the  fifty-acre  tract 
in  Boone  County,  Ky.  Milton  White  paid  $1.25  per  acre  for  the  tract  in  Marion  County, 
entering  it  from  the  Government,  and  in  the  fall  of  1824  the  family  moved  on  this.  A cabin, 
eighteen  feet  square,  of  round  logs  had  been  erected  for  them  before  their  arrival,  but  as  it 
had  no  chimney  or  doors,  they  had  to  provide  these  afterward.  There  were  but  three  fami- 
lies within  three  miles  of  their  location,  and  amid  these  rude  surroundings  they  began 
their  career  as  early  settlers.  They  first  began  clearing  the  land,  and  by  spring  they  had 
about  six  acres  cleared  of  trees,  and  the  next  year  they  put  in  a crop  of  corn,  but  raised  no 
wheat  for  about  six  years,  because  they  had  no  mills  to  grind  it.  Game  was  very  plenty 
then,  and  deer  was  frecpiently  killed  within  a hundred  yards  of  the  cabin.  Wild  turkeys 
were  so  common  that  no  one  cared  to  shoot  them.  On  this  farm  our  subject  lived  for  seven 
years,  and  then  bought  160  acres  of  school  section  land,  which  sold  for  $1.40  an  acre,  one 
fourth  down  and  the  balance  in  ten  years.  In  1833,  soon  after  he  bought  this  tract,  our 
subject  married  Miss  Martha  Vandiver,  erected  a cabin  on  his  land,  and  moved  with  his  bride 
into  this.  For  about  a year  he  remained  on  this,  clearingabout  four  acres  in  that  time,  and 
then,  finding  that  he  would  not  be  able  to  pay  for  if,  he  sold  it  for  $240,  where  he  had  paid 
$60  for  if,  and  the  man  he  sold  to  assumed  the  balance  of  the  payment  due  the  State.  Mr. 
White  then  entered  eiglity  acres  in  Franklin  township,  ])aying$1.25  {)er  acre,  but  three  years 
later  sold  this  and  entej'ed  120  acres  in  another  part  of  Fraidilin  township,  f'aying  $1.25  per 
acre,  later  he  bought  forty  acres  for  $2.50  i)er  acre,  ou  which  a small  cabin  was  being  built, 
and  in  that  he  lived  for  a few  years.  In  1848  he  erected  the  house  in  which  he  is  now  living. 
He  now  has  130  acres  cleared,  most  of  it  his  own  labor,  and  he  has  cleared  as  much  ground 
for  others  as  for  himself.  Mr.  White  is  not  a church  member  and  he  belongs  to  no  secret 
organizations.  His  first  vote  was  cast  before  he  was  eighteen  years  of  age,  for  Gen.  Jack- 
son,  and  he  has  been  a Democrat  in  politics  ever  since.  To  his  marriage  were  born  eight 
children,  as  follows:  James  B. ; Robert  A.  ; Margaret;  Sallie,  wife  of  James  Nolan,  of  Ken- 
tucky; Clarissa;  Green,  who  married  Anna  Anderson,  and  was  left  a widower  with  six  children 
—Harry  P.,  Laura,  Edith,  William  W.,  Robert  L.,  and  Caroline;  Milton,  (deceased);  Eliza, 
widow  of  John  Brener,  has  five  children  -Ollie,  Frank,  Nellie,  Floy,  and  Ralph. 

James  Webb.  The  time  has  arrived  when  it  becomes  the  duty  of  the  people  of  this 
country  to  perpetuate  the  names  of  their  pioneers,  to  furnish  a record  of  their  early  settle- 
ment and  relate  the  story  of  their  progress.  In  biographical  history  is  found  a power  to 
instruct  men  by  precedent,  to  enliven  the  mental  faculties  and  to  waft  down  the  river  of 
time  a safe  vessel  in  which  the  names  and  actions  of  the  people  who  contributed  to  raise  this 
country  from  its  primitive  state  may  be  preserved.  One  of  the  representative  pioneers  of 
Marion  County,  Ind.,  was  James  Webb,  a native  Virginian,  born  in  1794,  and  who,  when 
about  twelve  years  of  age,  moved  with  his  parents  to  Henry  County,  Ky.  There  he  grew  to 
manhood  and  there  he  obtained  a limited  education  common  at  that  period,  probably  not  attend- 
ing school  over  six  months  altogether.  He  was  married  in  Henry  County,  Ky.,  in  1810,  to  a 
Miss  Sandford,  and  there  he  continued  to  make  his  home  until  1832,  when  he  moved  to 
Marion  County,  Ind.  He  bought  300  acres  of  land  and  added  to  this  from  time  to  time 
until  he  became  the  owner  of  about  1, 500  acres.  His  chief  occupation,  and  in  fact  almost 
his  whole  business,  was  raising  stock  of  all  kinds,  and  at  this  he  made  a complete  success, 
accumulating  property  worth  over  $100,000  before  his  death  in  1886.  He  was  a Whig  in 
politics,  afterward  a Democrat  and  an  active  partisan.  He  served  in  the  Indian  War  of  1836, 
was  not  a member  of  any  secret  organization  but  was  an  active  member  of  the  Christian 
Church  in  which  his  wife  also  held  membership.  A man  of  medium  height  and  weight,  he 
was  possessed  of  an  iron  constitution  and  indomitable  energy,  and  lived  to  be  ninety-two 
years  of  age.  He  was  the  father  of  seven  children,  as  follows:  James  E.  (who  married 
Mattie  Combs,  daughter  of  F.  Combs,  has  three  children,  Addie,  Isaiah  and  Ella);  Hannah 
(married  Charles  Orme  and  is  the  mother  of  six  living  children,  four  being  deceased);  Nancy 
(married  Ethelbert  Bryan  and  died  without  is.sue);  Elizabeth  (married  Charles  Browning, 
now  deceased,  and  has  five  children,  Albert  who  married  Catherine  Stewart,  Hannah  who 
married  Jesse  Sells,  Nancy  who  married  Frank  Brand  and  Eli  who  married  Elizabeth  Car- 
ter); Sarah  (deceased,  married  Augustin  Beasley  and  to  them  were  born  Joseph,  Augustin, 
John,  Lucretia  (widow  of  Daniel  Brewer),  Bettie  (wife  of  Mr.  Bowen),  Fannie  (wife  of  Edgar 


387 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Brewer),  Affia  and  Alice);  Susan  (deceased,  married  Charles  Browning  and  to  them  were 
boi’n  Lloyd  (who  married  Matie  Browning),  John  (who  married  Emma  McNutt),  and  Oscar 
(who  marrierl  Mattie  Ballard);  and  John  S.  (deceased,  who  married  Nancy  Iloyster  and 
became  the  father  of  five  children).  James  Webb’s  hist  ivife  died  and  he  was  married  a 
second  time.  John  Sanford  Webb  was  born  in  Henry  County,  Ky.,  in  1811,  and  there  grew 
to  mature  years,  receiving  but  a limited  education.  He  came  on  a prospecting  trip  to  Indiana 
and  also  visited  Illinois,  after  which,  in  1832,  he  came  with  his  parents  to  the  Hoosier  State, 
settling  in  Marion  County.  Here  he  was  married  in  1839,  to  Miss  Nancy  Royster,  and  the 
six  children  born  to  them  were  named  as  follows:  Mary  F.  (wife  of  William  Lockwood,  is 
the  mother  of  two  children,  Nora  (wife  of  Frank  Rogers),  and  Margaret);  James  W.  (mar- 
ried Mary  Grube  and  has  four  living  children,  Dora,  Anna  (widow  of  Rev.  Charles  Lewis), 
Betty  and  Frederick);  Sarah  (deceased,  was  the  wife  of  Alfred  Isaacs  and  has  two  children, 
Gertrude  (wife  of  Dr.  Hiram  P.  Castor)  and  John);  Nannie  (deceased);  Charles  R.  (who 

married  Mrs. of  New  York  city);  and  John  Edward  (who  married  Frances  Y. 

Bright,  daughter  of  John  C.  Bright,  of  Logansport,  Ind. ).  The  father  of  these  children 
advocated  the  principles  of  the  Democrat  party  and  took  a deep  interest  in  its  welfare. 
Although  not  a member  of  any  religious  sect  he  attended  the  Christian  Church  quite  regir- 
larly  and  contributed  liberally  of  his  means  to  the  erection  and  support  of  churches  in  his 
vicinity.  His  death  occurred  in  February,  1888,  and  his  wife  died  the  October  following, 
aged  si.xty-eight  years.  Their  son  John  Edward  now  resides  in  an  elegant  brick  mansion 
erected  by  his  father,  and  he  also  inherited  eighty  acres  of  land  with  it.  To  this  he  has  added 
by  purchase  eighty  acres  more  and  has  140  acres  cleared.  He  is  a progressive,  thorough- 
going farmer  and  understands  his  business  thoroughly.  He  raised  800  bushels  of  wheat 
(twenty-six  bushels  to  the  acre),  fifty  acres  in  corn,  averaging  fifty  bushels  to  the  acre  and  he 
also  raised  some  oats.  He  is  considerable  of  a stockman  and  raises  the  American  Rambouil 
lett  sheep,  formerly  known  as  the  French  sheep.  He  raises  them  for  breeding  purposes  and 
has  a herd  of  about  100  head,  the  only  one  in  the  State.  In  this  herd  are  about  twenty-eight 
rams,  all  registered  and  going  back  to  the  Rambouillett  breeding  farm  established  many 
years  ago  by  the  French  Government.  Mr.  Webb  also  raises  Jersey  cattle  and  owns  a herd 
of  twenty,  including  two  bulls  of  tine  pedigree.  One  of  these  animals  is  named  “Cash 
Boy”  and  is  numbered  in  the  Jersey  cattle  register.  Mr.  Webb’s  herd  of  sheep  took  the 
gold  medal  prize  at  the  Paris  Exposition  in  1891.  The  son-in-law  of  James  Webb,  whose 
name  heads  this  sketch,  Charles  Orme,  was  born  in  Lewis  County,  Ky.,  in  1819,  and  was  the 
son  of  Moses  Orme.  He  came  to  Indiana  with  his  parents  in  1828  and  they  settled  in  Perry 
Township,  Marion  County,  Ind.,  where  the  father  bought  land.  He  grew  to  manhood  in 
that  tosvnship  and  was  married  in  1844  to  Hannah  Wel)b,  and  their  children  were  named  as 
follows:  Sanford  (who  married  Ella  Bennett  and  has  four  children,  Charley,  Harry,  Mamie 
and  Willie);  George  (who  married  Mary  Paul);  IVIartin  L. ; Mary  E.  (who  married  Ben  ja 
min  Myers  and  has  four  children,  Franklin,  Cora,  James  and  Effie);  Emma  (who  married  Dr. 
Jacob  Trusler);  Charles  (who  married  Carrie  Brewer  and  has  two  children,  Ruth  and  John); 
and  Fannie  (who  married  John  Brewer,  deceased,  and  has  six  children,  Samuel,  Dosia 
(who  married  Dr.  Miller),  Mary  E.  J.  (who  married  a Mr.  Dixon),  Belle  (who  married  Charles 
Convert),  Margaret  (who  married  Lewis  Tracey)  and  Tommie,  a girl  ( who  married  a Mr. 
Bi’ooks).  The  father  of  these  children,  Charles  Orme,  has  always  been  a Democrat  in  poli- 
tics and  was  at  one  time  elected  by  his  party  to  the  oflice  of  trustee  of  Perry  Township,  l)ut 
refused  to  serve.  Although  not  a member,  he  attends  the  Christian  Church,  of  which  his 
wife  has  been  a member  for  lifty  years. 

Vi.NCENT  Mykks.  This  worthy  agriculturist  is  a descendant  of  good  old  Virginia  stock, 
his  grandfather,  Roliert  Myers,  having  been  born  in  that  State  Octol)er  30,  ITtih.  'I’he  hit 
ter  WHS  married  in  his  native  State  and  sulisequently  moved  to  Kentucky,  where  his  death 
occurred.  He  was  the  father  of  ten  children,  as  follows:  William,  deceased;  Henry, 
deceased;  4ohii,  who  served  in  the  War  of  1812,  also  deceased;  Fiancis,  deceasi'd;  KobmM  , 
deceased;  'I'hoinas,  deceased;  Mary,  widow  of  .Joshua  Dean,  lesides  in  Brown  County,  Ind.; 
Matilda,  deceased;  Ephraim,  who  resides  in  Andrew  County,  Mo.,  and  Elijah  W.,  deceased. 
Jolin  AMyers,  father  of  our  subject,  and  the  third  in  order  of  birth  of  the  aliove  mentioned 
children,  was  born  in  Hie  Corn  Cracker  State,  Bourbon  County,  .June  24,  IT'.tb,  and  there 


388 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


remained  until  1821,  when  he  came  to  Indiana,  locating  in  Marion  County,  Perry  Townahip, 
where  he  and  his  brother,  Henry,  entered  eighty  acres  of  land  in  the  green  timber.  A num 
ber  of  years  later  he  sold  his  share,  forty  acres,  and  bought  160  acres  in  Perry  Township. 
To  this  he  subsequently  added  nearly  155  acres,  but  divided  a considerable  portion  among 
his  children.  He  was  twice  married,  the  first  time  on  July  1 1,  1820,  to  Miss  Nancy  Brown, 
daughter  of  Vincent  Brown,  of  Georgetown,  Ohio.  Hix  children  were  born  to  this  union, 
as  follows;  James  M.,  deceased,  was  the  husband  of  Henrietta  Hull,  daughter  of  William 
Hull,  of  Perry  Township,  Marion  County,  Ind;  his  wife  died,  and  on  March  5,  1891,  he 
followed  her  to  the  grave;  they  left  three  living  children,  as  follows:  John  W.,  Nancy  J. 
and  Harriet  F.,  all  of  whom  are  married,  the  first  to  Cassie  Morrison,  the  second  to  Charles 
Litterer,  and  the  last  to  William  Coatney.  Sarah  J.  Myers,  second  child  bojn  to  the  marriage 
of  John  Myers,  married  Hezekiah  Copsey,  and  both  are  now  deceased;  they  left  four  living 
children,  George  W.,  John  E. , Nance  E.  and  Francis  M.  The  first  of  these,  George  W., 
married  Miss  Nannie  Hughes;  John  E.,  married  Jane  Bristow,  and  they  have  two  daughters, 
Jessie  and  Gracie;  Nancy  Ellen,  first  married  William  Morgan,  by  whom  she  had  two  chil- 
dren, Emma  and  Geoige;  her  second  marriage  was  with  Michael  Snyder;  Francis  M., 

married  iMattie  iMcFarland,  and  they  have  one  son,  Hugh.  Rebecca  Myers,  the  third  child 
born  to  the  marriage  of  John  Myers,  died  on  October  7,1859.  She  married  George  Har- 
nes,  and  they  had  four  children,  of  whom  three  survive,  as  follows:  Edward,  who  married 
Ella  Wells;  Nancy  E.,  deceased,  was  the  wife  of  John  Stanton,  and  Elizabeth,  who  married 
Fielding  Brewer.  Mary  E.  Myers,  John  Myers’  third  child,  married  Jesse  Thomas,  and 
they  have  two  living  children,  Margaret  and  John.  Amanda  Myers,  unmarried,  died  May 
3,  1856,  and  Vincent,  our  subject.  The  father  of  these  children  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of 
1812,  and  served  under  Gen.  W.  H.  Harrison.  He  served  as  jirstice  of  the  peace  in  Perry 
Township,  Marion  County,  Ind.,  for  forty  years,  and  was  holding  that  office  at  the  time  of 

his  death,  July  19,  1882.  He  was  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  The 

mother  of  our  subject  died  January  2,  1851,  and  the  father  was  married  December  11, 1854, 
to  Mrs.  Comfort  Hinkston,  who  died  February  6,  1892.  Vincent  Myers,  the  subject  of  this 
sketch,  was  born  on  the  farm  where  he  now  lives  June  28,  1842,  and  as  he  grew  to  mature 
years  assisted  his  father  on  the  farm  and  secured  a fair  education  in  the  subscription  schools, 
attending  rather  irregularly  until  of  age.  On  December  18,  1872,  he  married  Miss  Mar- 
garet C.  Neiman,  daughter  of  Joseph  and  Elizabeth  (Carr)  Neiman,  both  of  whom  were 
natives  of  Pennsylvania,  and  both  at  present  residing  in  Indianapolis.  Our  subject  had 
purchased  forty  acres  of  land  previous  to  his  marriage,  erected  a house  on  this,  and  soon 
after  his  union  moved  into  this.  Three  children  have  been  given  this  worthy  couple: 
Joseph  John,  born  February  24,  1874;  Albert  Porter,  born  December  11,  1879,  and  Ray- 
mond Neiman,  born  January  1,  1891.  Mr.  Myers  is  a Republican  born  and  bred,  and  has 
always  voted  the  straight  ticket.  His  first  presidential  vote  was  cast  for  Abraham  Lincoln, 
a fact  of  which  Mr.  Myers  feels  justly  proud.  He  was  mustered  into  the  State  militia 
toward  the  close  of  the  war,  but  never  left  the  State.  For  many  years  he  has  been  a member  of 
the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  of  which  he  is  now  trustee  and  was  steward.  For  seven 
years  past  he  has  been  superintendent  of  the  Sunday-school.  In  189-  Mr.  Myers  was 
elected  justice  of  the  peace  but  declined  to  qualify.  He  has  also  served  several  terms  as 
road  supervisor  in  Perry  Township.  Of  the  100  acres  that  he  owns,  si.xty  acres  of  which 
were  given  him  by  his  father,  ninety  acres  are  cleared  and  in  a good  state  of  cultivation. 
Joseph  Neiman,  the  father  of  Mr.s.  Myers,  followed  the  trade  of  a tailor  in  Middletown, 
Penn.,  until  1849,  and  then  came  to  Indianapolis,  where  he  carried  on  his  trade  for  some 
time.  After  this  he  was  engaged  in  farming  in  Johnson  and  Marion  Counties,  and  is  now  in 
the  grocery  business  in  Indianapolis.  During  the  Civil  War  he  enlisted  in  the  Eleventh 
Indiana  Infantry,  Company  A,  and  served  about  six  months.  He  married  Miss  Elizabeth 
Carr,  and  seven  of  the  eight  children  born  to  them  are  now  living,  as  follows;  Thomas  J., 
who  married  Catherine  Robertson,  is  the  father  of  two  children,  Elizabeth  and  Clara;  Mar- 
garet C.,  wife  of  our  subject;  Barbara  E.,  who  married  Albertus  T.  Langhorn,  is  the  mother 
of  two  children,  Lucy  and  Barbara  A. ; Frederika,  who  married  Joseph  Reeves,  has  one  son, 
Stewart;  Joseph  M. , who  married  Margaret  Ward,  has  one  son,  Joseph;  Ida  E.,  married 
George  Weakley,  and  they  have  two  children,  Blanche  and  Nellie,  and  Mary  Anna,  who  is 


381» 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

unmarried.  Mrs.  Myers’  grandfather,  Jacob  Neiman,  was  born  in  York  County,  Penn.,  and 
followed  farming  all  his  life.  He  married  Elizabeth  Metzger,  and  moved  to  Dauphin 
County,  Penn.,  where  he  passed  the  remainder  of  his  days.  He  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of 
1812.  Two  of  his  ten  children  now  survive:  Joseph  Neiman,  and  Barbara,  who  married 
Benjamin  Myers,  and  now  resides  in  this  county.  Mrs.  Myers’  great-grandfather,  Michael 
Neiman,  was  born  in  Germany,  but  at  an  early  date  emigrated  to  America.  On  the  maternal 
side  the  great-grandfather,  Joseph  Snider,  was  an  officer  in  the  Revolutionary  war.  Her 
maternal  grandfather,  Moses  Carr,  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812. 

O.  C.  Chambers  & Bro.  Prominent  among  the  many  reliable  houses  of  West  Indian- 
apolis, Ind.,  may  be  mentioned  that  of  Chambers  & Bro.,  and  that  it  is  appreciated  as  one 
of  the  foremost  drug  establishments  of  the  place  can  be  readily  seen  by  the  large  patronage 
it  commands.  This  house  deserves  honorable  mention  in  this  volume,  not  only  on  account 
of  the  high  character  of  its  management,  but  also  on  account  of  the  superiority  of  its 
stock.  Oscar  Chambers  was  born  in  Tipton,  Ind.,  November  25,  1858,  a son  of  John  W. 
Chambers,  who  died  at  Brownstowu.  He  was  born  in  Jennings  County,  Ind.,  and  when 
a young  man  went  to  Tipton,  where  he  worked  at  the  carpenter’s  trade,  and  afterward  held 
the  office  of  treasurer  of  Tipton  County,  and  while  there  was  also  editor  of  the  Advocate, 
but  which  was  a well-conducted  and  successful  journal  under  his  management  for  some 
time.  His  wife  was  Miss  Elizabeth  Jane  Boyd,  and  to  their  marriage  five  children  were 
born,  of  whom  Albert  was  the  eldest,  and  Oscar  the  next;  Avery  and  Thomas,  twins,  the 
latter  dying  in  infancy;  Albert,  who  also  died  young,  and  John  W.,  who  is  the  present 
editor  of  the  Commercial,  at  Caruthersville,  Ind.  The  initiatory  training  of  Oscar  Cham- 
bers was  obtained  at  Brownstown  and  was  finished  at  Lexington,  Scott  County,  Ind.,  after 
which,  at  the  age  of  twenty,  he  became  a clerk  in  a drug  store  owned  by  Stillwell  & 
Burrell,  of  Brownstown,  with  which  firm  he  remained  for  four  years.  He  then  embarked 
in  the  same  business  for  himself,  and  after  continuing  in  this  branch  of  endeavor  for  four 
years  he  went  to  St.  Louis  and  became  foreman  for  the  Provident  Chemical  Works.  After 
a time  he  entered  the  employ  of  A.  J.  Miller,  at  284  South  West  Street,  Indianapolis, 
Ind.,  but  after  a time  took  charge  of  the  business,  of  which  he  and  his  brother  Avery  are 
the  proprietors,  but  which  at  that  time  belonged  to  Mr.  Miller.  The  business  which  they 
are  so  successfully  following  is  unquestionably  a highly  important  one,  for  upon  the  skill 
and  care  of  the  pharmacist,  almost  as  upon  that  displayed  by  the  medical  profession,  de- 
pends the  j)hysical  welfare — almost  the  life  or  death  of  the  sick  or  ailing.  The  proprietors, 
without  doubt,  thoroughly  understaml  their  business,  and  are  doing  well  from  a financial 
standpoint.  O.scar  Chambers  has  become  a well-known  citizen  in  West  Indianapolis,  and 
for  one  term  served  in  the  capacity  of  its  treasurer,  but  has  since  been  content  to  look  after 
his  ever-increasing  business.  Socially  he  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P. , the  I.  O.  O.  F.  and 
the  Red  Men,  his  brother  Avery  being  also  a Knight  of  Pythias  and  an  Odd  Fellow.  The 
latter  learned  the  trade  of  a printer  when  a boy,  and  has  worked  on  many  of  the  princi- 
pal papers  in  the  United  States,  atnong  which  may  be  mentioned  the  Indianapolis  Sentinel, 
the  Louisville  Coiirier-,1  ournal,  and  the  St.  Loiris  Post -Despatch.  He  and  his  brother  are 
practical  druggists,  and  are  successful  and  honored  business  men,  highly  esteemed  in 
social  as  well  as  commercial  circles. 

Wii.LiAM  McGinnis.  Among  the  pushing  and  enterprising  men  of  Indianapolis,  Ind., 
William  McGinnis  takes  high  rank.  He  is  a sou  of  Janies  and  Eliza  (Mericle)  McGinnis, 
the  former  of  whom  was  born  in  Westmoreland  County,  Penn.,  and  the  latter  in  Oneida 
County,  N.  Y.  The  father  was  a blacksmith  by  trade  and  emigrated  to  Indiana  in  1882, 
settling  at  Guilford,  of  which  they  were  among  the  very  first  families.  They  resided  there 
until  1857,  then  removed  to  Lawrenceburg  and  the  father  entered  the  employ  of  the  I. 
C.  A Ij.  Railroad  as  blacksmith,  in  which  capacity  he  served  for  many  years.  He  is  still  in 
the  employ  of  that  road  but  has  attained  an  advanced  age,  and  owing  to  long  and  valualile 
service  which  he  lias  rendered  the  comjiany  he  has  lieen  retired  from  hard  work  and  given  a 
fiosition  suitable  to  liis  enfeebled  condition.  In  Ajiril,  18111,  William  McGinnis  responded 
to  the  first  call  of  his  country  for  troops,  and  was  a member  of  the  first  com|)any  that  left 
Indiana  for  the  front.  Company  I).,  Seventh  Regiment  Indiana  I nfanf r}’,  being  dischargi'd 
at  the  expiration  of  four  mouths.  He  immediately  re  enlisted  in  the  same  regiment  and 


890 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


coinpHuj^  but.  was  shortly  after  assigned  to  military  railroad  work  in  Tennessee  and  Georgia, 
from  the  fact  that  he  had  [)ractical  experience  in  railroad  work.  He  served  faithfully  iu 
this  capacity  until  near  the  close  of  the  war,  being  discharged  in  August,  1864,  on  account 
of  disabilities  arising  from  injuries  received  in  a railroad  accident,  which  unfitted  him  from 
further  service  and  has  resulted  in  his  permanent  injury.  He  was  in  the  first  engagement 
fonght  in  West  Virginia  at  Phillipi  and  was  afterward  in  the  battle  of  Garrick’s  Ford.  In 
politics  he  has  always  been  an  active  worker  for  the  success  of  the  Republican  party,  but  as 
far  as  regards  himself  has  never  been  an  aspirant  for  political  preferment,  his  business  fully 
occupying  his  time  and  attention.  He  established  his  lumber  yards  in  1881,  and  in  1888 
t he  South  Side  Planing  Mill  was  purchased  from  Louis  F.  Burton,  and  with  its  original 
capacity  more  than  doubled  it  has  been  run  in  connection  with  the  lumber  yards  of  the 
present  proprietor.  A considerable  increase  was  made  in  the  mill  as  soon  as  it  was  bought, 
but  the  greater  part  was  made  in  the  spring  of  1891.  The  establishment  is  located  at  the 
corner  of  Woodlawn  Avenue  and  Dillon  Street  and  is  reached  from  the  central  part  of  the 
city  by  taking  the  Virginia  Avenue  cars  to  the  fountain.  Twenty-five  skilled  employes  are 
kept  busy  in  operating  the  mill,  and  its  work  is  noted  among  builders  everywhere  for  cheap- 
ness, beauty  and  finish,  as  well  as  for  the  promptness  and  accuracy  with  which  orders  are 
filled.  The  machinery  used  is  all  of  the  latest  and  best  description.  In  connection  with 
the  planing-inill,  and  in  the  conduct  of  his  general  trade,  Mr.  McGinnis  has  two  large  lum- 
ber yards.  The  main  one  of  these  is  at  152  Lord  Street,  and  is  admirably  located  for  cheap 
shipments  and  access  to  railway  transportation.  The  second  yard  or  branch  is  at  591 
Virginia  Avenue.  In  both  the  yards  business  and  the  planing-mill  the  bulk  of  the  materials 
handled  heretofore  has  been  pine,  of  late  years  there  has  heeu  au  increase  in  use  of  native 
hardwood,  sycamore,  ash,  stained  poplar  and  the  like  for  tiuishing.  In  these  Mr.  McGinnis 
is  prepared  to  compete  with  any  firm  in  the  State  both  in  prices  and  in  finish.  The  mill  and 
yards  are  among  the  model  institutions  of  their  class  in  the  Indiana  Capitol.  Mr.  McGinnis 
was  born  in  Guilford,  Dearborn  County,  Ind.,  June  19,  1842,  and  began  work  as  a railroad 
employeearly  in  life,  and  beginning  at  the  bottom,  in  the  course  of  years  rose  to  oueofthemost 
trusted  and  ])opular  officials  of  the  old  I.  C.  & L.  route.  Mr.  McGinnis  was  successively  fireman, 
locomotive  engineer,  freight  and  passenger  conductors.  After  serving  three  years  as  engineer 
he  was  made  freight  conductor  by  Superintendent  Richardson,  and  was  thus  employed  for 
seven  years.  He  was  then  promoted  to  passenger  conductor,  and  for  thirteen  years  was  one 
of  the  best  known  and  most  popular  of  all  the  knights  of  the  bell  cord  and  punch  in  Indiana. 
He  continued  thus  running  from  Cincinnati  to  Chicago  as  the  exigency  of  the  service 
required  irutil  he  embarked  for  himself  in  his  present  business,  in  which  he  has  been 
deservedly  successful.  In  the  fall  of  1898  he  added  to  his  business  interests  a livery,  board- 
ing and  feed  stable,  for  the  conduct  of  which  he  erected  a substantial  brick  building  72^x110 
feet,  at  a cost  of  $4,000.  His  building  is  thoroughly  equipped  with  an  excellent  line  of 
carriages  and  horses,  and  he  is  thoroughly  equipped  to  do  a strictly  first-class  business.  In 
this  connection  he  deals  in  Hour,  feed,  etc.,  and  is  considered  an  enterprising  man  of  affairs. 
He  is  treasurer  of  the  Equitable  Savings  A Loan  Association,  and  is  a well  known  and  popu- 
lar citizen.  He  was  married  in  March,  1865,  to  Miss  Julia  Evans  of  Lawreuceburg,  Ind., 
his  family  consisting  of  two  boys,  Percy  E.  and  William  Clare. 

John  H.  Roth.  The  grocery  industry  of  the  States  is  one  whose  greatness  is  hardly 
understood,  except  by  those  who  are  directly  connected  with  it.  Thousands  of  persons  aie 
engaged  in  this  line  and  millions  of  dollars  of  capital  are  involved,  and  in  this  as  in  many 
other  lines.  West  Indianapolis  takes  a leading  jiart.  New  firms  are  constantly  sjiringing 
into  prominence  and  one  established  in  1890,  is  that  of  which  John  H.  Roth  is  the  pro- 
prietor, at  262  Howard  Street.  Mr.  Roth  was  born  in  Jefferson  County.  Ind.,  April  10,  lS62, 
a son  of  Charles  Roth,  who  was  born  in  Germany,  and  came  to  the  United  States  when  a 
young  man,  about  1888  or  1884.  He  was  a shoemaker  by  trade  but  after  coming  to  this 
country  and  locating  iu  Kentucky  he  was  engaged  in  the  management  of  a plantation. 
During  the  war  he  was  a resident  of  Louisville,  and  after  its  termination  he  came  to  Indiana 
and  located  in  Shelby  County,  where  he  resided  for  some  time.  He  also  resided  for  a while 
in  Edinburg,  Johnson  County,  but  for  many  years  past  has  been  engaged  in  tilling  the  soil 
in  the  vicinity  of  that  |)lace.  He  is  now  sixty  years  of  age  and  his  wife,  whose  maiden  name 


391 


AND  MAEION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

was  Eva  Kitzsinger,  was  also  born  in  Germany,  on  July  26,  fifty-four  years  ago.  Her 
father,  Leonard  Kitzsinger,  has  now  attained  the  advanced  age  of  ninety-two  years  and  is 
a resident  of  Madison,  Ind.  John  H.  Roth,  whose  name  heads  this  sketch,  acquired  what 
knowledge  he  has  of  the  world  of  books  in  Edinburg,  Ind.,  and  being  industrious  and  push- 
ing, he  began  earning  his  own  living  at  the  age  of  fifteen  years.  He  spent  seven  years  in 
learning  the  butcher’s  trade,  and  the  following  five  years  clerked  in  a grocery  store,  where 
he  thoroughly  learned  the  details  of  the  trade.  In  1890  he  commenced  business  at  his 
present  stand  with  a limited  capital,  but  has  prospered  far  beyond  his  expectations  and  has 
without  doubt  a prosperous  future  before  him.  His  stock  of  goods  is  select  and  by  his 
honorable  business  policy  he  has  won  to  his  side  a long  line  of  patrons  and  has  attained  a 
degree  of  success  which  is  a credit  to  his  business  talent,  and  also  to  West  Indianapolis, 
in  which  he  is  held  as  a most  worthy  citizen.  He  has  aided  in  the  improvement  of  the 
place,  is  active  in  advancing  her  interests  and  is  a reliable  and  public-spirited  citizen. 
Sej)tember  9,  1883,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Hester  Ellen  Green  of  Bartholomew  County, 
Ind.,  and  to  their  union  two  sons  and  a daughter  have  been  given.  Mr.  Roth  is  a member 
of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  I.,0.  R.  M.  and  theK.  of  P.  He  expects  to  soon  change  his  business  place 
to  Reisner  and  Miller  Streets. 

George  W.  Shaffer.  The  practical  value  of  shrewdness  and  discrimination  combined 
with  strict  jirobity  is  exemplified  in  the  prosperous  condition  of  those  who  transact  business 
on  these  principles.  Mr.  Shaffer  is  a man  who  has  kept  fully  abreast  of  the  times  in  the 
matter  of  enterprise  and  is  considered  one  of  the  substantial  and  useful  citizens  of  the  city 
of  Indianapolis.  He  is  a product  of  Hamilton  County,  Ohio,  where  he  was  born  November 
8,  1853,  a son  of  Levi  and  Sarah  J.  (Patterson)  Shaffer,  the  former  of  whom  was  born  in 
Pennsylvania  and  the  latter  in  Ohio.  The  occupation  of  Levi  Shaffer  has  been  that  of  farm- 
ing, in  which  line  of  human  endeavor  he  has  met  with  reasonable  success  in  Hamilton 
County,  Ohio,  of  which  section  he  has  been  a prominent  and  honored  citizen  for  many  years. 
During  the  Rebellion  he  was  four  years  in  the  service  of  his  country  as  a member  of  the 
Twenty  fourth  Ohio  Regiment  Infantry,  participating  in  many  important  and  bloody  battles. 
In  the  county  of  his  nativity  George  W.  Shaffer  was  reared  and  was  given  the  advantages  of 
a good  public-school  education,  which  opportunities  he  was  wise  enough  to  im]irove.  He 
afterward  learned  the  tonsoiial  art,  and  in  the  spring  of  1873  came  to  Indiauai)olis.  the  first 
three  years  of  his  stay  here  being  spent  as  a laborer  at  the  old  Union  depot.  At  the  end  of 
that  time  he  engaged  in  business  for  himself  and  for  seventeen  years  successfully  conducted 
a well  appointed  establishment  of  his  own,  which  was  largely  patronized  by  persons  desirous 
of  getting  shaved  in  first-class  style.  His  ])lace  of  business  was  located  at  205  Massachu- 
setts Avenue  for  seven  years.  Mr.  Shaffer  has  always  been  (jiiite  an  active  politician,  and 
in  the  fall  of  1893  was  elected  from  the  seventh  war(l  as  a member  of  the  city  council  on  the 
Repul)lican  ticket  by  520  votes,  the  largest  majority  ever  given  to  a candidate  from  that 
ward.  Socially  he  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.  and  at  present  holds  the  ])osition  of  Prelate 
in  Star  Lodge,  No.  7.  Mr.  Shaffer  was  married  December  28,  1879,  to  Miss  Lyda  Lewis,  a 
native  of  Greencastle,  Ind.,  a daughter  of  Henry  and  Sarah  Lewis,  and  to  their  union  one 
child  has  Ijeen  given  whom  they  named  Pearl,  who  was  born  on  January  7,  1883. 

John  G.  Schmid  <fc  Sons.  The  senior  member  of  the  above  named  firm  is  probably  the 
j)ioneer  cut  stone  contractor  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  of  which  jJacehe  has  been  a resident 
since  1856.  The  industries  pursued  in  this  city  are  numerous,  and  few  of  them  are  of  more 
importance  than  the  business  followed  by  Mr.  Schmid  and  his  son,  for  on  their  thorough 
knowledge  of  their  calling  depends  the  durability  of  the  structures  raised  by  them,  and  in 
it  are  engaged  thousands  of  men  to  whom  are  paid  millions  of  dollars  in  salaries  every  year, 
while  the  amount  of  capital  invested  in  the  rearing  of  these  structures  is  enormous.  Mr. 
Schmid  is  a jiroductof  Germany,  where  he  first  saw  the  light  in  1829.  He  received  his  edu 
(•ation  in  the  land  of  his  nativity,  which  he  olitained  in  the  common  schools  and  also  by  some 
jirivate  instruction,  and  at  the  age  of  thirti'cn  years,  or  in  1842,  he  began  learning  the  stone 
luitter’s  trade,  at  which  he  served  an  apprentic(>ship  of  three  years,  during  which  time  he 
became  thoroughly  informed  in  this  branch  of  human  endeavor,  and  received  a dijiloma  for 
his  elliciency  in  his  trade.  H(>  successfully  labored  at  his  trade  in  his  nativi'  land  until  1849, 
at  which  time,  being  ambitious  and  enti-rprising,  he  determined  to  cometo  the  I'nited  State's, 


392 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


rightly  judging  that  this  country  offered  a better  field  for  advancement  than  his  own.  Upon 
his  arrival  here  he  made  his  home  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  until  1851,  during  which  time  he 
came  to  Indiana,  and  laid  the  abutments  for  the  Imidge  over  the  White  lliver  at  Bedford  at  a 
very  early  day.  From  Cincinnati  he  removed  to  Columbus,  Ohio,  and  during  the  five  years 
that  he  remained  there  he  was  engaged  in  contracting.  After  his  arrival  in  Indianapolis  he 
did  journeyman’s  work  for  some  time,  after  which  he  formed  a partnership  with  G.  Itteu- 
bach  and  a Ijrother  of  the  latter,  and  the  firm  of  Schmid  & Ittenbach  was  in  existence  for 
about  seventeen  years.  They  did  a very  large  amount  of  important  stone  work  on  the  Rob- 
ert’s Park  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  the  Vance  block,  the  Ingalls  block,  and  on  various 
costly  and  extensive  buildings  throughout  the  State,  their  work  being  of  such  a nature  as  to 
merit  universal  approval,  and  a patronage  of  more  than  ordinary  proportions.  Mr.  Schmid 
superintended  the  stone  work  of  the  State  House,  the  admirable  nature  of  which  work  is 
greatly  to  his  credit.  He  started  out  in  life  witli  a capital  of  1309,  and  a thorough  knowl- 
edge of  his  calling,  and  showed  his  wisdom  by  coming  to  a city,  which  up  to  the  time  of  his 
arrival,  had  had  no  stone  work  done  within  her  limits.  His  career  has  been  imbued  with  an 
active,  energetic  spirit  that  has  placed  him  in  the  front  rank  of  permanent  prosperity.  He 
is  a man  of  strict  commercial  integrity,  and  invariably  carries  out  his  promises  to  the  letter, 
his  patrons  being  among  the  owners  of  the  largest  and  most  important  buildings.  In  1853 
Mr.  Schmid  was  married  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Hamil,  who  bore  him  one  son  and  one  daughter: 
John  H.  who  was  recently  elected  on  the  Republican  ticket  as  a member  of  the  city  council 
from  the  ninth  ward,  and  his  daughter  who  became  the  wife  of  George  F.  Smith,  a promi- 
nent contractor  of  the  city.  For  his  second  wife  Mr.  Schmid  chose  Miss  Klinck  in  1862, 
and  by  her  became  the  father  of  two  sons:  Cliarles  H.  and  C.  F.  E.,  both  of  whom  are  in 
bu8ine.ss  with  their  father,  and  are  practical  stonecutters.  John  H.  married  Miss  Mary  Tice; 
Charles  H.  is  married  to  Maggie  Reifle,  of  this  city,  and  the  youngest  son  is  unmarried. 
iMr.  Schmid  is  decidedly  public  spirited,  helped  to  build  uj)  the  town,  and  is  a member  of 
the  Builders  Exchange.  He  and  his  family  attend  the  Reformed  Evangelical  Church,  in 
which  he  has  been  an  elder  for  about  twenty  years,  and  Sunday-school  superintendent  for 
twenty- two  years. 

Hakvey  J.  Ak.mantrout.  Every  owner  of  a residence  or  business  block,  as  well  as  every 
tenant,  knows  how  important  it  is  to  have  all  parts  of  a building  built  of  seasoned  lumber 
and  in  first-class  shape  so  that  its  different  parts  will  not  be  warping,  shrinking  or  getting 
out  of  shape.  One  Indianapolis  gentleman  has  proven  to  contractors  and  builders,  as  well 
as  owners  of  property,  that  material  purchased  of  him  is  always  as  represented,  and  that  he 
can  sell  as  cheap,  if  not  cheaper,  than  many  of  his  competitors.  This  gentleman  is  Harvey 
J.  Armantrout,  a wholesale  dealer  in  hardwood  lumber,  which  he  purchases  throughout  Indi- 
ana, Kentucky  and  Tennessee  and  markets  at  Chicago,  Cincinnati  and  other  large  western 
cities.  He  has  been  engaged  in  this  business  in  Indianapolis  for  the  past  six  years  and 
handles  about  2.000,009  feet  annually,  which  aggregates  from  $75,090  to  $100,000.  Mr. 
Armantrout  was  born  in  Crawfordsville,  Ind.,  January  10,  1850,  but  his  father,  Joseph  Ar- 
mantrout, was  born  in  Virginia,  and  was  one  of  the  earliest  settlers  of  Montgomery  County, 
Ind.,  of  which  he  was  a successful  farmer  for  many  years.  His  death  occurred  in  1887  at 
the  age  of  seventy-seven  years.  His  wife,  whose  maiden  name  was  Martha  Crane,  was  a 
Kentuckian  by  birth,  but  when  young  was  taken  by  her  parents  to  Indiana,  and  in  Mont- 
gomery County  she  grew  to  womanhood-  Her  death  occurred  in  1858  at  the  age  of  thirty- 
five  years,  and  thus  at  an  early  age  Harvey  J,  was  deprived  of  a mother’s  care.  He  was 
reared  on  a farm  until  seventeen  years  of  age,  the  advantages  of  the  public  schools  being 
given  him,  and  then  began  to  learn  the  trade  of  carpentering  and  bridge  building,  and  at 
the  age  of  twenty-three  years  he  became  a contractor.  For  a number  of  years  there- 
after he  carried  on  an  extensive  business,  amounting  to  about  $60,099  annually,  the 
carpentering  and  contracting  being  done  principally  at  Frankfort  and  Kokomo.  Ind.  He 
afterward  engaged  in  bridge  building,  which  was  largely  in  connection  with  railroad  con- 
tracting. In  1881  Mr.  Armantrout  engaged  in  the  lumber  business  with  residence  at 
Kokomo,  but  his  operations  extended  throughout  the  State  and  he  was  engaged  in  buying  and 
selling  for  a Chicago  firm.  In  1886  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  engaged  in  the  whole- 
sale and  retail  hardwood  lumber  business  for  himself,  and  in  this  business,  thanks  to  his 


393 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

excellent  judgment  and  keen  commercial  instincts,  he  has  met  with  a more  than  ordinary 
degree  of  success.  Mr.  Armautrout  has  always  been  deeply  interested  in  politics  and  is 
a member  of  the  Cleveland  Club,  of  which  he  had  charge  daring  the  inauguration  of 
President  Cleveland  at  Washington,  D.  C.,  upon  his  last  election.  In  1892  he  was  alternate 
delegate  to  the  national  Democratic  convention  at  Chicago,  and  in  various  other  ways 
he  has  aided  this  party.  Socially  he  is  a member  of  the  Uniformed  Rank  in  the  K.  of 
P.  He  is  one  of  the  leading  and  popular  citizens  of  Indianapolis,  is  juiblic  spirited  to 
a degree,  and  in  commercial  circles  his  name  is  highly  honored.  In  1872  he  was  married 
to  Miss  Louisa  Wilson,  at  Frankfort,  Ind.,  a native  of  Thorntown,  Brown  County,  Ind., 
who  in  girlhood  removed  to  Frankfort  with  her  parents.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Armautrout  are 
the  parents  of  one  sou,  Charles  W.,  who  was  born  July  19,  1874,  and  gives  every  promise 
of  becoming  a wide-awake  and  intelligent  business  man. 

Georoe  F.  Smith.  Among  the  useful  and  jirogressive  men  of  affairs  of  Indianapolis, 
Ind.,  who  is  eminently  worthy  of  mention  in  this  volume  is  George  F.  Smith,  who  is  jiresi- 
dent  of  the  Contractors  and  Builders  Association,  and  is  himself  a highly  successful  and 
skillful  builder,  a calling  which  has  received  his  attention  the  most  of  the  time  since  he  left 
school,  although  he  for  a number  of  years  worked  for  others.  The  county  of  Rockland,  N. 
Y.,  gave  liim  birth  on  June  11,  1854,  his  father,  Frederick  Smith,  and  wife,  Christiana  Iske, 
were  born  in  Germany,  and  married  in  New  York  city  in  1851.  In  1848  they  came  to  this 
country  and  have  resided  here  ever  since.  After  coming  to  the  United  States,  although  a 
locksmith  by  trade,  he  gave  his  attention  to  the  manufacture  of  brick  for  some  time  there- 
after. In  1859  he  became  a resident  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  and  here  followed  the 
calling  of  a blacksmith.  He  died  here  in  1871,  forty-three  years  of  age.  She  is  still  living, 
seventy-six  years  of  age.  In  the  public  schools  of  this  city  George  F.  Smith  obtained  a 
good  education  and  he  learned  the  details  of  his  trade  while  serving  an  apprenticeship  under 
Botcher  & Nieman.  After  completing  his  knowledge  of  the  builder’s  art  he  worked  for  all 
the  principal  contractors  of  the  city  at  different  times,  ami  then  commenced  business  on  his 
own  responsibility,  as  his  thorougli  knowledge  of  his  calling  and  his  long  experience  emi- 
nently fitted  him  to  do.  The  most  of  his  attention  has  been  given  to  the  erection  of 
residences,  and  in  this  branch  of  his  business  he  has  made  a reputation  for  himself  that  has 
made  his  name  well  known  to  liuilders  and  real  estate  men  throughout  the  city.  That  he  is 
a thorough -going  and  practical  builder  is  a fact  that  cannot  be  denied  by  his  brother  con- 
tractors, and  they  showed  their  recognition  of  his  worth  by  electing  him  president  of  the 
Contractors  and  Builders  Association.  In  May.  1879,  he  was  united  in  the  bonds  of  matri- 
mony with  Mi.ss  Amelia  Schmid,  a daughter  of  J.  C.  Schmid,  a prominent  stone  contractor 
of  the  city,  a sketch  of  whom  appears  in  this  work.  Mrs.  Smith  was  born  in  Columbus, 
Ohio,  and  has  l)orne  her  husband  one  son  and  two  daughters;  Doratha,  Walter  and  Caroline. 
.Mr.  Smith  is  a member  of  the  Center  Lodge,  No.  216,  K.  of  P.,  and  of  Washington  Lodge, 
No.  114,  K.  of  H. 

Charles  N.  Kellockj.  The  introduction  of  machinery  in  the  manufacture  of  furniture 
during  the  past  few  years,  entirely  revolutionized  this  important  branch  of  industrial  enter- 
prise. While  it  is  not  contended  that  the  machine-made  ])roduct  is  superior  mechanically 
or  in  point  of  finish  or  durability  to  that  made  l)y  hand,  it  is  an  indis|)Utable  fact  that  the 
cheapness  and  rajiidity  of  manufacture  in  the  new  era  has  made  this  class  of  furniture  very 
popular  and  greatly  in  demand.  Not  one  of  the  oldest,  but  certainly  one  of  the  best,  known 
manufactories  of  this  line  of  goods  in  Iiidianai)oli8  is  that  of  C.  N.  Kellogg  A Bro.,  who 
eml)arked  in  the  business  in  July,  I8tt3,  at  which  time  they  purchased  the  planing  and  saw- 
mills which  were  owned  and  oj)erated  by  i\I.  Murray  A Co.,  and  established  a number  of 
years  since  by  Charles  Murray.  The  plant  is  an  extensive  one  160x150  feet,  in  dimensions, 
and  the  ground  occupied  l)y  them  covers  an  area  of  nine  lots.  Tlu'y  give  particidar  atten 
tion  to  their  planing  mill  and  manufacture  a cheap,  but  excellent  line  of  furniture  and  hav(> 
already  a wide  patronage.  'I’liey  give  employment  to  about  forty  hands,  who  are  all  skilled 
in  their  line.  'I'heir  plant  and  eipiijiment  are  valued  at  about  $40,000.  Charles  N.  Kellogg 
was  born  in  Dublin,  Wayne  Countv,  Ind.,  Junt‘24,  1851,  but  his  father,  Norman  P.  Kellogg, 
was  a native  of  the  State  of  New  York,  was  a physician  and  surgeon  formany  years,  and  was 
very  successful  in  his  profession.  He  practiced  for  a number  of  years  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio, 


894 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


j)rior  to  locatiug  at  Dublin,  lud.,  in  1850,  but  he  later  became  a resident  of  Boone  County. 
He  has  for  some  time  been  retired  from  active  practice  and  makes  bis  home  with  his  son  in 
Indianapolis.  He  was  united  in  marriage  to  Sarah  J.  Avery,  a native  of  New  York,  and  a 
woman  of  much  intelligence  and  kindness  of  heart.  In  Boone  County,  Ind.,  Charles  N.  Kel- 
logg was  principally  reared,  and  besides  the  common  schools  he  received  the  advantages  of 
an  academic  education.  When  twenty-one  years  of  age  he  engaged  in  the  saw-milling  busi- 
ness in  Boone  County  and  a few  years  later  associated  with  him  his  brother,  Edwin  P.,  and 
under  their  al)le  management  the  business  grew  to  extensive  proportions.  They  carried  on 
milling  and  the  general  luml)er  trade  successfully  until  July,  1892,  when  they  sold  the  same 
and  a year  later  came  to  Indianapolis,  where  they  have  since  been  in  business.  Mr.  Kellogg 
was  married  in  1878  to  Miss  La  Borda  Ilobinson,a  native  of  Crestline,  Ohio,  and  a daughter 
of  -John  H.  and  Almira  llobinson.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kellogg  are  the  parents  of  seven  children: 
Belle,  Myra,  Lizzie,  IMay,  Edna.  Norma  and  Minerva.  Mr.  Kellogg  is  a member  of  the 
I.  ().  K.  M. ; in  politics  he  is  a liepublican,  and  he  and  his  wife  are  members  of  the  Presby- 
terian Chirrch.  He  and  his  brother  are  rated  as  gentlemen  of  untrammeled  honor  and  in  all 
their  business  transactions  are  looked  upon  with  the  utmost  popular  regard. 

floiiN  V.  Carter.  Among  the  ]>rominent  and  enterprising  citizens  of  Marion  County, 
Ind.,  no  one  is  more  worthy  of  note  than  he  whom  we  here  name,  who  is  spending  his  later 
years  in  comfort  and  in  the  enjoyment  of  the  result  of  his  earlier  labors.  He  was  originally 
from  Butler  County,  Ohio,  born  August  18.  1819,  to  the  union  of  Mordecai  and  Ann  (Cox) 
Carter,  the  former  a native  of  Chatham  County,  N.  C. , born  May  27,  1777,  and  the  latter  of 
the  same  State,  born  July  8,  1789.  After  marriage  the  parents  moved  to  Warren  County, 
Ohio,  and  thence  to  Butler  County,  that  State,  where  Mr.  Carter  died  December  13,  1820. 
He  was  a Quaker  in  his  religious  views  and  a worthy  and  esteemed  citizen.  Nine  children 
were  born  to  this  worthy  couple,  as  follows:  Edith;  Ara,  deceased;  Aaron,  deceased;  Har- 
lan, deceased;  Matilda,  Dorinda,  Lucinda,  James  W.  and  John  V.  The  mother  of  these 
children  died  July  28,  1849.  Samtrel  Carter,  grandfather  of  our  subject,  was  also  born  in 
the  Old  North  State,  about  1750,  and  was  of  the  Quaker  belief.  He  married  and  became 
the  father  of  several  children,  among  whom  are  the  following:  Mordecai,  Samuel,  Robert, 
IMargaret,  Elizabeth  and  Mary.  John  V.  Carter  was  reared  on  the  farm  belonging  to  his 
fiarents  in  Ohio,  and  when  not  yet  two  years  old  was  left  fatherless.  He  attended  the  old- 
fashioned  log  school  house,  with  slab  seats,  big  chimney,  etc.,  and  attended  until  about 
seventeen  years  of  age,  generally  about  three  months  in  the  year.  He  was  married  in  Preble 
County,  Ohio,  in  1849,  to  Miss  Diana  Holtry,  daughter  of  John  and  Sarah  Holtry.  and  three 
years  later,  in  1852,  he  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  located  in  Wayne  Township, 
where  he  bought  820  aci'es  of  land.  On  this  he  resided  until  1888,  when  he  came  to  Indian- 
apolis. and  in  this  city  he  now  resides,  retired  from  the  active  duties  of  life.  He  cleared 
al)out  fifty  five  acres  of  land  in  Marion  County  and  has  passed  a life  of  industry  and  useful- 
ness. In  politics  he  has  always  advocated  the  principles  of  the  Republican  party  and  his 
first  Presidential  vote  was  cast  for  William  H.  Harrison.  He  belongs  to  the  Methodist  Epis- 
copal Church,  of  which  he  has  served  as  officer  for  many  years.  To  his  marriage  were  born 
six  children:  Emma,  died  at  the  age  of  thirteen  years;  Fletcher  married  Mary  A.  Apple- 
gate,  and  they  have  two  children,  Wilbert  and  Earl;  James  W. ; John  H.  married  Miss  Ida 
Belle  Smith;  Flora  A.  married  Ezra  L.  Guthrie,  and  Mary,  single.  James  W.  Carter,  the 
youngest  but  one  of  the  children  born  to  Mordecai  and  Ann  (Cox)  Carter,  first  saw  the  light 
of  day  in  Butler  County,  Ohio,  July  18,  1817,  and  he  there  made  his  home  until  February, 
1846,  when  he  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.  He  was  married  September  28,  1843,  to  Miss 
Susan  Davies,  daughter  of  Samuel  and  Susan  (Elliott)  Davies,  both  of  whom  were  natives  of 
the  Keystone  State.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Davies  moved  to  Ohio  in  1803.  and  there  passed  the 
remainder  of  their  days.  James  W.  Carter  bought  300  acres  of  land  in  Wayne  Township, 
after  his  marriage,  and  on  this  resided  until  October,  1883,  when  he  came  to  Indianapolis, 
where  he  now  resides.  Like  his  brother,  John  V.,  he  is  a stanch  Republican  in  his  political 
views  and  has  served  twice  as  trustee  of  Wayne  Township.  He  belongs  to  no  church  or 
society.  To  his  marriage  were  born  five  children:  Mary  died  in  infancy;  William  died 
when  twenty-five  years  of  age;  George  enlisted  in  Company  K,  Seventieth  Regiment  Indiana 
Volunteer  Infantry,  under  Benjamin  Harrison,  and  one  year  later  was  wounded  at  Resaca, 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  395 

dying  in  July  of  the  following  year.  He  was  but  twenty  years  of  age  and  held  the  rank  of 
corporal;  Frances  L.  and  John  V.,  the  latter  of  whom  married  Jennie  Johnson,  daughter  of 
Henry  Johnson. 

Fred  Bremer.  One  of  the  most  popular  materials  that  enters  into  the  construction 
of  buildings  of  the  present  day  is  brick,  for  go  where  you  will,  in  any  large  city  that  is  the 
chief  material  used,  and  the  most  imposing  edifices  ai-e  made  of  it,  with  {)erhaps  the  ex- 
ception of  the  first  few  stories.  It  therefore  follows  that  men  who  thoroughly  understand 
their  business  should  engage  in  the  manufacture  of  this  most  impottaiit  commodity,  and 
that  Fred  Bremer  is  qualified  to  do  so  cannot  be  denied.  In  Germany  he  first  saw  the  light 
in  1849,  and  in  the  schools  of  his  native  land  he  obtained  a practical  education.  At  the 
age  of  nineteen  years  he  came  to  the  United  States,  and  for  some  time  thereafter  resided 
in  Brooklyn,  N.  A^.,  in  which  place  he  clerked  in  a store  for  two  years.  He  then  came  to 
Indianapolis,  and  as  a means  of  livelihood  he  spent  several  summers  laboring  in  a brick- 
yard and  in  the  winter  time  turned  his  hand  to  anything  honorable  he  could  find  to  do,  in 
order  to  gain  a start.  By  laboring  early  and  late,  making  the  most  of  his  opportunities, 
and  by  the  exercise  of  the  utmost  good  judgment  and  strict  economy,  he  soon  found  him 
self  on  a smooth  sea  and  floating  with  a prosperous  tide.  He  first  manufactured  brick  in 
Irvington,  then  on  the  national  road,  after  which  he  came  to  the  place  where  he  is  now 
doing  a prosperous  business,  and  where  he  owns  twenty-five  acres  of  land,  which  is  well 
adajited  to  the  uses  to  which  he  puts  it.  He  first  purchased  five  acres  and  later  the  balance, 
and  manufactures  a most  creditable  article,  which  has  gone  into  the  construction  of  many 
of  the  finest  buildings  of  Marion  County.  Through  financial  reverses  he  lost  (jnite  heav- 
ily, but  with  characteristic  energy  he  continued  to  labor  faithfully  at  his  business  and 
retrieved  his  losses  almost  wholly.  He  was  married  in  this  county  to  Miss  Mary  Hartman, 
and  to  them  a son  and  daughter  have  been  given,  the  former  of  whom  is  deceased,  as  is 
also  the  wife  and  mother.  For  his  second  wife  Mr.  Bremer  espoused  Metta  Scheele,  of 
this  county  but  a native  of  Germany,  and  their  union  has  resulted  in  the  birth  of  a son 
and  daughter.  Mr.  Bremer  is  a member  of  the  Zion  Evangelical  Church,  and  politically 
is  a Democrat. 

Ja:mes  B.  Matlock.  One  of  the  industries  always  in  demand,  and  daily  growing  more 
so  by  reason  of  the  raf)id  growth  of  cities  and  towns,  is  that  of  contracting  and  building. 
A casual  glance  about  us  is  all  that  is  required  to  gain  a conception  of  the  immense  amount 
of  work  done  by  men  following  that  line  of  business.  In  this  cotinection  we  would  call 
attention  to  James  B.  Matlock',  a {)rominent  contractor  and  builder  of  Indianapolis,  Ind., 
where  he  has  followed  his  trade  for  the  past  seven  years,  building  some  of  the  finest  houses 
in  this  rapidly  growing  city.  He  is  a native  of  that  good  old  mother  of  States,  Virginia, 
born  in  Lee  County,  in  1839,  to  the  union  of  Charles  and  Mary  (Bray)  Matlock,  natives  of 
the  Blue-Grass  State.  When  young  the  parents  moved  to  the  Old  Dominion  and  there  their 
marriage  was  solemnized.  Eight  children  were  the  fruits  of  his  union,  viz.:  John  married 
Miss  Mary  Jane  Dillon  and  now  resides  in  Independence,  Kan. ; Sarah  (deceased);  James 
H.,  subject;  George,  who  died  when  eleven  years  of  age;  Nelson  Preston  married  IMiss  Sarah 
Crawford,  but  is  now  deceased;  Sarah  Jane,  who  died  in  infancy;  Britton  also  died  in 

infancy;  and . The  subject  of  this  sketch  came  to  Indiana  when  a young  man  and 

previous  to  that,  in  September,  18(51,  heenlisted  in  the  Eighth  Kentucky  Volunteer  Infantry, 
and  was  in  active  service  until  cessation  of  hostilities.  He  served  his  country  faithfully  and 
as  a memento  of  his  services  carries  a Confederate;  ball  in  his  hip,  receiving  the  same;  in  the 
battle  of  Snow  Hill,  T(*nn.  He  was  jn'omoted  to  the  ratdc  of  sergeant.  For  many  years  he 
has  l)een  a contractor  and  builder  and  is  now  erecting  for  himself  a fine  residence  and  store- 
room combined  for  as  soon  as  it  is  tinished  he  expects  to  embark  in  (he  mercantile  business 
on  East  Prospect  Street,  just  east  of  the  Ciiele  railway.  The  store  will  be  a giocery  and  he 
will  (rarry  such  other  stock  as  the  neighlxnhood  may  demand.  Mr.  Matlock  was  marrit'd  in 
Browti  Cfjunty,  Ind.,  in  18(57  with  Miss  Mary  Jane  Fleetwood,  daughter  of  Hiram  and 
Matilda  ( Hartman)  Fleetwood  who  were  born,  reared  and  married  in  Kentucky.  Five  chil 
• Iren  have  been  l)orri  to  this  union  and  ai'e  named  as  follows:  Ijouis  Manson,  born  in  April, 
l8t5S,  married  Miss  Jennie  \\  inters,  and  now  resides  in  I ndiana|)olis;  Oliver  I’.  Morton  was 
b(jrn  in  18(59.  died  when  twenty  years  of  ag<*;  William,  born  in  1872,  married  Miss  Flora 


396 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Forester  aud  resides  in  this  city;  George  U.  S.,  born  in  1874,  is  now  at  home;  and  Bertie 
May,  born  in  1878,  is  also  at  home;  Maud,  born  in  1882,  died  at  the  age  of  two  years.  Mr. 
Matlock  was  first  married  to  Mary  Jane  Hamilton,  and  by  her  had  two  children:  Nancy  C., 
now  living  in  this  city,  the  wife  of  Peter  M and  Charles,  now  deceased. 

Charles  L.  Pearson.  The  contractors  and  builders  of  Indianapolis,  are,  as  a body 
unexcelled  by  those  of  almost  any  other  city.  Each  succeeding  year  witnesses  many  marked 
improvements  in  this  thriving  business  center,  particularly  in  the  way  of  handsome  business 
blocks,  residences,  etc.;  and  to  the  contractor  and  builder,  in  effect,  conjointly  with  the  arch- 
itect, belongs  the  task  of  imparting  to  the  city  that  appearance  of  solidity,  wealth,  refine- 
ment and  comfort  which  at  once  stamps  its  citizens  as  progressive  and  enterprising. 
Charles  L.  Pearson,  one  of  the  well-known  and  popular  contractors  and  builders  of  Indian- 
apolis. is  a native  of  Oskaloosa,  Iowa,  born  in  1856.  His  father,  Silas  D.  Pearson,  is  a native 
of  New  York  city,  aud  there  learned  his  trade  of  mill  builder.  He  moved  in  1848  to  Wis- 
consin, from  there  to  Steubenville,  Ohio,  thence  to  Oskaloosa,  Iowa,  and  from  then  to  Chi- 
cago. while  at  this  place  he  enlisted  in  the  Seventy-second  Illinois  Infantry,  and  after  his 
term  of  service  went  to  Wisconsin,  where  his  family  had  proceeded  him  and  now  resides  at 
Appleton.  He  has  erected  many  of  the  largest  buildings  in  the  North  and  West  and  has 
been  a successful  business  man.  In  politics  he  affiliates  with  the  Republican  party.  In 
1861  he  enlisted  in  the  Seventy  second  Illinois  Infantry  Volunteers,  and  was  in  service  three 
years.  He  participated  in  the  siege  of  Vicksburg  and  other  engagements  and  at  one  time 
received  a sevei  e wound  in  the  hip.  He  still  feels  the  effect  of  that  wound.  Of  the  eleven 
children  born  to  his  marriage,  eight  are  now  living,  six  sons  and  two  daughters.  The 
original  of  this  notice,  Charles  L.  Pearson,  was  educated  in  the  public  schools  of  Appleton, 
Wis.,  and  learned  his  trade  under  the  tuition  of  his  father.  When  fifteen  years  of  age  he 
left  home  and  worked  in  Appleton  and  all  over  Outagamie  County.  Later  he  worked  at  his 
trade  in  Minneapolis,  Minn.,  and  in  other  States,  and  finally  settled  in  Indianapolis,  where 
he  began  working  in  the  shops  of  the  Atlas  Engine  AVorks.  Later  he  began  contracting 
for  himself  and  has  built  most  of  the  houses  in  the  north  part  of  Irvington,  principally  resi- 
dences. Starting  in  life  with  nothing  but  his  trade,  he  has  met  with  the  best  of  success,  all 
owing  to  his  exceptional  business  ability,  his  reliability  and  promptness  in  carrying  out  his 
undertakings,  and  the  liberal  methods  he  adopts  in  dealing  with  the  public.  On  July  19, 
1883,  he  married  Miss  Sadie  E.  Chill,  of  Indianapolis,  and  to  their  union  have  been  born 
four  children,  all  sons.  In  politics  Mr.  Pearson  is  a Republican.  He  is  a member  of  Lodge 
No  440,  Carpenter  Union. 

Ernst  H.  G.  Dreier.  It  is  indeed  a rule  with  very  few  exceptions  that  the  prosperous 
and  representative  men  of  business  of  all  largo  cities  are  rarely  ever  natives  of  the  same.  It 
is  likewise  a notable  fact  that  vast  numbers  of  the  successful  men  who  do  business  in  the 
States  are  foreigners  by  nativity.  This  thought  is  brought  about  by  the  personality  of  Ernst 
H.  G.  Dreier,  a native  of  Germany,  and  now  a prominent  member  of  Indianapolis’  business 
circles.  He  first  saw  the  light  of  day  in  1842  and  was  reared  and  educated  in  the  old  coun- 
try. He  there  learned  the  brick-mason’s  trade,  serving  an  apprenticeship,  and  later  became 
a contractor.  Seeing  a better  opening  for  his  trade  in  the  United  States  he  crossed  the 
ocean  in  1872  and  located  in  Indianapolis.  Three  days  after  his  arrival  he  was  taken  sick 
with  small  pox.  and  as  he  was  ill  seven  weeks  all  his  ready  money  was  used  up.  Inheriting 
the  perseverance  aud  industry  of  his  Teutonic  ancestors  he  went  to  work  as  soon  as  able  and 
his  superior  ability  as  a brick-mason  soon  became  recognized.  Work  came  in  from  all  sides 
and  he  is  now  classed  among  the  best  brick  contractors  in  the  city.  He  is  a member  of  the 
Builders  Exchange  and  is  thoroughly  capable  and  reliable  in  all  the  duties  that  he  under- 
takes. He  has  been  engaged  on  many  of  the  prominent  buildings  of  the  city,  among  them 
the  Lutheran  Church,  on  the  corner  of  New  Jersey  and  McCarty  Streets,  the  German  Luth- 
eran Orphan  Asylum,  on  East  AVashington  Street,  and  many  other  buildings.  He  was  married 
in  his  native  country  to  Miss  Sophia  Cook,  who  died  in  this  city  in  January  3,  1885.  Six 
children  were  born  to  this  union,  all  now  living.  In  1885  Mr.  Dreier  married  Miss  Anna 
Denker,  a native  of  Germany,  and  four  children  have  blessed  this  union.  Mr.  Dreier  is  an 
industrious,  thorough  going  business  man  and  is  well  respected  in  the  community. 


397 


AKD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

August  Buthe.  Enterprising  inelbocls,  when  combined  with  study  and  ability,  will  put 
any  man  on  a prominent  road  to  success  and  gain  an  enviable  reputation  for  the  managers 
of  the  enterprise.  August  Buthe,  who  is  a contractor  of  no  ordinary  ability  and  who  has 
won  an  enviable  reputation  in  that  capacity,  is  a native  of  Germany,  born  in  1862  and  the 
son  of  August  Buthe,  Sr.,  who  passed  his  entire  life  in  the  old  country.  August  Buthe,  Jr., 
like  all  the  German  children,  attended  school  a certain  length  of  time  and  then  learned  a 
trade,  that  of  brick  laying  and  plastering.  After  serving  an  apprenticeship  of  four  yeais  he 
decided  to  seek  his  fortune  in  the  United  States  and  sailed  for  this  country  in  1871.  After 
visiting  all  the  principal  cities  of  the  United  States,  New  Orleans,  St.  Louis,  San  Francisco, 
etc.,  and  following  his  trade  in  the  same,  he  came  to  Indianapolis  in  1890  and  engaged  in 
the  cement  work  here  for  the  Acme  Paving  Company  as  their  foreman.  Later  he  commenced 
contracting  for  himself,  and  from  the  start  has  made  a complete  success  of  his  business.  He 
built  the  longest  pavement  in  Indianapolis,  extendfng  from  Twelfth  Street  to  Twenty  sixth 
Street,  a mile  and  three  (juarters,  and  he  also  built  from  Twelfth  Street  to  Fourteenth  Street 
on  Meridian,  besides  numerous  other  pavements.  He  is  a fine  and  skillful  workman  and  his 
reputation  for  honorable  business  methods  and  integrity  is  unsurpassed.  He  came  to  this 
country  with  limited  means  and  what  he  has  accumulated  is  the  result  of  energy,  industry 
and  good  management  on  his  part.  He  is  a member  of  the  Builders  Exchange  and  is  also  a 
member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  Garden  Lodge,  No.  53.  He  was  married  in  1890  to  Miss  Annie 
Lamberg,  a native  of  Newport,  Ky.,  and  a lady  of  much  refinement. 

Charles  Nuerge.  Nothing  is  more  true  than  that  good  management,  fair  dealing 
and  application  to  business  will  result  in  profit  to  the  parties  at  interest.  Failure  rarely 
if  ever  comes,  unless  as  the  setjuent  of  negligence,  rash  speculation  or  dishonesty.  We 
are  led  to  these  reflections  by  a glance  at  the  career  of  Mr.  Charles  Nuerge,  senior  member 
of  the  firm  of  Nuerge  & Reinking,  building  contractors.  By  a most  thorough  knowledge 
of  his  trade,  gained  step  by  step  under  one  of  the  most  reliable  of  workmen,  and  through 
his  own  experience,  Mr.  Nuerge  has  made  one  of  the  widest  reputations  and  has  a pat- 
ronage of  very  satisfactory  proportions.  He  has  been  identified  with  the  construction  of 
many  of  the  prominent  buildings  in  the  city,  and  in  partnership  with  Mr.  Henry  Reinking 
built  the  Jamison  & Mallott  structure.  Arcade  Clothing  House,  John  W.  Schmidt’s  resi- 
dence, A.  C.  Harris’  residence.  Catholic  school-house  on  Noble  and  North  Streets,  W.  P. 
Fishback’s  residence.  Home  Brewing  Company’s  buildings,  some  of  the  buildings  at  St. 
Mary’s  in  the  Woods  (near  Terre  Haute,  Ind.j,  Starch  Works  (in  Des  Moines),  the  last  a 
•S13(),0(>0  contract,  and  they  rebuilt  Progress  Clothing  and  many  other  buildings  too  numer- 
ous to  mention.  This  firm’s  contracts  extend  to  some  of  the  largest  cities,  and  in  all  their 
operations  they  have  proven  themselves  gentlemen  of  sterling  integrity,  their  work  invari 
al)ly  proving  satisfactory.  Mr.  Nuerge  was  born  in  Adams  County,  Ind. , June  12,  1850,  to 
the  union  of  Charles  and  Minnie  (David)  Nuerge,  natives  of  Germany,  the  father  born  in 
1819.  About  1841  the  parents  decided  to  .settle  on  this  side  of  the  Atlantic,  and  they  first 
located  in  Adams  County,  Ind.,  on  land  in  the  woods.  He  became  a successful  farmer, 
and  added  to  the  sixty  acres  he  first  purchased  eighty  acres,  which  made  him  a very  good 
farm.  There  he  died  in  1872.  Of  the  seven  cliildren  born  to  this  marriage,  the  eldest 
was  a native  of  Germany.  Of  these  children  three  were  sons  and  four  daughters,  but  only 
two,  daughters,  besides  our  subject,  are  now  living.  The  father  served  his  time  in  the 
German  army  before  coming  to  America.  The  original  of  this  notice  was  educated  in 
Adams  County,  Ind.,  and  learned  the  carpenter’s  trade  in  all  its  details  there.  In  1871  he 
came  to  Indianaj)oli8,  in  company  with  Henry  Reiidiing,  and  commenced  working  for 
George  H.  Hoereth,  an  old  and  prominent  builder  of  the  city.  Six  years  later  he  com 
menced  building  as  a contractor  himself,  and  he  rt'ceived  his  first  contract  from  Henry  C. 
Wilson.  Later  he  formed  a partnershif)  with  Frank  Mowwe,  of  this  city,  and  was  with 
him  until  1882.  One  year  later  he  formed  the  partnershij)  with  Henry  Reinking,  and  they 
are  classed  among  the  prominent  and  reliable  contractors  of  the  city.  Mr.  Nuerge  is  a 
tnernber  f>f  the  German  Lutheran  Church  and  one  of  the  directors  of  the  German  Orphan 
Asylum  of  East  Washington  Street,  also  the  Builders  Exchange  and  Contractors  Association. 
In  1872  he  was  married  to  Miss  Louisa  Schildmeyer,  of  Indianapolis.  She  died  in  1883, 
leaving  two  children,  a son  and  daughter.  His  second  marriage  was  with  Mrs.  Pierson, 


898 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


(liiughter  of  Henuaii  Schopljorst,  of  Adams  ('onnt.y,  this  State.  Two  daughters  have  been 
born  to  this  union,  Imth  living. 

Robert  Miethke.  The  practical  value  of  shrewdness  and  discrimination,  combined  with 
strict  probity  is  exemplified  in  the  prosperous  condition  of  those  who  transact  business  on 
these  principles,  and  of  these  Robert  Miethke  is  one  of  the  most  prominent.  He  is  one  of 
the  successful  florists  of  Indianapolis,  Ind. , and  the  ever  expanding  wealth  and  luxurious 
tastes  of  the  citizens  of  the  place  have  done  much  to  make  his  business  a prosperous  one.  His 
trade  has  also  been  augmented  by  the  fact  that  he  is  the  soul  of  honesty  in  all  of  his  busi- 
ness transactions,  is  anxious  to  please  his  patrons  and  that  their  orders  are  carried  out 
promptly  and  to  the  letter.  He  makes  a specialty  of  cut  flower  designs  and  pot  plants,  in 
the  arrangement  of  which  he  shows  a refined  and  artistic  taste.  He  has  followed  this  busi- 
ness in  Indiana]iolis  for  tlie  past  five  years  and  founded  the  establishment  of  which  he  is 
now  the  proprietor  at  the  corner  of  South  Meridian  and  Walnut  Streets.  He  is  a product 
of  Germany,  where  he  was  born  in  1857,  and  in  the  land  of  his  birth  he  received  his  educa- 
tion and  became  a well  informed  young  man.  He  has  been  a resident  of  the  United  States 
since  1882,  and  for  some  time  after  reaching  this  country  he  was  a resident  of  Detroit,  Mich., 
where  he  followed  his  trade  which  he  had  thoroughly  learned  in  Germany.  From  Detroit  he 
went  to  Chicago  and  from  the  “Windy  City”  to  Indianapolis,  and  here,  at  first,  was  for 
some  time  in  the  employ  of  A.  Weigand,  after  which  he  engaged  in  business  for  himself  and 
has  met  with  a success  that  is  in  every  way  satisfactory  and  to  his  credit.  He  was  married 
here  in  1888  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Seraphine  and  to  them  two  sons  have  been  given.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Miethke  are  members  of  the  German  Methodist  Church  and  are  honorable  and  highly 
respected  citizens.  Mr.  Miethke  has  worked  at  his  trade  in  the  principal  cities  of  the  United 
States,  and  being  very  practical  in  his  ideas  his  services  have  been  in  demand  in  many  of  the 
principal  green  houses  in  the  United  States.  It  is  but  just  to  “give  honor  where  honor  is 
due,”  and  to  say  that  he  is  a gentleman  of  high  character  and  of  excellent  business  rejuita- 
tion  is  but  simply  speaking  the  truth. 

O.scAR  S.  Deitch,  M.  . D.,  was  born  in  Indianapolis,  June  17,  1800,  a son  of  Joseph  L. 
and  Rachel  A.  (Mullikin)  Deitch,  the  former  a native  of  France  and  the  lattter  of  Indiana. 
The  father  was  reared  and  educated  in  his  native  land  and  came  to  America  in  1847  and 
located  at  Williamsburg,  Ind.,  where  he  was  married.  In  1805  the  family  came  to  Indian- 
apolis, where  Mr.  Deitch  engaged  in  the  carriage  liusiness,  at  the  same  time  carrying  on  a 
money  lirokerage  business.  He  died  in  1881.  His  wife  survives  him.  Dr.  Deitch  was 
reared  in  Indianapolis  and  educated  in  the  public  schools,  and  at  the  age  of  fourteen  became 
a clerk  in  a drug  store.  He  took  up  the  study  of  pharmacy  systematically  and  later  became 
a student  in  the  Cincinnati  Pharmaceutical  College.  In  March,  1885,  he  established  a drug 
store  in  Indianajiolis,  which  he  has  since  managed  with  much  success,  being  located  on  West 
Washington  Street.  He  began  the  study  of  medicine  in  1887  under  the  preceptorship  of  Dr. 
Hodges.  In  1888  he  entered  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana  and  was  graduated  therefrom 
in  1890.  He  at  once  entered  upon  a general  practice  which,  in  connection  with  his  drug 
business,  he  has  since  conducted  successfully.  He  is  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Med 
ical  Society  and  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society.  In  1892  he  was  physician  to  the  Marion 
County  Jail,  and  secretary  to  the  County  Board  of  Health.  At  this  time  he  is  physician  to 
the  Marion  County  Asylum  In  politics  he  is  a Democrat.  He  is  a member  of  the  Jewish 
congregation  of  Indianapolis.  June  39,  1889,  Dr.  Deitch  married  Emma  Pence,  a native  of 
Indianapolis  and  a daughter  of  Joseph  and  Mary  (Applegate)  Pence  of  Ohio. 

Othello  L.  Deitch,  M.  D.,  of  Indianapolis,  was  born  at  Edinburgh,  Ind.,  August  27, 
1864,  a son  of  Joseph  L.  and  Rachel  A.  (Mullikin)  Deitch,  and  was  about  six  years  of  age 
at  the  time  of  his  parents’  removal  to  Indianapolis.  He  was  reared  and  educated  in  the 
public  schools  and  the  high  school  of  the  city  and,  and  at  the  age  of  fifteen,  became  a clerk 
in  a drug  store.  After  a study  of  pharmacy  he  began  to  read  medicine  with  Dr.  Eisenbeis. 
In  September,  1886,  he  entered  the  Medical  College  of  Indiana  and  was  guaduated  there- 
from in  1888  with  the  degree  of  M.  D.  Locating  on  New  York  Street,  he  practiced  his  pro- 
fession there  for  a few  months  until  he  purchased  property  in  West  Indianapolis,  where  he 
has  since  lived  and  had  his  office.  He  is  a member  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society 
and  of  the  Indiana  State  Medical  Society.  Politically  he  is  a Democrat.  He  is  a member 


AND  MAIUON  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


R99 


of  the  K.  of  P. , aucl  is  connected  with  other  orders  and  organizations  of  prominence.  Dr. 
Deitch  was  married  February  15,  1898,  to  Paulina  Jacobs,  who  was  born  in  Boston,  Mass., 
January  14,  1873,  a daughter  of  Samuel  and  Jennie  Isaacs  Jacobs. 

Nahum  H.  Lowe,  Sr.  There  are  many  enterprises  which  bear  the  relation  of  monuments  to 
the  energy  and  ambition  of  man  in  this  country,  and  particularly  is  this  true  in  regard  to 
contracting  and  building.  Few  industries  of  Indianapolis  are  of  more  importance  than  this, 
and  few  men  have  made  more  of  a success  of  this  undertaking  than  Nahum  H.  Lowe,  who  is 
one  of  the  foremost  business  men  of  the  place.  He  is  a native  of  the  Pine  Tree  State,  York 
County,  born  in  Kennebunk,  a town  near  the  sea  coast,  January  9,  1818,  and  is  a son  of 
Samuel  B.  Lowe,  also  a native  of  Maine,  born  in  Lyman.  The  elder  Low'e  and  family  moved 
to  Springvale,  Me.,  thence  to  Cambridge,  Mass.,  and  from  there  to  Washington,  11.  I.  He 
was  a carpenter,  woodworkman  and  cabinet-maker  by  trade  and  was  thoroughly  versed  in 
his  business.  In  politics  he  was  first  a Whig  but  upon  the  formation  of  the  Kepublican 
partv,  joined  its  ranks  and  remained  with  it  until  his  death,  which  occirrred  in  1888,  when 
lie  had  reached  the  advanced  age  of  ninety-four  years.  His  uncle.  Squire  John  Lowe,  was 
a member  of  Congress  and  when  Gen.  LaFayette  visited  America,  he  made  the  welcoming 
speech  at  Kennebunk,  where  he  took  dinner.  This  uncle  served  in  the  Revolutionary  Wwr, 
as  did  two  other  uncles,  William  and  Thomas.  The  Lowe  family  came  originally  from  Eng- 
land and  the  first  members  to  venture  to  America,  settled  in  Maine.  Samuel  B.  Lowe 
married  Miss  Lydia  P.  Stagpool,  also  a native  of  Maine,  and  who  was  almost  eighty  years 
of  age  at  the  time  of  her  death,  in  1873.  Sixteen  children  were  born  to  this  worthy  couple, 
six  sons  and  ten  daughters,  fourteen  of  whom  grew  to  mature  years.  Five  are  now  living, 
three  daughters  and  two  sons.  The  original  of  this  notice  received  his  education  in  Kenne- 
bunk. Me.,  and  learned  his  trade  partly  in  his  father’s  shop.  When  eighteen  years  of  age 
he  left  home  and  went  to  Taunton,  Mass.,  and  was  engaged  in  making  calico  for  twelve 
years.  After  this  he  was  with  the  Providence  & Worcester  Railroad,  then  the  Erie 
Railroad,  in  all  one  year,  and  subsequently  engaged  with  Allen  Holbrook  in  manufacturing 

an  article, , used  in  weaving  cloth,  our  subject  being  foreman  for  the  concern  for 

about  one  year.  After  this  he  engaged  in  car  building  three  years  in  Cambridge,  Mass., 
and  then  went  to  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  where  he  was  engaged  with  George  Peck,  building  rail- 
road cars  by  contract.  Later  he  went  to  Madison,  Ind.,  with  Cloirgh  & Farnsworth  in  the 
same  business,  but  eighteen  months  later  came  to  Indianapolis  where  he  established  car 
shops  for  Farnsworth  & Rockwood.  A year  later  he  started  in  l)usiness  for  himself,  con 
tracting,  which  he  has  since  continued.  In  politics  he  affiliates  with  the  Republican  ])arty. 
In  1838  he  married  Miss  iMary  E.  Porter,  ami  in  1888  they  celebrated  their  golden  wedding. 
She  was  born  in  1820,  is  seventy-three  years  of  age,  and  enjoys  comparatively  good  health. 
Three  sons  were  the  fiuits  of  this  union:  Charles  G.,  who  is  in  the  furniture  department  of 
a New  York  store;  N.  H. , Jr.,  also  a builder,  is  now  with  J.  E.  Shover  as  superintendent; 
and  George  P.,  a painter  with  J.  R.  Adams.  Mr.  Lowe  is  a member  of  Tippecanoe  Club, 
and  has  lived  in  the  same  house  where  he  now  resides  for  thirty  nine  years. 

John  W.  Pierson.  It  has  been  said  that  “a  rolling  stone  gathers  no  moss,’’  and  in  the 
main  this  observation  is  true,  but  the  career  of  John  W.  Pierson  is  in  direct  refutation  of  this 
trite  saying,  for  during  his  career  as  a man  of  business  he  has  been  engaged  in  variousoccu 
pations,  and  has  met  with  reasonable  prosjierity  in  them  all.  He  is  one  of  the  enterprising 
and  prominent  citizens  of  West  Indianapolis,  of  which  place  he  has  been  a resident  for  the 
past  seven  years.  He  was  born  in  Putnam  County,  Ind.,  Sejitember  20,  1831,  a son  of  Ervin 
and  Mary  (Hunter)  Pierson,  who  were  born,  reared  and  married  in  Shelby  County,  Ky.,  ami 
in  an  early  day  became  residents  of  Putnam  County,  Ind.  'I’he  father  was  successfully 
engaged  in  tilling  the  soil  near  Greencastle  for  many  years,  but  finally  retired  from  the  active 
duties  of  life,  and  spent  the  I'alance  of  his  time  at  Coatesville,  Hendricks  County,  and  there 
died  at  the  age  of  seventy  four  years,  his  birth  having  occurred  in  18(10.  His  wife’s  death 
occurred  some  three  or  four  years  jirior  to  his  own.  He  was  a big  in  jiolitics  until  1850, 
then  voted  for  l'’remont,  and  was  ever  after  a Kejuiblican.  He  and  his  wife  were  earnest 
members  of  the  Methodist  Episco[>al  Church,  and  in  that  faith  leared  theii'  tmi  children,  of 
which  large  family  John  W.  was  the  eldest.  His  early  education  was  obtained  in  the  priini 
tive  schools  of  Putnam  County,  and  having  become  familiar  with  farming  in  his  youth,  he 


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MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


decideO  to  make  that  his  ocoopation  aftor  conunencini^  the  battle  of  life  for  himself,  and  con- 
tinued to  till  the  soil  up  to  1800.  He  then  owned  a drug  and  dry  goods  establishment  at 
Filmore,  but  afterward  moved  to  Coatesville,  Hendricks  County,  Ind.,  where  he  followed 
various  occupations  such  as  stock  trading,  the  furniture  business,  and  connection  with  a 
woolen  mill  and  tile  factory,  as  well  as  others.  He  came  to  Indianapolis  in  1881,  and  has 
since  l)eeu  actively  engaged  in  the  stock  business,  the  last  five  years  being  spent  in  West 
Indianapolis,  where  he  has  become  well  known,  and  has  gained  a fair  reputation  for  probity, 
business  management  and  })ublic  spirit.  The  building  up  and  progress  of  the  city  of  Indian- 
apolis have  ever  been  close  to  his  heart,  and  in  May,  1890,  his  numerous  Kepublican  friends 
elected  him  as  a mendier  of  the  board  of  trustees  of  West  Indianapolis  for  a term  of  two 
years,  during  a part  of  which  time  he  was  president  of  the  board,  and  at  the  expiration  of 
his  term  he  was  elected  to  succeed  himself.  During  his  administration  a great  many  improve- 
ments have  been  made,  school  houses  have  been  erected,  water  works  and  electric  lights 
established,  and  electric  cars,  and  in  all  of  these  undertakings  Mr.  Pierson  has  been  one  of 
the  prime  movers.  The  principal  part  of  West  Indianapolis  has  been  built  since  his  coming 
to  the  place,  and  in  bringing  about  this  most  desirable  state  of  affairs  he  has  by  no  means 
taken  a subordinate  j)art.  Socially  he  belongs  to  the  A.  M.  In  1856  he  was  married  to  Miss 
Ann  McDaniel,  of  Boone  County,  Ind.,  who  died  two  years  later,  having  become  the  mother 
of  two  children,  only  one  of  whom  survives:  Mrs.  Elizabeth  E.  Elrod,  of  Clarke,  S.  Dak. 
Ira  Emerson,  a son  of  the  eldest  child,  died  in  1885,  at  which  time  he  was  married,  and  liv- 
ing in  Terre  Haute,  Ind.,  where  he  was  engaged  in  railroad  business.  He  was  in  the  United 
States  mail  service  during  Cien.  (Irant’s  administration,  and  was  a useful  and  substantial 
citizen.  On  April  22,  1860,  Mr.  Pierson  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Louisa  Newman,  at 
that  time  a resident  of  Putnam  County,  Ind.,  but  born  in  Kentucky  in  1826.  She  is  a mem- 
ber of  the  Christian  Church,  and  very  much  respected. 

Adam  A.  Gauld.  The  time  has  never  been  when  the  prescription  druggist  was  not  of 
as  great  importance  to  a community  as  the  physician.  Indeed,  it  would  be  difficult  to  name 
a branch  of  business  that  is  more  indispensably  important  than  that  devoted  to  the  sale  and 
importation  of  drxrgs  and  the  preparation  of  prescriptions.  No  more  is  there  any  line  of 
biisiness  demanding  more  ability  and  scientific  knowledge.  One  of  the  eminent  young  drug- 
gists of  North  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  is  Adam  A.  Gauld,  who  was  born  in  River  John,  Nova 
Scotia,  June  5,  1864,  his  father,  John  Gauld,  having  been  born  in  Scotland,  September  21, 
1795.  He  landed  on  American  soil  on  his  twenty-fourth  birthday,  and  after  some  years 
spent  as  a Government  surveyor,  he  opened  a drug  store  at  River  John,  Nova  Scotia,  which 
occupation  he  followed  there  and  in  other  places  until  the  time  of  his  death  in  1879.  His 
wife,  whose  maiden  name  was  Isabella  Ross,  was  born  in  Nova  Scotia  and  died  January  26, 
1892,  at  the  age  of  sixty-six  years.  This  worthy  couple  were  earnest  members  of  the  Chris- 
tian Church,  and  in  that  faith  reared  their  six  children,  five  of  whom  are  living  at  the  pres- 
ent time.  Adam  A.  Gauld  was  the  fifth  of  this  family  in  the  order  of  his  birth,  and  his 
early  education  was  obtained  in  the  grammar  schools  of  his  native  town.  His  vacations  and 
leisure  time  were  spent  in  his  father’s  drug  store,  and  during  this  time  he  acquired  a knowl- 
edge of  the  business  and  its  requirements  that  he  would  have  been  long  in  gaining  in  any 
other  way.  In  1883,  in  company  with  J.  D.  Gauld,  a brother,  he  came  west  and  located  in 
Indianapolis,  where  he  was  employed  as  a prescription  clerk,  until  six  years  ago,  at  the  end 
of  which  time  he  formed  a partnership  with  his  brother,  A.  B.  Gauld,  and  together  they 
opened  a drug  store  in  North  Indianapolis.  They  have  become  widely  known  as  the  most 
honorable  business  men  and  have  created  a well-defined  confidence  in  their  many  patrons. 
Their  business  is  rapidly  increasing  and  their  handsome  and  attractive  store  is  the  head- 
([uarters  for  drugs  of  all  kinds,  in  fact,  everything  that  goes  to  make  up  a well  appointed 
store.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  has  always  taken  a deep  interest  in  the  political  affairs  of 
the  sections  in  which  he  has  resided,  and  since  locating  in  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  has  been 
a delegate  to  city,  county  and  State  conventions,  as  a Republican,  but  has  never  aspired  to 
public  office.  He  is  a notary  public,  appointed  by  Gov.  A.  P.  Hovey,  and  is  a member  of 
Marion  Lodge,  No.  35,  F.  & A.  M.  of  Indianapolis.  January  21,  1892,  he  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Emma  Schreck,  of  North  Indiana})olis. 

Nelson  A.  Randall,  a prominent  printer  and  publisher  of  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  for  the  past 


401 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

fifteen  years,  is  one  of  the  city’s  most  successful  business  men,  and  has  had  a long  experience 
in  his  line  of  trade.  He  started  the  Western  Sixrrtsnimi  in  1878.  In  1891  he  sold  this 
paper  and  February  4,  1893,  started  the  paper  he  now  publishes,  called  Rdndall's  Horse 
Register.  His  office  is  at  20J  North  Delaware  Street,  and  his  home  at  the  corner  of  Clifford 
Avenue  and  Watt  Street,  Indianapolis.  At  his  home  he  has  a large  barn  and  keeps  it  well 
filled  with  the  finest  horses  the  country  can  afford,  with  a half-mile  track  for  training  pur- 
poses. Mr.  Randall  was  born  on  the  Wyandotte  Reserve,  Ohio,  in  1828,  and,  like  most  of 
the  natives  of  that  State,  he  has  inherited  much  of  the  sturdy  spirit  and  noble  generosity 
which  so  many  who  claim  Ohio  as  a birthplace  possess.  His  parents,  Alfred  and  Martha 
Randall,  were  natives  of  the  Old  Bay  State.  When  children,  they  came  with  their  parents 
to  the  Buckeye  State,  and  there  grew  to  mature  years  and  were  married.  On  August  28, 
1848,  Nelson  A.  Randall  was  married  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  to  Miss  Rachel  M.  Arney,  who 
was  a native  of  that  State,  born  at  Lancaster,  in  1820.  Her  parents,  Daniel  and  Eliza  (Bar- 
rack) Arne}',  were  married  in  Lancaster,  Ohio,  within  two  miles  of  which  city  both  were  born 
and  raised,  and  Mrs.  Randall  was  the  first  of  eleven  children  born  to  this  union.  The  other 
children  of  this  union  are  named  as  follows:  Loirisa,  born  in  1851,  died  at  the  age  of  thirteen 
years;  George,  born  in  1853,  died  in  1875;  Eliza,  born  in  1855,  was  married  to  Jarris  Tillberry 
when  twenty-two  years  of  age  but  is  now  deceased;  Jane,  born  in  1857  and  married  Frank 
Parker,  of  Ft.  Wayne,  Ind.,  she  is  now  deceased;  Elsie  Ann,  born  in  1860,  is  now  the  wife 
of  James  Tillberry,  of  Ft.  Wayne,  Ind. ; Scott,  now  a resident  of  Ft.  Wayne  and  Daniel, 
now  living  at  the  same  place.  The  remainder  of  the  children  died  in  infancy.  To  our  sub- 
ject and  wife  have  been  born  one  child.  Berry,  whose  bifth  occurred  September  6,  1849,  and 
who  is  now  living  with  his  parents.  He  married  Miss  Laura  Redmond  and  the  fruits  of 
this  union  were  two  children.  Birdie,  now  twenty-one  years  of  age,  and  Harry,  nineteen 
years  of  age.  Birdie  married  John  Lehr.  Mrs.  Randall  is  a practical  and  intelligent  woman 
and  takes  an  active  part  in  all  the  business  matters  in  which  her  husband  and  herself  are 
interested. 

James  Maoennis.  Special  adaptability  to  any  particular  calling  in  life  is  the  one  nec- 
essary adjunct  to  permanent  success.  No  matter  the  vim  and  determination  which  charac- 
terizes a man’s  start  in  business,  unless  he  is  to  the  manor  born,  he  will  find  to  his  sorrow 
that  his  line  has  been  falsely  cast,  and  the  (juicker  he  draws  back  and  takes  up  another  calling 
the  better  it  will  be  for  him.  Mr.  James  Mageunis,  the  veteran  brickmaker  of  the  county, 
has  been  in  the  business  for  thirty-three  years,  and  is  one  of  the  best  in  his  lino  of  business 
in  this  part  of  the  State.  It  is  said  that  the  finger  of  time  is  one  of  the  most  satisfactory 
and  reliable  endorsers  of  a man’s  business  career.  Men  in  the  various  walks  of  life  may 
with  justification  halt  and  refuse  to  listen  to  the  solicitation  of  a beginner,  but  the  voice  of 
the  old  established  business  man  always  carries  with  it  attention  and  respect.  Mr.  Magen 
ids  is  a native  of  the  Emerald  Isle,  born  in  1846  to  the  marriage  of  Timothy  M.  and  Frances 
(Frost j Magennis,  who  were  born,  reared  and  married  in  that  country.  About  1850  the 
parents  crossed  the  ocean  to  America,  and  here  passed  the  remainder  of  their  days.  Twelve 
children  were  born  to  their  marriage,  as  follows:  Mary  Ann,  deceased;  Jane,  deceased;  Ellen, 
married  George  Makriew,  and  is  now  a resident  of  the  State  of  New  York;  Sophia,  single, 
resides  in  this  city;  Thomas  is  married  and  makes  his  home  in  Monroe  County,  Ind.  ; Char 
lotte,  deceased;  Frances,  married  James  King,  and  resides  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio;  Anna, 
deceased;  Octavia  E.,  deceased;  James,  subject;  Mattie,  deceased,  and  George,  resides  in 
this  city.  As  our  subject  was  but  four  years  of  ago  when  he  came  with  his  parents  to  America, 
he  has  a very  dim  memory  of  any  other  country,  and  all  his  interests  are  centered  on  this 
si<le  of  the  Atlantic.  He  has  been  twice  married,  first  to  Miss  Nancy  Campbell,  who  bore  him 
four  chihlren:  .Maiy  Ann,  now  deceased;  Fannie,  single  and  at  home;  Elmer,  at  home,  and 
John,  who  now  resides  in  .Monroe  County,  Ind.  After  the  death  of  his  first  wife  Mr.  Magen 
nis  married  her  sister,  Jane,  by  whom  he  has  one  child,  Herlaut,  now  at  home.  Mr.  Magen 
nis  had  one  brother,  Thomas,  in  the  Civil  War.  The  latter  enlisted  in  the  Twenty  seventh 
Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry,  as  color  bearer,  and  was  woumled  three  times  at  the  l)att,le  of 
Antietarn.  Socially  our  subject  is  a Mason,  belonging  to  Center  Ijodge,  No.  23,  of  Indian 
ajxjlis,  and  in  all  matters  of  jmblic  erderprise  and  improvement  he  takes  a prominent  part, 
especially  in  educational  matters. 


402 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Theodore  Johnson.  Many  of  the  best  known  farmeis  and  residents  of  Marion  County 
have  been  born  here  and  in  them  we  find  men  of  stability  and  uprightness.  Theodore  John- 
son is  no  exception  to  the  rule  for  he  was  born  in  Belmont,  now  known  as  West  Indian- 
apolis, May  15,  1838,  and  is  one  of  the  worthy  and  respected  citizens  of  the  county.  He  is 
a son  of  Theodore,  Hr.,  and  Nancy  (Cool)  Johnson,  whose  marriage  occurred  about  1824. 
The  father  was  a native  of  New  Jersey,  born  in  1804,  and  when  about  seventeen  years  of 
age  became  with  his  parents  to  the  Hoosier  State  and  located  in  Marion  County.  There  he 
tinished  his  growth  and  grew  to  sturdy  manhood.  His  wife  was  a daughter  of  AVilliam  Cool, 
a substantial  farmer  of  Marion  County.  To  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Johnson  were  born  eight  children, 
six  of  whom  grew  to  manhood  and  womanhood;  Dana,  died  unmarried;  Clarissa,  married 
Wilkes  Watters  and  now  resides  on  Belmont  Avenue,  West  Indianapolis;  Theodore,  our  sub- 
ject; Isaac,  married  Martha  Sellers;  Julia,  married  William  Curdy  and  resides  in  West 
Indianapolis.  They  have  seven  children,  as  follows:  Esse,  Walls,  Victoria,  Ann,  Della 
William,  Isaac  and  Ann,  who  married  John  Horton,  became  the  mother  of  three  children, 
two  of  whom  are  living;  Charles  and  Richard.  Ann  married  for  her  second  husband  Augus- 
tus Shafer.  The  father  of  these  children  passed  away  in  1858,  and  the  mother  survived  him 
until  August  17,  1893,  dying  at  the  advanced  age  of  eighty-eight.  For  many  years  the 
father  was  a member  of  the  Methodist'Episcopal  Church  and  he  was  steward  and  class  leader 
most  of  the  time.  In  politics  he  was  a 4Vhig.  Our  subject’s  paternal  grandfather  was  a 
native  of  New  Jersey  also.  On  his  father’s  farm  in  Marion  County  Theodore  Johnson,  Jr., 
attained  his  growth  and  received  his  education  in  the  old-fashioned  log  school-house  of  those 
early  days.  He  generally  attended  about  two  months  in  the  year  but  only  until  he  was  six- 
teen years  of  age.  In  1804  he  was  rharried  to  Miss  Barbara  Hoover,  and  two  children  were 
the  fruits  of  this  union.  In  his  political  views  Mr.  Johnson  is  a Republican  and  his  first 
vote  was  cast  for  JohnC.  Fremont.  Socially  he  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  H.,  the  I.  O.  O.  F. 
and  the  A.  O.  U.  W.  Dike  his  father  he  is  an  active  member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  and  contributes  liberally  of  his  means  to  its  support. 

James  Johnson  (deceased).  This  well-known  and  much  esteemed  pioneer  of  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  who  was  everywhere  respected  for  his  sterling  worth,  came  originally  from 
Virginia,  his  birth  occurring  in  Grayson  County,  on  May  8,  1801.  His  father,  Samuel 
Johnson,  was  also  a Virginian,  born  about  1780,  and  was  a descendant  of  one  of  the 
well  known  families  of  that  State.  He  was  mari  ied  there  to  Miss  Ann  Simcox,  and  the 
following  children  were  born  to  them;  James,  John,  William,  Sallie  (who  married  John 
Chill),  Ann,  and  Mary  (who  married  John  Carson).  Thomas  Johnson,  the  great-grand- 
father of  these  children,  was  born  in  Virginia  and  passed  his  entire  life  there,  dying 
about  1757.  He  married  a Miss  Anna  Varnum,  and  became  the  father  of  nine  children, 
among  them  being  John,  Samuel,  Jesse,  Isaac,  Rachel,  Susan,  Rhoda,  Elizabeth  and  Ann. 
The  eldest  of  these  children  married  Lydis  Ballard,  Samuel  married  Ann  Simcox;  Jesse 
married  Jane  Simcox  (a  sister  to  Samuel’s  wife),  Susan  married  a Mr.  Schooley,  Elizabeth 
became  the  wife  of  Mr.  Lundy,  and  Ann  married  Mr.  Nordyke. 

When  about  ten  years  of  age,  James  Johnson,  subject  of  this  sketch,  went  with  his 
parents  to  Butler  County,  Ohio,  and  there  made  his  home  until  eighteen  years  of  age.  He 
then  came  with  his  parents  to  Indianapolis,  where  he  resided  for  about  three  years,  when  he 
went  on  a farm  in  Wayne  Township.  This  farm  his  father  had  entered  when  first  settling 
in  Indianapolis,  and  on  this  our  subject  passed  the  remainder  of  his  days,  dying  in  1882. 
All  who  knew  this  upright,  honorable  citizen  revered  and  respected  him.  He  married  Miss 
Hannah  Suively,  and  to  them  were  born  nine  children,  as  follows:  Samuel,  single,  died  in 
1844;  Sarah  A.,  single,  is  deceased;  Henry  S.,  deceased,  married,  first.  Miss  Margaret  Var- 
ner, and  afterward  Miss  Lucy  Emerson;  Catherine  married  William  C.  Holmes;  John 
married  Miss  Mary  Ann  Carter;  James  married  Miss  Mary  P.  Crawford;  William  J.  mar- 
ried Miss  Mary  Ida  Quigg;  Mary  E.  married  William  R.  Hogshire;  and  Isaac  B.  (deceased), 
who  married,  first.  Miss  Mary  Scudder  and  afterward  Miss  Mary  E.  Overholtz.  The 
Democrat  party  commanded  the  devotion  of  Mr.  Johnson,  and  he  was  ever  a public-spirited 
citizen.  His  wife  died  in  181)0.  His  daughter  Catherine  was  married  to  William  C. 
Holmes,  on  December  15,  1849,  and  eight  children  were  given  them,  six  of  whom  survive: 
Sarah  A.,  wife  of  George  W.  Johnston;  Mary  E.,  unmarried;  Martha  A.,  married  Frank 


A.  y.  JONES. 


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LIBRARY 
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403 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

F.  Ferguson;  Johnson  C. ; Catherine,  who  married  Thomas  J.  Christian;  and  Rose  H.,  un- 
married. The  father  of  tliese  childien  died  in  1883.  He  was  a son  of  William  and 
Elizabeth  (Lyons)  Holmes.  In  politics  he  was  a Republican.  For  many  years  he  was  a 
prominent  business  man  of  Indianapolis,  but  previous  to  that  lime  had  followed  farming, 
milling  and  trading.  He  held  membership  in  the  Christian  Church. 

Charles  T.  Karrer.  With  the  rapid  and  steady  advance  of  Indianapolis,  with  the  quick 
increase  of  her  improvements,  the  trade  of  builder  and  contractor  is  one  of  primary  impor- 
tance, and  is  one  on  which  the  first  step  of  progress  is  dependent.  To  excel  in  this  business 
requires  years  of  close  application  and  practical  education  in  active  service,  and  among 
those  who  take  a foremost  place  in  this  respect  are  the  brothers,  Charles  T.  and  Frederick 
Karrer.  They  sustain  a wide  reputation  in  their  business,  being  reliable,  painstaking  and 
thoroughly  satisfactory,  as  there  is  ample  evidence  to  show.  Charles  T.  Karrer  was  born  in 
Lancaster  County,  Penn.,  in  1854,  and  is  the  son  of  George  Karrer,  who  was  borir  in  Ger 
many.  The  latter  was  a carpenter  by  trade,  and  after  coming  to  America  he  followed  that 
in  the  city  of  Indianapolis  until  his  death.  Charles  T.  Karrer  was  educated  in  the  Indian- 
apolis schools,  and  learned  his  trade  under  his  brother,  Frederick  Karrer,  now  his  partner, 
with  whom  he  reTuained  live  years.  He  then  commenced  journeyman  work,  and  twelve 
years  ago,  in  1881,  he  commenced  contracting  for  himself.  Although  he  started  with  limited 
means,  he  was  thorough  master  of  his  trade,  and  his  superior  work  soon  brought  him  all  the 
employment  he  could  conveniently  attend  to.  He  has  erected  many  of  the  finest  buildings 
in  the  city,  and  never  lacks  for  work.  On  February  3,  1878,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Eliza- 
beth Baker,  of  this  city,  and  a son  and  daughter  have  been  given  him.  In  his  political 
views  Mr.  Karrer  is  a Republican,  and  socially  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F. , Ca))ital  Lodge, 
No.  124.  Frederick  Karrer,  who  for  ten  years  has  been  contracting  and  building  in  this 
city  with  his  brother,  Charles  T.,  has  in  that  time  built  up  a trade  and  simultaneously 
with  it  a reputation,  so  that  he  will  compare  most  favorably  with  any  local  contemporary. 
He  is  also  a native  of  Lancaster  County,  Penn.,  born  in  1844,  and  came  to  Indianapolis 
with  his  parents  when  twelve  years  of  age.  He  learned  his  trade  from  his  lather  and  then 
commenced  working  for  Christian  & Shover  as  foreman,  and  was  also  in  the  rolling  mill 
until  ten  years  ago,  when  he  entered  into  partnership  with  his  brother  Charles.  He  has 
been  unusually  successful  and  is  a skillful,  reliable  workman.  In  the  year  1871  he  was 
married  to  Mi.ss  Emma  Martin,  of  Indianapolis,  and  three  children  have  been  born  to  them, 
a son  and  two  daughters.  Mr.  Karrer  is  a member  of  the  Lincoln  Avenue  Methodist  Church, 
and  is  trustee  in  the  same.  Socially  he  is  a K.  of  H.  Unlike  his  brother  he  is  a Democrat 
in  politics. 

William  H.  Hollingsworth.  This  substantial  and  extremely  well  known  citizen  of  Pike 
township,  Marion  County,  Ind.,  was  born  on  February  9,  1840,  to  Ira  and  Deborah  (Ben 
nett)  Hollingsworth,  and  was  reared  to  manhood  in  the  township  in  which  he  now  resides, 
receiving  his  education  in  the  district  schools.  He  remained  with  his  jiarents  until  he  attained 
his  majority,  assisting  in  the  duties  of  the  farm,  hut  at  the  ojiening  of  the  great  Civil  War 
in  18tH  he  dropped  his  hoe  to  take  up  arms  in  defense  of  his  country,  enlisting  in  Company 
I,  Seventh  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry,  on  August  22,  1801.  Afterserving  over  three  years 
his  regiment  returned  to  Indianapolis  and  there  he  was  mustered  out  on  Sejitember  14,  1804, 
having  been  on  active  duty  while  in  the  service.  He  was  detailed  at  t’ulpeper  Court  House, 
Va.,  February  22,  1802,  to  carry  dispatches  for  Gen.  -James  Wadsworth,  who  commanded 
the  First  Division  of  the  First  Army  Corjis.  After  the  expiration  of  his  term  of  service  ho 
returned  to  his  former  occiqiation  of  farming  in  Rilce  township,  with  the  consciousness  of 
having  performed  his  duties  faithfully  and  well  in  the  various  engagements  in  which  he  was 
engaged.  He  was  at  Winchester,  Va.,  March,  1802,  under  Gen.  Shields,  with  whom  ho 
crossetl  the  Blue  Ridge  Mountains.  The  Seventh  Indiana  was  assigned  to  McDowell’s  divis- 
ion, and  about  tliat  time  Gen.  Lee’s  army  invaded  Maryland,  and  Mr.  Hollingsworth  partici 
pated  in  the  battles  of  Antietam  and  South  Mountain.  .After  recrossing  the  Potomac  Riv(>r, 
they  camped  at  Belle  Plain  Ijanding,  when  Lee’s  army  invaded  Pennsylvania,  and  Mr. 
Hollingsworth  with  his  regiment  took  part  in  the  great  battle  of  Gettysburg.  On. July  3, 
1803,  while  .Mi-.  Hollingsworth  was  carrying  dispatidies,  he  was  woundeil  by  a shell;  the  same 
shell  having  exploded  killed  Gen.  Wadsworth.  He  was  severely  wounded  in  the  left  thigh, 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


40 1 

which  still  causes  him  much  suffering,  and  for  which  he  receives  a pension.  He  remained 
at  the  corps  hospital  headcpiarters  until  he  was  fit  for  duty,  then  once  more  entered  active 
service.  His  duties  were  numerous  and  arduous  for  at  times  he  was  compelled  to  work  day 
and  night  and  he  was  many  times  placed  in  very  dangerous  positions.  He  participated  in 
tlie  bombardment  of  the  Weldon  llailroad,  leading  up  into  Petersburg,  which  was  one  of  the 
hottest  engagements  of  the  kind  during  the  entire  war,  and  where  hundreds  of  Union  men 
sacrificed  their  lives.  He  was  afterward  transferred  to  the  Fifth  Army  Corps  (with  which 
he  remained  until  the  expiration  of  his  term)  under  Gen.  Warren  carrying  dispatches  for 
him,  then  returned  home  by  way  of  Washington  City.  Two  years  later  he  was  married  to 
Miss  Margaret  A.  Martin  (March  1,  18()6),  a native  of  Fulton  County,  Ind.,  and  a daughter 
of  John  T.  and  Martha  (Molar)  Martin.  To  their  union  the  following  children  have  been 
given;  Martha,  who  was  married  to  Omer  Button  August  15,  1898;  Lillie;  Grace,  who  died 
in  infancy,  and  Lottie.  Mr.  Hollingsworth  is  the  owner  of  fort}"-eight  acres  of  the  old 
family  homestead,  where  he  has  resided  ever  since  the  purchase  of  the  same  from  his  father 
in  18(58.  He  is  a member  of  the  George  H.  Thomas  Post,  No.  17,  of  the  G.  A.  11.  at  Indian- 
apolis, in  which  he  has  served  in  different  official  capacities.  He  participated  in  the  great 
parade  September  (5,  1893.  He  has  been  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  for  the  past  twelve 
years  and  has  passed  through  the  chairs  of  Rural  Lodge,  No.  416,  and  represented  the  same 
in  the  Grand  Lodge,  No.  84,  of  Indianapolis.  In  politics  he  is  a stanch  Republican  and  has 
always  taken  an  active  interest  in  the  welfare  of  his  party,  being  a member  of  the  Tra- 
ders’ Point  Glee  Club,  in  1888,  which  has  enlivened  political  occasions  with  music.  His 
daughters  are  also  accomplished  musicians,  and  are  beautiful  and  cultivated  singers. 

William  Norman  Bowman.  Architecture  is  one  of  the  most  difficult  of  all  the  arts,  as 
it  requires  a highly-cultivated  taste,  a subtle  knowledge  of  the  harmonies  of  form  and  pro- 
portion and  an  observation  sufficiently  artistic  to  catch  thesjiirit  of  a facade  or  an  entire  and 
complicated  structure.  It  requires  something  more  than  a mere  draughtsman  to  execute  a 
piece  of  work  like  the  Indiana  State  House  or  the  Administration  Building  and  the  Fine 
Arts  Palace  at  Jackson  Park,  Chicago.  It  is  just  as  necessary  in  architecture  that  forms, 
colors  and  jiroportions  should  blend  into  harmonious  unison.  And  so  it  happens  that  an 
architect  must  be  an  artist  able  to  sound  all  the  depths  of  the  great  art  and  create  a struct- 
ure that  will  meet  the  a‘sthetic  as  well  as  the  technical  requirements  of  utility.  Such  an 
architect  is  William  Norman  Bowman,  who  was  born  in  Carthage,  N.  Y.,  March  12,  1868, 
being  the  son  of  Lucius  S.  and  Elizabeth  A.  (Hurd)  Bowman,  both  of  whom  were  also 
natives  of  New  York  State.  The  father  was  a mechanic  by  occupation, and  in  1881  removed 
with  his  family  to  Jackson,  Mich.,  where  they  continued  to  reside  for  some  time,  but  at 
present  are  residents  of  Irvington,  Ind.  Shortly  after  the  family  settled  in  Michigan  the 
subject  of  this  memoir  went  to  Detroit,  where  he  began  the  study  of  the  profession  of 
architecture,  and  after  completing  a thorough  course  of  artistic  studies  was  employed  for 
two  years  in  the  office  of  Mortimer  L.  Smith  & Son,  of  Detroit,  well  known  and  eminent 
architects.  In  1889  Mr.  Bowman  came  to  Indianajiolis  and  associated  himself  in  the  pro- 
fession of  architecture  with  John  G.  Thurtle,  under  the  firm  name  of  Thurtle  & Co.  This 
partnership  continued  until  January  1,  1893,  when  Mr.  Bowman  opened  an  office  of  his  own. 
Some  of  the  contracts  executed  by  them  while  the  partnership  lasted  were  the  Burgess 
Hall,  the  jiower  house  and  gymnasium  building  at  Butler  University  and  the  two-story 
brick  residence  at  the  corner  of  Pennsylvania  Street  and  Home  Avenue.  The  plans  fur- 
nished by  the  firm  have  included  many  of  the  well  known  and  beautiful  residences  and  sub- 
stantial business  blocks  of  the  city.  During  1893  Mr.  Bowman  has  furnished  plans  for 
twelve  of  the  finest  residences  of  Indianapolis  and  suburbs,  among  which  are  the  elaborate 
residence  for  D.  M.  Parry,  the  remodeled  residence  for  James  F.  Tailey,  a business  block  at 
Franklin,  Ind.,  and  has  some  artistic  plans  in  his  office  for  a new  court-house  now  contem- 
plated. Mr.  Bowman  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.  and  at  present  is  keeper  of  the  records 
and  seal  of  Irvington  Lodge,  No.  324.  He  is  a member  of  the  First  Baptist  Church  of 
Indianapolis.  He  resides  with  his  parents  at  Irvington.  In  politics  he  is  a Democrat. 
He  is  a young  man  of  culture  and  artistic  taste  and  gives  promise  of  developing  into  one  of 
the  foremost  architects  of  the  great  West. 

John  St.  George  Thurtle,  architect,  was  born  in  England  October  13,  1859,  a sou  of 


405 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Walter  John  and  Elizabeth  (Loughton)  Thurtle,  who  were  natives  of  England,  where  they 
still  reside.  By  occupation  the  father  is  an  architect,  but  at  the  present  time  is  a building 
contractor  on  Governmental  work.  The  immediate  subject  of  this  sketch  was  reared  and 
educated  in  his  native  country,  receiving  the  finishing  touches  to  his  literary  education  by 
attending  Shrewsbury  Grammar  School,  and  graduating  from  St.  Mark’s  College,  London, 
in  1876.  Beginning  the  study  of  architectural  drawing  at  South  Kensington  Science  and 
Art  Schools,  the  City  Guild’s  Institute,  successfully  passing  all  examinations,  he  obtained 
admission  to  the  Academy  Schools  of  Architecture  and  Design,  from  which  he  received  his 
diploma.  As  a student  Mr.  Thurtle  was  exceptionally  brilliant,  receiving,  on  three  different 
occasions,  the  Queen’s  prize,  and  at  the  last  examination  being  awarded  the  silver  medal. 
After  traveling  two  years  pursuing  architectural  studies  he  entered  his  father’s  office  as  one 
of  the  corps  of  architectural  draftsmen,  taking  charge  of  the  work  for  about  a year.  Later 
Mr.  Thurtle  opened  an  office  for  himself,  which  he  continued  about  two  years.  From  1882 
to  1885  he  was  in  the  service  of  the  Government  in  the  civil  branch  of  the  army.  In  1886 
he  came  to  America,  remained  a short  time  in  the  cities  of  New  York  and  Buffalo,  but  in 
April,  1889,  located  permanently  at  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  having  previously  practiced  his  pro- 
fession at  Jackson,  Mich.,  for  some  time.  Very  shortly  after  his  location  in  Indianapolis 
Mr.  Thurtle  attracted  the  attention  of  the  various  contractors  and  the  pirblic  as  an  excep- 
tionally able  architect,  and  since  that  time  he  has  commanded  a lucrative  business,  which  is 
steadily  on  the  increase.  Notable  among  the  buildings  for  which  he  has  furnished  plans  can 
be  mentioned  two  structures  at  and  the  remodeling  of  the  main  edifice  of  Butler  University, 
the  Grubbs,  the  Tuttle  and  Jacobs  buildings,  numerous  residences,  various  schools  and 
churches,  and  his  work  has  extended  not  only  to  surrounding  counties,  but  States  as  well. 
At  Indianapolis,  in  1891,  Mr.  Thurtle  married  Miss  Edith  Bradford  Grover,  a native  of 
Terre  Haute,  Ind.,  and  their  pleasant  and  happy  home  is  in  this  city,  where  they  have  many 
friends.  Mr.  Thurtle  is  a member  of  the  American  Association  for  the  Advancement  of 
Science,  is  independent  in  his  political  views  and  he  and  his  wife  are  members  of  Plymouth 
Church. 

Martin  C.  Anderson.  One  of  the  most  prominent  and  useful  citizens  of  Marion  County, 
Ind.,  is  Martin  C.  Anderson,  who  was  born  in  Hancock  County, Ind. , November  14,  1844,  a son 
of  William  H.  and  Susan  (Wilson)  Anderson,  who  were  born  near  Williamstown,  Ky.,  but 
were  taken  by  their  parents  to  Rush  County,  Ind.,  at  the  settling  of  that  section  and  were 
brought  up  there  on  woodland  farms.  After  they  had  reached  maturity  and  were  married 
they  removed  to  Greenfield,  Ind.,  where  the  father  began  following  the  calling  of  a plaster 
contractor.  He  died  in  1863  at  the  age  of  fifty-one  years,  his  widow  surviving  him  until  a 
few  years  ago  when  she  died  at  the  age  of  eighty  one  years,  at  which  time  she  was  making 
her  home  with  her  children.  To  their  union  five  children  were  born,  two  sons  and  three 
daughters,  three  of  which  family  are  living  at  the  piesent  time.  When  Martin  C.  Anderson 
was  one  year  old  his  father  came  with  his  family  to  Indianapolis  and  here  the  subject  of  this 
sketch  received  his  finishing  education  in  the  city  high  schools.  At  the  age  of  seventeen 
years  he  began  learning  the  plasterer’s  trade  under  his  father,  with  whom  he  continued  to 
be  associated  until  the  death  of  the  latter,  when  he  commenced  business  for  himself  and 
eventually  became  the  largest  plastering  contractor  in  the  city.  He  first  entered  the  polit- 
ical arena  in  1873,  at  which  time  he  made  the  race  for  councilman  in  the  old  eighth  ward 
and  served  one  term.  At  the  end  of  this  time  he  became  the  Democratic  nominee  for  city 
clerk  and  ran  several  hundred  votes  ahead  of  his  ticket  but  was  defi'uted  and  went  down 
with  the  rest  of  the  ticket.  In  1890  he  was  a candidate  before  the  Democratic  convention 
for  the  nomination  of  recorder  but  was  defeated  by  Peter  Carson.  In  1891  when  the 
county  commissioners  wanted  a snjierintendent  for  the  Marion  County  Workhouse,  Mr.  Ander- 
son was  unanimously  chosen  and  has  made  a faithful  and  exceptionally  efficient  official.  'J’he 
highest  compliments  have  been  paid  him  for  the  excellent  and  efficient,  manner  in  which 
this  penal  institution  is  managed  and  disciplined.  These  things  are  easily  explained,  how 
ever,  when  it  is  taken  into  consideration  that  Mr.  Anderson  is  an  industrious  workingman 
himself.  ,\  largo  percent,  of  the  inmates  of  this  institution  are  men  who  have  fallen  by  the 
wayside,  but  who  have  been  workingmen,  and  Mr.  Anderson  has  always  proven  a true  friend 
of  the  workingman.  In  .lune,  1886,  when  the  plasterers  of  tlu'  city  w(>re  on  a strike,  Mr. 


400 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Anderson  was  the  first,  man  to  come  to  the  assistance  of  the  journeyman  plasterers,  by  agree- 
ing  to  pay  ten  hours’  ])ay  for  eight  hours’  work  and  for  a time  this  state  of  affairs  continued. 
He  is  a member  of  the  Cleveland  Club,  the  Masonic  lodge,  the  K.  of  H. , the  A.  O.  U.  W., 
and  the  K.  of  P.,  and  is  an  active  member  of  the  Builders  Exchange.  On  June  20,  1877, 
he  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Emma  L.  Glazier,  a native  of  this  city,  her  father,  Charles 
Glazier,  being  the  first  engineer  on  the  Indianapolis  and  Terre  Haute  Railroad,  and  ran  the 
first  train  over  the  road  after  its  completion.  Three  children  were  born  to  the  union  of  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Anderson,  but  only  two  are  living  at  the  present  time;  Harry  C.  and  Hervey  G. 
Charles  M.  died  in  infancy.  Mrs.  Anderson  is  a member  of  the  Fletcher  Place  Church  and 
is  a woman  of  much  intelligence  and  nobility  of  character,  in  fact,  a worthy  helpmate  to  her 
worthy  husband. 

Col.  Ben.jamin  W.  Hautley.  Since  the  year  1850  this  gentleman  has  been  engaged  in 
the  occupation  of  luick  contracting.  He  was  born  in  Clarke  County,  Ohio,  February  13, 
1820,  and  is  a son  of  Josiah  K.  Hartley,  whose  birth  occurred  in  the  vicinity  of  Hamilton, 
Butler  County,  Ohio,  of  which  State  his  father,  William  Hartley,  was  one  of  the  pioneers 
from  Kentucky,  although  a native  of  England.  After  his  marriage,  which  occurred  in  Butler 
County,  he  came  to  Indiana.  Josiah  K.  Hartley  was  a very  successful  contractor  and  built 
one  of  the  first  brick  houses  ever  put  u]»  in  the  town  of  New  Carlisle.  In  this  business  he 
was  succeeded  by  his  son,  Benjamin  W.,  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  although  for  a number  of 
years  prior  to  his  death  they  were  associated  in  business.  Benjamin  W.  built  the  paper 
mills,  the  Niles  Tool  Works,  the  Malt  House,  the  school  house,  and  many  other  buildings  in 
Hamilton,  and  since  his  residence  in  Indianapolis,  whither  he  came  in  1851,  he  has  put  up 
some  very  important  structures  in  partnership  with  Robert  Taylor,  who  was  the  pioneer 
brick  man  of  the  town.  About  the  first  building  they  erected  after  they  had  associated  them- 
selves in  business  was  the  gas  works,  then  the  Christian  Church  at  the  corner  of  Delaware 
and  Ohio  Streets.  In  the  meantime  he  began  the  study  of  medicine  with  Dr.  Lawrence 
Abbott,  and  shortly  after  went  to  Rockville,  Parke  County,  and  began  practicing.  In  1856 
he  went  to  Kansas,  and  the  following  year  took  up  liis  residence  in  Wyandotte  County, 
where  he  remained  until  the  winter  of  1864.  While  in  Wyandotte  County  he  was  a mem- 
l)er  of  the  city  council,  and  was  next  elected  assessor  of  the  county.  After  he  removed  to 
Johnson  County  he  was  elected  trustee  of  Shawnee  Township,  and  was  afterward  elected  to 
represent  that  county  in  the  State  Legislature.  May  9,  1861,  he  became  first  lieutenant  of 
Company  A,  Second  Kansas  Infantry,  and  on  May  25,  was  promoted  to  the  captaincy  of  that 
company,  becoming  lieutenant-colonel  of  his  regiment  October  29,  1861.  He  served  three 
years  throughout  southern  Missouri  and  northern  Arkansas,  and  was  in  the  engagements  at 
Wilson’s  Creek  and  Pea  Ridge  in  the  border  service.  In  1864  he  returned  to  Hamilton, 
Ind.,  and  opened  a tobacco  factory,  but  later  disposed  of  it,  and  in  1876  came  to  Indianapo- 
lis and  formed  a partnership  with  John  W.  Thompson,  and  again  commenced  contracting. 
During  the  panic  of  that  time  and  for  six  years  thereafter,  he  was  on  the  police  force  of  the 
city,  at  which  time  Mr.  Thompson  was  justice  of  the  peace.  After  his  term  of  service  on  the 
j)olice  force  had  expired  he  and  Mr.  Thompson  resumed  business  and  have  since  had  all  the 
contracts  they  coirld  possibly  attend  to.  They  have  been  doing  a great  deal  of  foundation 
work  and  for  some  time  were  associated  with  William  Landmeier,  but  for  a short  time  Mr. 
Hartley  has  been  pursuing  his  operations  alone.  He  has  been  quite  a politician  in  his  day. 
and  has  been  a member  of  Republican  conventions  and  on  committees  on  numerous  occasions. 
August  9,  1849,  Mr.  Hartley  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Elizabeth  Cornthwait,  a native 
of  Butler  County,  Ohio,  but  on  September  3,  1893,  he  was  left  a widower.  She  bore  him 
nine  children,  five  daughters  surviving.  Mr.  Hartley  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  and  at 
the  opening  of  the  war  was  deputy  grand  master  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  Kansas, 
and  at  the  present  time  he  is  a member  of  the  Indianapolis  Lodge,  No.  465.  In  1841  he 
became  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  but  two  years  later  he  united  with 
the  Chri.stian  Church,  became  an  officer  in  the  same,  and  ever  since  1852  has  preached  the 
doctrine  of  that  denomination  on  various  occasions  in  the  Shelby  Street  Christian  Church. 

Feederick  J.  Meyer.  The  calling  of  the  merchant  is  one  of  the  oldest  as  well  as  one 
of  the  most  honorable  of  all  lines  of  industry.  Exchange  and  barter  are  two  of  the  world’s 
most  important  factors,  and  without  these  the  public  would  indeed  find  themselves  in  a sad 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


407 


plight.  Above  all,  it  is  necessary  that  the  goods  should  be  first  class  and  the  merchant  hon- 
orable and  reliable,  two  features  combined  in  the  mercantile  career  of  Frederick  J.  Meyer. 
This  gentleman  was  born  in  Prussia,  Germany,  January  2,  1847,  a son  of  Henry  J.  and 
Eleanor  (Schaekel)  Meyer,  who  spent  their  entire  lives  in  their  native  land.  The  father  was 
a farmer  by  occupation  and  served  three  years  in  the  German  army,  his  death  occurring  in 
November,  1846.  His  widow  survived  him  until  March,  1889,  when  she,  too,  passed  aw'ay. 
The  birth  of  Frederick  J.  Meyer  occurred  after  the  death  of  his  father,  and  as  is  the  custom 
in  Germany,  he  attended  the  public  schools  until  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age,  at  which  time 
he  entered  a high  school,  which  he  attended  for  two  years.  He  then  turned  his  attention  to 
farming,  which  he  continued  until  emigrating  to  America,  in  1867.  Upon  his  arrival  in  this 
country  he  came  immediately  to  Indianapolis  and  soon  began  working  in  the  flour  mill  of 
C.  Heckman, , but  one  year  later  entered  the  wholesale  establishment  of  Holland  & Oster- 
meyer,  also  remaining  with  them  about  one  year.  He  then  engaged  in  contract  work  for 
himself  until  1875,  when,  having  saved  some  money,  he  engaged  in  the  grocery  business  on 
a small  scale  at  the  corner  of  East  and  McCarty  Streets,  having  purchased  a lot  there  on 
which  a small  building,  16x60  feet  had  been  erected.  By  close  attention  to  business  and 
good  management  he  prospered  and  is  now  the  owner  of  a store  60x150  feet,  two  stories 
high,  erected  by  him  in  1884,  in  which  he  carries  a stock  of  goods  valued  atabout  $12,000,  con- 
sisting of  groceries,  drygoods,  clothing,  boots  and  shoes,  in  fact,  a tine  line  of  general  merchan- 
dise, and  does  a business  of  aboitt  $45,000  annually.  He  also  owns,  in  addition  to  his  busi- 
ness property,  six  houses  and  lots,  all  of  which  he  has  accumulated  since  coming  to  this  city, 
his  capital,  on  locating  here,  amounting  to  $49.  He  is  a member  of  St.  Paul’s  German 
Lutheran  Evangelical  Church,  and  has  been  one  of  its  trustees  for  fourteen  years  and  presi- 
dent for  five  years.  He  is  one  of  the  directors  of  the  German  Lutheran  Orphan’s  Home 
Society,  and  on  November  6,  1893,  was  appointed  a member  of  the  board  of  public  works 
by  Mayor  Denny,  and  entered  upon  the  duties  of  this  position  November  20.  He  is  a well- 
known  and  substantial  German  citizen  and  has  always  taken  great  interest  in  everything  for 
the  welfare  of  the  city.  He  was  married  October  21,  1870,  to  Mary  Buddenbaum,  a native  of 
Prussia,  Germany,  by  whom  he  has  one  child,  Harry  C. , born  in  August,  1871,  and  died  at 
the  age  of  nine  months  and  ten  days.  Mr.  Meyer  has  always  been  a stanch  Democrat  and 
has  given  his  active  support  to  that  party  on  all  occasions. 

CoRYDON  R.  Shimer.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  born  May  20,  1838,  on  the  farm 
where  he  now  lives  and  his  education  was  received  in  the  common  schools  of  Marion  County. 
This  was  such  as  to  qualify  him  to  teach  in  his  home  district  for  a period  of  twelve  months 
to  the  satisfaction  of  his  patrons.  He  remained  in  common  with  his  parents,  Elias  N.  and 
Mahala  Shimer,  until  twenty-six  years  of  age,  or  until  the  death  of  the  father  who  requested 
him  in  his  will  to  take  charge  of  the  homestead,  consisting  of  240  acres  which  was  left  intact 
for  the  benefit  of  Mrs.  Shimer.  As  this  was  the  mother’s  wish  also,  our  subject  remained 
with  her  during  the  remainder  of  her  days,  a period  of  twenty  two  years.  The  father  was 
born  December  6,  1798,  and  the  mother  June  8,  1802.  They  were  married  April  4,  1822, 
near  Zanesville,  Ohio,  and  remained  there  until  1829,  when  they  came  with  their  three  little 
boys  to  their  western  land,  consisting  of  160  acres  unimproved.  To  this  eighty  acres  more 
were  added  in  1848.  Mr.  Shimer  and  family  remained  with  the  family  of  their  brother-in- 
law,  Henry  Brady,  while  a cabin  was  being  built,  and  then  began  their  careei'  as  early  set- 
tlers. In  the  course  of  time  churches  were  established  and  ]\Ir.  and  Mrs.  Shimer  attached 
themselves  to  and  were  prominent  members  and  active  workers  in  the  Pleasant  Run  Baptist 
Church  told  School),  Mr.  Shimer  serving  the  church  association  as  clerk  for  many  years. 
Mr.  Shimer  was  a man  of  more  than  ordinary  ability  and  intelligence  which  qualities  were 
greatly  im[)roved  by  his  industry  in  reading  and  stud3\  He  was  a man  of  sound  judgment, 
unsullied  reputation  and  honorable  deportment.  He  was  in  every  r(‘spect  an  exem])larv  cit  izen. 
He  served  the  community  in  several  offices  with  credit  to  himself  and  general  satisfaction, 
unwavering  in  his  notions  on  religion  and  jiolitics.  He  nevei'  conq)romised  })iinci])lo  let  the 
consequences  be  what  the\'  might.  He  died  Julv  29,  1864.  .Mrs.  Shimer  was  a woman 
whose  whole  mind  and  strength  were  em])loyed  in  the  arduous  duties  and  loving  care  of  her 
homo  and  family.  Hei'  character  was  one  poRS(‘ssedof  all  the  beauties,  charms  and  loveliness 
that  the  word  mother  implies.  The  twenty-two  years  she  andour  subject  spent  together  after 


408 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


the  father’s  death  were  of  the  most  pleasant  character  throughout,  “ the  last  were  the  most 

precious.”  Says  Corydon:  “I  had  attained  an  age  when  I could  more  fully  appreciate  a 

mother’s  worth.”  She  died  December  13,  1886.  Six  children  were  born  to  this  worthy 
couple  as  follows;  Caleb  D.  ; William  R. ; Isaac  H. ; Asa  N. ; James  N.  H.,  and  Corydon  R., 
our  subject.  The  eldest  of  these  children,  Caleb  D. , is  seventy  years  of  age,  and  resides  in 
Hancock  County,  Ind.  He  has  been  three  times  married,  first  to  Mrs.  Margaret  Mitchell  by 
whom  he  had  one  child,  Catherine  M.,  who  died  in  1871,  aged  twenty- three  years.  His  sec- 
ond wife  was  Miss  Susan  Birdwhistle,  by  whom  he  had  two  children,  Anna  and  William. 
The  former  died  at  the  age  of  two  years,  and  the  latter  is  married.  Caleb’s  third  wife  was 
Miss  Ellen  Bingham,  who  bore  him  four  children,  Martha  A.,  married  Amie  Geroude,  and 
has  two  children,  Donald  and  Eva;  Emma,  married  Mr.  Campbell;  James  C.,  married  and 
has  two  children,  Robert  and  Grace;  and  Katie,  has  been  twice  married,  first,  to  Mr.  Walter 
Tate,  by  whom  siie  had  one  child  Walter,  and  the  second  time  to  Hulbert  McNeily,  by  whom 
she  has  two  children,  Temple  and  Lizzie.  Emma,  James  C.  and  Katie  reside  in  Topeka, 

K an.  William  R.  ,the  second  child  born  to  Elias  N.  and  Mahala  Shimer,  is  now  sixty-seven 

years  of  age  and  has  been  twice  married,  first  to  Miss  Elizabeth  O’Neal,  who  bore  him  eight 
children,  Mahala  C. , who  married  George  Adams,  and  became  the  mother  of  seven  children, 
William,  Daniel,  Elizabeth,  Susan,  Carry,  Mary  and  Henry;  Isaac  H. , who  is  now  thirty- 
nine  years  of  age,  married  Miss  Jennie  Hart,  by  whom  he  has  four  children,  William,  Mag- 
gie, Myrtle  and  John;  Willie,  a very  exemplary  boy,  died  when  sixteen  years  of  age;  Daniel 
V.,  another  bright,  intelligent  child,  died  when  eight  years  of  age;  Nelson  R.,  married  Miss 
Mila  Murphy,  and  has  five  children,  Nellie,  Grover,  Carl,  Clara  B.  and  Lizzie;  Richard  O. , 
married  Miss  Josie  Patterson,  and  had  one  child ; Thomas  and  Charles.  William  R.  Shimer’s 
second  marriage  was  with  Miss  Sue  M.  Dunn,  who  bore  him  one  child,  Carrie.  Isaac  H., 
the  third  child  born  to  the  marriage  of  Elias  Shimer,  is  now  sixty-four  years  of  age,  and  has 
been  three  times  married.  His  first  union  was  with  Miss  Indiann  Moorhouse,  by  whom  he 
had  one  child,  Thomas.  His  second  marriage  was  with  Miss  Jane  Gunning,  who  bore  him 
three  children,  Howard,  who  married  Miss  Lelia  Hovey,  and  had  four  children  and  died, 
Nellie,  Charley,  Willie  and  Lee;  Jennie,  married  Edward  Cook,  and  has  three  children, 
Nina,  Guy  and — an  infant,  and  Floi  a was  married  in  1892  to  Robert  McGinnis,  of  Indian- 
apolis. Isaac  H.  Shimer’s  third  union  was  with  Miss  Lititia  Harris,  who  bore  him  nine 
children,  Elias,  Viola,  Henrietta.  Ray,  Myrtle,  Mabel,  Erie,  Grace  and  Eddy.  Asa  N. , the 
fourth  child  born  to  Elias  N.  Shimer,  is  mentioned  in  another  part  of  this  work,  and  James 
N.  H. , the  fifth  child,  died  when  two  years  of  age.  The  paternal  grandparents  of  these 
children,  Isaac  and  Sarah  Ann  (De  Lashmutt)  Shimer,  were  natives  of  Maryland,  the  former 
born  in  1765,  and  died  near  Zanesville,  Ohio,  in  1848,  and  the  latter  in  1773,  and  died  at 
her  son’s,  Elias  N.  Shimer’s,  in  1856,  and  was  buried  in  Green  Lawn  Cemetery,  and  removed 
from  that  place  with  eight  others  to  Crown  Hill  by  C.  R.  Shimer,  in  1887.  Five  children 
were  born  to  this  union,  Elias  N.,  Elizabeth,  Catherine  W.,  Susan  and  William  J.  Elizabeth 
was  twice  married,  first,  to  John  Wilson,  by  whom  she  had  five  children,  William  D.,  Sarah, 
Frankie,  Eliza  and  Catherine,  all  married.  Her  second  marriage  was  with  John  P.  Demp- 
ster, by  whom  she  had  four  children,  Henry,  Ellen,  Virginia  and  Thomas,  all  married. 
Catherine  W.,  married  Thomas  J.  Northup,  who  died  in  1856.  “ Mrs.  Northup  was  a woman  of 
great  magnetism,  she  was  a model  woman;  several  years  of  her  life  were  spent  in  Washington 
City  among  the  ^lite.  To  say  that  she  was  accomplished,  generous,  noble,  lovely,  simply 
de.scribe  her  character.  Never  would  human  being  in  need  leave  her  presence  ungratified  if  it 
was  within  her  power  to  alleviate  their  wants.  She  died  in  full  possession  of  all  her  faculties, 
October  26,  1882,  at  the  residence  of  our  subject,  after  a sojourn  with  the  family  of  twenty- 
six  years — cherished  sojourn,  a sojourn  cherished  l)y  all  with  whom  she  came  in  contact.” 
Susan  was  married  to  the  late  J.  B.  H.  Bratshaw,  of  Detroit,  Mich.  Two  children 
were  the  fruits  of  this  union,  Sarah  Ann  and  Matilda,  both  married.  William  J.,  the 
youngest  of  the  family,  made  his  home  with  his  brother  and  nephew  for  nearly  thirty 
years,  and  died  in  1884,  when  seventy-three  years  of  age.  Our  subject’s  maternal  grand- 
parents, Caleb  and  Susanna  (Strader)  Dunn,  were  natives  of  New  Jersey,  the  former  born 
in  1777,  and  died  in  1849,  and  the  latter  born  in  1779  and  died  in  1859.  They  were  united 
in  marriage  June  1 1,  1797,  and  from  this  union  resulted  eight  children,  Hannah,  Mahala,  Mary, 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

JNIVERSITY  OF  ILLINOr 


409 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Asa,  Strader,  Thomas,  William  and  Susan.  The  eldest  child,  Hannah,  married  Hon.  Henry 
Brady,  by  whom  she  had  six  children,  Emily,  Oliver,  Lititia,  Margaret,  Mahala  and  George; 
Mary,  married  James  Caldwell,  and  became  the  mother  of  five  children,  Caleb,  James,  Will 
iam,  Hervey  and  Susan;  Asa,  the  fourth  child  born  to  Caleb  Dunn,  married  Miss  Caroline 
Sedwick  and  had  these  children,  Wilson,  Hannah,  Susan,  William,  Lucy,  Mary,  George  and 
Emma;  Strader,  the  fifth  child,  married  Miss  Hettie  Joseph,  who  bore  him  six  children, 
William,  Jane,  Martha,  Mary,  Cornelius  and  Cornelia  (twins);  Thomas  Dunn  married  Miss 
Hannah  Ailes,  and  four  children  are  living,  James,  Elijah,  Marion  and  George;  William 
Dunn  married  Miss  Dorothy  Crane  and  has  two  children,  Howard  and  Cora;  Susan  Dunn, 
the  youngest  child  l)orn  to  Caleb  Dunn,  married  James  M.  Mercer,  and  became  the  mother 
of  one  child,  Jacob  D.  On  September  10,  1878,  the  original  of  this  notice  was  married  to 
Miss  Belle  Zimmerman,  daughter  of  Christopher  and  Kate  Zimmerman,  of  560  East  Wash 
ington  Street,  Indianapolis.  Mrs.  Shimer  is  a lady  of  culture  who  in  addition  to  a high 
school  education,  attended  St.  Mary’s  of  the  Woods,  at  Terre  Haute.  Four  children  have 
been  born  to  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Shimer,  as  follows:  Bessie,  who  died  in  infancy;  J.  Tilden,  born 
February  3,  1877,  is  now  attending  Butler  University;  Donald  B.  and  Harold  N.  (twins), 
born  .tanuary  9,  1884.  The  latter  died  when  but  four  days  old.  Donald  is  kind,  obliging, 
industrious  and  a GOOD  boy.  Fidelity  Farm,  the  home  of  our  srrbject,  adjoins  Irvington  on 
the  south  and  is  located  two  and  a half  miles  east  of  the  city  limits  of  Indianapolis.  It  con- 
sists of  192  acres  and  is  admirably  ada})ted  to  the  uses  to  which  it  is  put,  general  farming. 
Some  of  Mr.  Shimer’ s horses  are  standard  bred  and  he  has  a tine  half  mile  track  where  he 
oversees  the  training  of  hin  animals.  At  the  head  of  his  herd  is  the  Hambletonian  stallion 
Billy  Breckenridge;  his  younger  animals  bid  fair  to  make  reputations  on  the  race  course. 
Until  a few  years  ago  Mr.  Shimer’ s attention  was  given  to  (he  raising  of  Jersey  cattle,  and 
he  still  has  a tine  herd  of  this  breed.  He  was  nearly  killed  in  1884  by  an  infuriated  Jersey 
bull,  and  all  his  life  will  carry  the  scars  of  this  encounter  on  his  head  and  face.  Mr.  Shimer 
has  a substantially  built,  modern  two-story  brick  house  of  thirteen  rooms,  the  building  being 
trimmed  with  stone  and  galvanized  iron,  a large  bay-window  fronts  the  north,  and  on  the 
east  and  west  of  the  double-parlors  extending  the  entire  height  of  the  house,  all  furnished 
with  the  be.st  quality  of  French  plate  glass.  The  house  is  located  on  one  of  the  highest 
points  of  land  in  the  vicinity  and  presents  a tine  appearance  from  the  surrounding  country. 
It  is  situated  within  one-half  mile  of  Butler  University  and  of  the  Irvington  public 
school.  Mr.  Shimer  also  has  a slate-covered  brick  smoke  and  wood-house,  also  a brick  car- 
riage-house and  granary,  and  his  large  farm  barn  is  capable  of  comfortably  stabling  thirty 
head  of  stock. 

Alfkki)  Pahud.  The  activity  which  characterizes  every  l)ranch  and  department  of  trade 
and  commerce  is  due  to  the  initiative  energy  and  enterprise  of  the  leading  re])resentative 
merchants  in  each  line,  and  the  tloral  industry  of  the  city  is  as  well  represented  l)y  thor- 
oughly  energetic  and  competent  business  men  as  any  other  branch  of  human  endeavor. 
.Vlfrecl  Bahud,  a well  known  tloi’ist  of  the  city,  has  a f)erfect  understanding  of  his  business 
and  realizes  the  importance  of  j)romptnes8  and  of  delivering  according  to  promise,  and  has 
made  it  a rule  never  to  disappoint  his  customers  under  any  circumstances.  He  is  tlie  oldest 
and  one  of  the  most  practical  tlorists  in  Indianapolis  and  has  had  a lifelong  experience  in  the 
work.  He  has  been  the  florist  of  Grown  Hill  Cemetery  for  the  ])ast  six  years,  and  none  has 
ever  had  occasion  to  regret  his  ap])ointment  to  that  position,  for  he  is  careful,  painstaking 
and  conscientious  in  his  work,  and  nothing  is  left  undone  tliat  should  be  attended  to.  INfr. 
Pahud  was  born  in  Switzerland  in  1852,  where  he  also  received  a practical  education,  and 
[U'ior  to  coming  to  the  I’nited  States  lie  thoroughly  learned  the  trade  of  a Horist , so  that 
altimugh  he  was  a stranger  in  a strange  land  and  unfamiliar  with  the  American  customs 
upon  reaching  this  country,  he  knew  that  he  could  make  a good  living  by  following  his 
chosen  calling.  Prior  to  coming  here,  liowevei-.  he  followed  tlie  calling  of  a llorist  for  the 
years  in  Paris,  three  years  in  I^yons,  three  years  in  Switzerland,  and  learned  to  speak  the 
German.  French  and  English  languages  quite  Huently.  After  coming  to  Indianajiolis,  Ind., 
lie  established  himself  in  his  pr(*s«nit  business  and  has  2(1,000  feiJ  under  glass,  in  which  are 
rare,  beautiful  and  costly  flowtus  as  well  as  the  most  inexpensive,  in  fact,  everything  to  suit 
the  taste  of  the  jmblic,  and  which  are  sold  at  reasonable  figures.  He  makes  a s|)ecialty  of 


410 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


cut  flowers,  decorating,  etc.,  and  furnishes  rare  and  beautiful  designs  for  banquets,  balls  and 
public  demonstrations  of  all  kinds.  He  commands  a liberal  patronage,  for  the  wise  Ameri- 
can knows  where  his  interests  lie  and  always  patronizes  those  who  endeavor  to  please  him, 
in  which  respect  he  shows  his  good  judgment.  Mr.  Pahud  was  married  in  his  native  land 
and  brought  his  wife  with  him  to  this  country,  but  she  died  about  one  year  after  their 
arrival.  In  1883  Mr.  Pahud  married  a second  time,  hie  present  wife  having  been  born  in 
France.  By  this  union  they  have  four  children.  He  is  a man  much  esteemed  by  all  who 
know  him  and  is  a useful  addition  to  the  business  circles  of  the  city  of  Indiana23olis. 

David  Johnson.  The  gentleman  whose  name  is  at  the  head  of  this  sketch  has  been 
quite  successful  from  a pecuniary  standpoint  in  the  conduct  of  his  affairs,  and  is  a liberal, 
generous  and  high  minded  gentleman,  whose  correct  mode  of  living  has  gathered  about  him 
a large  circle  of  friends  and  well  wisliers.  He  has  resided  in  Marion  County  all  his  life,  for 
liere  he  was  born  August  3,  1832,  a sou  of  William  M.  and  Eliza  (Ajqfleton)  Johnson,  the 
former  of  whom  was  a native  of  New  Jersey,  and  when  a young  man  removed  therefrom  to 
Ohio,  and  one  year  later  came  to  Indiana,  taking  up  his  residence  in  Marion  County,  three 
miles  northeast  of  the  Cii’cle  in  1821,  near  where  the  United  States  Arsenal  now  is,  .which 
was  then  heavily  covered  with  timber,  and  Indianajvolis  consisted  of  but  two  houses.  The 
[laternal  grandfather,  David  Johnson,  was  a farmer  and  coojier  and  died  when  the  subject  of 
this  sketch  was  a child.  He  entered  a'woodland  farm  on  coming  to  this  country,  which  is 
now  owned  by  Samuel  Johnson,  whose  son  resides  on  the  farm.  William  M.  Johnson  helped 
clear  uj)  this  land,  but  afterward  moved  to  or  near  West  Indianapolis,  and  his  farm  is  now  in 
|)ossession  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  and  is  situated  on  Eel  Creek.  It  comprises  160  acres, 
and  from  the  door  of  his  jiresent  residence  Mr.  Johnson  can  see  one-half  mile  distant  to  the 
))lace  where  he  was  born.  His  father,  William  M.  Johnson,  also  bought  land  here  and  fol- 
lowed farming  up  to  the  day  of  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1877  at  about  the  age  of 
seventy  seven  years.  When  Mr.  Johnson  came  to  this  section  of  the  country  the  only 
inhabitants  were  mostly  Indians,  and  the  laud  now  occupied  by  the  pojiulous  city  of  Indian- 
apolis was  a continuous  patch  of  hickory  ash  bushes,  also  thickly  timbered.  He  lived  to  see 
Indiana|)olis  become  one  of  the  greatest  railroad  centers  in  the  United  States,  and  Marion 
County  to  become  one  of  the  most  jirosjierous  in  the  State.  He  was  a member  of  the  Method- 
ist Episcopal  Church  for  over  fifty  years,  and  at  various  times  trustee  and  steward  of  the 
same.  In  jiolitics  he  was  first  a Whig  and  later  became  a Republican.  His  wife  was  a 
member  of  the  same  church  as  himself  and  died  in  1850,  when  about  forty  years  of  age. 
To  this  union  a good  old  fashioned  family  of  twelve  children  were  given,  of  whom  Henry, 
the  eldest,  is  a jirosjierous  farmer  of  Wayne  Township  this  county;  David:  Mary,  wife  of 
Henry  Pence;  Anna,  wife  of  a Mr.  John  J.  Johnson,  a farmer  and  brick  manufacturer  of 
Castleton,  this  county;  Sarah  A.,  wife  of  John  VanSickle  of  Boone  County;  George  is  a 
farmer  near  Castleton,  and  the  rest  of  the  children  died  in  infancy,  with  the  exception  of 
Emeline,  who  lived  to  be  seventeen  years  of  age.  David  Johnson  received  his  education  in 
Indianapolis  in  the  first  log  school-house  that  was  built  there,  and  after  attending  school  for 
two  months  in  the  year,  when  he  was  nineteen  years  of  age  he  decided  that  his  education  was 
completed,  and  it  was  more  than  ordinarily  thorough  for  that  period.  At  the  age  of  twenty- 
one  he  began  working  out  for  |13  per  month  as  driver  of  an  ox  team,  and  was  afterward  on 
the  Cincinnati  Railroad  hauling  timbers  for  bridges,  and  in  the  spring  he  assisted  in  laying 
the  foundations  for  these  bridges.  Shortly  after  he  began  farming  and  after  his  crop  was 
garnered  he  returned  to  railroad  work,  or  anything  that  he  could  find  to  do  and  continued 
this  way  for  some  time,  and  thus  got  his  start  in  life.  Thirty  three  years  ago  he  rented  land 
of  Mr.  McCorby  and  has  had  business  connections  with  him  ever  since.  He  made  his  first 
purchase  of  land  in  1857,  at  which  time  he  purchased  ten  acres  where  his  home  now  stands, 
but  where  he  now  owns  twenty  acres.  In  1870  he  bought  three  acres,  for  wliicb  he  paid 
$1,100  an  acre.  This  is  a part  of  West  Indianapolis,  and  besides  this  he  owns  a one- 
third  interest  in  the  old  home  place,  which  is  now  very  valuable.  He  has  been  quite  a suc- 
cessful contractor  as  well  as  a farmer,  and  built  the  Michigan  Street  bridge,  the  Morris 
Street  bridge  foundation  and  put  in  the  foundations  of  the  Kentucky  Avenue  bridge,  and 
worked  on  the  Kentucky  levees  in  different  parts  of  the  city  and  has  otherwise  been  con- 
nected with  the  development  of  the  city.  He  was  the  first  town  trustee,  a jiosition  he  held 


411 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

for  many  years,  was  tlien  elected  city  treasurer  and  is  now  serving  liis  second  term  in  this 
position.  Although  formerly  a Whig  in  politics,  he  has  long  been  a Republican  and  cast  his 
first  Republican  vote  in  1856.  In  1S57  he  was  married  to  Miss  Mary  Johnson,  daughter  of 
William  M.  Johnson  (not  related)  and  to  them  three  children  were  given;  M'^illiam  O.,  a 
farmer,  and  Elida,  wife  of  Fred  Crow.  Another  son,  Charles,  lived  to  be  eighteen  years  of 
age.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Johnson  are  members  of  the  Methodist  E])iscopal  Church  and  he  is  a 
member  of  Samaritan  Lodge,  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  of  which  he  has  been  a member  since  1856, 
and  lie  also  belongs  to  the  I.  O.  R.  M,  and  the  R.  A.,  in  which  he  is  trustee,  and  the  A.  F. 
A A.  M.  He  is  a man  whose  usefulness  to  Indianapolis  cannot  be  doubted,  and  he  has 
the  satisfaction  of  knowing  that  his  life  has  been  well  spent  and  an  honorable  one. 

Jeremiah  Egan,  Esq.  The  duty  of  caring  for  the  graves  of  those  who  have  “crossed  to 
that  bourne  fiom  whence  no  traveler  returns”  is  a sacred  one  and  one  that  should  be  placed 
in  the  hands  of  those  who  are  painstaking,  trustworthy  and  reliable.  In  Mr.  Egan  these 
qualities  are  to  be  found  in  an  eminent  degree,  and  besides  these  he  possesses  good  taste  and 
a knowledge  of  landscape  gardening  which  has  been  of  essential  benefit  to  him  in  perform- 
ing the  duties  of  superintendent  of  the  Holy  Cross  Cemetery,  a position  he  has  discharged 
with  marked  ability  for  some  time  past.  The  Sons  of  Ireland  are  well  represented  in 
Marion  County,  and  they  hold  conspicuous  places  in  many  pursuits  which  make  that 
county,  a substantial  star  in  the  galaxy  of  Indiana’s  many  interesting  counties.  Jeremiah 
Egan  was  born  in  County  Cork,  Ireland,  in  1836,  and  was  named  for  his  father,  who  was  an 
honest  and  industrious  tiller  of  the  soil  in  the  Isle  of  Erin,  and  no  doubt  he  inherited  from 
this  worthy  gentleman  many  of  his  most  worthy  business  (|ualities,  as  well  as  the  (piick  wit 
and  light  heartedness  so  characteristic  of  the  Irish  people.  The  father  died  in  his  native 
land  in  1846,  l)ut  prior  to  this  he  had  given  his  sou  Jeremiah  every  educational  advantage 
within  his  power,  and  for  sometime  was  himself  his  teacher,  for  he  was  finely  educated,  and 
one  of  his  greatest  desires  was  that  his  son  should  be  also.  In  1868  Jeremiah  Egan  decided 
to  seek  his  fortune  in  America,  and  on  April  28  of  that  year  landed  in  Indianapolis,  Ind. 
Having  learned  the  trade  of  a gardener  near  the  city  of  Cork,  Ireland,  he  became  a florist 
U|)on  his  arrival  in  Indianapolis,  in  connection  with  which  he  followed  the  occupation  of 
gardening  for  nearly  five  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  had  accumulated  sufficient 
means  to  enable  him  to  purchase  an  establishment  of  his  own  at  805  East  ^Market  Street,  of 
which  he  is  still  the  owner.  He  soon  after  secured  employment  in  the  city  gas  works,  with 
which  he  was  connected  until  about  1802,  when  he  was  appointed  to  the  position  of  superin- 
tendent of  the  Holy  Cross  Cemeteiy,  and  under  his  wise  and  comprehensive  management 
the  place  has  been  greatly  im])roved  and  made  a “thing  of  beauty.’’  Old  and  sunken  graves 
have  been  built  up.  the  new'  ones  are  always  carefully  looked  after,  and  the  grass,  shrubs  and 
trees  are  kej)t  neatly  trimmed.  IMr.  Egan  has  proved  to  be  the  right  man  in  the  right  place 
and  all  who  have  friends  buried  in  the  Holy  Cross  Cemetery  are  thoioughly  satisfied  with 
his  management  of  the  place.  He  belongs  to  the  St.  Michael’s  Benevolent  Society  and 
politically  is  a Demociat.  He  was  married  in  County  Cork,  Ireland,  to  Miss  Nora  Irvin  and 
to  their  union  five  sons  and  two  daughters  have  l)een  given,  one  of  the  latter  ))eing  dead. 

John  Svnders.  Of  the  many  projiiinent  farmers  of  Decatur  Township,  Marion  County, 
Ind.,  Mr.  .Sandei's  is  well  worthy  of  mention  for  he  has  been  a resident,  of  this  county  all  his 
life  and  has  ever  had  its  inter(*sts  at  heai  t.  He  was  born  on  the  farm  belonging  to  his  father 
October  26,  1837.  and  as  lie  w'as  left  motherless  when  only  three  weeks  old,  he  was  taken  by 
his  maternal  grandmother,  Ifiirebe  Mills,  wife  of  John  Mills,  who  lived  in  Decatur  Township. 
He  ma<le  his  home  with  his  grandmother  until  about  twenty-seven  years  of  age,  or  until  her 
death  wliich  occuried  in  1865.  Young  Sanders  attended  I Ik*  subscription  schools  in  Decatur 
Townshif)  from  the  age  of  nine  up  to  twenty,  but  rarely  attended  the  full  session  of  three 
months  during  tlie  winter  season.  The  grandmother  had  made  her  home  with  her  son,  Amos 
.Mills,  and  after  her  death  our  subject  continued  to  make  his  home  with  Amos  IMills  until  tin* 
latt(*r's  death  in  1874.  He  then  bought  lt)6  acres  of  the  Mills  farm  and  as  fifty  live  acres  of 
that  farm  had  been  deeded  to  him  as  the  heir  of  .\mos  Mills’  widow*  he  now  has  a tine  farm 
of  lot)  acres.  He  haserected  a handsome  frame  house  and  resided  on  this  farm  since.  On 
Decemlier  8,  1870,  he  was  married  to  .Miss  Ellen  Newlin  and  to  them  were  born  two  children: 
Charles  N.,  who  married  Uebecca  I’orsha,  daughtei'  of  A.  A.  Forsha;  and  .Jehu,  who  is 


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MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


now  attending  Earlhain  College.  Mrs.  Sanders  died  August  20,  1S73,  and  on  August  21, 
1(S80,  Mr.  Sanders  was  married  to  Mrs.  Louisa  Newlin,  daughter  of  Joseph  Benford  and 
widow  of  David  Newlin.  No  children  have  resulted  from  this  union.  Mr.  Sanders  is  a 
member  of  the  Friends  Cliurch,  and  in  politics  is  a Republican,  casting  his  first  Presidential 
vote  for  Abraham  Lincoln.  His  father,  Daniel  Sanders,  was  born  in  Ohio  in  1809,  and  came 
to  Indiana  with  his  ])arents  in  early  manhood,  probably  about  1828  or  1829.  They  located  in 
Decatur  Township,  Marion  County,  and  there  Daniel’s  father  entered  laud  and  gave  Daniel 
eighty  acres  to  which  the  latter  added  before  his  death  until  he  owned  160  acres.  In  Deca- 
tur Township  Daniel  followed  farming  until  his  death  in  March,  1863.  He  had  married,  in 
1833,  Miss  Rachel  Mills,  daughter  of  John  Mills,  and  two  children  were  the  fruits  of  this 
union;  Lydia,  who  married  A.  Barnett,  and  John,  our  subject.  Mr.  Sander’s  second  wife 
w'as  Mary  Horton,  by  whom  he  liad  six  children,  as  follows:  Rachel  (deceased);  James 
(deceased);  William,  Amos,  Ann  (deceased),  and  Seth  W.  Rachel,  the  eldest  of  these  chil- 
dren, married  (leorge  W.  Goodwin  and  became  the  mother  of  four  living  children:  Elma, 
-lames,  William  and  John.  -Tames,  the  second  child,  married  Miss  Jennie  Roberts  and  they 
have  four  living  children;  Waltei',  Elizabeth,  Mary  and  Earl.  William,  the  third  child, 
married  Serilda  Tillman,  and  six  children  were  born  to  them;  Alda,  Della,  Alice,  Grace, 
Eraidv  and  Luther.  Amos,  the  fourth  child,  married  Anna  Armstrong,  and  to  them  was 
born  one  child.  Harold.  Seth  W.  first  married  a Miss  Tillman  but  no  children  were  born 
to  this  union.  Later  he  married  Miss  Jennie  Francescus  and  three  children  were  born  to 
them,  as  follows;  Gertrude,  Hubert  and  -John  C.  The  father  of  our  subject  was  the  third 
time  married,  that  choice  being  Miss  Cynthia  Mendenhall,  daughter  of  Aaron  Mendenhall. 
Mr.  Sanders,  was  a Quaker  in  his  religious  views.  His  father,  William  Sanders,  was  also  a 
Quaker,  and  was  l)orn  in  Georgia  -Tune  1,  1778.  He  was  reared  in  that  State  and  married 
there.  After  the  birth  of  two  children  he  moved  to  Ohio  and  made  his  home  in  Warren 
County  until  1832,  when  he  came  to  Indiana,  locating  in  Marion  County  where  he  died 
December  24,  1841.  He  married  Amy  Williams  who  bore  him  thirteen  children,  eleven  of 
whom  grew  to  mature  years;  Sarah.  Mary,  Charity,  Daniel  (father  of  subject),  Rebecca, 
Joel,  Eli,  Sibby,  Elihu,  Rhoda  and  William.  Eight  of  these  children  are  deceased.  Their 
mother  passed  away  September  15,  1865.  Our  subject’s  great-grandfather,  Joel  Sanders, 
was  probably  born  in  North  Carolina  but  moved  from  there  to  Ohio  where  his  death  occurred 
about  1819. 

-John  G.  Pendergast  was  born  in  Bedford  County,  Penn.,  March  19,  1834.  He  is  one 
of  a family  of  nine  children  whose  parents,  John  and  Barbara  Pendergast,  were  both  natives 
of  Pennsylvania.  His  parents  were  married  in  Bedford  County,  Penn.,  and  there  resided  until 
1842,  when  they  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  settled  at  Indianapolis.  The  father  was 
an  unusually  successful  farmer  and  a man  of  more  than  ordinary  attainments.  He  took  an 
active  part  in  politics,  both  as  a Whig  and  a Republican,  and  wielded  no  small  influence, 
being  always  found  in  his  place  at  conventions,  etc.  Both  parents  were  honored  members 
of  the  Baptist  Church  for  many  years.  -John  G.  Pendergast,  the  subject  of  our  sketch, 
passed  his  youthful  days  in  Indianapolis  and  attended  what  was  known  as  “The  Little  Old 
Brick  School-House,”  located  near  the  present  site  of  the  Second  Presbyterian  Church. 
When  nineteen  years  of  age  he  began  to  serve  an  a{)prenticeship  of  thirty  months  under  Enos 
Pendergast,  an  older  brother,  who  was  an  old-time  builder  in  Indianapolis.  Soon  after 
reaching  his  majority,  he  became  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  Later  in  life  he  united  with 
the  Masonic  fraternity;  he  is  a Mason  of  the  thirty-second  degree,  a Knight  Templar,  and 
has  the  honor  of  being  a ]iast  commander  of  the  Raper  Commaudery  No.  1,  famous  in 
Masonic  societies  for  its  drill  cor])s.  He  is  also  a member  of  the  Methodist  Church.  In 
1863  he  married  iMiss  Margretta  Donnan,  a daughter  of  David  Donnan,  one  of  the  pioneer 
builders  of  Indianapolis.  As  a journeyman  he  began  to  work  for  Byrket  & Beam,  being 
employed  by  that  tirm  for  six  years  and  holding  the  position  of  foreman  during  the  latter 
part  of  the  time  that  he  was  with  them.  He  then  commenced  contracting  with  George  Wells  as 
partner,  and  two  years  later  he  was  appointed  to  superintend  the  building  of  the  noith  wing 
of  the  old  insane  hospital.  This  was  in  1868,  and  he  was  thus  engaged  for  three  years. 
Later  he  built  the  veneer  works  for  Osgood  & Adams.  He  was  then  appointed  by  the 
county  commissioners  to  superintend  the  building  of  the  Marion  County  Court  house,  seven 


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413 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

years  being  required  to  complete  this  building.  Mr.  Pendergast  was  made  chief  of  the 
Indianapolis  Fire  Department  in  1878,  and  he  held  that  position  for  three  years  and  seven 
months.  He  had  been  offered  the  position  the  year  previous,  but  had  declined  it.  Up  to 
the  time  of  his  appointment  the  fire  department  had  been  run  much  in  the  go-as-you-please 
manner.  Mr.  Pendergast  soon  brought  the  department  up  to  a standard  of  discipline  and 
efficiency  equal  to  that  in  any  of  the  larger  fire  departments  of  the  country.  He  also  intro- 
duced a system  of  book-keeping,  records  and  specifications  that  are  still  followed  in  the 
department.  Soon  after  his  retirement  from  the  fire  department,  he  was  appointed  to  super- 
intend the  building  of  the  State  House.  After  this  building  was  finished,  he  planned  and 
superintended  the  construction  of  the  large  manufacturing  plant  of  Messrs.  Tucker  & Dor 
sey.  He  was  afterward  employed  by  the  Broad  llijrple  Natural  Gras  Company  as  superin- 
tendent; put  in  all  the  plant  in  the  city  and  extended  the  line  up  into  the  gas  fields  of  Ham- 
ilton County;  he  acted  in  that  capacity  until  that  plant  was  sold  to  the  Trust  Company.  In 
conjunction  with  others  he  organized  the  Indianapolis  Paving  Brick  Company,  built  the  fac- 
tories at  Brazil,  Ind.,  and  managed  the  work  there  for  three  years.  Selling  his  interest  in 
this  establishment,  he  took  charge  of  a brick  company’s  interest  at  Hillsdale,  twenty-five 
miles  from  Terre  Haute,  Ind. , but  remained  there  for  only  a short  time.  He  returned  to 
Indianapolis,  and  recently  has  been  appointed  building  inspector  of  that  ciiy.  Mr.  Pender- 
gast cast  his  first  vote  for  Fremont  and  has  always  been  a stanch  llepublican. 

John  W.  Sears.  The  writer  knows  of  no  calling  that  has  been  dignified  and  graced 
in  modern  poetry  more  than  that  which  in  practical  life  is  generally  most  prosaic.  Long- 
fellow and  Schiller  especially  have  thrown  a veil  of  romance  and  heroism  about  the  towering 
form  of  the  blacksmith,  that  while  it  stands  out  in  all  its  muscular  strength,  lends  an  awe- 
inspiring majesty.  John  W.  Sears  has  been  a resident  of  Brightwood  since  the  close  of  the 
war,  and  during  that  time  has  followed  his  trade,  blacksmithing  and  wagon-making,  and  is 
the  typical  village  blacksmith.  He  was  born  in  Henry  County,  Ind. , March  22,  1S44,  and 
is  a son  of  John  and  Esther  (King)  Sears,  who  celebrated  their  nuptials  in  Henry  County, 
Ind.,  in  1830.  The  father  was  a native  of  Canada,  and  the  mother  of  Kentucky,  and  both 
came  to  Indiana  when  children.  They  were  the  parents  of  six  children,  as  follows:  David, 
who  died  in  infancy;  William,  is  now  living  in  Kansas,  and  is  married  to  Mattie  Colwell ; 
Martha,  is  deceased;  John  W. , subject;  George,  deceased,  and  Mariah,  now  residing  in 
Kansas.  John  W.  Sears  was  reared  in  the  Hoosier  State,  and  at  the  breaking  out  of  the 
Civil  War  he  was  anxious  to  fight  for  the  old  Hag.  In  March,  1802,  when  eigldeen  years 
of  age,  he  enlisted  in  the  Seventeenth  Indiana  Battery,  and  served  his  countiy  faithfully 
until  July  5,  1805,  when  he  was  mustered  out.  He  was  with  the  Army  of  tlie  Potomac,  and 
was  in  all  tlie  prominent  engagements  fought  by  that  army.  He  was  in  the  battles  of  Get- 
tysburg and  Antietam,  and  had  the  index  finger  of  his  left  hand  shot  off  at  tlie  second  joint 
in  one  of  the  many  engagements  in  which  he  particijiated.  His  brother,  George,  was  in  the 
One  Hundred  and  Fourteenth  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry.  Mr.  Sears  has  been  a resident 
of  Brightwood  since  the  close  of  the  war,  and  is  held  in  high  esteem  by  all  who  know  him, 
and  the  number  is  by  no  means  small.  He  has  been  honored  by  his  townsmen  with  the  office 
of  trustee  of  Brightwood,  in  which  capacity  he  served  two  terms  of  two  years  each.  He  is 
an  active  member  of  the  K.  of  H.,  and  has  been  a member  of  the  order  seventeen  years, 
holding  all  the  offices  within  the  gift  of  that  order  during  tliat  time.  He  is  also  a member 
of  the  G.  A.  K.  and  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  Mr.  Sears  was  married  in  Marion  County  to  Miss 
Anna  Glissner,  by  whom  he  had  three  children:  Walter,  born  in  1870;  Boss,  born  in  1873, 
and  George,  born  in  1877.  All  are  at  home  and  single. 

William  Fetkow.  Few  families  in  this  Township  have  a higher  standing  for  char 
acter,  ability  and  enterprise  than  the  one  represented  by  the  name  at  the  head  of  this  sketch, 
and  in  its  various  members  it  is  eminently  worthy  of  the  respect  which  is  universally  con 
ceded  to  it.  He  of  whom  we  write  is  a native  of  the  “Keystone  State,’’  born  Decemlier  3, 
1848,  son  of  Joseph  and  Caroline  (Fetty)  Fetrow,  who  were  married  in  Pennsylvania  about 
1833.  To  this  union  were  born  eleven  children  — five  sons  and  six  daughtiu's — as  follows: 
Alexander,  Elizabeth,  Mary,  John,  Joseph,  Catherine,  William,  Maggie,  Daniel  and  Mahala. 
One  died  in  infancy.  Alexander,  the  eldest  child,  is  now  living  in  Dalesville,  Ind.,  and  is 
married  to  Nancy  Pottinger.  They  have  four  children.  'I’he  second  child  born  to  Mr.  and 


4U 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAFOLIS 


Mrs.  Fetrow,  Elizabeth,  iiuuried  Kobert,  Corbett,  and  resides  in  Pennsylvania.  Mary  lives 
in  the  “Keystone  State”  and  is  the  wife  of  John  Been.  John  makes  his  home  in  Indian- 
apolis. He  married  Mary  Marshall,  who  is  now  deceased.  Joseph  resides  in  this  county 
and  is  the  husband  of  Caroline  Smith.  Maggie  is  the  wife  of  Samuel  Smith  and  resides 
in  Virginia.  Catherine  died  unmarried.  Daniel,  now  deceased,  married  Clara  Higgins, 
who  resides  at  Juliette,  Ind.  William,  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  remained  in  his  native 
State  until  1855,  when  he  came  with  his  parents  to  Marion  County,  Ind.  In  this  county  he 
received  the  princij)al  part  of  his  education  and  here  he  grew  to  sturdy  manhood  on  his 
father’s  farm,  where  he  became  thoroughly  familiar  with  all  the  duties  of  the  same.  On 
July  1,  1883,  he  was  married  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  to  Miss  Effie  D.  Newton  and  this 
union  was  blessed  by  the  l)irth  of  three  children:  Raymond,  who  was  born  July  13,  1884; 
Robert,  born  December  3,  1880,  and  Ountie,  born  Octolier  19,  1889.  All  are  living  and  are 
bright  and  intelligent  children.  Mrs.  Fetrow,  the  wife  of  our  subject,  is  the  daughter  of 
().  L.  Newton  and  Jeanette  (Walker)  Newton,  who  were  married  in  Coatesville,  Ind.,  and 
who  were  the  parents  of  four  children;  Charles,  Henry,  Obera  and  Effie.  Charles  is  also 
married,  but  has  no  children.  Mr.  Newton  served  four  years  in  the  Civil  War  and  was  in 
an  Indiana  regiment.  He  participated  in  several  of  the  prominent  engagements,  but 
escaped  without  injury.  Mr.  P’etrow,  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  is  one  of  the  prominent 
farmers  of  his  section  and  delights  in  his  calling.  His,  as  well  as  his  wife’s  family,  were 
among  the  early  settlers  of  Indiana  and  contributed  their  full  share  toward  its  improvement 
and  development.  He  is  highly  respected  in  the  community. 

Auoustus  E.  Tiuesey.  This  gentleman  is  justly  deserving  the  recognition  of  being 
one  of  the  progressive  and  successful  tillers  of  the  soil  of  Marion  County,  for  in  this 
occupation  he  has  attained  a degree  of  success  that  cun  only  be  accounted  for  in  the  fact 
that  to  it  he  has  devoted  the  greater  portion  of  his  life.  He  was  born  in  Marion  County, 
December  25,  1836,  and  this,  no  doubt,  has  had  somethinsr  to  do  with  the  great  interest  he 
has  ever  taken  in  the  welfare  of  his  section.  His  parents,  Lawrence  Frederick  and  Caroline 
(Bcesenberg)  Triesey,  were  born,  reared  and  married  in  Germany,  but  soon  after  became 
residents  of  the  United  States,  and  in  1830  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  at  which  time  the 
father  was  a young  man  of  twenty-nine  years.  Under  the  shadow  of  the  “stars  and 
stripes”  all  their  children,  three  sons  and  four  daughters,  were  born:  Maggie,  the  eldest, 
has  been  married  twice,  but  is  now  a widow,  residing  in  Indianapolis;  Catherine  died  in 
1891,  unmarried ; Andrew  Jacob  died  while  serving  his  country  in  the  Civil  War  (he  was 
married  to  Elizabeth  Junkins,  who,  with  his  three  sons  and  one  daughter,  survives  him); 
Frederick  William  died  at  the  age  of  twenty-one  years;  Christina  married  Henry  Miller, 
and  resided  in  Kansas  until  her  death,  which  occurred  in  1891,  having  become  the  mother 
of  eleven  children;  Caroline,  who  died  in  infancy;  and  Augustus  E.,  who  was  next  to  the 
youngest  of  the  family.  The  early  days  of  Augustus  E.  Triesey  were  spent  like  the 
majority  of  farmers’  boys,  that  is,  he  assisted  on  the  home  farm  and  received  such  educa- 
tion as  the  schools  of  his  day  afforded.  April  1,  1867,  he  was  united  in  the  bonds  of 
matrimony  with  Miss  Margaret  Bosderfer,  a daughter  of  Jacob  and  Mai’garet  Bosderfer. 
Slie  was  born  in  the  old  country,  but  when  a young  woman  came  to  this  country  alone, 
and  here  met  and  eventually  married  Mr.  Triesey,  the  only  fruit  of  which  union  is  a 
daughter,  Minnie,  who  was  born  September  15,  1876,  and  who  still  makes  her  home  with 
her  father  and  mother.  Mr.  Triesey  is  one  of  those  grand  old  soldier  citizens  who  was  with 
his  country,  heart,  soul  and  body,  during  the  troublous  times  of  the  Civil  War.  On  June 
12,  1861,  he  enlisted  in  the  First  United  States  Cavalry,  with  which  he  served  until  1865, 
when  he  was  mustered  out  of  the  service  and  returned  to  his  “ain  fireside.’’  He  was  in 
forty-two  battles,  prominent  among  which  were  Cold  Harbor,  Gettysburg,  Chancellorsville, 
Cedar  Creek,  Winchester  and  others.  While  in  the  service  he  had  two  horses  killed  while 
he  was  riding  them,  but  himself  escaped  with  a few  unimportant  scratches,  which  were  not 
severe  enough  to  keep  him  from  active  duty.  Since  his  return  from  the  war  his  attention 
has  been  given  to  farming,  in  which  he  has  been  reasonably  successful,  being  now  possessed 
of  a comfortable  competence.  He  is  highly  regarded  by  all  who  know  him,  and  has  numer- 
ous friends. 


415 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

William  Siegmuxi*.  In  the  lich  agricultural  region  of  Marion  County,  Iml.,  William 
Siegmund  has  found  an  excellent  opportunity  to  display  his  ability  as  a tiller  of  the  soil, 
and  in  this  branch  of  human  endeavor  he  has  been  prosperous.  He  ovres  his  nativity  to 
Clermont  County,  Ohio,  where  he  was  born  August  17,  1827,  but  in  1831  was  brought  by 
his  parents,  James  and  Elizabeth  (Groves)  Siegmund,  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  in  this 
section  has  made  his  home  ever  since.  James  Siegmund  lived  with  his  parents  in  his  native 
State  of  Pennsylvania  until  he  was  sixteen  years  of  age,  when  he  went  to  Ohio,  and  there 
met  and  married  Miss  Groves  and  in  1831  came  with  her  and  his  son,  William,  who  was  at 
that  time  four  years  of  age,  to  Indiana.  Their  union  eventually  resulted  in  the  birth  of 
live  sons  and  three  daughters,  four  members  of  which  are  still  living.  The  names  of  these 
children  are  as  follows:  Jacob,  David,  John,  James,  Esther,  Susan  and  Levina,  William 
being  the  eldest  of  the  family,  and  with  Esther,  Susan  and  John,  the  survivors.  They  all 
reside  in  Marion  County  with  the  exception  of  John,  who  lives  in  Missouri,  and  all  are 
married.  Since  1831  William  Siegmund  has  been  a resident  of  this  county  and  has  been 
actively  and  successfully  engaged  in  farming,  an  occupation  for  which  he  seems  to  have  a 
decided  aptitude.  He  has  also  manifested  great  interest  in  the  public  affairs  of  the  county 
and  has  ever  had  the  welfare  and  progress  of  his  section  warmly  at  heart,  and  so  far  as  his 
means  permitted  and  his  influence  extended,  he  has  used  them  in  behalf  of  his  adopted 
county.  August  7,  1851,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Jane  Herron,  a daughter  of  John  and 
Sarah  (Gorbet)  Herron,  who  were  married  in  Clermont  County,  Ohio,  in  1831,  Mrs.  Siegmund 
being  their  flrst-born.  John  Herron  was  a Kentuckian  by  birth,  while  his  wife  was  a native 
of  New  Jersey.  They  met  in  Ohio  and  were  there  married  and  at  once  came  to  Indiana, 
where  their  daughter  Jane  was  born.  To  William  and  Jane  Siegmund  six  children  have 
been  given,  all  of  whom  are  married  and  settled  in  life  with  the  exception  of  the  youngest 
child,  Ada.  The  others  are:  Eliza,  Celestine,  Albert,  Ella,  and  Lory.  Mr.  Siegmund  is  a 
man  of  tine  physique,  is  possessed  of  great  physical  endurance,  and  is  one  of  the  most 
industrious,  thrifty  and  enterprising  of  men,  and  the  wonderful  development  of  the  county’s 
resources  has  been  in  a gi'eat  measure  due  to  his  and  like  efforts. 

Lew  Robinson.  There  are  few  men  in  business  circles  who  show  as  much  litness  for 
their  vocation,  in  that  they  are  wide-awake,  experienced,  reliable  and  energetic,  as  Lew 
Robinson,  and  there  are  none  who  have  a more  thorough  knowledge  of  the  business  of  con- 
tracting and  painting  than  he.  He  is  a product  of  the  city  of  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  where  he 
flr.st  saw  the  light  of  day  February  15,  1851,  his  father  being  John  Robinson,  a native  of 
Pennsylvania.  The  latter  was  a farmer  and  stockraiser  of  considerable  note  and  was  an 
extensive  dealer  in  blooded  horses,  at  Cumminsville,  Ohio,  now  in  the  twenty  fifth  ward  of 
the  city  of  Cincinnati.  He  was  a shrewd  and  keen  business  man,  was  successful  in  his  vent 
ures,  and  in  1851,  at  the  age  of  fifty-two  years,  his  career  was  closed  by  death.  His  willow 
still  survives  him.  Lew  Robinson  was  the  eldest  of  four  children  and  was  educated  in  the 
public  schools  of  Cincinnati  and  in  Farmer’s  College,  at  College  Hill,  Ohio,  which  is  now  a 
widely  and  favorably  known  military  school.  He  finished  his  education  at  the  age  of  eighteen 
years,  after  which  he  began  learning  the  trade  of  a ])ainter  in  Cincinnati  and  there  remained 
until  he  attained  the  age  of  twenty-one  year.s,  when  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  engaged  in 
contracting.  His  business  has  rapidly  and  steadily  increased  and  has  become  so  extensive 
that  he  is  compelled  to  employ  a very  large  force  of  workmen,  Init  he  uses  care  in  t heir  selec- 
tion and  none  but  those  who  are  first-class  jiainters  are  employed.  He  has  rilled  some  very 
extensive  contracts  and  has  just  completed  the  (Toverninent  work,  the  jiost-oflice,  and  has  done 
a great  deal  of  school-house  |)ainting.  He  has  taken  a great  deal  of  interest  in  the  political 
affairs  of  his  day  and  has  always  been  an  active  and  influential  worker  for  the  success  of  the 
Democratic  I)arty,  but  has  himself  never  aspired  to  oflicial  position.  He  was  married  in 
this  city  in  June,  1887,  to  Miss  Minnie  Hall.  Mr.  Robinson  is  a member  of  the  Master 
Painters  Association.  He  is  also  interested  in  the  sand  and  gravel  business  and  is  the  owner 
of  several  very  extensive  and  valuable  bars  on  Fall  Creek.  This  interest  is  even  moie  exten 
sive  than  that  of  his  painting  business  and  he  deals  extensively  with  street  contractors,  who 
use  his  jiroduct  for  the  imjnovement  of  the  streets. 

Ernest  F.  Kottlowhki.  The  average  citizen,  interested  as  he  may  be  in  the  progress 
of  the  city  in  which  his  interests  lie,  pursues  the  even  tenor  of  his  way  with  little  thought  of 


416 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


tlie  wonderful  iiuproveinents  that  are  going  on  about  liim  in  tlie  methods  of  constructing  the 
many  magnificent  buildings  so  necessary  to  the  growth  of  a metropolis,  or  to  the  men  in  whose 
brain  the  plans  for  these  immense  projects  originate.  Among  the  many  men  who  have 
erected  the  thousands  of  business  buildings  of  Indianapolis  may  be  mentioned  Ernest 
F.  Kottlowski,  who  is  a notable  carpenter  and  builder,  and  well  known  to  contractors 
all  over  the  city.  He  was  born  in  Germany  on  April  26,  1863,  a son  of  Ernest  Kottlowski, 
also  a native  of  that  country,  who  was  a druggist  in  that  department  of  the  German  Govern- 
ment prior  to  his  removal  to  the  United  States  in  1879.  Upon  his  arrival  in  this  country  he 
settled  in  Indianaj)olis,  and  here  met  a sudden  death  in  1891,  at  the  age  of  sixty-one  years, 
by  being  run  over  by  a Big  Four  passenger  train.  In  the  public  schools  of  his  native  land 
Ernest  F.  Kottlowski  received  his  education,  after  which  he  served  a two  and  a half  years’ 
ap[)renticeshit)  at  the  cabinet-maker’s  trade,  during  which  time  he  acquired  an  excellent 
knowledge  of  the  same.  Upon  coming  to  the  United  States  with  his  father  he  turned  his 
attention  to  his  trade,  first  in  St.  Louis,  but  afterward  pursued  this  calling  in  many  other 
cities,  among  which  may  be  mentioned  Litchfield,  111.;  Louisville,  Ky.;  Danville,  111.,  and 
Cincinnati,  Ohio.  In  1882  he  came  to  Indianapolis,  and  has  devoted  the  most  of  his  atten- 
tion to  his  trade  up  to  the  present  time,  principally  as  a contractor.  He  has  done  some  very 
extensive  and  important  work  since  coming  here,  aTuong  which  may  be  mentioned  the  resi- 
dence of  Thomas  T.  Thompson,  John  R.  Pearson,  George  \V.  Dickson  and  others.  He  also 
built  the  Capital  City  Cloth  Casket  Company’s  building,  and  numerous  others  of  note.  He 
was  married  to  Miss  Anna  Flath,  a native  of  Germany,  and  they  have  long  been  earnest 
members  of  the  German  Lutheran  Church,  and  in  this  faith  are  rearing  the  four  sons  that 
have  been  given  them.  He  and  his  wife  are  highly  esteemed  by  all  who  know  them,  and  have 
made  many  friends  since  locating  in  Indianapolis.  He  is  a member  of  the  Builders  and 
Traders  Exchange,  and  the  Contractors  Association. 

Ira  C.  Werr.  The  calling  of  the  contracting  painter  has  become  one  of  great  impor- 
tance for  no  matter  how  handsome  a building  may  be  architecturally,  the  judicious  and 
artistic  application  of  paint  will  add  to  its  beauty  ten-fold,  while  the  improvement  it  makes 
in  an  old  and  dilapidated  building  can  hardly  be  estimated  and  cannot  be  too  highly  com- 
mended. Nor  is  this  all;  its  preserving  properties  are  great,  and  a building,  when  painted 
in  proper  manner,  will  last  many  years  longer  than  it  would  do  were  it  unpainted.  In  Ira 
C.  Webb  are  combined  all  the  cjualities  which  go  to  make  a successful  painter  and  decorator 
for  he  has  a keen  eye  for  the  beautiful,  artistic  and  harmonious,  does  his  work  thoroughly 
and  lives  up  to  the  letter  of  his  contract.  He  is  one  of  tlie  pioneers  of  his  line  in  the  city 
for  although  he  was  born  in  Genesee  County,  N.  Y.,  December  1,  1832,  he  has  been  a resi- 
dent of  Indianapolis  since  about  the  close  of  the  war  and  has  ever  since  been  one  of  her  pub- 
lic-spirited citizens.  In  his  veins  How  some  of  the  best  blood  of  which  this  country  can 
boast  for  he  comes  of  a good  old  New  England  family,  the  early  members  of  which  were 
soldiers  of  the  Revolution,  his  paternal  grandfather,  Charles  Webb,  having  won  the  title  of 
colonel  in  that  war.  His  father,  Ira  C.  Webb,  was  born  in  West  Brownfield,  N.  Y.,  and 
throughout  his  long  life  of  seventy-two  years,  he  was  a practicing  physician  and  a successful 
one.  He  was  a soldier  of  the  War  of  1812,  and  died  in  1862,  in  the  city  of  Buffalo,  N.  Y., 
which  at  the  time  of  his  location  was  inhabited  principally  by  the  British  and  Indians.  He 
was  a Democrat  throughout  life.  He  was  united  in  the  bonds  of  matrimony  to  Miss  Laura 
Hurd,  a native  of  New  York  State,  who  on  January  8,  1889,  quietly  breathed  her  last  at  the 
ripe  old  age  of  eighty-two  years.  Of  seven  children  born  to  this  worthy  couple  four  are  liv 
ing  at  the  present  time,  of  whom  Ira  C.  is  one.  His  early  education  was  obtained  in  the 
country  schools  of  his  native  State  and  although  limited  to  the  ordinary  branches  of  learning 
was  of  a practical  and  useful  kind.  He  remained  in  the  State  of  his  birth  until  he  attained 
his  twenty -seventh  year,  having  served  an  apprenticeship  at  the  jjainter’s  trade  in  LeRoy, 
N.  Y.,  and  later  worked  at  it  in  Rochester,  Buffalo  and  many  other  cities,  and  in  1859  came 
west,  in  anticipation  of  the  advice  of  Horace  Greeley,  and  for  some  time  was  a resident  of 
Hendricks  County,  Ind.  In  the  month  of  August,  1861,  he  enlisted  in  the  Eleventh  Indiana 
Infantry,  but  was  in  the  service  only  a short  time.  Since  that  time  his  attention  has  been 
given  to  contracting,  being  four  years  associated  with  Charles  Pierce,  who  is  one  of  the  most 
extensive  builders  of  court-houses  and  public  buildings  in  the  United  States,  acting  for  him 


417 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

in  the  capacity  of  superintendent  and  paymaster  during  this  time  in  numerous  populous 
cities.  Since  he  has  been  engaged  in  contracting  for  bimself  he  has  been  called  to  various 
cities  throughout  the  country  among  which  may  be  mentioned  Frankfort,  Louisville,  Ky. , 
and  Vincennes,  Ind.,  and  numerous  others.  He  has  filled  many  heavy  contracts  in  Indi- 
anapolis and  has  always  conducted  his  operations  to  a successful  and  satisfactory  termina- 
tion. Starting  in  life  for  himself  his  capital  was  his  energy  and  determination,  and  by  a 
proper  use  of  this  capital  he  has  prospered  financially  and  his  repufation  in  his  line  is  of  the 
very  highest.  Official  positions  have  never  had  any  attractions  for  him  for  his  business  has 
occupied  all  his  attention,  but  he  is  none  the  less  a stanch  Democrat.  He  was  married  in 
July,  1862,  to  Miss  Lorinda  Shirley,  of  Hendricks  County,  Ind.,  by  whom  he  has  one  son, 
Albert,  who  is  a painter  of  Brownsburg,  this  State.  In  July,  1869,  he  married  Miss  Ella 
Shinners  of  this  city,  by  whom  he  became  the  father  of  eight  children,  one  of  whom  is 
deceased.  Mr.  Webb  is  a member  of  Raper  Commaudery,  Knight  Templar  Mason,  the 
I.  O.  R.  M.,  K.  of  P.,  and  the  Uniformed  Rank  of  Druids. 

William  R.  Tall.  One  of  the  most  important  branches  of  house  building  is  the 
plastering,  and  it  recpiires  both  skill  and  experience  to  become  proficient  in  this  art.  He 
was  born  in  Dorchester  County,  Md.,  March  14,  1836,  the  fifth  son  of  William  R.  and 
Margaret  (Phillips)  Tall,  also  natives  of  that  State.  The  Tall  family  first  became  known 
in  this  country  in  1620,  and  the  land  on  which  the  founder  settled,  in  Maryland,  remained 
in  possession  of  the  Tall  family  until  the  death  of  William  R.  Tall,  the  father  of  the  subject 
of  this  sketch.  Several  members  of  the  family  participated  in  the  early  wars  in  which 
this  country  was  involved  at  different  times.  They  were  also  prominent  in  the  political 
affairs  of  their  day,  especially  the  grandfather  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  Young  Littleton 
Tall,  who  was  also  very  extensively  engaged  in  merchandising,  and  was  quite  an  extensive 
builder  of  ocean  ves.sels  for  the  carriage  of  grain.  He  died  at  the  age  of  twenty-six  years, 
leaving  two  children,  the  father  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch  being  one  and  his  sister  the 
other.  The  father  died  in  October,  1870,  at  the  age  of  sixty-four  years,  having  been  a 
farmer  throughout  life.  Politically  he  was  a Whig,  and  for  a period  of  thirty-five  years 
held  some  office  or  other.  The  mother  died  when  the  sulqect  of  this  sketch  was  a small 
child,  from  exposure  caused  by  rescuing  him  from  a well  into  which  he  had  fallen.  He  was 
the  youngest  of  nine  children,  and  received  his  education  in  the  schools  in  the  neighbor 
hood  of  his  home.  At  the  age  of  seventeen  years  he  commenced  to  learn  the  trade  of  a 
plasterer  in  the  city  of  Baltimore,  Md.,  and  served  an  apprenticeship  of  four  years,  working 
the  entire  time  for  §3  per  week  and  boarding  himself.  At  the  age  of  twenty-one  years  he 
went  to  Dorchester  County,  where  he  remained  one  year,  then  went  to  Doniphan,  eastern 
Kansas,  and  very  shortly  afterward  to  St.  Joseph,  Mo.,  where  he  worked  as  a contractor 
for  three  years.  In  1859  he  left  that  city  and  went  to  New  Orleans,  where  he  remained 
during  the  winter  of  1859-60,  then  returned  to  his  native  county  in  Maryland,  and  was  (here 
at  the  opening  of  the  Civil  War.  In  the  month  of  July,  1861,  he  assisted  in  raising  Com])any 
C,  of  the  First  Regiment  of  Maryland  Volunteers,  and  was  in  the  service  throe  years  with  the 
rank  of  first  lieutenant.  The  company  was  made  up  in  one  neighl)orhood  and  all  its  mem- 
bers were  acquaintances.  It  was  in  the  battle  of  Oettysburg  during  the  third  day’s  fight, 
and  guarded  the  river  on  the  peninsula  in  lower  Maryland.  Mr.  Tidl  was  neither  wounded 
nor  taken  prisoner  during  the  war,  anrl  after  the  termination  of  hostilities  he  went  to  Rich- 
mond, Va. , where  he  conducted  a mercantile  establishment.  At  the  end  of  five  years  lie 
moved  back  to  Baltimore,  Md.,  where  he  remained  one  winter,  engaged  in  mercanfile 
ojierations.  He  then  turned  his  face  westward,  and  although  he  had  no  particular  objective 
point,  he  liked  the  appearance  of  Indiana|)olis  and  accordingly  located  here,  and  followed 
Ids  traile  as  a contractor  of  jilastering.  In  1876  Mr.  Tall  cast  his  vote  for  Samuel  J.  Tihh'ii, 
for  the  Presidency,  and  has  ever  since  been  a member  of  the  Democrat  party.  November 
13,  1862,  he  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Emma  Vaughn  Smith,  of  Maryland,  liy 
whom  he  became  the  father  of  nine  children,  four  of  whom,  three  sons  and  one  daughter, 
are  living. 

Stiii'iikn  a.  Shillino.  This  well- known  plastering  contractor  was  born  in  Ashford, 
England,  forty-eight  years  ago,  his  father  being  Abraham  Shilling,  who  was  also  a native  of 
Ashford,  and  who  was  a highly  educated  E[)iscopaliaii  minister.  Soon  after  his  arrival  in  the 


418 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


United  States  he  died  at  Uottsville,  Peiai.,  having  followed  the  calling  of  a minister  all 
his  life.  His  wife  came  to  this  country  with  him  and  survived  him  until  1891,  at  which 
time  she  was  called  from  life  in  Kansas  at  the  age  of  eighty-four  years.  After  the  death 
of  her  husband  she  removed  with  her  family  to  Pomeroy,  Meigs  County,  Ohio,  and  there  the 
the  subject  of  this  sketch  received  his  education.  On  April  17,  1861,  he  left  home  and  en- 
listed in  the  Eighteenth  Ohio  Infantry  in  the  three  months’  service  at  President  Lincoln’sfirst 
call  for  troo])s,  and  after  his  term  of  enlistment  had  expired  he  joined  the  Second  West  Vir- 
ginia Cavalry  for  three  years,  under  Gen.  G.  A.  Custer.  He  was  in  the  engagements  in  the 
valley  of  the  Shenandoah,  was  at  Bull  Hun,  Gettysburg,  Lynchburg,  Five  Forks,  Peters- 
burg, and  was  on  the  charge  when  Gen.  Lee  surrendered.  He  was  never  wounded  but 
slightly,  and  the  two  times  that  he  was  captured  he  both  times  managed  to  make  his  escape, 
and  finally  received  his  dischaige  at  Wheeling,  WestVa.,  July  4,  1865.  He  then  became 
steward  on  boats  plying  between  Pittsburg  and  New  Orleans,  having  been  on  the  river  from 
the  time  he  was  eleven  year's  of  age,  as  cook.  He  later  became  a plasterer  of  Pomeroy, 
where  he  remained  until  1871,  at  which  time  he  went  to  Ellsworth,  Kan.,  and  located  on  a 
soldier’s  claim  near  Ellenwood.  Three  years  later  he  removed  to  Great  Bend,  Kan.,  but 
after  the  loss  of  his  wife  by  death  he  returned  to  his  old  home  in  the  East.  At  the  end  of 
one  year  he  returned  to  Kansas  and  upon  marrying  a second  time  in  Indianapolis  decided 
to  locate  in  this  city  and  was  engaged  in  the  grocery  Imsiness  for  one  year.  He  once  more 
went  back  to  the  Sunflower  State  at  the  end  of  that  time,  and  during  the  one  year  that  he 
was  in  that  State  was  engaged  in  farming  and  plastering,  and  followed  this  occupation  for 
twelve  years  thereafter  in  Sidney,  Shelby,  County,  Ohio,  whither  he  had  moved.  Since 
that  time  he  has  resided  in  Indianapolis  wliere  he  has  built  up  an  extensive  and  highly  satis- 
factory business  financially.  He  is  painstaking,  industrious  and  strictly  honorable,  and  as  a 
natural  consequence  his  services  are  in  demand.  His  first  wife  was  Miss  Prusia  Smith,  who 
left  him  with  a son  and  daughter,  and  his  present  wife  was  Elizabeth  Leonard,  by  whom  he 
has  two  sons  and  two  daughters.  He  is  a Royal  Arch  Mason,  a member  of  the  G.  A.  R., 
Neill  Post,  at  Sidney,  Ohio,  and  the  Builders  and  Traders  Exchange.  Politically  he  is  a 
Republican. 

Joseph  A.  Dune.vp.  This  gentleman  is  a contractor  of  twenty-five  years’  experience  in 
Indianapolis,  and  as  a plasterer  has  not  his  superior  in  the  city.  He  was  born  in  Johnson 
County,  Ind. , September  3,  1847,  a son  of  Joseph  A.  Dunlap,  who  was  a native  of  Knox- 
ville, Tenn.,  where  he  made  his  home  until  1831,  at  which  time  he  came  to  Indiana  and 
located  in  Johnson  County,  where  he  made  his  home  up  to  the  day  of  his  death,  which 
occurred  in  1890  at  about  the  age  of  eighty-one  years.  He  was  successfully  engaged  in  till- 
ing the  soil  throughout  life  and  found  an  able  helpmate  in  his  wife,  whose  maiden  name  was 
Mary  Jones,  and  who  was  born  in  the  State  of  Virginia.  When  a child  she  was  brought  by 
her  parents  to  Indiana  and  was  a resident  of  Johnson  County  until  her  demise,  which 
occurred  in  1880.  They  were  earnest  and  faithful  members  of  the  Baptist  Church,  in  which 
the  father  was  for  many  years  a deacon.  In  the  Dunlaps  flow  Scotch  and  Irish  blood  and 
in  all  the  members  of  the  family  the  best  traits  of  these  people  are  to  be  found.  Joseph  A. 
Dunlap  was  one  of  twelve  children  born  to  the  marriage  of  his  parents,  being  the  seventh  in 
order  of  birth,  the  family  consisting  of  seven  daughters  and  five  sons.  At  the  age  of  sixteen, 
being  ambitious  and  adventurous,  he  left  home  and  friends  to  join  the  One  Hundred  and 
Thirty-second  Regiment,  Indiana  Volunteers,  Company  A,  and  was  in  the  service  until  Sep- 
tember, 1864,  at  which  time  he  returned  to  Franklin,  Ind.,  and  began  learning  the  plasterer’s 
trade.  After  becoming  thoroughly  familiar  with  every  detail  of  this  line  of  work  he  com- 
menced contracting  and  soon  after  came  to  Indianapolis,  but  upon  his  arrival  here  turned 
his  attention  to  the  poultry  business,  an  occupation  which  completely  occupied  his  time  and 
attention  for  several  years.  He  then  once  more  became  a contractor  and  has  followed  this 
occupation  with  marked  success  up  to  the  present  time.  He  has  all  the  work  that  he  can 
properly  look  after  and  has  filled  some  very  important  and  extensive  contracts  in  a manner 
that  has  won  him  the  universal  approval  of  contractors  and  builders,  and  from  those  who  have 
any  knowledge  of  his  business.  He  is  vice-president  of  the  Builders  Exchange  and  has  been  a 
director  of  that  institution  ever  since  its  organization.  Socially  he  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F., 
the  K.  of  H. , and  in  the  last  mentioned  order  he  is  past  dictator  of  Victoria  Lodge,  No.  22. 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

UNIVERSITY  OF  ILLIMOV 


419 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

He  also  belongs  to  tlie  G.  A.  R.  In  the  year  1872  he  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Ella 
Sloan,  of  Johnson  County,  Ind. , and  to  their  happy  nhion  one  son  has  been  given,  Charles 
H.,  who  is  a credit  to  his  parents  and  gives  every  promise  of  becoming  a useful  and  intelli- 
gent citizen. 

Lonis  E.  Hoeegee.  It  is  an  indisputable  fact  that  the  United  States  stands  alone  in 
the  pre-eminence  of  having  an  array  of  citizens,  who,  without  adventitious  aid  or  accident  of 
birth,  have  attained  to  wealth  and  distinction  in  public  affairs.  This  is  the  glory  of  the 
country^,  and  every'  man  who  has  it  in  him  can  prove  himself  a man.  This  suggestion  natu- 
rally suggests  itself  in  looking  over  the  career  of  Louis  E,  Hoerger,  for  only'  a few  years 
ago  he  was  an  employ'e  of  others,  but  is  now  established  in  business  for  himself  with  every' 
prospect  of  acquiring  a goodly  amount  of  property.  He  was  born  in  Louisville,  Ky.,  in  1897, 
a son  of  Christopher  Hoerger,  who  was  born  in  Germany  about  sixty-one  years  ago,  and 
came  to  the  United  States  when  a young  man  some  forty  three  or  four  years  ago,  and  settled 
in  Louisville,  Ky.  After  locating  in  that  city  Christopher  Hoerger  turned  his  attention  to 
gardening,  and  followed  that  calling  successfully  until  coming  to  Indianapolis  in  1875.  He 
located  in  the  north  part  of  the  city  for  a number  of  years,  but  in  the  meantime  had  pur- 
chased laud  at  Brightwood,  although  he  never  lived  on  it.  At  a later  period  he  purchased 
live  acres  of  land  in  Haughville,  and  is  now  giving  his  time  and  attention  to  gardening,  in  which 
calling  he  may  with  truth  said  to  be  an  expert.  The  most  of  the  property  of  which  he  is  now 
the  possessor  has  been  ac<[uired  by  his  own  hard  work  and  by  the  shrewd  management  of 
his  affairs.  He  was  married  to  Miss  C.  Eckart,  who  was  born  in  the  old  country,  and 
is  still  living  in  the  enjoyment  of  good  health,  having  borne  her  husband  six  children,  of 
whom  the  immediate  subject  of  this  sketch  is  the  fifth.  His  education  was  obtained  in  the 
public  schools  of  Indianapolis,  and  when  not  pursuing  the  paths  of  learning  he  was  assisting 
his  father  to  cultivate  his  garden.  He  always  had  a natural  liking  for  this  business,  and  in 
time  knew  all  that  his  father  could  teach  him  about  the  cultivation  of  vegetables,  but  he  was 
also  very  fond  of  flowers  and  plants,  and  after  quitting  his  father’s  services  he  entered  the 
employ  of  the  Ewart  Manufacturing  Company,  with  which  he  remained  three  years.  At  the 
end  of  that  time  he  had  saved  sufficient  means  to  enable  him  to  purchase  the  land  on  which 
he  is  now  living,  and  he  immediately  thereafter  built  his  green  house  and  commenced  to  raise 
all  kinds  of  flowers,  the  majority  of  which  he  disposes  of  at  the  market-house.  He  is  doing 
well,  with  every  promise  of  a rapid  increase  in  patronage,  and  his  future  prospects  are  bright. 
Mr.  Hoerger  was  married  in  1899,  to  Miss  Mary  Grande,  a daughter  of  August  Grande,  who 
is  a prominent  gardener  near  Haughville,  and  their  union  has  resulted  in  the  birth  of  one 
son.  Mr.  Hoerger  and  his  wife,  as  are  also  his  parents,  are  members  of  the  Catholic  Church, 
and  are  law-abiding  and  public-spirited  citizens.  The  senior  Hoerger  is  secretary  of  the 
Gardeners’  Association  of  Indianapolis,  and  also  of  the  Benevolent  Association. 

Joseph  H.  Alexanuee.  A biographical  compendium  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  would  lx; 
incomplete  were  not  mention  made  of  the  gentleman  whose  name  introduces  this  sketch,  for 
he  is  a man  of  much  public  spirit;  is  interested  in  worthy  public  measures  and  in  every 
enterprise  for  the  common  good.  He  is  endowed  by  nature  with  such  gifts  as  charac- 
terize true  manhood,  in  all  that  the  word  implies,  and  seems  admirably  fitted  for  the  calling  in 
which  he  is  now  engaged — that  of  drugs — for  he  is  methodical,  careful  and  very  painstaking. 
He  was  born  in  Greensburg,  Ind.,  August  25,  18f5t),  a son  of  Ur.  John  H.  Alexander  who 
has  for  over  thirty  years  been  a leading  and  remarkably  successful  practitioner  of  the  “heal- 
ing art”  at  Greensburg.  His  knowledge  of  medical  lore  was  obtained  by  much  private  read- 
ing and  in  the  Ohio  i\Iedical  College,  from  which  admirably  conducted  institution  he  was 
graduated.  During  the  early  portion  of  the  great  Civil  War,  he  offered  his  professional  serv- 
ices to  his  country  and  became  surgeon  of  the  'I'wenty-seventh  Indiana  Infantry,  and  while 
in  the  discharge  of  his  duties  was  on  many  a hard  fought  and  bloody  battle-field.  He  is  now 
a member  of  the  piuision  board,  to  which  position  he  was  appointed  by  President  Cleveland 
during  his  first  administration.  He  still  makes  his  home  at  Greensburg  where  he  is  highiv 
honored  by  his  extended  circle  of  accpiaintances.  Josej)h  H.  Alexander,  his  son,  received 
his  first  instruction  in  the  j)atha  of  learning  in  th(<  jmblic  schools  of  Greensburg,  but 
afterward  finished  his  education  in  college,  which  he  attended  until  1885.  He  then  enlcucsl 
the  employ  of  Daniel  Stewart,  the  wholesale  druggist  of  Haughville,  as  city  salesman  and 


420 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


remained  with  the  honse  hve  years,  during  which  time  he  made  a name  and  reputation 
for  himself  of  which  he  has  every  reason  to  be  proud.  His  services  were  considered  invalu- 
able by  hi,5  employer  and  his  honesty  and  fidelity  to  his  interests  were  recognized  and  thor- 
oughly appreciated.  Upon  leaving  the  service  of  this  house  he  established  himself  in  his 
present  business  in  Haughville  where  he  has  a neat  and  attractive  store,  fitted  up  with  an 
excellent  and  complete  line  of  first  class  goods,  including  all  kinds  of  drugs,  patent  medi- 
cines, and  various  articles  for  the  toilet.  He  is  always  to  be  found  at  his  place  of  business, 
and  his  patrons  have  the  full  assurance  that  their  interests  as  well  as  his  own  will  be  looked 
after.  His  trade  is  among  the  elite  of  the  city,  but  he  attends  to  the  wants  of  the  poor  as 
courteously  as  though  they  were  possessed  of  unlimited  wealth.  He  is  a model  business 
man  and  citizen  and  is  popular  and  well  liked  in  social  circles.  He  is  a member  of  the 
I.  O.  O.  F.  and  the  K.  of  P.,  and  in  his  political  views  is  a Republican. 

Conrad  C.  Wulff.  The  practical  value  of  shrewdness  and  discrimination,  combined 
with  strict  probity  is  exemplified  in  the  prosperous  condition  of  those  who  transact  business 
on  these  principles,  and  am  )ng  tliis  class  of  business  men  may  be  mentioned  Conrad  C. 
Wullf,  who  has  a reputation  for  honorable  dealing,  built  up  out  of  the  practice  of  these  in- 
valuable business  qualities.  He  was  born  in  Hamburg,  Germany,  in  1841,  and  came  to  the 
United  States  in  May,  1870,  but  prior  to  that  time  had  obtained  a good  education  in  the  schools 
of  his  native  city,  from  which  he  graduated  in  1856.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  turned  his 
attention  to  the  wine  business  in  a wholesale  house  in  Hamburg  and  continued  to  follow  this 
occupation  with  success  until  about  1870,  when  he  determined  to  seek  his  fortune  in  the 
United  States,  and  upon  reaching  this  country  he  at  once  went  to  St.  Louis,  Mo.,  then  to 
Cincinnati,  Ohio,  but  in  the  latter  part  of  the  same  year  took  up  his  residence  in  Indian- 
apolis. In  1874  he  came  to  West  Indianapolis  and  for  some  time  acted  in  the  capacity  of  a 
salesman  where  the  old  stock  yards  used  to  stand,  but  in  1877  engaged  in  business  for  him- 
self at  the  corner  of  Missouri  and  Kentucky  Avenues,  where  he  successfully  conducted  a pros- 
perous l)usiness  for  about  one  year.  Hethenopened  another  establishment  at  East  Washington 
Street,  but  at  the  end  of  two  years  decided  that  a more  desirable  location  could  be  had  on 
West  Washington  Street  and  remained  there  about  two  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he 
located  on  Hadley  Avenue  and  Morris  Street  where  he  has  since  been  located.  Having  an 
astute  vision,  a clear  head  and  good  health  he  began  his  business  life  with  energetic  appli- 
cation and  determined  purpose.  He  has  given  close  attention  to  details,  has  neglected  noth- 
ing, in  which  he  has  shown  good  judgment  and  proved  himself  a capable  manager.  In  1887 
he  erected  his  present  magnificent  business  block,  and  is  doing  a business  with  which  he  has 
every  reason  to  be  satisfied,  for  it  is  extensive  and  paying.  Mr.  Wulff  is  well  and  favorably 
known  to  the  public  and  since  locating  in  Indianapolis  has  identified  himself  with  her  inter- 
ests and  growth.  He  is  a law-abiding,  public-spirited  citizen,  and  the  property  of  which  he 
is  now  the  owner  has  been  acquired  since  his  arrival  in  this  country.  Mr.  Wulff  was  mar- 
ried in  1879  to  Miss  Louisa  Schleger,  daughter  of  Christian  Schleger,  her  natal  State  being 
Ohio,  and  in  due  course  of  time  a family  of  five  chddren  gathered  about  their  hearthstone. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Wulff  are  members  of  the  Lutheran  Church  and  socially  he  belongs  to  the 
I.  O.  O.  F.,  the  I.  O.  R.  M.  and  the  K.  of  P. , in  which  latter  organization  he  has  attained 
to  the  position  of  treasurer  of  his  lodge,  No.  244. 

John  H.  Herig.  The  gentleman  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  has  been  connected 
with  the  Standard  Oil  Company  for  the  past  twenty  five  years,  and  for  the  past  four- 
teen years  has  been  earne.stly  looking  after  their  interests  in  West  Indianapolis.  He  owes 
his  nativity  to  that  beautiful  city,  Detroit,  Mich.,  where  he  first  saw  the  light  of  day  in  1852, 
his  father  being  John  L.  Herig,  who  was  born  in  Baden,  Germany.  He  was  a child  of  three 
years  when  brought  to  this  country,  and,  as  he  has  lived  here  up  to  the  present  time,  he  is 
in  every  e.ssential  a loyal  American  citizen,  true  to  her  interests.  Until  he  was  a young  man 
he  was  a resident  of  Zanesville,  Ohio,  but  he  then  went  to  Cleveland  and  became  a sign 
painter,  in  which  he  attained  to  considerable  perfection.  From  Cleveland  he  went  to  Detroit, 
Mich.,  and  there  he  met  and  won  for  his  wife  Miss  Caroline  Eisnach,  a German  lady  by 
descent,  who  is  riow  deceased.  Mr.  Herig  still  follows  his  trade,  at  which  he  has  been 
reasonably  prosperous.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  the  eldest  of  eleven  children — seven 
sous  and  four  daughters — and  his  education  was  acquired  in  the  public  schools  of  Detroit, 


421 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

which  he  attended  nntil  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age,  at  the  end  of  which  time  he  began 
learning  tinsmithing.  After  completing  his  knowledge  of  this  trade  he  entered  the  employ 
of  the  Standard  Oil  Company  as  a laborer  in  the  tin  department,  but  taking  a great  dislike 
to  that  branch  of  the  business  he  left  it  to  enter  the  cooperage  department,  with  which  he 
has  been  connected  up  to  the  present  time,  now  occupying  the  responsible  position  of  fore- 
man. He  went  to  Cleveland  for  this  firm  as  assistant  foreman,  but  since  coming  to  Indian- 
apolis he  has  held  his  present  position.  He  is  one  of  the  company’s  most  thoroughly 
trusted  employes,  can  be  relied  upon  at  all  times,  and  is  energetic  and  industrious.  He  has 
always  been  deeply  interested  in  the  political  affairs  of  the  day  and  in  the  success  of  the 
Republican  party,  of  which  he  is  a member  and  a stanch  supporter.  From  1885  to  1887  he 
was  a councilman  from  the  twenty-fifth  ward,  and  is  the  only  Republican  representing  the 
same.  He  was  a member  of  the  board  on  the  im2')rovement  of  streets  and  alleys  and  public 
improvement,  was  on  the  committee  on  contracts  and  on  the  fire  department  committee.  In 
181)2  he  was  elected  a trustee  of  the  fir.st  district  of  West  Indianapolis,  and  in  various  other 
capacities  has  manifested  his  interest  in  public  affairs.  He  is  a man  of  strict  probity  of 
character,  and  is  honored  alike  by  the  citizens  of  Indianapolis  and  by  the  members  of  the 
firm  with  which  he  has  so  long  been  prominently  connected.  He  has  always  shov/n  consider- 
able interest  in  the  workings  of  secret  societies,  and  is  a member  of  the  A.  F.  A A.  M.,  the 
I.  O.  O.  F.,  the  K.  of  P.,  the  R.  M.,  and  the  P.  S.,  D.  of  R.,  and  is  captain  of  Pettibone 
Division  No.  72  in  the  Uniformed  Rank.  In  1873  he  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Dora 
Winters,  of  Cleveland,  Ohio,  and  to  their  union  three  sons  have  been  given:  Albert  Louis, 
John  Henry  and  Edward  George.  John  Henry  died  when  quite  young,  and  the  other  sons 
are  still  at  home  with  their  parents. 

Lawrence  Swartting.  Nothing  is  more  true  than  that  good  management,  fair  dealing 
and  application  to  business  will  result  in  profit  to  the  parties  at  interest.  Failure  rarely 
if  ever  comes  to  him  who  devotes  himself  conscientiously  to  his  work,  and  to  him  who  would 
succeed  energy  and  perseverance  are  leading  essentials.  Lawrence  Swartting  has  these 
attributes  in  good  measure  and  as  a florist  is  meeting  with  justly  merited  success.  He 
owes  his  nativity  to  Austria,  where  he  first  saw  the  light  in  1852.  The  land  that  gave 
him  birth  also  afforded  him  his  education,  and  although  it  was  not  of  the  higher  class  it 
was  thoroughly  practical  and  has  proven  amply  sufficient  to  meet  all  the  requirements  of 
his  business.  At  an  early  age  he  began  working  for  a florist,  but  in  him  the  spirit  of  enter- 
prise was  strong  and  when  only  fourteen  years  of  age,  or  in  186(5,  he  came  by  himself  to 
the  United  States  to  seek  his  fortune.  He  first  made  his  way  to  Terre  Haute  and  until 
1871  was  in  the  employ  of  a florist  at  that  jfiace,  who  was  a relative.  From  that  time 
until  1874  he  was  at  Jacksonville,  111.,  then  went  to  the  city  of  New  York,  where  he 
remained  two  3’ears.  We  next  find  him  in  the  city  of  St.  Louis,  but  the  same  year  he 
went  to  Terre  Haute  and  in  1881  came  to  Indianapolis,  having  up  to  that  time  been  con- 
nected with  some  of  the  largest  floral  establishments  of  the  United  States.  He  labored 
in  every  capacity  and  in  this  manner  succeeded  in  obtaining  a thorough  and  practical 
knowledge  of  the  business  in  all  its  details.  After  his  arrival  in  Indianapolis  he  was  in  the 
employ  of  A.  Wiegand  for  about  fifteen  months,  at  the  end  of  which  time  he  was  placed 
in  charge  of  the  green  houses  and  grounds  of  the  insane  hospital,  in  which  capacity  he 
served  for  eleven  years.  The  grounds  of  that  establishment  were  beautifully  ke{)t  under 
his  management,  were  tasteful!}’  laid  out  and  IMr.  Swartting  showed  himself  to  be  a skillful 
and  remarkably  tasteful  landscape  gardener  and  the  lawn  .surrounding  the  asylum  was  said 
to  l)e  the  handsomest  in  the  State.  I’^pon  giving  up  this  |>08ition  he  purchased  his  pres- 
ent property  at  120  Lexington  Avenue,  where  he  has  five  commodious  green  houses.  He  is 
an  artistic  decorator,  in  which  capacity  his  services  are  almost  constantly  in  demand  and  he 
makes  a specialty  of  cut  flowei’s,  constantly  keeping  a large  supply  on  hand.  Since  com- 
mencing in  business  for  himself  ho  has  built  up  an  extensive  and  most  profital)le  practice, 
the  result  of  intelligent  grasp  of  the  enterf)rise  and  of  faithful,  honest,  persistent  work, 
fn  1887  he  wedded  Miss  Sadie  Herron,  at.  that  tinn^  a resident  of  Indiana])()lis  but  a native 
of  Ohio,  and  to  them  one  son  has  been  given.  Kearney.  Mr.  and  ^^rs.  Swaitting  are  niem- 
l)ers  of  the  Christian  Church  and  socially  In*  is  a member  of  the  I.  ().  ().  F.  and  tlie  K.  of  R. 


422 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


().  K.  Weaver.  The  right  liand  of  the  loyal  American  will  forget  its  cunning  and  his 
tongue  cleave  to  the  roof  of  his  mouth  ere  he  forget  the  services  of  those  heroic  men,  who, 
in  res])onse  to  the  call  of  the  great  Lincoln,  left  their  homes  and  those  they  loved,  bearing 
as  offerings  upon  the  altar  of  liberty  sacrifice  greater  than  ever  smoked  upon  the  stone  of 
offering  in  Hebrew  temple,  even  their  own  lives.  Some  were  accepted  and  they  went  down 
ill  carnage,  or  expired  in  disease-laden  hospitals;  others  in  part,  and  they  came  home  maimed, 
or  halt,  or  blind;  and  still  others  escaped  altogether.  But  the  offering  was  the  same  in 
every  event,  and  the  living  and  the  dead  are  equally  the  objects  of  the  gratitude  and  the 
love  of  those  who  love  freedom  and  their  country.  In  the  number  of  the  heroic  band  was 
the  subject  of  this  sketch,  now  the  assistant  quartermaster  general  of  the  Department  of 
Indiana,  (4.  A.  B. , who  was  but  a lad  when  he  heard  the  call  and  heeded  it  with  all  the. 
zeal  and  patriotic  tire  that  w’armed  the  heroes  of  Lexington  and  Bunker  Hill.  O.  R.  Weaver 
was  born  in  Knightstown,  Henry  County,  Ind.,  April  22,  1845,  being  the  son  of  John 
Weaver,  the  oldest  druggist  of  this  State,  now  of  Knightstown.  This  worthy  man  gradu- 
ated in  medicine  in  Ohio  and  practiced  for  a number  of  years,  and  is  yet  in  the  active  busi- 
ness of  a druggist.  He  married  a Miss  Elizabeth  Huttle,  of  Bathmor,  Ohio.  The  grand- 
jiarents  of  our  subject  on  both  sides  were  pioneers  of  Imliana,  the  Weavers  being  descended 
from  old  Col.  Jacob  Guncle,  of  war  fame,  and  are  of  a most  patriotic  line,  members  of  the 
family  participating  in  every  war  from  that  of  the  Revolution  down  to  and  including  the 
last  war,  and  taking  in  all  the  Indian  wars.  The  paternal  grandfather,  Peter  Weaver,  came 
from  Pennsylvania  and  settled  in  Ohio.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  reared  in  Knights- 
town and  was  educated  in  the  public  schools.  He  was  attending  one  of  these  and  at  the 
same  time  studying  medicine  when  the  war  broke  out,  and  at  the  age  of  sixteen  he  enlisted  in 
Company  A,  Fifty-seventh  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry,  but  was  rejected  on  account  of  his 
age  at  the  final  muster  of  his  regiment,  to  his  keen  and  poignant  disappointment.  He 
fretted  to  think  that  his  comrades  and  friends  were  fighting  for  the  liberties  of  the  country 
and  he  in  peace  at  home.  And  thus  it  was  all  through  the  winter,  but  in  the  spring  of  1862 
he  made  another  attempt,  enlisting  this  time  in  Capt.  M.  D.  Leeson’s  company,  of  the 
Fifth  Indiana  Cavalry,  but  was  again  rejected  for  the  same  reason  as  before.  He  would  not 
be  daunted,  however,  and  was  resolved  to  try  and  try  again  until  he  was  successfitl.  For 
the  third  time,  in  the  summer  of  1862  he  offered  himself,  in  Company  I,  Third  Indiana 
Cavalry,  as  a recruit,  and  this  time,  to  his  infinite  joy,  he  was  accepted.  At  this  trial  he 
adopted  an  ex])edient  that  was  afterward  quite  common,  of  placing  the  figures  “18”  in 
his  shoe,  and  declaring  that  he  “was  over  eighteen.”  He  was  in  all  of  the  engagements  of 
his  regiment  up  to  and  including  the  battle  of  Stone  River,  from  the  date  of  enlistment,  and 
here  he  was  disabled  in  the  summer  of  1868,  and  discharged,  he  weighing  but  eighty  pounds 
at  this  time.  After  partially  regaining  his  health  he  re-enlisted,  in  1864,  as  a hospital  stew- 
ard of  the  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-ninth  Regiment  Indiana  Volunteer  Infantry  and  served 
until  the  term  of  the  regiment  expired,  and  then  in  the  spring  of  1865  he  started  for  Indian- 
apolis, with  the  object  of  again  enlisting,  but  was  taken  sick  and  was  unable  to  join  the  regi- 
ment before  its  departure  from  the  city.  In  the  fall  of  1866  he  was  connected  with  a whole- 
sale drug  house  in  Cincinnati,  and  went  to  the  Northwest,  where  he  spent  the  fall  and  win- 
ter, returning  to  Indianapolis  in  the  spring  of  1867  with  the  object  of  joining  Gen.  Sol. 
Meredith’s  surveying  corps,  the  objective  j)6int  being  the  then  Territory  of  Montana,  but  a 
railroad  accident  delayed  him,  and  he  reached  here  too  late.  From  this  cause  grew  the  fact 
of  Col.  Weaver  being  a continuous  resident  of  Indianajtolis  since  that  time.  In  1868  he  was 
in  the  employ  of  the  patentee  of  a drive  well.  Col.  N.  W.  Greene,  and  was  connected  with  the 
company  in  this  city  for  several  years.  Then  for  a year  he  was  with  Nordyke  & Marmon 
Machine  Company,  after  which  he  was  with  the  Eagle  Machine  Company  for  two  years.  At 
this  time  he  was  taken  seriously  ill  and  was  confined  to  his  house  for  an  entire  year — from 
1886  to  1887.  Recovering  then,  he  went  into  the  office  of  Col.  Walker,  assistant  adjutant 
general  of  the  G.  A.  R.,  and  served  until  February,  1891,  when  he  was  appointed  assistant 
(piartermaster  general  G.  A.  R,  Department  of  Indiana,  and  has  served  under  this  adminis- 
tration ever  since.  Col.  Weaver  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.  and  is  past  chancellor  of  that 
order,  and  also  past  grand  master  of  the  A.  O.  U.  W.  and  serving  a second  term  as  supreme 
re[)resentative  of  the  latter  order:  He  has  served  as  recorder  of  the  subordinate  lodge  A. 


423 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

O.  U.  W.  continuously  since  1874.  In  politics  .be  is  a Republican,  and  the  only  member  of 
his  family  who  votes  that  way,  but  he  is  none  the  less  strong  in  his  political  views  for  that 
reason.  He  was  married  in  1870  to  Miss  Nannie  Ogle,  of  Tipton,  Ind. , and  one  child,  John 
R.,  has  blessed  this  happy  union. 

R.  M.  Smock.  Among  the  reputable  men  of  Indianapolis,  who  in  their  conduct  of 
business  matters  and  the  duties  belonging  to  the  various  relations  of  life  have  acquired  a 
worthy  name,  we  may  well  mention  R.  M.  Smock,  who  in  every  walk  in  life  has 
carried  with  him  the  esteem  of  all.  This  gentleman  was  born  in  Marion  County,  Perry 
Township,  Ind.,  April  2,  1841,  and  his  parents,  Isaac  and  Ann  T.  (Smock)  Smock,  were 
natives  of  Kentucky.  Isaac  Smock  left  his  native  State  with  his  mother  in  1827,  and  in 
a wagon  made  the  trip  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  where  he  located  on  a farm.  He  was  mar- 
ried in  this  county  in  1889.  and  he  and  wife  started  out  to  fight  life’s  battles  for  themselves 
as  pioneers,  for  the  country  was  very  thinly  settled  at  that  tlate.  Mr.  Smock  was  engaged 
as  an  agriculturist,  and  this  has  continued  to  be  his  occupation  up  to  the  present  time. 
Assisted  by  his  most  worthy  wife  he  has  amassed  a comfortable  competency,  and  the  con- 
veniences aud  comforts  of  life  are  now  to  be  found  in  the  pleasant  home  of  this  most  esti- 
mable couple.  Mr.  Smock  is  now  in  his  seventy-sixth  year,  but  the  frosts  of  time  have 
touched  him  lightly.  Of  the  eleven  children  born  to  this  union,  seven  are  now  living,  and 
our  subject  is  second  in  order  of  birth.  The  latter  became  familiar  with  the  duties  of  farm 
life  at  an  early  age,  and  received  his  education  in  the  common  country  school.  In  the  year 
1862,  in  the  month  of  July,  he  enlisted  in  Company  G,  Seventieth  Indiana  Infantry,  and 
served  as  a private  soldier  for  three  years.  He  was  wounded  in  front  of  Lost  Mountain 
January  16,  1864,  by  a gunshot  in  the  left  chest,  and  was  sent  to  the  Nashville  hospital, 
where  he  remained  two  weeks.  He  was  then  furloughed  home,  but  after  arriving  under  the 
parental  roof  he  was  taken  with  typhoid  fever,  and  it  is  only  a wonder  that  he  is  alive  to 
tell  of  it.  It  was  a long  time  before  he  recovered.  He  participated  in  a number  of  battles, 
prominent  among  them  are  the  following:  Russellville,  Ky. ; Resaca,  Cassville,  Burnt 
Hickory,  New  Hope  Church  aud  Golgotha  Church.  After  recovering  from  his  illness  he 
was  transferred  to  post  duty  under  Col.  A.  O.  Warner,  and  was  stationed  in  Indianapolis. 
The  Seventieth  Regiment  was  commanded  l)y  Gen.  Benjamin  Harrison.  In  November,  1865, 
Mr.  Smock  entered  the  county  cleik’s  office  as  deputy,  aud  served  in  that  capacity  continu- 
ously until  July.  1884.  This  record  is  ahead  of  any  other  citizen’s  in  Indianapolis,  and 
abundantly  testifies  as  to  his  ability  in  that  position.  In  1884  he  was  elected  justice  of  the 
peace,  held  that  position  until  1892,  and  since  that  time  has  been  engaged  in  settling  up  old 
accounts  that  accrued  in  his  office.  On  April  18,  1898,  he  was  appointed  assistant  adjutant- 
general,  Department  of  Indiana,  G.  A.  R.  He  is  a member  of  George  H.  Thomas  Post,  G. 
A.  R. , Avas  adjutant  one  year;  also  commander  one  year.  For  two  years  he  served  as  deputy 
of  the  board  of  visitors  of  the  G.  A.  R.  to  the  Indiana  Soldiers  aud  Sailors’  Orphans’  Home 
at  Knightstown,  and  is  secretaiy  of  the  same.  Mr.  Smock  has  shown  his  appreciation  of 
secret  organizations  by  becoming  a member  of  the  Masonic  Fraternity,  and  the  U.  V.  L.  In 
the  year  1865  he  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Jane  E.  Johnson,  their  nuptials  being  cele- 
brated at  Battle  Ground.  Tippecanoe  County,  Ind.,  and  two  sonsare  the  fruits  of  this  union; 
F.  C.  & H.  E.  The  eldest  son  is  married,  and  has  one  child,  Arthur  A.  Mr.  Smock’s  sec- 
ond marriage  occurred  in  1874  to  Mrs.  F.  E.  Fisher,  who  l)ore  him  one  child,  Helen.  Our 
sidqect’s  maternal  grandfather,  John  Smock,  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  in  1821,  and 
entered  160  acres  of  land  just  south  of  the  city.  He  and  his  eldest  son  came  to  make  the 
purchase,  and  brought  the  money  in  their  saddle  bags.  Isaac  Smock  was  the  youngest  of 
his  father’s  family,  and  the  only  one  now  living.  Mr.  Smock  and  family  are  members  of  the 
Second  Presbyterian  Church,  and  he  has  served  as  deacon  in  the  same  for  ten  years. 

9rok.  Alexander  Ernestinoff.  The  man  who  wrote  that  “Music  hath  charms  to  soothe 
the  savage  breast”  had  indeed  a true  conception  of  the  human  organism.  'Phere  are  few  peo- 
ple in  the  world  who  are  not  susceptible  to  music,  and  it  certainly  jdays  an  important  part  in 
almost  every  walk  of  life.  Wherever  it  is  necessary  or  expedient  to  incite  a concourse  of 
I)eo|)le  in  a certain  direction  or  to  arouse  a degree  of  enthusiasm,  music  will  always  ju'ove  a 
j)Owerful  agent.  Soldiers  at  the  sound  of  stirring  melodj'  will  rush  into  the  heat  of  battle 
utterly  oblivious  of  danger.  In  the  softer  and  more  gentle  paths  of  life,  music  also  plays  an 


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MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


important  part  but  nowhere,  perhaps,  has  its  influence  been  more  marked  than  as  an  adjunct 
toward  christenizin^  people.  Alexander  Ernestinoff,  professor  of  music  and  a vocal  special- 
ist with  office  at  530  North  Illinois  Street,  Indianapolis,  has  played  an  important  part  in 
molding  the  public  taste  toward  high  grade  music,  and  the  large  number  of  pupils  which 
he  at  all  times  has  is  a sufficient  guaranty  of  his  success  and  popularity.  He  was  born  in  St. 
Petersburg,  Russia,  January  14,  1853,  his  parents  being  Alexander  and  Clementina  (Janonsh- 
kooska)  Ernestinoff,  natives  of  Russia,  in  which  country  they  are  still  residing.  Professor 
Alexander  Ernestinoff  was  the  only  son  of  their  three  children  and  in  the  city  of  St.  Peters- 
burg he  was  reared  and  educated,  graduating  from  the  Imperial  Gymnasium  and  later  from 
the  Conservatoire.  Immediately  thereafter  he  went  to  Berlin,  Germany,  in  which  city  he 
spent  some  time  and  while  there  made  a contract  with  some  New  York  parties  to  come  to 
New  York  and  take  charge  of  the  German  Opera,  and  for  this  purpose,  in  1872,  he  crossed  the 
Atlantic  and  for  three  years  thereafter  traveled  throughout  the  United  States  with  this  com- 
pany, making  his  home  in  New  Y’^ork  City.  He  located  in  St.  Louis  in  1876  and  took  charge 
c)f  the  St.  Louis  Orchestra  and  was  the  leader  of  two  musical  societies,  the  Germania  and  the 
Arion.  He  remained  in  St.  Louis  until  1881  when  he  was  engaged  by  the  Indianapolis 
Maennerchor  to  come  to  this  city,  and  for  two  years  thereafter  was  connected  with  this  society. 
He  then  took  charge  of  the  Lyra  Society,  but  later  the  Meridian  Street  Church  Quartette  was 
placed  under  his  management,  and  he  conducted  it  successfully  for  three  years.  At  the  end 
of  this  time  he  gave  up  all  positions  and  has  since  devoted  the  most  of  his  attention  to  teach- 
ing, and  has  one  of  the  tinest  orchestras  in  the  city.  His  (juartette  is  also  well  known  for  the 
tine  music  which  it  renders,  and  the  entertainments  which  it  has  given  frequently  in  the  opera 
houses  of  the  city  are  always  largely  attended  by  lovers  of  good  music.  Professor  Ernestinoff 
is  exceptionally  gifted  with  musical  talent,  and  has  a fine  voice,  which  has  reached  much  per- 
fection by  careful  and  intelligent  training.  His  renown  in  his  line  of  work  is  wide  spread 
and  he  is  therefore  prosperous  financially.  He  was  married  in  1876  to  Miss  Amalia  Kinklin, 
a native  of  New  York,  by  whom  he  has  two  children,  Antoinette  and  Helen. 

William  A.  Readino.  One  of  the  lawyers  of  Indianapolis  of  whom  one  frequently 
hears  or  reads  in  connection  with  some  legal  matter  of  moment,  frequently  in  connection 
with  some  important  transaction  in  real  estate,  is  William  A.  Reading.  Indianapolis  has 
always  been  the  fortunate  possessor  of  lawyers  of  ability  and  success,  and  some  of  its  most 
lirilliant  legal  practitioners  have  been  natives  of  the  city.  Mr.  Reading  is  one  of  this 
class.  Indianapolis  was  his  birthplace  and  he  was  born  August  9,  1855,  a son  of  Alexander 
D.  and  Sarah  E.  J.  (Brown)  Reading,  His  father  was  born  in  Kentucky  and  came  to  Indian- 
apolis about  1838,  and  here  married,  in  time.  Miss  Sarah  E.  J.  Brown,  whose  father  located 
in  this  county  in  1824  or  1825,  and  was  one  of  the  pioneers  of  this  city.  Samuel  P.  Reading, 
his  grandfather,  was  a soldier  and  an  officer  not  alone  in  the  Revolutionary  War  but  in  the 
War  of  1812-14,  risking  his  life  in  a second  war  to  perpetuate  the  national  liberty  he  had 
risked  his  life  to  gain.  Alexander  D.  Reading  is  a resident  of  Irvington,  Ind.  William  A. 
Heading  received  his  primary  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Indianapolis  and  was  later 
graduated  from  the  Greenfield  Academy  and  from  Butler  University.  He  then  took  up  the 
study  of  law  under  the  direction  of  Judge  Ralph  Hill,  and  in  1881  was  graduated  from  the 
Law  School  of  Indianapolis  and  was  admitted  to  the  bar  of  Marion  County.  He  kept 
his  office  with  Judge  Hill  and  for  twelve  years  has  continued  it  there,  in  fact,  as  student  and 
lawyer,  he  has  never  occupied  another,  though  his  practice  is  entirely  independent  of  that  of 
every  other  lawyer.  He  is  regarded  as  shrewd  and  far-seeing,  careful  in  prejiaring  his  cases, 
skillful  in  presenting  them  and  ingenious  and  logical  in  arguing  them.  He  has  been  success- 
ful in  a purely  legitimate  way,  seeking  not  political  preferment  nor  aid  of  the  influential, 
de[)euding  upon  his  knowledge  of  his  profession  and  his  merit  as  a man.  In  business  and 
social  circles  he  is  no  less  popular  than  with  his  brother  members  of  the  bar.  He  is  a Knight  of 
Pythias,  and  has  from  time  to  time  been  identified  with  other  important  organizations  of  differ- 
ent kinds.  He  is  a Democrat  of  the  stanchest  kind,  but  while  wielding  a palpable  political 
influence,  is  not  really  active  as  a politician,  for  he  has  no  political  ambition  to  gratify  and 
is  too  intensely  devoted  to  his  profession  to  take  up  the  battle  for  others.  At  the  same  time 
he  is  a close  and  most  observant  student  of  public  affairs  and  holds  the  great  interests  of 
our  country  to  be  above  all  mere  partisanship. 


BYRON  K.  ELLIOTT 


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425 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Lewis  George.  The  progressive  farmer  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  was  born  in 
Highland  County,  Ohio,  on  the  farm  belonging  to  his  maternal  grandfather,  Richard  Bar- 
rett, December  19,  1820,  and  there  he  was  brought  up  and  received  his  education  in  thesnb- 
scription  schools  of  the  period,  one  of  his  instructors  being  John  W.  Block,  a noted  teacher 
of  that  time,  who  taught  the  young  idea  in  Union  Seminary,  an  institution  composed  of  three 
districts,  which  he  attended  from  ten  to  fourteen  years  of  age.  When  nineteen  he  left 
school  and  began  working  out  as  a farm  hand  at  $8  a month  and  board  for  John  W.  Block, 
with  whom  he  remained  two  summers,  but  in  the  winter  of  1842  came  to  Marion  County, 
Ind.,  and  in  January  of  the  following  year  bought  129  acres  of  land,  for  a portion  of  which 
he  went  in  debt.  The  typical  log  cabin  served  as  his  residence  for  some  time,  and  after  a 
short  visit  to  his  old  home  in  Ohio,  he  returned  to  this  section  and  began  working  for  his 
cousin,  I.  George,  with  whom  he  made  his  home  until  January  9,  1844,  when  he  married 
Harriet,  daughter  of  Moses  Alderson,  a native  of  Kentucky,  who  was  a soldier  in  the  War 
of  1812.  Soon  after  his  marriage  Mr.  George  moved  on  to  the  land  he  had  purchased  where 
he  lived  until  1855  when  he  bought  100  acres  of  Robert  Milhous,  onto  which  he  moved  and 
lived  until  1885  when,  some  of  his  sons  having  gone  to  Oregon,  he  went  there  also.  He  pur- 
chased 160  acres  of  land  in  Washington  County,  but  at  the  end  of  two  years  returned  to  this 
county,  his  wife  having  suffered  a stroke  of  paralysis  from  the  effects  of  which  she  died  Aug 
ust  3,  1892,  after  having  been  a cripple  for  nearly  forty  years.  To  them  eight  children  were 
born,  two  of  whom  died  young:  Alberry  who  was  called  from  life  at  the  age  of  seventeen 
years  and  Cornelius  who  died  at  the  age  of  three  months.  Those  living  are:  Ellen,  widow 
of  Hope  De  Bolt,  has  six  children,  Dalmon,  Hattie,  Minta,  Alma.  Nellie  and  Leslie  (the 
last  two  being  twins);  Elias,  who  married  and  is  now  a resident  of  Salt  Lake  City ; Curran, 
who  is  married  and  resides  in  Oregon,  has  two  children;  Willis  is  also  married  and  resides 
in  Portland,  Oregon;  Marion  married  Margaret  Hadley  and  has  four  children,  Alberry,  Hat- 
tie, Leonard  and  Dony;  Vernon  married  Alice  Chitwood  and  is  a resident  of  Ashland,  Ore. 
Lewis  George  was  formerly  a Whig  and  Abolitionist,  but  is  now  a Republican.  He 
has  served  in  the  capacity  of  justice  of  the  peace,  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  order,  and 
belongs  to  no  church  although  he  was  brought  up  a Quaker.  Mr.  George  has  a good  farm 
of  175  acres  and  is  now  in  the  enjoyment  of  all  the  necessities  as  well  as  many  of  the  lux- 
uries of  life.  His  father,  Ellis  George,  was  born  near  Winchester,  Va.,  in  1775,  and  upon 
reacliing  manhood  moved  to  Ohio,  where  he  married  Amy  Barrett,  with  whom  he  came  to 
Indiana  about  1840.  locating  in  Hamilton  County,  where  he  died  about  1844,  after  having 
become  the  father  of  five  children:  Lewis;  Richard  (deceased),  who  married  Sarah  A.  Haynes 
and  has  three  children:  Elizabeth,  Henry  L.  and  Frank;  Jesse  (deceased),  married  Mary 

Haynes  and  had  four  children:  Amy  E.,  James,  Henry  C.  and  Dr.  E;  Harry  and 

The  father  of  these  children  was  a Quaker  and  Abolitionist.  He  was  left  a widower  in  1831 
and  took  for  his  second  wife  Sidney  Barrett,  a sister  of  his  first  wife,  who  was  the  widow  of 
Moses  Roverts,  by  whom  she  had  one  son,  Moses.  The  paternal  grandfather  of  the  subject 
of  this  sketch,  Richard  George,  was  born  in  Virginia  about  1752,  and  there  he  lived  and 
died.  He  was  married  to  Mary  Cowgill,  by  whom  he  had  five  sons  and  five  daughters,  four 
of  the  latter  dying  unmarried.  Lydia,  the  surviving  daughter,  married  Joshua  Johnson,  of 
Virginia,  and  afterward  became  a resident  of  Ohio  and  later  of  Indiana.  The  sons  were 
named  Henry,  John,  Evan,  Richard  and  Ellis.  Hojie  De  Bolt,  who  married  the  daughter 
of  Lewis  George,  was  born  at  Newtown,  Ohio,  in  1842,  and  when  about  twenty-one  years 
old  removed  to  Vincennes  where  he  lived  for  aliout  four  years  prior  to  removing  to  Indian- 
apolis. After  locating  in  this  city  he  clerked  for  Dan  Lemon  for  two  years,  and  in  1873  was 
married  to  IMiss  George,  after  which  he  moved  to  a farm  owned  by  his  wife’s  father  on 
wliich  he  lived  one  year.  He  then  lived  in  Vincennes  for  one  year,  after  which  he  returned  to 
the  farm  and  there  was  residing  at  the  time  of  his  death,  which  occuned  October  20,  1886. 
I’olitically  he  was  a Democrat,  as  was  his  father,  Henry  De  Bolt,  before  him,  the  latter  serv 
ing  two  terms  as  treasui’er  of  Hamilton  county. 

Prof.  J.  B.  Rorerts.  One  of  the  most  striking  features  in  the  early  history  of  this 
country  is  the  attention  that  has  been  given  to  educational  matters.  In  those  days  wherever 
a consideral)l(^  settlement  has  l)een  formed,  the  village  school  was  one  of  the  first  objects 
taken  under  consideration  by  the  community.  It  iias  been  truly  said  that  “a  good  education 


426 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


is  the  best  inheritance  that  parents  can  leave  children.”  lliches  may  take  to  themselves 
wings  and  fly  away,  but  a good  education  will  last  through  life.  Among  the  prominent 
educators  of  Indianapolis  is  Prof.  J.  B.  Roberts,  who  is  instructor  in  High  School,  No.  1. 
He  has  l)een  a resident  of  the  city  for  nineteen  years  and  during  that  time  has  won  a host  of 
warm  friends.  He  was  born  in  Tazewell  County,  111.,  near  Peoria,  December  11,  1833,  and 
is  the  son  of  Jolin  M.  and  Mary  W.  (Burhans)  Roberts,  natives  of  the  grand  old  Empire 
State,  and  of  Welsh-German  extraction.  The  Roberts  family  settled  in  Connecticut  at  an 
early  date  and  the  paternal  grandfather  of  our  subject,  Daniel  Roberts,  was  the  first  to 
“seek  green  fields  and  pastures  new.”  He  moved  to  the  State  of  New  York  and  was  there 
actively  engaged  in  tilling  the  soil.  His  father  was  a Revolutionary  soldier.  Tempted  by 
the  fertile  soil  of  the  Prairie  State,  the  father  of  our  subject  emigrated  to  Illinois  in  1831, 
and  with  his  father,  three  brothers  and  a sister,  made  the  journey  in  wagons.  They  passed 
through  Indianapolis,  but  did  not  stop  there,  and  pushed  on  until  they  reached  Tazewell 
County,  111.  Peoria  at  that  time  consisted  of  a few  log  cabins,  and  Mr.  Roberts  drew  a 
picture  of  the  town,  the  same  now  being  in  the  possession  of  our  subject.  He  was  a natural 
artist,  but  had  spent  some  time  in  a lithograph  establishment  in  New  Y’^ork  city.  On  his 
new  farm  he  erected  a rude  log  cabin  and  this  he  occupied  one  winter,  after  which  he  erected 
a more  substantial  dwelling  in  which  he  passed  the  remainder  of  his  days,  dying  in  1887. 
'riie  mother  received  hei'  final  summons  in  1838.  At  the  time  of  their  settlement  near  Peoria, 
Indians  were  numerous  and  often  visited  the  home  of  this  worthy  couple.  Prof.  J.  B.  Rob- 
erts was  the  only  child  born  to  this  union,  but  four  children,  three  of  whom  are  living,  were 
born  to  his  father’s  second  marriage.  The  latter  was  a very  prominent  farmer,  was  char- 
itable and  kind,  and  was  ever  ready  to  extend  a helping  hand  to  the  needy  and  afflicted.  He 
was  one  of  the  early  Abolitionists,  was  positive  and  outspoken  in  his  views,  and  held  a num- 
ber of  township  offices.  The  original  of  this  notice  attained  his  growth  on  the  farm  and 
like  the  majority  of  farmer  boys  received  his  primary  education  in  the  district  schools. 
When  sixteen  years  of  age  he  decided  that  further  education  was  necessary  and  entered 
Knox  College,  from  which  institution  he  graduated  in  1855.  Following  this  he  was  instructor 
in  ancient  languages  of  the  same  college  for  seven  yeais  and  then  secured  the  position  of 
superintendent  of  the  city  schools  of  Galesburg,  111.,  which  position  he  held  until  1874. 
At  the  latter  date  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  was  principal  of  the  high  school  for  seven 
years,  or  until  1881.  For  four  years  following  this  he  conducted  a private  school,  and  since 
then  has  been  an  instructor  in  the  high  school.  Socially  Prof.  Roberts  is  a member  of  the 
K.  of  H.,  and  secretary  of  the  College  Corner  Literary  Club.  He  holds  membership  in  the 
Plymouth  Congregational  Church,  and  is  a liberal  contributor  to  the  same.  In  the  year 
1858  he  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Nancy  G.  Gillette,  of  Galesburg,  111.,  and  three 
sons  and  a daughter  have  been  born  to  this  marriage:  William  B.,  George  B. , John  G.  and 
Margaret  A.  Politically  the  Professor  affiliates  with  the  Republican  party. 

T.  M.  Wright.  The  career  of  a lawyer  is  a succession  of  contests  and  the  successes 
made  in  the  legal  profession  are  probably  more  than  in  any  other  calling  in  life  examples 
of  the  ‘ ‘ survival  of  the  fittest.”  To  become  distinguished  at  the  bar  requires  not  only 
capacity  but  also  sound  judgment  and  persevering  industry  and  these  (pialities  are  admira- 
bly combined  in  Mr.  Wright.  Shrewd  and  quick  in  grasping  points  of  law,  his  decisions 
are  usually  ready  to  be  given  when  the  arguments  are  given.  Careful  in  the  preparation 
of  his  cases,  he  has  the  ability  to  present  them  in  a concise,  logical  and  forcible  manner. 
Mr.  Wright,  now  deputy  prosecuting  attorney,  is  a product  of  Pennsylvania,  born  in  Schuyl- 
kill County,  near  the  city  of  Pottsville,  November  22,  1847.  His  parents,  Hiram  N.  and 
Ann  (Glassinire)  Wright,  were  also  natives  of  the  grand  old  State  of  Pennsylvania  and  were 
of  German  and  French  extraction,  respectively.  The  father  is  now  a resident  of  Indian- 
apolis and  is  foreman  of  the  Belt  Railroad  shops.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  brought 
to  Indianapolis  by  his  parents  when  six  years  of  age,  grew  to  manhood  here  and  here 
received  the  principal  part  of  his  education,  having  attended  school  at  Crawfordsville,  Ind., 
for  some  time.  After  the  death  of  his  mother  he  gave  up  his  schooling  and  began  learning 
the  painter’s  trade.  He  did  not  follow  this,  however,  but  began  learning  telegraphy  and 
followed  this  for  some  time  on  the  Bee  Line  Railroad.  Subsequently  he  engaged  in  the 
theatrical  business  with  William  Riley,  who  had  the  only  theater  in  town  at  that  time.  He 


427 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

took  part  in  all  the  plays  and  continued  this  for  some  time.  The  study  of  the  law  then 
attracted  his  attention  and  he  was  admitted  to  the  bar  in  1874.  Since  then  he  has  been  in 
the  active  practice  of  his  profession.  He  has  been  deputy  city  and  deputy  State  prosecutor 
for  several  years,  having  been  appointed  to  the  former  position  in  1875.  In  1887  he  was 
appointed  deputy  State  prosecutor  by  James  L.  Mitchell  and  served  for  four  years  under 
that  gentleman.  Upon  the  election  of  John  W.  Holtzman  as  State  attorney  he  was  again 
made  deputy  and  has  served  in  that  capacity  continuously  for  over  six  years.  Mr.  Wright 
is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.  and  in  politics  is  strictly  Democratic. 

George  F.  Miller.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  is  a widely  known  and  very  popular 
citizen  of  Indianapolis,  who  is  now  tilling  the  office  of  deputy  county  and  city  treasurer. 
He  comes  of  a worthy  stock,  having  been  born  in  Cabell  County,  Av.  Va.,  the  son  of  AVill- 
iam  C.  and  Eliza  (Gardner)  Miller,  natives  of  Gallipolis,  Ohio,  and  of  Greenup,  Ky., 
respectively.  The  Miller  family  were  early  settlers  of  the  valley  of  Virginia,  and  the  great- 
grandfather of  our  subject  was  a soldier  in  the  Eevolutionary  War,  as,  also,  in  the  Indian 
wars.  He  was  the  founder  of  Charleston,  the  capital  of  AVest  Virginia,  and  built  the  fort 
where  the  city  named  now  stands.  At  that  place  he  followed  the  vocation  of  a farmer  and 
there  he  died  and  was  buried.  The  paternal  grandfather,  John  Miller,  lived  and  died  in 
A’irginia.  and  the  maternal  grandfather,  Joseph  Gardner,  was  a native  of  Poston,  Mass.,  but 
removed  to  A^irginia,  where  he  died.  In  his  earlier  life  he  was  a seafaring  man  and  captain 
of  a vessel  which  plied  between  Boston  and  San  Domingo,  as  well  as  other  i.slands  of  the 
AA'est  Indies  group.  The  last  days  of  this  voyager  were  spent  in  (piiet  and  uneventful 
retirement.  The  father  of  our  subject  was  a merchant  and  trader  and  resided  at  Bar- 
boursville,  A’^a..  where  he  died  in  1886.  The  mother  of  our  subject  survived  him  two  years, 
dying  in  1888.  This  couple  were  the  parents  of  seven  children,  six  of  whom  are  living, 
namely:  Mrs.  B.  H.  Thaxton,  of  Huntington,  AA’.  Va. ; C.  H.  Aliller,  of  Huntington,  AV. 
A'a. ; George  F.  Aliller,  our  .subject;  John  AV.,  of  Barboursville;  Joseph  Miller,  late  com- 
missioner of  internal  revenue  under  the  first  administration  of  President  Cleveland,  now  liv- 
ing at  Kanawha,  AV.  Va.,  and  Florence,  wife  of  George  F.  Aliller,  Jr.,  president  of  the  First 
National  Bank,  of  Huntington,  AA^  Va.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  was  born  in  Virginia, 
where  he  was  reared  and  attended  school,  and  from  ivhich,  at  the  age  of  seventeen,  he 
enlisted,  at  the  outbreak  of  tlie  war,  in  Comjiany  A,  Fourth  Kentucky  Cavalry,  and  served 
four  years;  being  with  the  army  of  AVest  Aurginia,  with  Longstreel’s  corps  in  Tennessee,  and 
surrendered  with  Johnston  at  Greensboro,  N.  C.  He  was  captured  at  Alossey  Creek,  Tenu., 
and  carried  to  Camp  Douglass  near  Chicago,  where  he  remained  seven  months,  when  he  was 
exchanged.  Mr.  Aliller  served  as  first  lieutenant  and  bore  the  record  of  an  excellent  officer 
and  a brave  soldier,  courageously  contending  for  a cause  his  conscience  approved.  After  the 
surrender  he  went  to  Cincinnati,  where  he  was  book-keeper  in  a wholesale  grocery  house  for 
two  years;  then,  in  1869,  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  engaged  in  the  coal  business  for 
about  eight  years,  following  which  he  was  in  the  foundry  business.  In  the  year  1884  he 
was  afipointed  deputy  United  States  marshal  during  Cleveland’s  administration  and  served 
until  1885,  when  he  went  into  the  county  treasurer’s  office,  under  John  Osterman,  as  deputy, 
and  has  been  in  the  office  ever  since,  proving  himself  a most  efficient  and  accommodating 
pul)lic  servant,  who  has  gained  the  respect  and  confidence  of  the  public  wifhouf  reference  to 
politics.  He  was  married  in  1868  to  Aliss  Catharine  A.  Davidson  and  one  child  has  blessed 
this  union,  Catharine  L.  Airs.  Aliller  and  her  daughter  are  [)roniinent  members  of  the 
Second  Presbyterian  Church,  as  well  as  very  popular  among  a huge  circle  of  ac(|uaintances. 
Air.  Aliller  has  a number  of  social  affiliations  and  is  a member  of  the  Alasonic  order. 

Thomas  AIcCo.nxell.  'I’lie  gentleman  whose  name  heads  this  sketch  is  a member  of  the 
well-known  firm  of  AIcConnell  A Mount,  contractors  and  builders,  but  was  born  in  Belmont 
County,  Ohio,  in  1886.  a son  of  Francis  AlcConmdl,  which  name  his  paternal  grandfather 
also  bore.  The  latter  was  a native  of  the  land  of  “thistles  and  oatmeal,”  but  juior  to  the 
Kevolutionary  AV’ar  came  to  this  country  and  later  became  a member  of  the  Continental  army, 
serving  in  AV^ashington’s  army  for  stwen  years.  He  later  liecame  a i)ioneer  of  the  State  of 
Ohio,  where  his  son,  Francis,  the  father  of  tlie  sul)ject  of  this  sketch  was  born  in  1808.  Be- 
sides l)eing  a successful  tiller  of  the  soil  the  latter  was  a shoemaker,  which  business  he  fol 
lowe<l  in  Bridgeport,  dying  there  in  1881  at  the  age  of  seventy nine  years.  He  was  a Be 


428 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


publican  in  politics,  held  the  position  of  township  trustee  for  many  years,  also  that  of  assessor 
and  held  other  offices  of  trust.  Thomas  McConnell,  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  educated 
in  his  native  county  and  at  the  aj^e  of  eighteen  started  to  learn  the  carpenter’s  trade,  at 
which  he  served  an  apprenticeship  of  three  years.  In  1856  he  located  at  Marietta,  Shelby 
County,  Ind.,  and  there  on  June  24,  1862,  he  enlisted  in  Company  B,  Seventieth  Indiana 
(Cen.  Harrison’s  Regiment),  with  which  he  served  until  the  war  closed,  being  a participant 
in  all  the  battles  in  which  his  regiment  took  part.  At  the  close  of  the  war  he  returned  to 
Indiana  and  after  a time  located  in  Indianapolis  and  commenced  working  at  his  trade,  and  in 
1875,  with  his  brother  John  A.  for  a partner,  he  commenced  contracting.  They  continued 
together  successfully  until  1886  when  John  A.  went  west  by  himself  and  Thomas  associated 
himself  with  IMr.  iMount,  with  whom  he  has  since  been  connected.  They  have  erected  many 
of  the  handsomest  buildings  of  Indianapolis,  among  which  was  Dr.  Eastman’s  Sanitarium. 
I’hey  also  superintended  the  building  of  the  city  hall,  and  the  other  buildings  which  stand 
as  monuments  to  their  credit  are  too  numerous  to  mention.  Mr.  McConnell  has  always  been 
interested  in  politics  and  at  all  times  works  for  the  success  of  the  Republican  party.  He  is 
a member  of  the  Contractors’  Association,  the  Masonic  order,  the  Chosen  Friends,  and  Major 
Anderson  Rost  of  the  (4.  A.  R.  In  1853  he  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  India  Weyer, 
of  Ohio  (Belmont  County),  and  out  of  a family  of  two  sons  and  five  daughters  born  to  them, 
one  son  and  three  daughters  are  living. 

Ratku'k  J.  O’Meaka.  The  American  product,  man,  is  the  finest  type  upon  the  face  of 
the  earth,  for  the  reason  that  he  is  not  pampered  and  spoiled  by  luxury  and  for  the  further 
reason  that  he  knows  he  may  aspire  to  any  height  without  prejudice  against  him  as  to  birth 
or  previous  condition.  In  every  community  may  be  found  numbers  of  solid,  representative 
men,  leaders  of  thought  and  influencers  of  action  who  have  been  brought  to  their  exalted 
places  by  the  sheer  and  sole  force  of  their  own  pluck  and  energy.  The  subject  of  our  sketch, 
yet  a young  man,  is  the  superintendent  of  buildings  and  grounds  of  the  Indianapolis 
School  Board,  a position  of  responsibility  and  trust  which  came  to  him  because  he  deserved 
it  and  because  he  is  in  every  way  qualified  to  discharge  its  duties.  Patrick  J.  O’Meara  was 
thrown  upon  his  own  resources  at  a very  early  age,  having  to  support  himself  when  but  thir- 
teen years  old.  With  unfaltering  courage  the  lad  pressed  on  his  way,  working  hard  by  day 
and  attending  school  by  night,  his  bright  and  receptive  mind  craving  knowledge  and  his 
intelligence  telling  him  that  an  education  was  indispensable  to  success  on  the  road  which  he 
had  thus  early  marked  out  for  himself.  He  was  born  at  Buffalo,  N.  Y.,  February  9,  1856, 
being  the  son  of  Patrick  and  Bridget  (Sheehan)  O’Meara,  natives  of  the  city  of  Limerick, 
Ireland.  They  were  married  in  their  native  city  and  sailed  for  America  in  1855,  landing  at 
New  York  city,  where  they  remained  for  a while  and  then  going  to  Buffalo,  at  which  place 
they  lived  until  1865,  in  which  year  they  came  to  Indianapolis.  They  now  reside  at  Ander 
son,  Ind.,  the  father  being  now  retired,  after  a busy  life;  he  having  been  for  a number  of 
years  book  keeper  and  head  clerk  in  the  New  York  Central  freight  depot.  This  worthy  couple 
have  had  ten  children,  five  of  whom  are  living,  namely:  Anna,  Mary,  Michael,  Patrick  J.  and 
Henry,  of  Muncie.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  was  a mere  youth  when  he  accompanied  his  par- 
ents to  this  city  and  here  he  attended  school  until  he  was  thirteen  years  old,  when  he  began  to 
be  self  sui)porting;  Imt,  as  stated,  he  was  resolved  to  gain  understanding  and  he  was  enrolled 
regularly  iu  the  night  school  and  applied  himself  diligently  to  his  studies.  His  first  employ- 
ment was  iu  a grocery  store  and  afterward  in  a restaurant  at  Anderson,  Ind.  In  the  year  1886 
he  was  em})loyed  by  Hetherington  & Berner,  the  widely  known  and  extensive  manufacturers, 
with  whom  he  remained  for  six  years,  enjoying  the  confidence  of  the  house  and  faithfully  dis- 
charging his  duties.  At  the  end  of  this  time,  in  1892,  he  was  appointed  to  his  present  position 
and  entered  upon  the  discharge  of  its  responsibilities  in  July  of  that  year.  Mr.  O’Meara  was 
married  June  5,  1889,  to  Miss  Georgia  Branham,  of  Anderson,  Ind.,  the  marriage  being  a 
most  happy  one,  the  t wo  being  congenial  and  the  husband  finding  in  the  wife  a helpmeet 
indeed.  Our  subject  is  a man  of  large  social  development,  finding  great  pleasure  in  the  society 
of  his  friends,  and  inclines  to  social  organizations,  being  chancellor  commander  of  Indianapolis 
Lodge,  No.  56,  K.  of  P.  and  is  also  a member  of  the  order  of  Red  Men.  In  politics  Mr. 
O’Meara  is  a Democrat  of  the  most  ))ronounced  type  and  has  rendered  his  party  most  efficient 
services  in  the  way  of  organizing  and  holding  men  in  line  for  the  support  of  the  nominees  dur- 


HON.  CALEB  S.  DENNY. 


429 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

ing  election  campaigns  and  elections.  The  education  of  onr  subject  in  religious  matters  was 
in  the  Catholic  Church,  in  which  he  was  ba])tized  and  confirmed  and  his  matured  judgment 
holds  him  firm  in  the  faith  of  his  fathers.  A manly,  upright  and  straightforward  citizen,  a 
careful,  methodical  man  of  business  and  a wholesouled  good  fellow,  Mr.  O’Meara  has  by  no 
means  reached  the  height  of  his  powers  or  the  end  of  the  favor  of  his  fellow  citizens.  What- 
ever they  may  call  him  to  do  he  will  do  it  faithfully  and  well. 

George  W.  Stanley.  The  name  of  George  W.  Stanley  is  a very  familiar  one  in  the 
business  circles  of  Indianapolis,  he  being  one  of  the  leading  contractors  of  the  city  and  the 
president  of  the  Builders  Exchange.  He  was  born  in  Fayette  County,  Ind.  ,June  1,  1886, 
and  is  the  son  of  Lewis  and  Ann  (Johnson)  Stanley,  natives  of  North  Carolina  and  Cincin- 
nati, respectively.  They  came  to  Indiana  at  an  early  day  and  settled  in  Fayette  County,  the 
father  following  the  trade  of  a wagon-maker.  He  died  in  Hancock  County,  Ind. , in  1 890,  and  the 
mother  in  the  followiiig  year.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  was  reared  in  his  native  county 
until  he  was  about  twelve  years  old,  attending  the  schools,  and  then  removed  with  his  parents 
to  Hancock  County,  where  he  grew  to  manhood.  After  attending  the  Northwestern  Christian 
University  for  one  year  he  learned  the  trade  of  a carpenter,  chielly  under  his  father.  This 
he  followed,  varying  it  with  teaching,  up  to  the  time  of  his  marriage,  in  Hancock  County. 
He  was  elected  trustee  of  Vernon  Townshij)  and  served  one  term  in  Hancock  County,  in  the 
year  1862.  Subsecjuently  he  was  appointed  agent  for  the  Bee  Line  Railroad  and  was  sta- 
tioned at  Oakland,  Marion  County,  Ind.,  holding  the  position  for  about  ten  years.  In  1874 
he  was  elected  township  trustee  of  Lawrence  Township,  and  served  for  three  consecutive 
terms,  or  six  years.  Our  subject  removed  to  Indianapolis  in  1884  and  engaged  in  the  busi- 
ness of  a general  contractor,  which  he  has  followed  ever  since.  Among  the  many  contracts 
he  has  executed  is  the  Tomlinson  Hall,  the  Bank  of  Commerce;  Claypool  Block,  on  Pearl 
Street;  the  Lombard  Building;  Macey  Building,  on  Delaware  Street,  and  numerous  promi- 
nent residences.  Mr.  Stanley  is  one  of  the  leading  contractors  of  Indianapolis  and  employs 
a very  large  force  of  men  during  the  building  season.  Mr.  Stanley  is  president  of  the 
Builders  Exchange,  having  served  two  years  as  secretary  immediately  before  his  election  as 
such.  He  is  a man  of  unimpeachable  integrity  and  his  work  is  always  done  well,  his  con- 
tracts being  carried  out  to  the  letter.  He  is  in  fellowship  with  the  Masonic  order  and  has 
other  social  connections  in  the  city.  Our  subject  was  married  in  1859  to  Miss  Ann  Wood, 
of  Marion  County,  by  whom  he  has  had  three  children : Carrie  M. , Flora  P.  and  Clarence. 
Politically  he  is  a Democrat  and  believes  tirmly  in  the  principles  of  that  party.  The  name 
of  the  firm  of  Salisbury  & Stanley — such  is  the  style  of  his  firm — is  an  honored  one  in  the 
city,  and  the  house  is  located  at  177  Clinton  Street. 

Thomas  Sheehan.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  is  a man  who  possesses  a (juality,  the  value 
of  which  cannot  be  overe.stimated,  and  that  is  the  one  of  pleasing,  or,  in  other  words,  an 
accommodating  spirit.  In  this  day  when  the  strife  for  place  breeds  so  imrch  seltishness  the 
virtue  is  the  more  apparent.  Our  subject,  the  bailiff  of  the  Marion  County  Criminal  Court 
and  secretary  of  the  Hendricks  Club  was  born  in  Fayette  County,  at  Connorsville,  Ind., 
August  19,  1855.  He  is  the  son  of  Michael  and  Margaret  (O’Conner)  Sheehan,  natives  of 
Ireland,  who  came  to  America  in  1849,  first  reaching  New  Orleans,  and  then  proceeding  by 
the  river  to  Covington  and  going  thence  to  Fayette  County,  Ind.  The  father  was  a farmer 
and  pursued  that  vocation  until  his  death  in  1857.  The  mother,  who  is  living  in  F.lyette 
County,  bore  her  liusband  seven  children,  namely:  Jjizzie  and  Thomas  (these  two  were  by 
her  first  husl)andj,  William,  Mary,  Lewis,  Ellen  and  John.  I'he  subject  of  our  sketch  was 
reared  in  Fayette  County,  where  he  received  a common  school  education;  the  early  years  of 
his  life  being  spent  on  the  farm,  after  which  he  went  to  the  work  of  a molder  at  Connors- 
ville.  Coming  to  Indianapolis  in  1879  he  worked  here  at  his  trade  until  1891,  when  he  was 
ay)j)ointed  by  the  court  as  bailiff,  and  in  January,  1898,  he  was  elected  secretary  of  the 
Hendricks  Club.  Mr.  Sheehan  is  an  enterj)rising  young  man,  full  of  energy  and  devoted  to 
the  principles  of  the  Democratic  party,  for  which  he  works  with  untiring  zeal  in  eveiy  cam 
paign.  Our  subject  was  married  in  June,  1881,  in  Columbus,  Oliio,  to  Miss  Helen  Ij. 
Richter,  by  whom  he  has  two  sons  and  two  daughters,  namely  : George  T..  Mary  M.,  Alice 
G.  and  I'aul  C.  He  and  his  wife  are  consistent  members  of  the  Catholic  Church,  in  which 
faith  they  were  reared  as  their  j)arentB  before  tlieni. 


430 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Peter  Carson.  One  of  the  most  gratifying  featnres  of  government  in  the  United  States  is 
the  efficiency  and  integrity  of  those  who  are  called  upon  to  hold  office.  It  is  the  more  remark- 
able in  that  the  terms  are  so  brief,  herein  differing  from  the  old  countries  of  Europe,  where  one 
who  secures  a position  under  the  Grovernment  is  expected  to  hold  it  throughout  the  remainder 
of  his  days.  Here  in  America,  however,  the  doctrine  of  rotation  is  maintained,  whether  the 
offices  be  national,  State,  county  or  municipal,  and  it  is  remarkable,  and  redounds  to  the 
immortal  credit  of  the  citizens  of  the  Republic,  that  of  the  great  multitudes  who  held  office, 
cases  of  improper  conduct  are  rarely  exceptional.  The  subject  of  our  sketch  is  one  who 
reflects  greatest  possible  credit  upon  those  who  supported  him  for  the  office  of  recorder  of 
Marion  County,  a position  he  tills  with  an  earnestness  of  purpose,  an  attention  to  details,  a 
spirit  of  accommodation  and  with  a fidelity  that  stamps  him  one  of  the  very  best  men  hold- 
ing the  office  of  recorder  in  this  or  any  other  State.  Mr.  Carson  was  born  in  Dublin,  Ire- 
land, November  10,  1S40,  being  the  son  of  Timothy  and  Ellen  (Coleman)  Carson,  natives 
of  Ireland.  The  mother  sailed  for  America  in  1853,  with  four  children,  her  husband  having 
previously  died  in  the  old  country.  Landing  at  New  York,  she  took  her  family  to  Louis- 
ville, remained  there  for  a time  and  then  went  to  Nashville,  Tenn.  Subsequently  she  went 
to  Indianapolis,  where  she  died  in  September,  1800.  The  subject  of  our  sketch,  the  young- 
est of  the  family,  received  a limited  education,  being  compelled  at  an  early  age  to  work  for 
a living.  In  turn  he  served  at  the  trades  of  machinist  and  of  boiler-maker,  but  did  not  com- 
plete apprenticeship  in  either.  He  was  not  afraid  to  put  his  hand  to  any  kind  of  honest 
labor  and  for  a time  while  a youth  and  very  young  man  he  did  follow  a number  of  different 
pursuits;  but  he  was  diligent  and  faithful  in  everything  he  undertook  and  steadily  bettered 
liis  condition.  During  the  administration  of  President  Cleveland,  from  1885  to  1889,  he 
served  four  years  as  inspector  of  customs.  In  the  year  1890  he  was  elected  recorder  of 
Marion  County,  on  the  Democratic  ticket,  but  having  two  years  to  wait  before  he  could 
enter  upon  the  duties  of  his  position,  he  was  employed  in  a brewery.  Last  year  he  took 
possession  of  the  office  and  has  managed  it  with  rare  discretion  and  to  the  highest  satisfac- 
tion of  the  public.  Our  subject  was  happily  married  in  1873  to  Miss  Maria  Pool,  by  whom 
he  has  had  four  children,  namely;  Nellie,  Willie,  Katie  and  Joseph.  Mr.  Carson  is  a man 
in  whom  the  social  impulse  is  very  strong  and  he  is  a member  of  a number  of  clubs,  in  all  of 
which  he  is  very  popular  as  well  as  very  useful  and  influential.  Later:  Since  the  above  was 
written  and  put  in  type  Mr.  Carson  has  unfortunately  died  leaving  many  warm  friends  and 
acquaintances  to  mourn  his  untimely  demise. 

Victor  M.  Backus,  treasurer  of  Marion  County,  is  worthy  and  well  qualified  in  every 
respect  for  the  responsible  position  he  tills,  and,  being  a whole-souled,  generous  man,  is 
deservedly  popular  with  the  public  in  general.  He  was  born  March  27,  1850,  being  the  son 
of  Paul  and  Mary  J.  (Miller)  Backus,  who  were  natives  of  Germany.  After  attaining  man- 
hood the  father  entered  the  army  of  his  native  land  and  continued  there  in  active  service  many 
years,  finally  retiring  with  honor  and  the  rank  of  lieutenant-colonel.  He  also  held  the  office  of 
burger  of  Louisheim  for  the  long  period  of  fourteen  years.  He,  with  his  wife  and  three 
children,  set  sail  for  America  in  a sailing  vessel,  and  after  a voyage  of  twenty-one  days  spent 
upon  the  ocean  landed  in  New  York  city.  The  father  died  in  Williamsburg,  N.  Y. , in 
1854,  the  mother  surviving  until  1866,  when  she  died  of  cholera.  The  father  of  our 
subject  was  married  three  times,  and  by  his  last  marriage  had  three  children,  only 
one  of  whom  survives,  and  he  is  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  Victor  M.  Backus  was  but 
two  years  old  when  he  came  to  this  country,  and  in  1855  accompanied  his  mother  to  Frank- 
lin, Ind.,  where  he  lived  several  years,  attending  school  until  the  outbreak  of  the  war,  when, 
at  the  age  of  ten,  he  secured  a position  on  the  J.  M.  & I.  Railroad  as  a “peanut”  boy. 
While  discharging  the  duties  of  this  position  he  became  acquainted  with  a number  of  sol- 
diers, and,  at  the  age  of  thirteen,  enlisted  in  the  Seventeenth  Regiment  Indiana  Volunteer 
Infantry,  in  Company  D,  Wilder’s  Brigade,  and  served  until  the  close  of  the  war  as  a pri- 
vate soldier,  and  was  never  away  from  his  company  or  regiment  a single  hour  while  in  the 
service.  This  is  a record  of  which  the  oldest  of  the  soldiers  might  well  be  proud,  and  it  is 
one  that  redounds  to  the  infinite  credit  of  this  boy  soldier,  who  was  in  every  battle  of  the 
Atlanta  campaign,  the  Wilson  campaign,  at  the  capture  of  Selma,  and  a number  of  other 
important  engagements.  At  Macon,  Ga. , he  was  chosen  one  of  the  sixty  of  his  regiment  to 


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OF  THE 

L'NIVER'^ITY  OF  ILLINnc 


431 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

go  on  an  expedition  for  the  capture  of  Jefferson  Davis.  He  was  also  one  of  the  first  Union 
soldiers  detailed  to  go  to  Andersonville  to  relieve  the  Union  soldiers  there;  was  one  of  the 
first  Union  soldiers  to  go  into  Atlanta  the  night  it  was  taken  and  blown  up.  Mr.  Backus 
was  in  live  or  six  hotly  contested  and  bloody  battles  before  he  was  fourteen  years  old,  and 
he  was  one  of  the  youngest,  if  not  the  very  youngest,  to  enlist  into  the  army  from  Indiana 
and  carry  a musket.  The  soldierly  and  courageous  spirit  of  the  father  was  transmitted  to 
the  children,  for  the  brother  of  our  subject,  Matthias,  enlisted  at  the  first  call  for  troops  and 
re-enlisted  for  three  years,  and  then  veteranized  for  three  years  more.  The  service  of  Mat- 
thias was  in  the  Nineteenth  and  Twentieth  Indiana  Kegiments,  they  forming  part  of  the 
celebrated  Iron  Brigade,  which  lost  more  men  than  any  other  two  regiments  in  the  entire 
United  States  army.  In  the  year  186‘2  a cousin  of  Mr.  Backus,  who  had  been  wounded  at 
the  second  battle  of  Bull  Run,  was  taken  to  Cincinnati,  when  his  only  sister,  Mary  R. 
Backus,  went  to  the  hospital  to  nurse  him,  and  she  remained  afterward  until  the  close  of  the 
war  as  a faithful  and  efficient  nurse  of  the  sick  and  wounded  Union  soldiers.  When  our 
subject  returned  home  at  the  close  of  the  war  he  cast  about  for  something  as  a livelihood, 
and  he  chose  the  trade  of  a carriage-maker,  serving  an  apprenticeship  at  this  at  Franklin, 
Ind.,  after  which,  in  the  spring  of  1807,  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  went  to  work  under 
Col.  Benjatuin  C.  Shaw,  who  owned  the  largest  factory  in  the  West,  where  he  worked  under 
instructions  for  eighteen  months,  at  very  small  wages.  When  his  time  was  out  he  was 
given  a contract  on  the  finest  work  in  the  house,  with  three  fires,  and  continued  at  this  until 
Col.  Shaw  was  elected  State  Treasurer  in  1874,  when  he  opened  up  business  for  himself, 
starting  in  a small  way,  and  in  six  years  had  the  largest  carriage  factory  in  Indianapolis, 
and  it  is  claimed  for  him  that  he  has  sold  more  work  at  retail  than-  any  other  house  in 
Indiana.  In  the  year  1881,  after  the  retirement  of  Col.  Shaw  from  the  State  Treasurership, 
the  two  formed  a partnership  under  the  firm  name  of  Shaw,  Backus  & Co.  Mr.  Backus 
bought  out  the  interest  of  Col.  Shaw  in  1883,  made  and  patented  one  of  the  first  and  best 
road  carts  in  the  country;  organized  and  was  made  president  of  the  Backus  Cart  Company, 
and  manufactured  ‘2,100  carts  in  the  first  year.  He  sold  out  this  business  and  started  under 
the  firm  name  of  Backus  & Reagan,  on  Circle  Street;  later  buying  out  Mr.  Reagan  and  ran 
the  business  alone  until  1891,  when  he  sold  out  to  H.  C.  Fisk  & Son  in  order  to  take  the 
office  of  treasurer  of  Marion  County  and  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  to  which  office  he  had 
been  elected  in  1890  with  the  largest  majority  ever  given  any  county  or  city  treasurer,  it 
being  over  three  thousand.  The  term  of  office  is  for  two  years,  and  Mr.  Backus  declined  a 
reuomination,  retiring  with  the  esteem  and  the  confidence  of  the  citizens  of  Indianapolis  and 
Marion  County  without  reference  to  party.  At  the  first  meeting  of  the  old  soldiers  of  the 
Seventeenth  for  reorganization  Mr.  Backus  was  one  of  the  first  presidents  of  the  regimental 
organization,  and  at  the  last  brigade  reunion  he  was  chosen  its  president  also,  this  being  in 
1890,  and  the  honor  proceeding  from  the  celebrated  Wilder’s  brigade.  Mr.  Backus  is  the 
youngest  member  of  the  company,  regiment  and  brigade  with  which  he  was  associated,  and 
he  was  chosen  its  brigade  president  at  the  earnest  recpiest  of  Gen.  Wilder  himself.  This 
distinction  Mr.  Backus  may  well  consider  the  proudest  honor  of  his  life.  Our  subject  was 
married  February  14,  1874,  to  Mi.ss  Mary  McCarthy,  of  Brear,  Ohio,  by  whom  he  has  had 
three  children,  only  one  of  whom  is  living.  Hazel,  aged  nine  years.  Mr.  Backus  is  a mem- 
ber of  George  H.  Thomas  Bo.st,  G.  A.  R. ; <jf  Star  Lodge,  No.  7,  K.  of  P. , and  is  president 
of  the  celebrated  Hendricks  Club  of  Indianapolis.  As  will  have  been  seen  Mr.  Backus  has 
been  the  lecipient  of  many  honors,  yet  every  one  of  them  he  has  richly  merited  and  earned, 
through  his  own  exertions  having  climbed  the  ladder  of  distinction,  and  yet  a young  man, 
other  and  higher  honors  are  before  him. 

Leroy  S.  Henthorn,  M.  U.  Few,  perhaps  none,  save  those  who  have  trod  the  arduous 
yraths  of  the  profession  can  picture  to  themselves  Ihe  array  of  attributes,  physical,  mental 
and  moral,  the  host  of  minor  graces  of  manner  and  person,  essential  to  the  making  of  a sue 
cessful  physician.  His  constitution  must  needs  bo  of  the  hardest  to  withstand  the  constant 
shock  of  wind  and  weatlmr,  the  wearing  loss  of  sleep  and  rest,  the  ever  gathering  load  of  care, 
the  insidious  apjrroach  of  every  form  of  fell  disease  to  whicli  the  daily  I'ound  of  duties  mo 
mentarily  expose  him.  Frrr  many  years  this  most  important  sc.imice  be;iring  upon  man’s 
happiness,  comfort  and  welfare,  has  been  practiced  by  Dr.  Leroy  S.  Henthorn,  and  he  has 


482 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


kept  tborougbly  ubreast  of  tbe  great  strides  it  bas  made  in  tbe  last  thirty  years.  Tbe  Doctor 
was  boru  in  Bucyrus,  Obio,  May  3,  1846,  and  is  of  Welsb-Irisb  descent,  bis  ancestors  being 
from  tbe  British  Islands.  They  came  to  America  at  an  early  date,  settled  in  Maryland,  and 
for  many  years  followed  agricultural  pursuits.  Some  members  of  this  family  served  in  tbe 
War  of  1812.  Tbe  father  of  our  subject,  Daniel  H.  Hentborn,  was  a native  of  Fayette  County, 
Pennsylvania,  and  was  a cabinet-maker,  a carpenter,  a contractor,  etc.,  by  trade,  devoting  the 
most  of  bis  life  to  that  business.  His  later  days  were  spent  as  an  architect.  In  1813,  when 
a boy,  be  came  to  the  Buckeye  State  with  bis  parents  who  were  among  tbe  early  pioneers  of 
Licking  County.  There  be  was  married  to  Miss  Rachel  R.  Morrison,  a native  of  Fayette 
County,  Penn.,  who  came  with  her  parents  to  Ohio  when  small.  They  were  also  early  pio- 
neers of  Licking  County.  After  marriage  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Henthorn  removed  to  Crawford 
County,  Ohio,  settled  in  Bucyrus,  in  1833,  and  were  among  the  early  inhabitants  of  that  place. 
Indians  were  numerons  in  the  vicinity  at  that  time.  Of  the  eight  children  born  to  the  above 
mentioned  marriage  seven  are  now  living,  one,  Eugene  E. , having  been  killed  at  tbe  battle  of 
Fredericksburg  in  1862.  Mr.  Hentborn  died  at  Bucyrus  in  1872,  and  bis  widow  survived 
him  several  years,  her  death  occurring  in  Indianapolis  in  1884.  Dr.  Henthorn  attained  his 
growth  in  Bucyrus,  attended  the  public  and  high -school,  and  when  sixteen  years  of  age 
enlisted  in  Company  K.,  Eighty-Sixth  Obio  Infantry,  for  three  months.  In  1863  he  served 
about  six  mouths  in  general  hospital,  Jefferson  Barracks,  Mo.,  and  had  charge  of  the  dispen- 
sary. During  his  first  enlistment  he  served  some  time  in  Virginia  among  bushwhackers,  and 
during  bis  second  enlistment  be  served  some  time  in  1864  in  the  heavy  artillery.  Following 
the  war  he  became  drug  clerk  and  served  six  months  in  this  business  at  Bucyrus,  Obio,  and 
Des  Moines,  Iowa.  During  all  this  time  he  had  devoted  considerable  attention  to  the  study 
of  medicine,  and  in  1874  almost  his  entire  time  was  given  to  this.  In  1875,  he  came  to 
Indianapolis  and  entered  the  Indiana  Medical  College,  from  which  he  was  graduated  in 
1877.  Since  then  be  bas  carried  on  a general  practice  in  this  city.  Dr.  Hentborn  was  assist- 
ant demonstrator  of  anatomy  in  Indiana  Medical  College  two  years,  and  lectured  on 
obstetrics  for  two  years.  For  three  years  be  was  professor  of  physiology  in  Indiana  Dental 
College  and  later  he  lectured  on  physiology  two  years  in  Indiana  Medical  College.  From  1876 
until  1891  be  was  on  tbe  consulting  staff  in  tbe  city  hospital  in  obstetrics.  In  1883  and  1884  he 
was  superintendent  of  the  pest  house  and  bad  charge  of  all  smallpox  cases  of  the  city.  While 
on  the  consulting  staff  at  the  city  hospital  he  gave  many  lectures  to  students  of  different  med- 
ical colleges  of  Indianapolis.  The  Doctor  has  beenamernberof  Indiana  State  and  Marion  County 
Medical  Societies  ever  since  be  began  [)racticing,  has  served  on  committees  of  the  same  and 
has  read  papers  before  both.  He  selected  bis  life  companion  in  the  person  of  Miss  Joannah 
Myers,  a native  of  Bucyrus,  Ohio,  and  their  nuptials  were  celebrated  May  16,  1878.  Her 
parents,  George  W.,  and  Mary  (Hart)  Myer.s,  were  natives  of  Pennsylvania,  and  Muskingum 
County,  Ohio,  respectively.  Her  father  served  four  months  in  the  Civil  War  during  the  year 
1864,  and  held  the  rank  of  Lieutenant  of  an  Ohio  company.  To  Doctor  and  Mrs.  Henthorn 
have  been  born  three  children;  Mary,  Oril  and  Jessie. 

Frederick  Jones.  No  field  of  modern  financial  enterprise  affords  safer  or  more  favora- 
ble opportunities  for  the  investment  of  capital,  either  in  large  or  small  sums,  than  the  real 
estate  business.  Few  indeed  in  Indianapolis  have  been  more  fortunate  in  establishing  and 
maintaining  a high  reputation  among  the  ju'operty  owners  and  speculators  for  the  uniform 
satisfaction  he  has  rendered  to  those  with  whom  he  has  held  business  relations  than  Fred- 
erick Jones,  and  tbe  sterling  integrity  and  sound  judgment  that  has  characterized  all  bis 
transactions  has  won  him  a clientele  of  which  be  has  every  reason  to  feel  proud.  He  is  a man 
of  energy  and  large  business  capacity,  shrewd  and  enterprising,  and  is  highly  regarded  in 
the  community  for  bis  integrity  and  upright  character.  Mr.  Jones  was  born  in  Indianapolis 
August  23,  1860,  to  Aquilla  and  Harriet  (Cox)  Jones,  and  was  reared  and  educated  in  the 
common  schools  of  his  native  city,  in  a college  at  Racine,  Wis.,  and  at  Butler  University. 
After  leaving  school  he  entered  the  wholesale  boot  and  shoe  store  of  Jones,  Armstrong  & 
Co.,  as  a clerk,  and  was  connected  with  this  firm  about  five  years,  a portion  of  which  time  he 
acted  in  the  capacity  of  traveling  salesman.  In  1883  he  became  associated  with  H.  C. 
Holloway  in  the  manufacture  of  stove-pive  elbows,  which  was  quite  extensive  for  a time.  In 
1885  Mr.  Jones  was  appointed  custodian  of  public  building  at  Indianapolis,  which  position 


433 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

he  held  until  the  following  June,  when  he  was  appointed  a special  agent  of  the  United  States 
Pension  Bureau  in  tlie  State  of  Michigan,  which  position  he  held  until  June,  1890,  when 
he  resigned  and  began  dealing  in  real  estate  in  Indianapolis,  continuing  successfully  to  the 
present  time.  September  21,  1891,  he  put  Tuxedo  Park  on  the  market,  .which  consisted  of 
467  lots,  and  disposed  of  all  in  little  more  than  a year,  which  was  one  of  the  greatest  feats 
in  the  sale  of  real  estate  ever  accomplished  in  the  city.  Mr.  Jones  was  for  a time  associated 
with  C.  H.  & E.  J.  Rickert,  as  the  member  of  a corporation  in  this  phenomenal  real  estate 
deal,  but  had  the  entire  management  of  the  same,  and  the  brilliant  record  achieved  was 
largely  due  to  his  energy,  foresight  and  push.  These  gentlemen  severed  their  connection 
February  1,  1893,  since  which  time  Mr.  Jones  has  conducted  business  alone  and  in  com- 
pany with  A.  L.  Palmer,  the  name  of  the  tirm  being  Frederick  Jones  & Co.  The  firm  at 
present  handle  suburban  ])roperty  and  are  doing  an  extensive  business.  Mr.  Jones  is  a 
member  of  the  K.  of  P.,  is  a Democrat  in  politics,  and  he  and  his  wife,  whom  he  married 
June  8,  1881,  and  whose  maiden  name  was  Nellie  E.  Woodall,  a native  of  Vincennes,  Ind., 
are  members  of  St.  Paul’s  Episcopal  Church.  They  have  two  children:  Frank  S.  and  Harry 
H.  Mrs.  Jones’  parents,  Aquilla  and  Emma  (Haines)  Woodall,  were  born  in  New  V^ork 
State,  but  were  early  settlers  of  Indiana. 

James  H.  Smith  is  a member  of  the  firm  of  James  H.  Smith  & Co.,  located  at  36^  W. 
Washington  Street,  money  brokers,  real  estate  and  insurance  agents,  and  as  the  gentlemen 
composing  this  tirm  have  a thorough  general  knowledge  of  real  estate  as  well  as  of  the  gen- 
eral routine  work  of  the  real  estate  agent,  their  patrons  and  friends  are  numerous  and 
their  business  a large  and  profitable  one.  The  methods  of  this  firm  are  regular  and  par 
ties  may  approach  it  with  the  confidence  of  fair  treatment.  Wliether  they  wish  to  buy 
realty,  borrow  money,  to  rent  property  or  whatever  their  business,  they  will  receive  cour- 
teous attention.  Matters  are  disjiosed  of  with  dispatch,  thoroughness  and  after  the  most 
approved  business  methods,  the  interests  of  clients  being  jealously  guarded.  Mr.  Smith 
was  born  in  Mount  Pleasant,  Iowa,  December  31,  1856,  a son  of  Cyrus  and  Elizabeth  (Eller) 
Smith,  the  former  of  whom  was  born  in  Ohio  and  the  latter  in  Indiana.  The  paternal 
grandfather,  John  Smith,  was  a pioneer  of  Ohio  and  became  one  of  the  prosperous  farmers 
of  the  “Buckeye  State,”  the  time  consumed  in  the  acquirement  of  his  property  being 
marked  by  many  hardships  and  by  much  hard  labor.  Cyrus  Smith  was  reared  in  IMarion 
County,  Ind.,  whither  his  parents  moved  at  an  early  day,  and  his  early  education  was 
acquired  in  the  old-time  sub.scription  schools,  which  were  held  in  log  cabins  of  very  primi- 
tive construction.  When  a young  man  he  became  a “ Hoosier  schoolmaster,’’  in  which 
line  of  work  he  was  so  successful  that  he  was  elected  to  the  position  of  county  superintend- 
ent of  schools  on  three  different  occasions.  He  also  served  as  deputy  county  clerk  under 
John  C.  New,  in  the  old  court-house.  During  the  great  Civil  War  he  held  the  position  of 
enrolling  clerk  from  the  commencement  of  that  struggle  until  its  close  and  had  some  severe 
experiences  while  following  that  line  of  duty.  For  over  thirty  years  he  has  been  engaged 
in  the  sale  of  school  books  in  Indiana  and  Michigan  and  is  jirobably  as  well  known  as  any 
man  traveling  through  this  territory.  At  [iresent  he  travels  for  A.  S.  Barnes  A Co.,  of  Chi- 
cago, and  makes  his  home  at  Lansing,  Mich.  Although  born  in  Iowa  James  H.  Smith  was 
reared  and  educated  in  Indianapolis  and  in  the  college  at  Adrian,  Mich.,  from  which  he 
graduated  in  1876.  Indianapolis  has  been  practically  his  homo  all  his  life  and  here  he 
determined  to  ojien  an  office  after  tinishing  his  legal  education.  He  began  the  study  of 
law  with  Johnson,  Osborne  & Herr,  at  Ooshen,  Ind.,  and  in  1879  was  admitted  to  the  bar 
in  Indianapolis,  after  which  he  [iracticed  his  jirofession  for  a number  of  years  and  gradually 
drifted  into  the  real  estate  and  money  brokerage  luisiness,  which  he  now  follows.  He  was 
married  February  (5,  1883,  to  Lydia  A.  Davidson,  a native  of  'rennessee  and  of  Quaker  par 
entage,  who  came  north  with  her  mother  during  the  Civil  War,  her  father  having  died  when 
she  was  a child.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Smith  are  the  parents  of  two  children:  Florence  N.  and 
Hervey  E.  Mr.  Smith  has  always  been  a Rejiublican  in  politics. 

Da.  E.  D.  Retledoe.  Although  comparatively  young  in  years.  Dr.  Kutledge  is  classed 
among  the  jiopular  physicians  of  Indianapolis,  and  is  in  the  enjoyment  of  a large  practice 
with  the . better  class  of  people  in  and  around  the  city.  He  belongs  to  that  class  of 
physicians  who  recognize  the  fact  that  there  is  something  more  than  a barren  ideality  in 


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“ ministering  to  a mind  diseased,”  or,  in  other  words,  tliat  the  mental  condition  of  the  patient 
has  in  many  cases  much  to  do  witli  his  physical  condition,  and  always  endeavors  to  leave  his 
patient  in  a liappy  and  hopeful  frame  of  mind  where  the  nature  of  the  disease  renders  this 
possible.  Born  in  Delaware  County,  Iiid.,  October  30,  1855,  he  is  a son  of  John  Rutledge, 
whose  birth  occurred  in  Maryland  in  the  year  1801.  When  the  elder  Rutledge  was  a young 
man  he  came  to  Delaware  County,  Ind.,  and  in  1830  bought  land  at  $1.25  an  acre,  being 
among  the  pioneers  of  that  section.  He  became  a successful  farmer  and  accumulated  a 
handsome  competency.  His  death  occurred  in  June,  1801,  at  the  advanced  age  of  ninety 
years.  His  widow  survives  him  and  resides  on  the  old  homestead  he  entered  when  first 
coming  to  the  State.  Her  maiden  name  was  Martha  J.  Dynes,  a native  of  Lebanon,  Ohio, 
and  she  came  to  Indiana  at  an  early  day  with  her  brother.  Dr.  Jeremiah  Dynes,  the  first 
physician  to  locate  in  Delaware  County.  John  Rutledge,  father  of  subject,  was  an  exemplary 
man,  modest  and  retired,  and  never  aspired  or  held  office.  He  was  a faithful  Democrat  in 
his  political  views,  and  a strong  temperance  man,  never  drinking  liquor  of  any  kind,  or 
using  tobacco  in  any  form.  He  was  one  of  the  rei)resentative  citizens  of  Delaware  County 
for  many  years  and  was  frequently  chosen  upon  juries,  owing  to  his  adaptability  for  such 
positions.  One  of  his  sons.  Dr.  William  V.  Rutledge,  served  as  surgeon  of  the  Forty- 
second  Indiana  Cavalry  for  nearly  five  years  during  the  war,  and  from  the  effects  of  hard 
service  died  in  8t.  Louis  in  1892.  The  subject  of  this  sketch.  Dr.  E.  D.  Rutledge,  passed 
his  boyhood  and  youth  in  his  native  county  and  received  a good  practical  education  in  the 
schools  at  Muncie,  Ind.,  and  at  the  old  academy  there.  During  his  youthful  days  he  clerked 
in  a mercantile  establishment  for  a time  and  assisted  with  farm  work  at  home,  where  he  also 
l)egan  the  study  of  medicine  when  about  seventeen  years  old.  Previous  to  this,  however, 
when  but  a lad,  he  became  deeply  interested  in  medicine,  studying  his  brother’s  books  while 
the  latter  was  in  the  army.  He  decided  upon  a professional  career  when  very  young — medi- 
cine, and  could  think  of  very  little  else.  In  1881  he  went  to  St.  Louis  ^nd  entered  the 
American  Medical  College,  from  which  he  graduated  in  the  spring  of  1882.  He  immediately 
began  a general  practice,  locating  at  Sulphur  Springs,  Henry  County,  Ind.,  where  he  carried 
on  a successful  })ractice  for  six  years.  While  there  hew'as  three  times  nominated  for  coroner 
on  the  Democratic  ticket,  but  owing  to  a large  Republican  majority  in  the  county  could  not 
overcome  the  same,  although  he  ran  far  ahead  of  the  ticket.  He  was  physician  for  the 
county  poor  for  over  four  years  in  Henry  County,  and  when  he  left,  resigned  that  position. 
After  a residence  of  fourteen  months  at  New  Burlington,  Delaware  County,  where  he  had  an 
immense  practice,  he  came  to  West  Indianapolis  in  the  fall  of  1888,  as  he  was  unable  to 
attend  to  the  large  country  practice  at  New  Burlington,  his  health  having  failed.  Since 
locating  in  West  Indianapolis  Dr.  Rutledge  has  had  an  excellent  practice.  He  has  also 
lectured  one  term  in  Central  College  of  Physicians  and  Surgeons,  on  diseases  of  women  and 
children.  He  is  a member  of  the  Indiana  Medical  Society,  also  the  Marion  County  Society, 

and  he  is  also  serving  his  third  year  as  2>hysician in  West  Indianapolis.  Socially 

a member  of  the  Red  Men,  he  acts  as  general  marshal  in  all  parades,  etc.,  of  the  same.  In 
the  year  1877  he  married  Miss  Ida  V.  Elliott,  who  was  born  in  the  Old  North  State, 
Three  children  have  been  given  them:.  John  W. , Corral  W.  and  Cora  M.  The  Doctor 
and  wife  are  members  of  the  Christian  Church,  and  in  {politics  he  is  a Democrat. 

John  W.  Singleton.  Among  the  many  uniijue,  yet  useful  and  laudable  enterprises,  to 
which  man’s  attention  has  been  turned  in  his  struggles  to  gain  a foothold  in  the  business 
world,  and  to  secure  a comjietency  for  himself  and  family,  may  be  mentioned  that  in  which 
John  W.  Singleton  is  engaged,  which  was  established  March  1,  1890  at  322-324  Lafayette 
Street,  Indianapolis,  under  the  name  of  the  Indianapolis  Steam  Caiqiet  Cleaning  Works.  The 
building  covers  an  area  of  50x120  feet,  is  two  stories  in  height,  and  is  fitted  uji  with  machin- 
ery capable  of  cleaning  3,000  yards  of  carpet  daily.  Mr.  Singleton  has  been  phenomenally 
successful  in  this  business,  which  is  constantly  and  rapidly  on  the  increase,  and  in  1892  net- 
ted over  $5,000,  an  increase  of  100  per  cent,  over  that  of  the  previous  year.  The  wide-awake 
proprietor  of  this  establishment  was  born  in  Warren,  Penn.,  May  21,  1865,  a son  of  William 
and  Anna  E.  (Jones)  Singleton,  who  were  akso  born  in  the  Keystone  State.  The  father  was 
a producer  of  petroleum,  and  carried  on  a prosperous  business  in  oil  fields  at  Duke  Center, 
Penn.,  for  many  years.  Owing  to  the  fact  that  he  was  crippled,  he  was  the  only  'one  of  fif- 


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OF  THE 

'JMIVERSITY  OF  ILLINOT 


.1.  A.  SUTCLIFF. 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  435 

teeu  brothers  that  did  not  serve  during  the  entire  Civil  War,  the  youngest  brother  enlisting 
at  the  age  of  sixteen.  Thirteen  or  fourteen  of  these  brothers  were  mustered  out  of  the  serv- 
ice at  the  close  of  the  war,  not  having  received  a scratch.  The  father  died  in  March,  1881, 
but  his  widow  survives  him,  and  is  a resident  of  Irvington,  Ind.  In  the  county  in  which  he 
was  born  John  W.  Singleton  was  reared,  and  he  received  a high-school  education  at  Warren, 
Penn.  He  afterward  became  a pedagogue,  and  followed  this  occupation  for  three  years,  at 
the  end  of  which  time  he  abandoned  it,  and  in  November,  1880,  came  to  Indianapolis  to 
accept  the  position  of  book-keeper  for  J.  B.  McElraiu  & Co.,  a position  he  held  until  he 
engaged  in  his  pre.sent  line  of  work.  On  October  8,  1890,  he  led  to  the  altar  Miss  Adaline 
Treat,  a native  of  New  Haven,  Conn.,  and  a daughter  of  Thelis  and  Celia  B.  (Baldwin)  Treat, 
also  natives  of  the  Nutmeg  State.  One  child  has  been  born  to  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Singleton, 
Charlotte,  born  July  29,  1891.  Mr.  Singleton  is  independent  in  his  political  views,  and  sup- 
ports the  man  whom  he  deems  best  fitted  for  the  oflice. 

David  J.  Pkindle.  Few  persons  are  now  in  existence  who  can  remember  the  old-fash- 
ioned bake-ovens  that  were  used  by  our  forefathers  in  years  gone  by,  being  built  in  the 
ground  and  sustained  by  piles  of  brick,  beneath  which  fires  were  built  and  the  tempting 
bread-stuffs  piled  for  baking.  This  has  all  changed  now,  and  the  result  in  the  modern 
bakery,  with  its  massive  ovens  and  scores  of  busy  men.  The  name  of  David  J.  Prindle  is 
widely  known  in  this  connection,  and  the  patronage  which  his  establishment  receives  leaves 
one  a thorough  believer  in  the  saying  that  “Bread  is  the  staff  of  life.’’  He  established  this 
business  in  1886,  and  is  carrying  on  a reasonably  profitable  trade,  his  annual  business 
amounting  to  about  $2,500.  He  has  the  honor  to  have  been  born  in  Jefferson  County,  Ind., 
at  Madison,  in  1865,  his  parents  being  Merwin  and  Cynthia  (Mefford)  Prindle,  the  former  a 
native  of  Vermont  and  the  latter  of  Kentucky.  Merwin  Prindle  was  a railroad  contractor 
during  his  lifetime,  and  he  was  a man  of  much  push,  energy  and  enterprise.  He  was  called 
upon  to  pay  the  last  debt  of  nature  in  1880.  David  J.  Prindle  spent  his  youthful  days  in 
Madison,  Ind. , in  the  public  schools  of  which  place  he  acquired  a practical  common-school 
education,  amply  sufficient  to  fit  him  for  the  ordinary  duties  of  life.  In  1880  he  came  to 
Indianapolis  and  began  learning  the  baker’s  trade,  and  until  engaging  in  business  for  him- 
self in  1886,  labored  for  others.  He  has  so  arranged  his  premises  as  to  have  every  facility 
for  doing  a high  grade  of  work,  and  in  the  consummation  of  his  duties  employs  a number  of 
assistants.  In  addition  to  his  bakery  he  has  a first-class  stand  at  the  public  market  building, 
where  he  does  an  extensive  busines.s.  He  deals  in  all  kinds  of  goods  in  his  line,  such  as 
bread,  cakes,  pies,  etc.,  and  their  admirable  nature  has  won  him  wide  and  favorable  recogni 
tion.  On  August  29,  1892,  Mr.  Prindle  was  united  in  marriage  with  Miss  Katie  McLaugh 
lin,  a native  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  he  and  his  wife  are  attendants  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church,  of  which  he  is  a member  and  in  which  he  has  served  in  the  capacity  of 
secretary.  Mr.  Prindle  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F. , and  politically  has  always  been  a 
Bepublican,  but  not  deeming  it  expedient  to  bother  with  politics  or  public  affairs,  he  devotes 
his  entire  time  to  his  business,  but  at  the  same  time  is  none  the  less  a highly  esteemed  citizen. 

\V.  C.  Lano.  There  is  no  line  of  business  of  more  vital  importance  to  the  community  than 
that  of  the  grocer’s  calling,  nor  in  fact  one  in  which  enterprise  and  integrity  are  better 
rewarded.  The  dealer  in  the  necessities  of  life  must  needs  be  a man  of  great  discrimination 
and  superior  judgment  and  these  qualities  are  jiossessed  by  W.  C.  Lang  in  an  eminent 
degree.  His  establishment  is  located  at  the  corner  of  State  and  Hoyt  Streets  and  is  supjilied, 
not  only  with  a fine  line  of  groceries  Imt  also  of  meats,  and  is  doing  a business  of  satisfac- 
tory magnitude.  He  was  born  August  2(5,  1856,  to  Christ  and  Wilhelmina  Lang,  natives  of 
(lermany,  who  came  to  America  many  years  since  and  located  in  Indianapolis  where  they 
lived  until  death,  the  father  dying  in  1862  and  the  mother  in  1891.  The  subject  of  this 
sketch  was  but  six  years  old  when  his  father  died  and  he  was  consecpiently  ol  liged  to  begin 
working  for  himself  at  the  age  of  ten  years.  He  followed  various  callings  until  1873,  wlum 
he  liecame  an  emj)loye  on  the  Pan  Handle  Railroad,  with  which  company  ho  remained  for 
eleven  years  being  jiromoted  to  the  position  of  day  foreman  and  later  to  that  of  night  yard 
master.  Upon  leaving  the  services  of  this  road  he  entered  the  employ  of  the  C.  H.  1).  Kail 
road  as  yard  foreman  and  was  here  later  also  promoted  to  the  position  of  night  yardmaster. 
At  the  end  of  four  years,  in  1888,  he  resigned  his  position  to  engage  in  the  grocery  and 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


43() 

meat  business  aud  has  since  devoted  his  time  and  attention  to  this  line  of  human  endeavor 
with  reasonable  success,  his  genial  and  cordial  manner,  his  honesty  and  his  fine  stock  of 
goods  winning  him  many  patrons.  While  in  the  employ  of  the  Pan  Handle  Road,  August 
5,  1876,  he  met  with  a painful  accident  while  coupling  cars,  losing  three  lingers  on  his  right 
hand,  his  thumb  and  little  finger  being  all  that  remains.  Mr.  Lang  was  married  in  1878  to 
Miss  Amanda  Mitchell,  a native  of  Indianapolis,  by  whom  he  has  three  children;  Harry, 
Earl  (deceased),  and  Harvey  (deceased).  In  his  political  proclivities  Mr.  Lang  has  always 
been  a Democrat,  but  in  local  affairs  is  not  partisan,  voting  for  the  one  whom  he  considers 
the  best  man,  irrespective  of  ])arty. 

Henry  MiVGel.  A daily  provision  for  the  material  wants  of  life,  which  means  an 
appeasing  of  that  craving  creature  of  man  known  as  the  appetite,  is  one  of  the  most 
important  necessities  of  existence.  Without  the  aid  of  the  tradesman,  the  whole  public 
would  find  itself  in  a tangled  dilemma  from  which  extraction  would  be  impossible.  The 
mission  of  the  merchant  is  so  important  that  he  is  an  indispensable  member  of  society 
at  large.  The  grocery  store  is  one  of  the  prime  necessities  of  life,  and  one  of  the  most 
important  establishments  of  this  kind  is  that  owned  by  Henry  Magel,  who  was  born  in 
Fairfield  County,  Ohio,  November  16,  1861,  a son  of  Philip  and  Anna  E.  (Green)  Magel, 
who  were  natives  of  Germany  and  came  to  the  United  States  in  1858  and  to  Indianapo- 
lis in  1862,  the  father  being  connected  with  the  Big  Four  Railroad  for  a number  of  years. 
The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  but  a few  months  old  at  the  time  his  parents  came  to 
Indianapolis.  Here  he  was  reared  and  received  a good  education  in  the  public  schools. 
After  tinishing  his  education  he  learned  the  upholsterer’s  business  and  for  over  four  years 
was  employed  in  the  shops  of  the  Big  Four  Railroad  at  Brightwood,  a portion  of  the 
time  as  foreman  in  which  capacity  he  was  acting  at  the  time  of  his  resignation.  He  then 
entered  a retail  furnishing  establishment  owned  by  Spiegel,  Thomas  & Company  of  In- 
dianapolis with  which  he  remained  as  upholsterer  for  a number  of  years.  In  1891  he 
embarked  in  the  grocery  business  on  North  Delaware  Street,  being  associated  with  a Mr. 
Pasquier  the  firm  being  known  as  Pasquier  & Magel,  to  which  business  the  most  of  his 
attention  is  still  given,  and  given  successfuly.  In  the  fall  of  1893  he  was  elected  a mem- 
ber of  the  city  council  on  the  Republican  ticket  from  the  eighth  ward  by  a majority  of 
fifty  four  votes,  although  he  was  in  the  stronghold  of  the  Democracy.  Socially  he  is  a 
member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  but  aside  from  this  belongs  to  no  secret  organization.  While 
a resident  of  Brightwood  he  was  treasurer  of  the  town  three  years  in  succession.  He 
was  married  November  23,  1882,  to  Miss  Louise  Keribu,  a native  of  Ohio,  by  whom  he 
has  three  children;  Aurzella,  Frank  aud  Edmund. 

Charles  H.  Black.  A recent  historical  work  made  an  effort  to  ascertain  the  names  of 
the  nations  that  were  furthest  behind  in  the  actual  improvements  of  civilization  and  it  was 
determined  that  China  leads  the  list.  While  there  are,  it  is  true,  darker  and  less  explored 
countries,  China  appears  doubly  dark,  for  the  simple  reason  that  her  pretentions  to  civili- 
zation do  not  accord  with  her  appearance.  This  is  particularly  true  in  the  case  of  vehicles 
for  conveyance.  In  this  line  America  no  doubt  eclipses  all  nations,  and  in  Indianapolis,  a 
noted  carriage  maker  is  Charles  H.  Black,  whose  present  desirable  premises  are  at  44  East 
Maryland  Street  and  42  and  44  South  Pennsylvania  Street,  with  the  wood  working  shops  on 
Louisiana  Street,  where  his  shops  are,  while  the  repository  is  at  44  South  Pennsylvania 
Street,  with  the  painting  and  trimming  department  on  the  upper  floors.  The  shops  are  a 
model  of  thorough  organization  and  are  fully  equipped  with  the  latest  tools  and  machinery. 
Mr.  Black  employs  only  the  most  experienced,  skilled  workmen.  He  is  one  of  the  best 
judges  of  material  in  America,  and  buys  only  the  highest  grade  of  everything,  while  being 
such  a large  consumer,  he  is  enabled  to  secure  discounts  for  cash,  that  place  him  in  a posi- 
tion to  turn  out  the  best  work  at  the  same  prices  that  much  inferior  carriages  are  sold  for 
elsewhere.  The  manufactory  has  become  renowned  all  over  the  United  States  for  the  supe- 
riority, elegance  and  durability  of  its  construction  and  is  among  the  first  to  produce  all  the 
new  styles  as  they  come  out,  being  originators  not  imitators.  Mr.  Black  is  a thoroughly 
practical  man,  and  is  the  oldest  carriage  manufacturer  in  the  city.  Born  in  Hagerstown, 
Wayne  County,  Ind. , October  5,  1852,  he  has  grown  up  in  the  trade  in  this  locality,  and 
brings  to  bear  experience  that  is  reflected  in  his  vehicles,  which  are  now  so  generally  in  use 


437 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

throughout  Indianapolis  and  vicinity.  His  parents,  George  H.  and  Lydia  A.  (Beck)  Black, 
were  natives  of  the  Keystone  State  and  there  made  their  home  until  1842  when  they  moved 
to  Indiana,  locating  at  Hagerstown,  where  they  resided  until  1854.  The  father  then  moved 
to  Indianapolis  where  he  became  one  of  the  popular  and  successful  contractors  and  builders 
in  that  city.  There  he  resided  many  years,  dying  in  1891.  During  the  Civil  War  he  served 
as  first-lieutenant  of  Company  L,  First  Heavy  Artillery,  Twenty-tir.st  Indiana  Regiment,  for 
nearly  two  years,  or  until  the  close  of  war.  He  was  wounded  at  Brazos,  Tex.  His  son, 
Edward  E.,  enlisted  in  July,  1861,  when  only  eight  and  a half  years  of  age,  as  drummer  boy 
of  the  Twenty-first  Regiment  band,  and  was  the  youngest  boy  in  the  United  States  to  enlist. 
He  served  two  years  and  nine  months  when  the  band  was  dispensed  with  and  he  returned 
home.  At  the  time  Company  L was  recruited  by  his  father,  George  H.  Black,  this  boy  re-en- 
listed as  bugler  and  served  until  the  close  of  war.  Charles  H.  Black,  the  subject  of  this 
sketch,  was  two  years  of  age  when  the  family  came  to  Indianapolis,  and  here  he  was  reared 
and  educated,  finishing  the  public  schools  and  taking  a commercial  course  in  the  Bryant  & 
Stratton  Business  College.  He  then  embarked  in  the  carriage  and  blacksmith  trade  with  S. 
AV.  Drew,  on  East  Market  Square,  and  after  serving  a three  years’  apprenticeship,  he  entered 
the  employ  of  the  Shaw  Carriage  Company,  where  he  remained  two  years  in  the  capacity  of 
blacksmith.  After  serving  two  years  at  carriage  making  with  George  Lowe  on  South  Ten- 
nes.see  Street,  he  engaged  in  business  for  himself  on  the  same  street  under  the  firm  name  of 
Swain  & Black,  and  continued  this  successfully  for  one  year.  Then  Mr.  Black  bought  his 
partner’s  interest  and  subsequently  became  associated  with  V.  M.  Backus,  under  the  firm 
name  of  Black  & Backus,  this  partnership  continuing  one  year.  Mr.  Black  then  removed 
to  his  present  (juarters.  He  does  not  attempt  to  compete  with  cheap,  shoddy  work  shipped 
to  Indianapolis,  but  he  turns  out  first-class  hand-made  work,  the  finest  in  the  city  or  State. 
In  the  fall  of  1893  Mr.  Black  was  Republican  candidate  for  city  council  from  the  tenth  ward 
but  although  he  was  defeated  he  cut  the  Democratic  majority,  which  was  formerly  400,  down 
to  100,  thus  showing  his  popularity.  He  has  ever  taken  an  active  interest  in  the  politics  of 
the  city  and  has  accomplished  much  for  the  Republican  party  but  would  never  acce})t  the 
nomination  for  anything  until  last  election.  In  the  year  bSTO  Mr.  Black  was  married  and 
to  his  union  has  been  born  one  daughter.  Socially  he  has  been  a member  of  the  K.  of  P. 
for  twenty-two  years.  He  has  always  taken  an  active  interest  in  every  enterprise  for  the 
city’s  welfare  and  has  contributed  much  to  its  advancement  and  progress.  He  is  liberal  in 
his  views  and  is  a supporter  of  church  organizations,  although  not  a member. 

C.  J.  Tkuemper,  Indianapolis,  was  born  in  Germany,  May  4,  1853,  being  the  son  of 
(Christopher  and  Anna  (Roseudahl)  Tniemper,  both  of  whom  were  natives  of  that  country 
and  lived  there  until  their  respective  deaths.  The  father  was  a successful  wholesaler  and 
broker  of  hides,  tallow,  etc,  and  also  owned  and  operated  a hotel,  being  a man  of  wealth 
and  more  than  ordinary  intelligence.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  reared  in  his  native 
country  and  received  a liberal  education,  his  parents  being  well  to  do,  and  desirous  of  giving 
their  children  suitable  advantages  in  the  struggle  for  wealtli,  fame  and  happiness.  He  attended 
the  university  at  Goettingen  three  years,  where  he  thoroughly  mastered  the  occupation  of 
saddlery,  upholstering  and  decorating,  receiving  a diploma  from  that  famous  institution. 
After  com[)leting  his  course  at  the  university,  he  traveled  throughovit  Germany  for  a year, 
working  as  a journeyman  at  his  trade,  after  which  he  located  near  Hamburg,  and  secured 
a position  as  foreman  of  a large  factory,  continuing  as  such  about  five  months.  He  then 
went  to  Hamburg,  where  he  remained  about  a year,  working  in  one  of  the  largest  upholster- 
ing and  decorating  establishments  of  the  East,  where  none  but  the  finest  grade  of  work  was 
turned  out.  Here  he  received  high  recommendations  to  Vogt,  of  Berlin,  the  leading 
decorator  and  upholsterer  of  Germany,  who  recently  made  such  fine  displays  at  the 
World’s  Fair,  at  (Chicago,  and  who  is  the  official  (h^corator  of  the  im])erial  court.  Only 
workmen  of  high  artistic  taste,  bearing  the  highest  recommendations,  were  able  to  secure 
work  there.  Here  Mr.  Tniemper  s])ent  three  years,  during  which  time  he  (‘xecuted  the 
very  finest  work.  Owing  to  troubles  arising  from  tlie  war  between  France  and  Germany, 
and  in  order  to  escajie  military  service,  Air.  'rruemper  came  to  America  in  1873,  going 
direct  to  Indianapolis,  wlime  he  entered  the  employ  of  Albert  Gall,  taking  the  foremanshi)) 
of  the  decorating  department  of  his  business,  whicfii  position  he  held  acceptably  for  four 


438 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


years,  during  which  time  he  was  also  a partner  in  the  tent  and  awning  department  of  the 
business.  Mr.  Truemper  is  the  inventor  of  three  or  four  valuable  patents  in  awnings, 
shades,  rollers,  etc,  which  fact  was  one  of  the  principal  reasons  that  induced  him  to  embark 
in  business  exclusively  for  himself  in  1877.  He  has  been  prosperous  ever  since,  and  conducts 
a large  manufacturing  business  in  regalias,  society  goods,  theatrical  goods,  awnings,  etc.,  and 
occupies  for  this  juirpose  a two-story  brick  building,  50x130  feet,  equipped  with  special 
machinery,  operated  by  a six  horse-power  steam  engine,  and  employs  many  skilled  work- 
men. He  makes  a specialty  of  interior  and  exterior  decorations  of  buildings,  and  is  the 
only  practical  public  decorator  in  Indiana,  and  many  are  the  flattering  comments,  published 
and  otherwise,  which  have  been  made  in  recognition  of  his  natural  ability  and  taste  in  this 
artistic  direction.  He  was  one  of  the  originators  of  the  annual  chrysanthemum  exposi- 
tions at  Tomlinson  Hall,  and  during  the  seven  years  of  its  existence  he  has  had  charge  of 
the  same,  and  has  executed  all  the  beautiful  decorations  which  have  charmed  the  eye 
of  thousands  of  observers.  During  the  Columbian  celebration,  in  1892,  Mr.  Truemper 
constrircted  and  decorated  the  gorgeous  floats  for  the  occasion,  which  all  so  much  admired. 
Also  during  the  national  encampment  of  the  G.  A.  R.,  in  Indianapolis,  in  1893,  he  deco- 
rated all  the  elaborate  floats  for  the  processions  of  war  pageantry,  which  were  so  realistic  and 
thrilling.  In  1891  he  was  appointed  chief  decorator  for  the  World’s  Columbian  Exposi- 
tion, but  owing  to  important  business  and  private  reasons,  was  unable  to  accept  the  same, 
which  was  a real  loss  to  the  Fair  management.  Mr.  Truemper  was  married  in  1878,  to 
Anna  Stump,  a native  of  Indianapolis,  by  whom  eight  children  have  been  borne,  four  of 
whom  are  living,  as  follows:  Adolph  H.,  Christopher  J.,  Lillie,  A.  V.  Mr.  Truemper 
is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.,  uniformed  rank;  the  Elks,  the  Red  Men,  the  Maennerchor 
Society,  the  Turner  Society,  and  of  several  social  clubs.  He  is  also  a member  of  the 
State  Floricultural  Society  and  is  president  of  the  People’s  Building  Association  No.  4,  one 
of  the  most  successful  in  the  city.  He  is  a director  of  Castle  Hall  of  his  lodge — K. 
of  P. — having  passed  all  chairs,  and  is  a trustee  of  Castle  Hall  Association,  for  the  erec- 
tion of  the  new  building  which  will  cost  $200,000.  He  has  served  officially  in  the  Turner 
Society  as  treasurer,  first  speaker,  and  has  held  various  positions  of  trust  in  other  orders 
and  societies.  Mr.  Truemper  in  a Democrat  in  politics,  and  has  taken  an  active  interest  in 
the  past  in  such  affairs.  He  is  oue  of  the  substantial,  upright  and  well-known  German 
citizens  of  Indianapolis.  He  is  a great  lover  of  Nature  and  of  out-door  exercise  and  8|)ort. 
He  has  erected  boats  and  yachts  for  private  and  public  use,  having  purchased  eighty-five 
acres  of  land  near  North  Indianapolis,  on  the  White  River,  where  he  has  fitted  up  a club 
house  for  public  use,  known  as  “Bellevue,”  which  he  intends  to  make  one  of  the  most 
popular  resorts  for  members  and  friends  in  Indiana  devoted  to  the  best  interests  of  the 
people,  and  strictly  a family  resort.  It  may  also  be  said  greatly  to  his  credit,  that  he 
was  one  of  the  promoters  and  organizers  of  the  Fresh  Air  Mission  for  the  poor  children  of 
the  city  during  the  heated  term,  which  organization  has  proved  to  be  one  of  the  most 
popular  charities  in  the  city.  All  in  all,  he  is  a broad-gauged  man,  of  highly  cultivated 
tastes,  of  deep  philanthropy  and  superior  intelligence  and  public  spirit. 

Maurice  Donnelly.  The  trade  in  hardwood  lumber  is  undoubtedly  one  of  the  most 
im|iortaut  in  Indianapolis,  and  the  city  is  excellently  represented  in  this  respect  by  a number 
of  responsible,  reliable  houses,  among  which  may  be  mentioned  that  of  Landers  & Don- 
nelly, of  which  Maurice  Donnelly  is  a member.  This  firm  established  themselves  in  business 
on  the  premises  now  occupied  by  them  in  1890,  at  148  South  West  Street,  since  which  time 
they  have  met  with  satisfactory  success,  both  financially  and  as  regards  reputation.  Their 
lumber  yard  covers  an  area  of  180x600  feet  and  is  well  equipped  with  buildings  of  all 
descriptions  and  is  provided  with  every  convenience  for  receiving  and  shipping  their  goods. 
They  deal  in  all  kinds  of  hardwood,  for  furniture  manufacturers,  agricultural  implement 
makers,  builders,  cabinet-makers,  and  annually  supply  millions  of  street  car  and  railroad 
ties,  their  year’s  sales  amounting  to  about  10.000,000  feet.  They  supply  a large  trade  in 
Indiana  and  sister  States  and  their  time  is  fully  occupied  in  looking  after  their  extensive 
interests.  Maurice  Donnelly,  the  junior  member  of  the  firm,  was  born  in  Ireland,  April  21, 
1859,  his  parents  being  Thomas  and  Honora  (Lawler)  Donnelly,  the  former  of  whom  died  in 
1868.  the  latter  being  still  a resident  of  the  Isle  of  Erin.  Maurice  was  left  fatherless  at  the 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

UNIVERSITY  OF  ILLiNOl' 


439 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

age  of  uiue  years,  and  owing  to  this  fact  he  was  compelled  to  look  out  for  himself  at  the 
early  age  of  fourteen  years;  and  with  this  end  in  view  he  went  to  England,  where  he  secured 
employment  in  the  office  of  a large  coal  mining  concern,  with  which  firm  he  remained  for 
seven  years,  during  which  time  he  was  promoted  to  the  position  of  agent  of  the  firm  at 
Liverpool.  In  1882  he  came  to  America,  and  after  spending  a short  time  in  New  York  City 
he  went  to  Chicago,  where  he  spent  two  years  in  the  freight  department  of  the  C.  M.  & St. 
P.  Railroad.  At  the  end  of  the  above  mentioned  time  he  came  to  Indianapolis,  arriving 
in  the  month  of  August,  and  for  four  years  thereafter  he  held  a position  in  Landers’ 
pork-house,  and  then  became  a member  of  the  wholesale  liquor  firm  of  Hild  & Donnelly, 
which  firm  was  in  existence  from  1887  to  1889,  when  IMr.  Donnelly  retired  to  take  the 
agency  of  the  Madison  Brewing  Con)i)any,  with  which  he  was  connected  two  years.  While 
thus  engaged  he  formed  a partnership  with  H.  J.  Landers,  under  the  firm  name  of  Landers 
& Donnelly  and  they  embarked  in  the  wholesale  hardwood  lumber  business,  which  they  are 
still  conducting.  In  1892  Mr.  Donnelly  and  his  partner  purchased  a rice  plantation  of  600 
acres  in  southwest  Louisiana  and  are  extensively  engaged  in  the  cultivation  of  this  com- 
modity. In  fact,  these  gentlemen  are  exceptionally  wide- awake  business  men  and  have 
built  up  a reputation  for  reliability,  honesty  and  fair  dealing  which  is  in  every  sense  of 
the  word  well  deserved.  In  July  1891,  Mr.  Donnelly  severed  his  connection  with  the  Madi- 
son Brewing  Company  and  accepted  the  management  of  the  Indianapolis  branch  of  the 
Terre  Haute  Brewing  Company,  which  position  he  still  retains.  The  growing  and  prosper- 
ous business  of  this  brewery  in  Indianapolis  and  vicinity  is  the  best  evidence  of  Mr.  Don- 
nelly’s close  attention  to  his  business,  the  annual  out-put  of  the  san  e averaging  over 
80,()()0  barrels  of  which  Mr.  Donnelly’s  branch  disposes  of  over  20,000  barrels.  Mr.  Don- 
nelly was  married  in  October,  1892,  to  Miss  Sallie  McCarty,  a native  of  Indianapolis,  and  a 
daughter  of  Michael  and  Mary  McCarty.  Socially  Mr.  Donnelly  is  a member  of  The  Elks, 
the  Red  Men  and  the  Shields  Club,  and  also  the  Ancient  Order  of  Hibernians,  having 
been  a member  of  the  latter  order  for  the  past  ten  years,  and  served  as  its  president  four 
years.  He  has  been  an  active  worker  and  supporter  of  the  Democratic  party  and  wields  a 
wide  influence  throughout  the  city.  He  has  on  various  occasions  been  urged  by  his  many 
friends  to  make  the  race  for  some  county  office,  but  has  invariably  declined,  the  political 
arena  having  no  charms  tor  him.  On  the  16th  of  November,  1893,  the  recorder  of  Marion 
County  died  suddenly,  and  the  county  commissioners  unanimously  selected  Mr.  Donnelly 
to  fill  out  the  unexpired  term  of  the  deceased  recorder.  The  jJace  was  tendered  him 
unsolicited  and  is  further  evidence  of  his  standing  as  a citizen. 

Daniel  W.  Noble  (deceased).  There  is  little  need  to  portray  the  virtues  or  defend  the 
memory  of  this  gentleman, for  he  lives  in  the  affection  of  his  family  and  friends  as  a devoted 
husband,  kind  neighbor  and  pul)lic-sj)irited  citizen.  During  the  many  years  in  which  he 
resided  in  Marion  County,  Iiid.,  he  was  to  the  people  all  that  is  retjuired  in  good  citizenship, 
pul)lic  enterprise  and  sympathetic  friendship.  In  the  love  of  his  family  he  found  his  cares 
lightened  and  in  the  respect  of  his  fellow  citizens  received  the  reward  of  his  faithfulness. 
This  worthy  representative  was  born  in  Lanesboro,  Mass.,  February  14,  1808,  and  when  but 
seven  years  of  age  he  removed  with  his  father  to  Cenesee  County,  N.  Y.  He  walked  through 
with  the  wagons  and  helped  drive  the  cows.  From  a boy  he  had  always  been  industrious, 
economical  and  thoroughly  reliable.  As  soon  as  old  enough  he  worked  out  by  the  month 
and  managed  to  save  enough  from  his  wages  to  embark  in  business  for  himself  when  a young 
man.  From  1834  to  1836  he  was  engaged  in  Imsiness  in  Whiteford,  Mich.,  from  tliat  date 
until  1837  he  was  in  Boston,  Mass.,  from  1837  until  1840  he  was  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  and 
from  1840  to  1848  he  was  in  Dayton,  Ohio.  During  all  these  years  he  kept  a book  store. 
In  1840,  September  8,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Harriet  M.  Blood,  daughter  of  John  Blood, 
who  was  born  in  Groton,  Mass.  Five  children  were  the  fruits  of  this  union  and  named  as 
follows:  Edwin  W.,  liorn  at  Dayton,  Ohio,  in  1842,  died  in  1871  from  tlie  effects  of  a 
wound  received  in  the  army;  he  eidisted  in  tlie  Civil  War,  in  Company  I),  'I’wenty  sixth 
Indiana  Regiment;  he  had  marrif'd  Miss  Ethel  Hathaway  in  1870,  but  had  no  children. 
Charles  H.  Noble  served  in  Company  K,  First  Indiana  Cavalry,  for  three  years;  in  1866  he 
was  appointed  second  lieutenant  in  the  regulai'  army  by  Gen.  Dumont  and  he  is  now  capt- 
ain of  Com[)any  A,  Sixteenth  Infantry,  at  Fort  Douglas,  Utah ; he  was  first  married  to 


t40 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


Miss  Sallie  Kline,  hut.  after  her  death,  in  1890,  be  married  Miss  Mary  E.  Palmer;  he  has  no 
children.  Cyrus  B.  was  also  in  the  Civil  War,  enlisting  in  Company  A,  One  Hundred  and 
Thirty-second  Indiana;  he  is  now  residing  in  Indianapolis;  he  married  Miss  Hattie  Mathews 
and  they  have  three  children,  as  follows:  Harriet  M. , Mary  W.  and  Charles  C.  The  next 
child  horn  to  Daniel  AV.  Nohle — Frank  \V. — is  now  residing  in  Indianapolis;  he  married 
Miss  Elizabeth  T.  Lightfoot.  Daniel  W.,  who  resides  on  the  home  place,  is  married  to 
Miss  May  C.  Tomlinson  and  they  have  these  children : Lucy  E. , Edwin  F.  and  Ruth  H. 
In  1848  the  father  of  these  children  removed  to  Indianapolis  and  opened  a book  store  in 
Temi)erance  Hall,  an  old-fashioned,  two-story  brick  building  standing  on  the  north  side  of 
Washington  Street,  next  to  the  alley  east  of  Illinois  Street.  At  that  time  he  resided  on  the 
northeast  corner  of  Ohio  and  Illinois  Streets,  which  was  then  on  the  outskirts  of  the  city. 
He  finally  sold  out  his  business  and  after  this  was  associated  with  several  others  in  the  first 
jdaning-mill  in  the  city,  situated  on  the  site  of  the  Enterprise  Hotel,  on  Massachusetts 
Avenue.  In  December,  1854,  he  removed  to  his  farm  in  Perry  Township,  Marion  County, 
Ind.  .and  there  j)assed  the  remainder  of  his  days.  His  record  as  a public  and  private  citizen  and 
neighbor  was  alike  untarnished  and  in  all  the  affairs  of  life  he  bore  himself  in  an  upright 
manner  and  was  recognized  as  a man  of  true  worth.  He  was  thoroughly  conscientious  in 
all  things.  Though  reared  a Democrat  he  left  the  party  at  the  time  of  the  slavery  agita- 
tion and  ever  after  was  an  earnest  Republican.  He  furnished  three  sons  to  fight  for  the  old 
flag.  He  was  not  a member  of  any  secret  order  nor  was  he  a member  of  any  church,  but 
while  in  the  city  he  attended  the  Presbyterian  Church,  to  which  he  contributed  liberally  of 
his  means.  Mrs.  Noble’s  father,  John  Blood,  was  reared  in  Groton,  Mass.,  and  was  there 
married  to  Miss  Lydia  Kemp.  Soon  after  he  emigrated  to  Mason,  N.  H. , and  tilled  the  soil 
there  until  his  death,  about  1889.  To  his  marriage  were  born  eight  children,  as  follows: 
John  (deceased),  married,  and  left  one  daughter;  Moody  (deceased),  married,  and  left  one 
daughter;  Junia  (deceased),  married,  and  left  three  children;  Betsey  (deceased),  married 
Asa  Emerson  and  left  six  children;  Nancy,  married  Mr.  Lakin  and  died,  leaving  one  daugh- 
ter, Melissa;  Mary,  married  Charles  Nicholas  first  and  afterward  a Mr.  Pratt.  She  is  now 
deceased;  Martin  L.  married  but  is  now  deceased,  and  Harriet  M.  married  D.  AV.  Noble 
(our  subject).  Mrs.  Noble’s  great-grandfather  came  from  England. 

Philip  Stoops.  The  calling  of  the  farmer  is  as  old  as  the  world,  and  the  majority  of  the 
men  who  have  followed  it  have  led  upright  and  blameless  lives,  and  the  career  of  Philip 
Stoops  has  been  no  exception  to  this  rule.  He  was  born  in  Nicholas  County,  Ky.,  February 
‘24,  1815,  where  he  continued  to  reside  until  he  was  eighteen  years  of  age,  his  educational 
advantages  being  quite  limited  in  the  meantime,  for  what  few  schools  there  were  were  of  an 
inferior  kind.  In  the  fall  of  1833  he  came  with  his  parents  to  Indiana,  locating  in  Marion 
County,  where  the  father  purchased  160  acres  of  land,  .the  timber  on  a considerable  portion 
of  which  had  been  deadened  but  not  cleared.  Here  he  erected  him  a house  and  on  this  farm 
made  his  home  the  remainder  of  his  days,  dying  in  1859.  Prior  to  this  he  had  succeeded  in 
clearing  about  eighty  acres  of  land  and  also  found  time  to  serve  his  country  in  the  Black 
Hawk  War.  He  was  early  in  life  a AAOiig  and  then  became  a Republican  and  as  such  con- 
tinued to  the  last.  \\^l,iile  living  in  his  native  State  of  Kentucky  he  united  with  the  Presby- 
terian Church  but  upon  his  arrival  in  Indiana,  as  there  was  no  church  of  his  denomination  in  his 
immediate  neighborhood,  he  united  with  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  He  was  married 
thrice,  first  in  Pennsylvania,  to  Nancy  James,  by  whom  he  became  the  father  of  seven  children: 
William,  who  married  a Miss  Graham  and  died  leaving  two  children,  McClellan  and  Susan; 
John ; Philip;  Betsey,  who  married  Jacob  Shearer  and  died  leaving  three  children,  John,  George 
and  Laban;  Alexander,  who  married  Elizabeth  Rayburn  and  died  leaving  two  children, 
James  and  Alice;  Henry,  who  married  Amanda  Hunter  and  died  leaving  three  children, 
Rufus,  Nancy  and  Alice;  Nancy  (deceased),  who  married  Andrew  Shearer  and  became  the 
mother  of  several  children.  For  his  second  wife  Mr.  Stoops,  Sr.,  took  Rosanna  Kejihartaiid 
the  following  children  were  given  them:  Joseph  (deceased);  Polly,  who  married  Nathan 
Davis;  Samuel,  Andrew,  Ellen,  who  married  Benjamin  Springer;  Sarah,  who  married 
Andrew  Vaiisickle;  Franklin,  who  died  in  the  Federal  service  in  1863;  Robert,  who  lives  in 
Kansas,  having  served  three  years  in  an  Indiana  regiment  during  the  war;  Delilah,  who 
married  John  Hanes,  of  Hancock  County,  Ind.;  Martha,  who  married  Jeremiah  Coffin,  and 


441 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

Jacob.  The  father  of  tliese  children  died  in  1855  at  the  age  of  sixty-three  years,  his  birth  having 
occurred  in  Pennsylvania.  The  paternal  grandfather,  William  Stoops,  was  also  a Pennsyl- 
vanian, born  in  1750  and  died  in  Kentucky  about  1825,  having  been  a soldier  of  the  Revolu- 
tion. Philip  Stoops,  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  remained  with  his  parents  until  he  was  about 
twenty-three  years  old  and  assisted  his  father  in  caring  for  the  younger  members  of  the  family. 
In  1838  he  entered  eighty  acres  of  land  in  Hancock  County,  which  he  kept  for  several  years 
but  never  lived  on,  and  finally  sold  it  for  |200.  He  next  purchased  eighty  acres  in  Warren  Town- 
ship, Marion  County,  on  which  no  improvements  had  been  made  and  after  his  marriage  in 
1838  to  Edith,  daughter  of  John  Vansickle,  they  settled  on  this  land  and  began  housekeep- 
ing in  a little  log  cabin.  At  various  times  he  increased  his  acreage  until  he  was  the  owner 
of  140  acres,  only  ten  acres  of  which  were  cleared,  but  since  that  time  he  has  cleared  eighty 
acres.  In  1861  he  purchased  a 100-acre  tract  in  Warren  Township,  and  in  1866  bought 
eighty  acres  in  Lawrence  Township,  and  about  1889  forty  more  acres  in  that  township. 
His  entire  land  now  amounts  to  390  acres.  To  himself  and  wife  the  following  children  were 
born;  Alexander,  who  married  Catherine  Morris,  has  four  children:  Mary,  Elsworth,  Fran- 
ces and  Sarah;  John,  who  was 'three  years  in  the  Union  army,  first  married  Sarah  Marshall, 
by  whom  he  has  three  children:  Nora  (who  married  Andrew  Witte),  Albert  and  Edna,  and 
by  his  second  wife,  Nancy  Baker,  uee  Carr,  lie  had  one  child — Myrtle;  Mary,  who  married 
Newton  Ford,  left  two  sons:  Charles  and  Everett;  Amanda  J.,  who  married  Joseph  W. 
Irwin  in  1864  and  became  the  mother  of  seven  children : Charles  (who  died  in  1873),  Edgar 
(who  died  in  1871),  Margaret  (who  died  1873),  Mary  (who  died  in  1889),  Laura  (who  died  in 
1890),  Emma  J.  and  Walter  S. ; Charles  W.  was  in  the  Federal  service  about  six  mouths  and 
died  unmarried;  P'rancis  Marion  married  Anna  Wilmington,  and  during  the  war  served  six 
months  in  the  Union  army;  Oliver  married  Elizabeth  Beard  by  whom  he  has  one  child,  Elsie 
Blanche;  and  Albert,  who  married  Laura  Hardesty.  Mr.  Stoops  was  left  a widower  in 
1873.  He  has  for  many  years  been  connected  with  the  Methodist  Church  and  politically  is 
a Ke])ublican.  His  son  in-law,  Jo8e])h  W.  Irwin,  was  born  in  Butler  County,  Ohio,  in  1841 
and  came  to  Indiana  in  the  spring  of  1861,  locating  in  Marion  County,  where  he  enlisted  in 
August,  1863,  in  Company  B,  One  Hundred  and  Seventeenth  Regiment  Indiana  Volunteer 
Infantry  from  which  he  was  honorably  discharged  on  P’'ebruary  23,  1864,  at  Indianapolis. 
He  is  a son  of  Robert  Irwin,  and  is  a man  of  sound  principles  and  much  intelligence.  Polit- 
ically he  is  a Rej)ublican  and  he  has  long  been  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church. 

Petkk  Kissel.  Among  the  substantial  Oerman  American  citizens  of  this  country, 
and  especially  of  IMarion  County,  Ind.,well  worthy  of  mention,  is  Peter  Kissel,  who  is  a 
[iroduct  of  Prussia,  Oermany,  where  he  was  born  on  P^ebruary  19,  1823.  He  was  brought 
uf)  in  his  native  land,  and  attended  the  schools  of  his  country  from  the  time  he  was  six 
years  of  age  until  he  was  fourteen,  after  which  he  began  assisting  his  father,  Heniy  Kissel, 
who  was  a small  farmer,  being  the  owner  of  about  twenty  acres  of  land,  all  of  which  was 
in  a liigli  state  of  cultivation,  and  he  was  also  a skillful  weaver  of  linen.  At  the  age  of 
twenty  the  subject  of  this  sketch  drifted  into  the  army,  in  which  he  served  three  years, 
being  stationed  in  the  city  of  Berlin.  After  serving  out  his  term  he  returned  home,  and 
remained  there  until  he  came  to  America.  P^eliruary  17,  1848,  he  was  united  in  mairiage 
to  Miss  Pllizabeth,  daughter  of  George  Glosner,  a native  of  Prussia,  and  a week  after  his 
marriage  lie  was  called  out  for  military  service,  but  did  not  remain  on  duty  long.  A})ril  1, 
1852,  he  and  his  wife  and  two  children  sailed  from  Bremen  for  America,  and  after  a voyage 
of  thirty  seven  days  landed  at  Philadelphia.  P^rom  there  they  came  to  Marion  County,  Jnd. , 
arriving  May  25,  1852,  and  Mr.  Kissel  at  once  secured  a job  on  the  Center  Railroad,  which 
had  just  started.  Here  he  worked  until  the  fall,  then  purcha.sed  sixty-five  acres  of  land  in 
Warren  Township,  for  which  he  paid  8600.  There  was  no  clearing  or  house  on  the  land, 
but  during  the  fall  and  winter  he  put  up  a cabin,  and  the  following  spring  moved  into  it. 
There  ho  has  lived  ever  since,  but  has  greatly  improved  his  |)roperty,  and  atone  time  addl'd 
ninety-six  acres  to  it.  Besides  this  he  has  233  acres  for  which  he  paid  $4,000,  but  lost  it 
all  owing  to  the  dishonesty  of  the  man  from  whom  he  had  purchased  it,  who  had  it  mort- 
gaged for  .$5,000  urdviiown  to  \rr.  Kissel.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kissel  became  the  parents  of  ten 
children,  three  of  whom  died  in  infancy,  and  the  rest  grew  to  maturity:  Pllizabeth,  who  is 
dead, became  the  wife  of  Christian  Hroger,  and  left  nine  children;  William,  Christina  (who 


442 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


married  Fritz  Sutmeyer),  Chris,  Louisa  (who  married  Chris  Miller),  Anna,  Mena,  Emma, 
John  and  Benjamin;  Peter  married  Mary  Caspari,  by  whom  he  had  seven  children,  and  for 
his  second  wife  chose  Louisa  Donner,  and  by  her  has  one  daughter;  Christina  married  John 
Buchtink,  and  has  six  children;  John  married  Marian  Nane,  and  has  three  children;  George 
P.  married  Sophia  Nane,  and  has  one  daughter,  Stella;  Henrietta  married  Charles  Fritsche, 
and  has  these  children,  Harry,  Etta  and  Gustav,  and  Henry.  Peter’s  children  by  his  first  wife 
were  Melinda,  Lena,  George,  Anna,  Margaret,  Leonard  and  Elizabeth.  His  only  child 
by  his  second  wife  was  named  Florinda.  Christina’s  children  were  named  as  follows: 
Anna,  Mary,  John,  Lena,  and  Lisetta;  John’s  three  children  are  John,  Eda  and  Emil. 
Mr.  Kissel  has  always  been  a Democrat  politically,  and  his  tirst  vote  was  cast  for 
James  Buchamin.  He  and  his  wife  have  long  been  earnest  and  worthy  members  of  the 
Evangelical  Church,  and  he  is  a substantial  and  honorable  man,  highly  esteemed  in  the 
section  in  which  he  resides.  He  has  given  his  sons  land  as  they  married  and  settled  in  life, 
but  still  owns  the  home  [)lace,  and  is  ])ossessed  of  a comfortable  competency.  His  father- 
in  law  was  George  Glosner,  who  married  Margaret  Raab,  their  children  being  Margaret 
(deceased),  Elizabeth  ( Mrs.  Kissel),  and  Mary  (deceased). 

WiLMAM  Bade.  This  gentleman  is  a successful  German- American  farmer,  who  has 
made  his  own  way  in  the  world  and  is  now  in  jiossession  of  a considerable  amount  of  this 
world’s  goods.  He  was  born  in  Prussia,  Germany,  October  5,  1837,  and  came  to  America 
with  his  parents  in  1 846,  sailing  from  Bremen  to  Baltimore,  and  nine  weeks  and  two  days 
later  they  landed  in  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  where  two  of  the  father’s  brothers  preceded  him 
about  ten  years.  Mr.  Bade’s  father  purchased  sixty  acres  of  land  of  a Mr.  Lowman  in 
Warren  township,  tifteen  of  which  were  cleared,  and  on  this  farm  young  William  was  brought 
up,  his  education  being  limited  to  such  schools  as  were  held  in  the  vicinity  of  his  home,  and 
lasted  only  until  his  fourteenth  year.  He  remained  with  his  parents  until  he  attained  his 
majority,  then  he  began  laboring  for  the  various  farmers  in  the  vicinity,  and  so  continued 
until  he  was  twenty-tive  years  of  age.  He  then  purchased  eighty  acres  of  land  of  Frederick 
Piel,  whose  daughter,  Ellen,  he  had  married  in  March,  1862,  and  there  being  a small  frame 
house  on  the  place,  the  young  couple  moved  into  it  and  began  housekeeping.  In  this  house 
they  continued  to  make  their  home  until  1888  when  they  erected  a neat  and  commodious 
new  dwelling-house.  In  1865  Mr.  Bade  added  twenty  acres  to  his  original  purchase,  in  1868 
twenty  acres  more,  but  in  1870  sold  this  tract.  To  himself  and  wife  children  as  follows  have 
been  given:  Mary,  who  married  Chris.  Brinkman,  has  three  children  : Emma,  William  and 
Ida;  Mena,  who  married  Chris.  Kopp;  Louisa;  Henry;  William  and  Ida.  Mr.  Bade  has 
always  been  a Democrat,  and  his  tirst  vote  was  cast  for  Stephen  A.  Douglas.  He  has  served 
several  times  as  supervisor  of  his  township,  but  aside  from  this  has  not  been  an  aspirant  for 
office.  He  is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran  Church,  as  is  his  wife,  and  he  has  held 
official  position  in  the  same.  He  is  a son  of  Aaron  Bade,  who  was  born  in  Prussia  in  1808. 
The  latter  was  engaged  in  herring  fishing  during  the  summer  months,  as  well  as  following 
the  occupation  of  farming,  and  by  this  means  he  made  a comfortable  living.  He  was 
married  to  Christina  Coleman,  and  after  coming  to  America  and  locating  in  Marion  County, 
Ind.,  he  became  the  owner  of  sixty  acres  of  land,  to  which  he  later  added  twenty  acres.  On 
this  fertile  and  well  kept  farm  he  resided  until  his  death  in  1880.  He  was  also  a Democrat 
and  a member  of  the  Lutheran  Church.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  the  follow- 
ing children:  William,  the  subject  of  this  sketch;  Frederick,  who  married  Mary  Bade  and 
is  the  father  of  three  children:  William,  Emma  and  Charles;  Henry,  who  married  Emma 
Brademeyer  and  has  two  children:  Paulina  and  Emma;  Christina,  who  married  Frederick 
Bucksot;  Andrew,  who  married  Mary  Prange,  and  has  three  children:  Albert,  Louis  and 
Frank,  and  a child  that  died  in  infancy.  The  mother  of  these  children  died  in  1847,  about 
one  year  after  their  arrival  in  America.  The  paternal  grandfather  of  the  subject  of  this 
sketch,  also  bore  the  name  of  Aaron  Bade,  and  his  arrival  in  the  United  States  dates  from 
1841.  but  about  four  years  after  his  arrival  he  died  in  Wheeling,  W.  Va. , at  the  home  of  his 
son,  F rederick. 

William  Sanders.  The  earliest  ancestor  of  which  the  subject  of  this  sketch  has  any 
knowledge,  was  Joel  Sanders,  his  grandfather,  who  was  presumably  a native  of  South  Caro- 
lina. He  was  an  early  emigrant  to  Georgia,  in  which  State  he  married  and  spent  the  rest 


443 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

of  his  days,  his  death  occurring  before  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  born.  He  was  the 
father  of  two  children,  William,  and  Barbara,  who  married  Samuel  Whitson,  by  whom  she 
became  the  mother  of  one  daughter.  Charity.  Their  sou  William  was  born  in  the  Palmetto 
State  in  1777,  was  taken  by  his  parents  to  Georgia  and  in  1806  removed  to  Ohio  and  in  1832 
became  a pioneer  settler  of  the  Hoosier  State.  He  located  on  a farm  of  320  acres  in  Deca- 
tur Township,  Marion  County,  which  he  bought  of  Martha  Hawkins  and  her  heirs,  and  here 
he  lived  a contented,  prosperous  and  useful  life  until  the  hand  of  death  closed  his  career  in 
1841.  He  was  united  in  the  bonds  of  matrimony  with  Amy,  daughter  of  Daniel  Williams, 
and  to  them  a good  old-fashioned  family  of  thirteen  children  were  given,  two  of  whom  died 
in  infancy.  Those  who  grew  to  maturity  are  as  follows:  Sarah  (deceased)  married  William 
Scott  and  after  his  death  Samuel  Millhouse,  who  is  also  deceased  (she  left  live  children); 
Mary  (deceased)  married  Enoch  Mills  (deceased)  and  is  survived  by  six  children;  Charity 
(deceased)  married  Mark  Mills  (deceased)  and  has  four  surviving  children;  Rebecca 
(deceased)  married  Moses  Rich  by  whom  she  became  the  mother  of  four  children;  Daniel 
(deceased)  married  Rachel  Mills,  then  Mary  Haughton,  and  for  bis  third  wife  took  Cynthia 
Mendenhall  (he  has  five  surviving  children);  Rebecca  (deceased)  married  Moses  Reid  and 
has  four  living  children;  Joel  married  Mary  Bates  first  and  afterward  Elizabeth  Jones  (he 
has  two  children);  Eli  (deceased)  first  married  Ruth  Mills  and  afterward  Jane  Burham  and 
has  a family  of  ten  children  who  survive  him;  Elihu  (deceased)  was  married  to  Bathsheba 
Boles  by  whom  he  has  three  surviving  children;  Rhoda  and  William.  The  father  of  these 
children  was  a member  of  the  Friends  Church  and  politically  was  a Whig.  The  subject  of 
this  sketch,  a sister  and  his  brother  Joel  are  the  only  surviving  members  of  his  father’s  fam- 
ily, and  like  their  father  before  them  they  are  all  members  of  the  Quaker  Church  and  like 
him  and  all  who  belong  to  that  religious  sect,  are  honest,  industrious.  God-fearing,  peaceable 
and  law  abiding  people.  William  and  Joel  are  Republicans  in  their  political  views,  and 
both  have  served  as  supervisors  in  their  township.  They  are  men  of  worth  and  have  good 
and  comfortable  homes,  the  result  of  honest  and  persistent  etfort. 

N.athax  Ratliff.  Among  the  representative  farmers  of  Decatur  Township  we  are 
pleased  to  present  a sketch  of  the  gentleman  whose  name  ajipears  at  the  head  of  this  para- 
graph, and  whose  pleasant  home  and  excellent  farm  attest  the  thrift  and  enterprise  of  the 
owner.  His  father.  Joseph  Ratliff,  was  born  in  North  Carolina  in  1788  and  there  grew  to 
manhood  and  married  Miss  Rebecca  Lamb,  daughter  of  Isaac  Lamb.  In  1816  he  came  to 
Indiana  and  located  in  Wayne  County,  near  Richmond,  and  there  resided  until  the  spring 
of  1824,  when  he  moved  to  Henry  County,  Ind.  Here  he  entered  440  acres  of  land,  the 
patents  being  signed  by  John  Q.  Adams  and  Andrew  Jackson,  settled  in  the  green  timber 
and  there  resided  until  his  death  in  1837.  To  his  marriage  were  born  nine  children,  as 
follows:  Jane,  deceased,  married  Bailey  Pearson  and  became  the  mother  of  a family  of 
children.  Three  of  her  sons  served  in  the  Civil  War.  Reuben,  deceased,  was  married 
twice.  His  first  wife  was  Margaret  Kendall.  His  second  marriage  was  with  Penelojie  N. 
Bell,  deceased,  and  they  have  two  living  children,  Maigaret  and  Elias.  Huldah  (deceased) 
married  Daniel  Pressuall  (deceased),  and  these  childien  were  born  to  them,  Rebecca,  Han 
nah.  Joseph,  Lindley  i\I.,  Jesse,  Cynthia,  Elizabeth  and  Sarah.  Anna  (deceased)  was  the 
wife  of  John  Hiushaw  (deceased),  and  they  have  children  living  as  follows:  Cynthia.  John 
and  Rebecca.  Elizabeth  (deceased)  was  the  wife  of  Elisha  Dans  and  they  have  several  children. 
Jesse  died  unmarried.  Eli  married  Jane  Drajier  and  they  have  three  children,  Huldah, 
Calvin  and  Charles.  Nathan  (our  suliject),  and  John  (deceased),  who  married  Asenath 
Palmer  and  liecaine  the  fatlier  of  one  child,  Franklin.  'J’he  father  of  these  children  was  a 
Quaker  in  his  religious  views  and  never  liore  arms.  He  was  an  elder  in  the  Friends  Church 
when  he  died.  Previous  to  his  death  he  had  cleared  about  ninety  acres  of  land  in  Henry 
County,  Ind. , and  was  a pros|)erous  faiiner  and  an  excellent  citizen.  Richard  Ratliff,  the 
grandfather  of  our  subject,  was  a native  of  North  Carolina,  born  about  1762,  and  came  to 
Indiana  al)out  1816.  He  died  in  Henry  County,  Ind.,  about  1827.  He  had  married  Miss 
Pettie  Pearson  and  to  them  were  born  these  children:  Anna,  -Joseph,  Nathan,  Mary, 
-Jonathan,  Kichard,  Gal)riel.  Elizalieth  and  Corindiiis.  .All  are  deceased  (1893)  except  the 
last  named  who  resides  in  Grant  County,  Ind.  'J’he  subject  of  this  sketch  was  born  in  Henry 
County,  Ind.,  about  four  miles  west  of  Newcastle,  December  6,  1824,  and  there  he  was 


444 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


taiiglit  the  arcluons  duties  of  the  farm.  He  received  bis  education  in  the  subscription 
schools  of  those  days,  three  months  during  the  winter  session,  and  attended  until  seventeen 
years  of  age.  He  was  only  thirteen  years  of  age  when  his  father  died  and  he  remained  on 
the  old  home  place  till  about  forty  years  of  age.  He  was  married  first  in  1852  to  Penelope, 
daughter  of  Tristram  Coggeshall,  a native  of  North  Carolina.  Six  children  were  born  to  this 
union.  Cynthia,  who  married  J.  M.  Ballard;  Dr.  Barclay  Ratliff,  of  West  Newton,  who  mar- 
ried Miss  Emma  Allen  and  l)ecame  the  father  of  one  daughter,  Mary;  William  H.,  unmarried; 
Millicent  H.  died  when  twenty-five  years  of  age;  Ruth  E.,  unmarried,  and  Naomi,  who  died 
when  twenty-four  years  of  age.  Mr.  Ratliff’s  first  wife  died  February  22,  1864,  and  our  sub- 
ject was  married  again  in  1865  to  Hannah,  daughter  of  Joseph  and  Mary  (Casterling)  Furnas, 
and  to  this  second  union  were  born  three  children,  Jo.se{)h  F.,  unmarried ; Luther  H.  and 
Mary,  the  last  two  also  unmarried.  While  residing  in  Henry  County  our  subject  acted  as 
one  of  the  three  trustees  of  Harrison  Township.  In  politics  he  is  a Republican  and  cast  his 
first  vote  for  Martin  Van  Bnren  in  1848.  The  next  election  he  voted  for  John  P.  Hale,  also  a 
Free  Soiler;  in  1856  he  voted  for  John  C.  Fremont,  and  since  then  he  has  voted  the  straight 
Republican  ticket.  He  belongs  to  the  Friends  Church. 

William  Leeman.  On  the  farm  on  which  he  now  resides  William  Leeman  first  saw  the 
light  of  day,  November  20,  1833,  and  there  he  has  made  his  home  ever  since.  This  land, 
consisting  of  240  acres,  was  entered  by  his  father,  John  Leeman,  at  an  early  day,  the  patent 
being  signed  by  President  Andrew  Jackson.  The  educational  advantages  of  William  Lee- 
man were  confined  to  the  early  subscription  schools  of  Decatur  township,  which  he  attended 
about  two  months  out  of  the  year  up  to  the  age  of  twenty-one,  although  during  this  time  he 
missed  attending  several  winters.  Politically  he  has  always  been  a Republican,  and  cast  his 
first  Presidential  vote  for  John  C.  Fremont.  He  has  long  been  a member  of  the  Methodist 
E[)iscopal  Church  and  is  an  active  member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity,  besides  being  a worthy, 
upright  and  useful  citizen  of  the  section  in  which  he  has  so  long  made  his  home.  His  father 
was  born  in  the  vicinity  of  Bardstown,  Ky.,  in  1800  and  in  early  manhood  came  with  his 
parents  to  Indiana,  locating  in  Hendricks  County,  near  the  Marion  County  line.  He  was  mar- 
ried in  1829  to  Margaret,  daughter  of  Parker  and  Mary  (McCreery)  Keeler  and  as  above  stated 
became  (lossessed  of  a fine  farm  of  240  acres  in  Marion  County,  the  most  of  which  was  cov- 
ered with  a heavy  growth  of  timber.  He  built  thereon  a log  house  in  which  he  lived  until 
his  death  in  1847,  [irior  to  which  event  he  had  become  the  father  of  two  children;  James,  who 
was  born  March  7,  1831,  and  was  married  to  Nancy,  daughter  of  John  Vogiis,  after  which 
he  resided  on  a portion  of  his  father’s  farm  until  his  death,  in  1883,  his  wife  having  been 
called  from  life  in  1871,  leaving  four  children:  Rosenna.  who  married  Eli  Stinson  and  has 
one  child,  Chester;  Phama  J.  who  married  Reuben  P.  Cox,  and  has  one  daughter,  Ada; 
Enoch  S.,  and  William  P.  The  father  of  these  children  was  a Republican,  and  a member  of 
the  Methodi.st  Episcopal  Church,  with  which  church  his  mother  was  connected,  while  his 
father  was  a communicant  of  the  Christian  Church.  Robert  Leeman,  the  paternal  grand- 
father of  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  a Kentuckian  by  birth  and  upon  his  removal  to  Indi- 
ana in  an  early  day,  he  entered  eighty  acres  of  land  in  Hendricks  County,  upon  which  he  lived 
until  his  death.  His  family  consisted  of  eight  children  whose  names,  so  far  as  remembered, 
are  as  follows;  John;  George,  who  married  a Miss  Cook,  and  died  in  1889;  Sarah  (deceased), 
first  married  a Mr.  Jessup,  by  whom  she  had  two  children,  and  for  her  second  husband, 
wedded  James  Merritt,  by  whom  she  had  several  children;  Martha,  now  the  widow  of  Edward 
Merritt;  Elizabeth,  the  widow  of  Edward  Sharp;  Cornelius,  who  married  Sarah  A.  Schultz; 
William,  who  married  Harriet  Edwards;  and  Jane,  who  married  William  Edwards.  Robert  Lee- 
man was  a soldier  of  the  War  of  1812.  The  mother  of  William  Leeman,  the  subject  of  this 
sketch,  died  on  the  February,  20,  1889. 

William  Boatright.  This  gentleman  is  a product  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  his  birth 
occurring  on  the  farm  owned  by  his  paternal  grandfather,  William  Cool,  in  Wayne  township, 
September  16,  1837.  There  he  resided  with  his  parents  until  he  was  about  twelve  years  of 
age,  after  which  he  made  his  home  in  the  vicinity  of  his  birthplace,  but  upon  another  farm, 
until  he  was  about  twenty  seven.  He  attended  the  early  subscription  schools  quite  regularly 
until  he  was  about  fifteen  years  of  age,  and  after  that  irregularly  up  <o  the  age  of  twenty- 
one.  November  7,  1865,  he  won  for  his  wife  Eliza  J.,  daughter  of  Charles  and  Mary 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 


445 


(Johnson)  Kobinson,  very  soon  after  which  he  moved  on  to  a rented  farm  of  eighty  acres  in 
Center  township,  where  he  made  his  home  for  about  a year,  then  rented  300  acres  in  Decatur 
township,  and  two  years  later  he  rented  1 20  acres  more.  His  next  move  was  to  the  river  in  the 
vicinity  of  Cold  Springs  where  he  rented  thirty  acres  of  Mr.  Barth  and  seventy-five  acres  of 
N.  McCarby,  the  thirty  acres  being  principally  devoted  to  the  raising  of  garden  products. 
Some  time  later  he  purchased  twenty  acres  in  Belmont  (now  West  Indianapolis)  out  of  which 
he  made  a garden,  in  addition  to  which  he  still  continued  to  rent  a part  of  the  land  belong- 
ing to  Mr.  McCarby,  in  all  from  fifty-five  to  seventy-five  acres.  He  then  purchased  124 
acres  in  the  southeast  part  of  Decatur  township  of  John  Billingsly,  for  which  he  paid  $10,000 
in  cash  in  1871,  and  to  this  tract  he  has  added  from  time  to  time  until  he  is  now  the  owner 
of  375  acres,  about  thirty-five  acres  being  still  devoted  to  gardening.  He  has  always  been 
a Democrat  politically  and  his  first  Presidential  vote  w'as  cast  for  Stephen  A.  Douglas.  He 
became  the  father  of  seven  children,  one  of  whom,  Marietta,  died  in  infancy.  The  others 
are:  Nellie,  Charley,  William  B. , Bertha  M. , George  and  Laura  B.  The  mother  of  these 
children  died  in  1883,  since  which  time  Mr.  Boatright  has  remained  unmarried.  His  father, 
Carey  Boatright,  was  born  in  Virginia  in  1810  and  when  grown  came  to  Indiana,  locating  in 
Marion  County,  where  he  laid  out  what  is  now  West  Indiana,  or  rather  what  was  then  known 
as  Boatright’s  addition  to  Indianapolis.  He  was  married  in  1836  to  Sarah,  the  daughter  of 
William  Cool,  and  William,  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  was  their  only  child.  She  was  his 
third  wife  and  died  in  1885.  He  was  by  trade  a carpenter,  but  later  turned  his  attention  to 
farming,  in  which  occupation  he  was  fairly  successful. 

Winfield  Taylor  Wright.  On  the  farm  on  which  he  is  now  residing  the  subject  of 
this  sketch  first  saw  the  light  of  day  November  6,  1847,  and  there  he  was  reared  and  became 
familiar  with  the  duties  attendant  upon  farm  life.  He  obtained  a practical  education  in  the 
common  schools  which  were  conducted  in  the  vicinity  of  his  rural  home,  and  a part  of  the 
time  attended  the  subscription  schools  which  were  in  vogue  in  his  early  boyhood.  His  school 
days  ended  when  he  was  about  fourteen  years  of  age,  and  he  then  assisted  his  father  on  the 
farm  until  his  marriage,  which  occurred  December  20,  1876,  to  IMaria,  daughter  of  Charles 
Robinson,  when  he  began  doing  for  himself.  His  union  has  resulted  in  the  birth  of  a daughter, 
Minnie.  Mr.  Wright  has  always  been  a Republican  in  politics,  and  has  served  in  the  capacity 
of  supervisor  of  his  district,  but  aside  from  that  has  not  been  an  aspirant  for  office.  He  and 
his  wife  are  members  of  the  Methodist  Episco])al  Church,  and  command  the  utmost  respect 
in  the  community  in  which  they  live.  The  father  of  Mr.  Wright,  Hiram  Wright,  was  born 
in  Washington  County,  Ind.,  January  18,  1819,  and  lived  tliere  until  1831,  when  he  came 
with  his  parents  to  Marion  county  and  located  in  Perry  Township  on  a farm  on  Lick  Creek. 
There  he  resided  until  1845,  when  he  was  married  to  Mary  A."  daughter  of  Andrew  Hoover, 
and  came  to  Wayne  Township,  locating  on  160  acres  of  land,  which  had  been  given  him  by 
his  father.  Here  he  lived  until  his  death  in  1888,  having  been  first  a Whig  and  afterward 
a Republican  in  his  political  views,  and  served  as  one  of  the  three  treasurers  of  Wayne 
Township.  To  him  and  his  wife  six  children  were  given,  three  of  whom  lived  to  maturity; 
as  follows:  Winfield  T.,  the  subject  of  this  sketch;  Missouri  who  married  Bales  Fatout,  of 
Indianapolis,  and  had  one  daughter:  Pearl  R. ; and  Noah,  who  married  Emma  Brice  and  has 
seven  children:  Austin,  O.scar,  Nellie,  Edna,  Frank,  Harry  and  Margaret.  The  paternal 
grandfather  was  Noah  Wright,  who  was  born  in  North  Carolina,  August  30,  1784,  and  at  an 
early  day  came  to  Indiana  locating  in  Washington  County,  where  he  was  married  to  Susanna 
Parr,  by  whom  he  had  a family  of  six  children:  Betsy  A.  (deceased),  who  married  .lames 
Rooker,  and  had  one  son:  Hiram;  Hiram;  Isaac  (deceased),  who  married  Ellen  Martin  and 
had  two  children:  Alfaretta  (Bailey)  and  Harriet  (Myers);  Polly  A.  (deceased),  who  married 
-Morris  Wise  (deceased);  .lasper  N.,  who  married  and  became  the  father  of  five  children: 
Susan  (Kegrice),  J'llmer,  Newton,  Harry  and  .fane;  Susanna  (deceased),  who  married  Eli 
Haverstick,  and  has  two  children : Mary  (Morgan)  and  Christiana  (IMotfett).  The  father  of 
tliese  children  died  in  1863,  htiving  at  one  time  served  as  sheriff  of  Washington  County,  Ind. 

Furman  Stout.  Agricultural  pursuits  have  formed  the  chief  occupation  of  this  gentle 
man,  and  tbe  wide-awake  manner  in  which  he  lias  taken  advantage  of  every  method  and  idea 
tending  to  the  enhanced  value  of  his  projierty,  has  had  considerable  to  do  with  Ids  success 
in  life.  Jforn  in  Marion  County,  Wayne  Towu8hip,Ind.,  November  9,  1859,  he  is  a son  of  George 


446 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


W.  aucl  Sarah  (Homaii)  Stout,  who  celebrated  their  nuptials  in  1849.  The  father  waa  a 
native  of  Illinois,  born  in  1825,  and  he  there  remained  until  six  years  of  age,  when  he 
came  with  his  parents  to  Marion  County,  Ind.  His  father,  Thomas  Stout,  purchased  240 
acres  and  on  this  passed  the  rest  of  his  days.  George  W.  Stout  grew  to  manhood  on  this 
farm  and  secured  a fair  education  in  Marion  County.  His  marriage  resulted  in  the  birth  of 
six  children,  three  of  whom  are  living  at  the  present  time:  Furman,  our  subject;  Anna,  who 
married  Moses  A.  Williams,  and  Joseph  C.,  who  married  and  became  the  father  of  two  chil- 
dren. Politically  Mr.  Stout  is  a Democrat.  Although  not  a member  of  any  church  he  was 
public  spirited  and  contributed  liberally  to  all  worthy  enterprises.  His  wife  died  in  1868 
and  he  was  married  the  second  time.  He  was  a soldier  in  the  Mexican  War.  Thomas  Stout, 
grandfather  of  our  subject,  was  a man  of  education  and  filled  many  positions  of  trust  and 
honor.  He  affiliated  with  the  Democratic  party  and  served  in  the  State  Senate  and  House 
of  Representatives.  He  was  also  elected  commissioner  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  filled 
that  position  many  years.  He  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812.  The  subject  of  this  sketch 
grew  to  mature  years  in  his  native  county,  received  a fair  education  in  the  schools  of  Wayne 
Township  and  assisted  his  father  on  the  farm  until  twenty-five  years  of  age,  when  he  cele- 
brated his  nuptials  with  Miss  Kansas  Brown,  daughter  of  Peter  B.  and  Sophia  (Holmes) 
Brown.  In  1879  he  and  his  family  moved  to  Butler  County,  Kan.,  and  he  there  tilled  the 
soil  until  1883,  when  he  returned  to  Wayne  Township,  Marion  County,  Ind.,  satisfied  to 
remain  there.  He  bought  150  acres  of  the  Brown  heirs  and  on  this  he  has  since  made  his 
home.  His  marriage  resulted  in  the  birth  of  four  children,  as  follows:  George  E.,  Everson, 
Walter  and  Ella.  Like  his  father  and  grandfather,  our  subject  is  a Democrat  in  his  political 
views  and  is  quite  prominent  in  local  politics.  In  1884  he  was  elected  trustee  of  Wayne 
Township,  and  was  re-elected  to  that  position.  In  1891  he  was  elected  commissioner  of 
Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  that  office  he  now  holds  to  the  entire  satisfaction  of  all.  Socially 
he  is  a Mason. 

William  Co.ssell.  We  present  with  pleasure  a sketch  of  the  life  history  of  one  of  the 
liest  known  farmers  and  citizens  of  Marion  County,  Ind.,  William  Cossell,  whose  liirth 
occurred  in  Butler  County,  Ohio,  March  11,  1811.  His  parents,  John  and  Mary  (Holmes) 
Cossell,  were  married  in  Kentucky.  The  father  was  a native  of  Germany,  born  in  1764, 
and  came  to  America  about  the  time  of  the  Revolutionary  War.  He  first  settled  in 
Maryland,  then  in  Kentucky,  afterward  in  Ohio,  and  finally,  in  1823,  he  made  a perma- 
nent settlement  in  Indiana.  There  his  death  occurred  about  1850.  His  marriage  resulted 
in  the  birth  of  twelve  children,  two  of  whom  died  young:  George  (deceased),  William  (our 
subject),  Frank  (deceased),  Polly,  David  (deceased),  Martha,  Peter  (deceased),  Betsy,  Seth, 
Jane  and  Tiny  (twins),  and  Sallie.  The  father  of  these  children  was  a soldier  in  the  War 
of  1812.  In  politics  he  was  a Democrat.  Our  subject’s  grandfather,  Peter  Cossell,  was  a 
native  of  Germany,  born  in  1727,  an<l  came  to  America  after  his  marriage.  He  was  a 
soldier  in  the  Revolution  and  died  about  1817.  William  Cossell  passed  his  youthful  days 
on  a farm,  and  came  to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  with  his  parents  in  1823.  For  one  year 
his  parents  resided  in  Indianapolis,  but  the  next  year  they  bought  about  135  acres  in 
Wayne  Township,  all  green  timber,  aud  on  this  farm  our  subject  grew  to  mature  years. 
His  education  was  received  in  the  primitive  log  school-house  of  pioneer  days,  in  Wayne 
Township,  and  he  also  attended  a school  in  Perry  Township,  about  three  miles  from  his 
home.  When  sixteen  years  of  age  he  left  the  school -room,  but  remained  under  the 
parental  roof  until  twenty-five  years  of  age.  He  selected  his  life  companion  in  the  person 
of  Miss  Hannah  Hoover,  daughter  of  Andrew  Hoover,  and  this  union  was  celebrated  in 
1836.  After  his  marriage  he  moved  on  a tract  of  160  acres  he  had  purchased  in  Wayne 
Township  for  1900.  Of  this  tract  eight  or  nine  acres  were  “bushwhacked,”  and  a little 
log  cabin  erected.  In  this  cabin  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Cossell  resided  for  a year,  and  then  a 
hewn  log  cabin,  18x16  feet  was  erected.  Three  years  later  Mr.  Cossell  erected  the  frame 
house  in  which  he  now  lives.  He  has  cleared  about  100  acl'es  and  has  ever  been  classed 
among  the  representative  pioneer  settlers  of  the  county.  Of  the  nine  children  born  to  his 
marriage  four  died  when  young.  The  others  were  named  as  follows:  Abijah,  who  is  single; 
Eliza  married  Samuel  Corbeley  aud  they  have  two  children,  Louisa  and  George;  Mary 
married  Isaac  Julian,  but  is  now  deceased;  Andrew  married,  first.  Miss  Mary  Dyke,  who 


THOMAS  TA<;GAKT. 


(’HAKl.KS  RIKMAN. 

(oECEASeO.) 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

L’i^lVERSITY  OF  ILLING!^ 


447 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

bore  him  two  chiklren,  Charley  and  Bert  (his  second  marriage  was  with  Miss  Lizzie 
Armstrong,  daughter  of  Thomas  Armstrong);  and  Emily,  deceased.  Although  not  a strict 
partisan,  Mr.  Cossell  generally  votes  with  the  Democratic  party.  He  is  not  a member  of 
any  church,  nor  is  he  a member  of  any  society,  but  he  is  public  spirited  and  liberal,  and 
contributes  freely  to  all  worthy  causes.  He  had  the  misfortune  to  lose  his  wife  in  1889. 

Andrew  W.  McOuat.  Like  many  of  the  prominent  citizens  of  Marion  County,  Ind., 
Mr.  Andrew  W.  McOnat  is  a native  of  the  Bine-Grass  regions  of  Kentucky,  born  in  Lexing- 
ton, May  8,  1830,  and  when  an  infant  came  with  his  parents,  Thomas  and  Jeanette  S.  (Lock- 
erbie) McOuat,  to  Indiana.  The  father  was  a native  of  Scotland,  born  in  1795,  and  remained 
in  his  native  country  until  grown.  He  then  crossed  the  ocean  to  America,  located  in  Lex- 
ington, Ky.,  and  was  there  married  to  Miss  Lockerbie.  About  1821  he  moved  with  his  fam- 
ily to  the  Hoosier  State  and  located  in  Indianapolis,  where  he  purchased  property.  To  his 
marriage  were  born  these  children:  Elizabeth  A.  (deceased),  Ona  Butler  (deceased),  George 
(died  in  1872),  Robert  L.  (deceased),  Andrew  W.  (our  subject),  and  Mary  G.  The  father 
of  these  children  died  in  1838  leaving  the  family  in  limited  circumstances.  The  son,  George, 
assumed  control  of  the  family  and  greatly  assisted  his  mother  in  rearing  the  younger  mem- 
bers. He  never  married  but  remained  with  his  mother.  For  sixteen  years  he  served  as 
deputy  United  States  marshal  under  different  administrations  and  was  a very  popular  man. 
In  politics  he  was  one  of  the  leaders  of  the  Democratic  party  in  this  section.  He  took  a 
deeper  interest  in  matters  of  a higher  character  than  mere  material  things,  and  not  only  won 
an  enviable  reputation  for  public  spirit,  as  shown  in  his  various  labors  for  the  material  and 
moral  advancement  of  the  county,  but  he  was  also  admired  and  respected  for  personal  and 
social  qualities  of  the  highest  order.  No  better  man  made  his  home  in  this  county.  Andrew 
W.  McOuat  grew  to  manhood  in  Indianapolis  and  there  received  a good,  practical  education, 
being  one  of  the  “Old  Seminary  Boys.”  He  was  married  in  Pittsburgh,  Penn.,  in  1853,  to 
Miss  Ellen  M.  McCrossin,  daughter  of  Patrick  McCro.ssin,  a native  of  Dublin,  Ireland. 
Previous  to  his  marriage,  in  184b,  Mr.  McQuat  entered  the  employ  of  Jacob  and  Charles 
Cox  and  learned  the  turner’s  trade,  serving  a four  years’  apprenticeship.  In  1851,  he  and 
his  brother,  Robert  L. , embarked  in  the  stove  and  tinware  business,  and  carried  this  on 
until  1870,  when  our  subject  retired.  He  was  out  of  business  until  1880  when  he  bought 
out  his  brother  and  carried  on  the  business  very  successfully  until  1887.  He  then  retired 
and  is  now  residing  in  a beautiful  brick  house  on  a farm  of  245  acres  in  Wayne  Town- 
ship. This  land  he  purchased  in  1883  and  he  has  it  well  cultivated  and  well  improved. 
Although  not  a member  of  any  church  or  society  he  is  liberal  and  generous  in  his  support 
of  all  worthy  enterpri.ses  and  is  a public-spirited  citizen.  Nine  children  were  born  to  his 
first  union,  live  of  whom  are  now  living:  Thomas,  George  ( who  married  Miss  Jennie  Wright), 
Mary  F.  (who  married  Clay  Rockwell),  Jennie  (who  married  George  Catterson),  and  Will- 
iam A.  (who  is  single).  Mr.  McOuat  married  for  his  second  wife  Miss  Barbara  Nelp  who 
bore  him  four  children,  as  follows:  John  Paul,  Malcolm,  Kenneth  and  Donald.  Like  his 
brother  George,  our  subject  is  a stanch  supporter  of  Democratic  principles,  and  his  first 
presidential  vote  was  cast  for  Franklin  Pierce. 

James  H.  Huns.  The  hotel  is  a modern  invention  and  is  practically  limited  to  tmlight 
ened  countries.  The  ancient  caravansary  of  tlie  East  was  merely  a ])lace  where  travelers 
and  their  camels,  donkeys  and  horses  might  rest  together  in  one  great  common  apartment, 
no  board  being  supplied,  and  they  were  usually  owned  by  the  city  or  country.  In  many 
self-styled  civilized  countries  to-day  dependence  for  food  and  shelter  is  had  upon  private 
families.  The  modern  hotel  is  a product  of  the  ago  and  is  in  keeping  with  its  dignity  and 
importance.  It  is  a marvel  of  comfort,  luxury  and  ea.se.  Among  the  hotels  of  Indianapolis 
may  l>e  mentioned  the  “Castle  Hotel,”  situated  at  28.\  Massachusetts  Avenue,  the  projuietor 
being  James  H.  Huls,  who  is  a bright,  cheerful,  social  gentleman,  who  looks  after  the  wants 
of  his  guests  with  careful  attention.  It  is  not  every  man  who  “ knows  how  to  keep  a hotel,” 
and  many  have  l)een  disappointed  in  the  experience.  The  successful  hotel  keeper  must  bt'  a good 
juilge  of  human  nature;  must  know  how  to  make  his  guests  feel  at  home  without  being  fussy; 
must  l)e  a connoisseur  in  the  matter  of  good  things  to  eat  and  supply  them;  must  know  how 
to  hear  the  com[)laints  of  cranks,  and  of  men  and  women  who  have  never  been  much  at 
hotels,  without  being  disturl)ed.  .Mr.  and  Mrs.  Huls  are  very  comj)etent  hotel  managers,  and 


448 


MKMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


keep  a well  e(juipi)ed  liouse.  Cleanliness,  which  is  said  to  he  next  to  godliness,  is  apparent 
everywhere,  and  this  house  is  a popular  stopping  place  with  the  traveling  public.  Mr.  Huls 
was  born  in  Wayne  Township,  Marion  County,  Ind.,  in  1845,  and  was  reared  on  a farm — a 
good  place  to  develop  good  muscle  and  correct  habits.  It  was  this  young  man’s  habit  to 
teach  school  in  winter  and  work  on  his  father’s  farm  in  summer.  Later  he  came  to  Indian- 
apolis and  engaged  in  several  lines  of  business  which  he  carried  on  very  successfully.  He 
selected  his  wife  in  the  person  of  Miss  Mary  V.  Deputy,  daughter  of  George  Deputy.  She 
is  a lady  of  much  force  of  character,  and  tills  well  her  position  in  life.  After  marriage  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Huls  engaged  in  the  grocery  business  for  live  years,  at  the  corner  of  North  and 
Douglas  Streets,  and  kept  boarders  for  a number  of  years.  Mr.  Huls  was  for  a time  assist- 
ant superintendent  of  the  county  infirmary.  The  experience  of  our  subject  and  wife  in  the 
boarding-house  was  a good  schooling  for  their  present  position.  The  Castle  Hotel  is  a new 
house,  both  as  to  building  and  furniture,  and  from  top  to  bottom  it  is  in  “apple  pie  order.” 
Joseph  Huls,  father  of  our  subject,  was  a native  Kentuckian,  born  in  Fleming  County,  No 
vember  21,  1821,  where  he  lived  on  a farm  until  fifteen  years  of  age,  attending  school  in 
Flemingsburg.  In  1836  he  came  with  his  parents  to  Indiana  and  located  in  Marion  County, 
Wayne  Township,  where  he  made  his  home  until  1878,  after  which  he  moved  over  the  line 
into  Hendricks  County.  He  remained  under  the  parental  roof  until  1844,  when  he  married 
Miss  Elizabeth  Nun,  daughter  of  Joseph  and  Mary  (Olinger)  Nun,  and  subsequently  rented 
what  is  known  as  the  McDowell  farm,  which  he  cultivated  for  twenty-five  years.  In  1875 
he  bought  the  farm  in  Hendricks  County  and  there  he  resides  at  the  present  time.  He  is 
a Republican  in  politics,  and  a member  of  the  Christian  Church.  Five  children  were  born 
to  his  marriage,  as  follows;  James  H.,  our  subject:  Mary  J.,  wife  of  James  Wills,  is  the 
mother  of  three  children,  Edith,  George  and  William;  George  W. ; Harrison  F.,  who  mar- 
ried Miss  Victoria  Mitchell,  and  they  have  two  children,  Willard  and  Ernest;  and  Charles 
B.  The  mother  of  those  children  passed  away  in  February,  1890.  Thomas  Huls,  grand- 
father of  subject,  was  a native  of  the  Keystone  State,  born  in  1783,  and  was  married  in  Ken- 
tucky to  Miss  Elizabeth  Miller.  In  1836  he  came  to  the  Hoosier  State  where  he  died  about 
1856.  He  was  a soldier  in  the  War  of  1812.  His  wife  died  in  1879.  They  were  the  parents 
of  twelve  children,  ten  of  whom  lived  to  mature  years,  as  follows:  Henry,  deceased;  Mary, 
deceased;  Alexander;  Joseph;  Richard,  who  enlisted  in  the  Seventieth  Regiment  Indiana 
Volunteer  Infantry  during  the  Civil  War,  and  died  while  in  service;  Sanders;  James, 
deceased,  was  a soldier  in  the  Civil  War,  and  his  death  was  the  result  of  wounds  received 
while  in  service;  John,  also  a.  soldier,  died  while  in  service;  Rachel;  and  Alfred,  deceased. 
He  was  a soldier  in  the  Seventh  Regiment,  Indiana  Infantry,  and  died  in  1888.  Our  sub- 
ject’s paternal  great-grandfather  was  Richard  Huls,  and  his  great-great-great-grandfather 
Huls  was  born  in  Germany.  His  great  grandfather  on  the  maternal  side,  William  Miller, 
was  a soldier  in  the  Revolution. 

Ernst  Hukriede.  One  of  the  most  beautiful  and  appropriate  ideas  in  the  decorations  for 
house  parties  and  other  entertainments  is  the  use  of  flowers,  and  among  those  who  follow  the 
occupation  of  growing  them  in  Indianapolis  is  Ernst  Hukriede  who  has  aided  largely  in  the  cult- 
ure of  its  inhabitants  by  placing  at  their  disposal  large  quantities  of  the  choicest  and  most  beau- 
tiful cut  flowers  at  reasonable  prices.  He  shows  the  utmost  taste  and  skill  in  his  arrangement 
of  floral  designs,  and  in  the  matter  of  decorations  he  shows  undoubted  artistic  talent.  He  has  a 
well  stocked  green  house  located  on  State  Avenue  and  Sycamore  Street,  near  the  German 
Orphan  Asylum,  and  his  retail  store  is  at  528  Virginia  Avenue.  Mr.  Hukriede  is  a German 
by  nativity,  his  birth  occurring  in  Prussia,  August  26,  1837,  and  on  the  farm  belonging  to  his 
father,  Henry  Hukriede,  who  died  in  Prussia  about  1862,  he  was  reared  and  learned  lessons 
of  industry,  honesty,  and  economy,  which  have  since  been  of  great  benefit  to  him  in  his  walks 
through  life.  The  early  education  of  Mr.  Hukreide  was  not  neglected  and  in  the  schools  of 
his  native  land  he  acquired  a sufficient  knowledge  of  books  to  enable  him  to  successfully  battle 
with  the  world  when  he  left  home  and  friends  to  seek  his  fortune  beyond  the  Atlantic.  He 
landed  in  the  city  of  New  York  on  November  25,  1864,  the  day  after  Thanksgiving,  and  he 
at  once  came  west  as  far  as  Cincinnati,  and  during  the  year  that  he  remained  in  that  city,  he 
did  what  his  hands  found  to  do,  and  did  it  with  all  his  might.  Being  pleased  with  this 
country  he  determined  to  make  it  his  future  home,  and  in  order  to  further  any  business  enter- 


449 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

prise  he  might  undertake  he  determined  to  learn  to  read  and  write,  as  well  as  speak,  the  Eng- 
lish language,  and  pursued  his  studies  with  such  earnestness  and  zeal  that  he  is  how  proh- 
cient  with  the  Anglo-Saxon  language.  The  various  occupations  that  he  had  followed  have 
been  thoseof  brick  making,  paper-making  and  railroading,  being  for  twenty-one  yearsconnected 
with  the  passenger  service  of  the  Vandalia  Railroad.  While  still  connected  with  this  road  he 
built  a green-house  at  37  Henry  Street,  but  after  a time  sold  this  property  and  erected  his 
present  commodious  and  substantial  green  house,  which  is  well  located  and  has  a paying 
patronage,  which  has  been  built  up  through  the  energy  and  fair  dealing  of  Mr.  Hukriede  and 
his  son,  Frederick  R.,  who  has  been  associated  with  him  for  some  time.  Mr.  Hukriede  is  an 
Independent  in  politics,  and  votes  rather  for  the  man  than  the  party.  He  is  a liberal  patron 
of  the  German  Orphan  Asylum.  In  1870  he  was  married  to  Miss  Johanna  Schellenberg,  a 
native  of  the  same  place  as  himself.  She  died  June  25,  1876,  leaving  three  children,  Freder 
ick  R.,  being  the  only  surviving  member.  His  present  wife  was  Miss  Sophia  Martin,  who 
was  born  in  Mecklenburg,  Germany,  and  both  are  members  of  the  church  and  are  liberal  con- 
tributors to  enterprises  of  a worthy  nature.  Mr.  Hukriede  may  be  termed  a self-made  man, 
for  upon  his  arrival  in  Cincinnati  he  had  just  5 cents,  in  money,  and  what  he  now  has,  has 
been  earned  by  his  own  efforts  since  that  time,  a fact  greatly  to  his  credit. 

Mrs.  Ellen  Butcher,  florist.  The  calling  of  the  florist  is  one  for  which  women  seem 
to  be  naturally  adapted,  for  their  love  of  the  beautiful  and  their  finely  developed  artistic 
sense,  as  well  as  their  industry  and  vigilance  (without  which  the  business  would  be  a fail- 
ure), are  essential  to  success  in  this  line  of  work.  Mrs.  Butcher’s  home  and  green  house  are 
at  Irvington,  Ind.,  but  she  keeps  a well  supplied  stand  at  the  market-house,  also  a large 
supply  of  all  kinds  of  fresh  vegetables  during  the  season.  She  has  followed  the  calling  of 
a florist  for  some  fifteen  years,  but  commenced  with  a very  limited  stock,  which  she  gradu- 
ally but  continuously  increased,  until  she  now  has  three  large  green  houses,  surrounding 
which  are  seven  acres  of  ground,  a large  portion  of  which  she  uses  for  bedding  plants.  She 
also  formerly  dealt  in  small  fruit,  but  her  flowers  and  vegetables  now  occupy  most  of  her 
time  and  attention,  although  she  rai.ses  sufficient  fruit  for  her  own  use.  Her  place  is  noted 
far  and  wide  for  its  beauty  and  for  the  fact  that  every  nook  and  cranny  of  it  is  utilized  and 
kept  in  the  neatest  possible  manner.  Mrs.  Butcher  was  born  in  Germany,  that  country  that 
has  given  to  the  United  States  so  many  of  her  most  estimable,  enterprising,  thrifty  and 
industrious  citizens,  and  in  girlhood  came  to  this  country  with  her  parents  and  settled  with 
them  in  Blair  County,  Penn.  In  that  State  the  father  was  called  from  life,  but  the  mother’s 
death  occurred  in  Marion  County,  Ind.,  at  the  home  of  Mrs.  Butcher,  near  the  city  of 
Indianapolis.  Mrs.  Butcher  attended  the  common  schools  of  Pennsylvania,  where  slie 
ol)tained  a practical  education.  She  has  always  had  a great  fondness  for  flowers,  but  never 
raised  them  only  for  her  own  pleasure  until  she  commenced  in  earnest  some  fifteen  years  ago. 
She  is  the  only  Horist  that  has  a stand  in  the  market  place,  and  consecjently  makes  large 
sales  there.  She  raises  everything  that  there  is  a demand  foi',  and  has  many  rare  and 
beautiful  plants,  her  green-houses  lieing  “bowers  of  beauty.”  She  is  assisted  in  her  labors 
by  her  daughter,  and  deserves  much  credit  for  the  way  in  which  she  has  bent  the  force  of 
circumstances  to  her  will,  and  for  the  competence  which  she  has  gained.  She  is  a member 
of  the  Indiana  Society  of  Florists  and  has  long  been  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episco{)al 
Church  at  Irvington,  Ind.,  in  which  she  has  been  trustee.  She  has  been  a class  leader,  a 
Sunday-school  teacher,  and  for  years  has  taken  a deep  interest  in  church  alfairs.  She  is  held 
in  high  esteem  by  all  who  know  her,  and  her  good  name  and  honor  are  above  reproach. 

Samuel  W.  Couhr.\ne.  As  a discriminating  and  competent  man  of  affairs  and  as  an  efli 
cient  and  thoroughly  posted  contractor  and  builder,  Samuel  W.  Cochrane  has  not  his  supe 
rior.  He  was  born  in  the  city  of  New  York  in  1835,  a son  of  Robeit  Cochrane,  who  was  a 
native  of  Scotland,  who  learned  the  calling  of  a contiactor  and  builder  and  when  a middle 
aged  man  came  to  the  United  Stat(‘s  and  hjcated  in  the  city  of  New  York.  He  became  the 
superintendent  for  an  extensive  contractor  there,  doing  public  work,  and  after  a time  moved 
to  Richmond,  Va.,  where  he  engaged  in  contracting  for  himself.  In  1850  he  took  u|)  his 
residence  in  Madison,  Ind.,  where  he  was  later  called  from  life.  In  the  public  schools  of 
Kichmond,  Va.,  Samuel  W.  obtained  a good  practical  education  as  he  grew  up,  and  at  odd 
times  worked  under  his  father  at  the  carpenter’s  trade,  thoroughly  learning  the  details  of 


450 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


the  business,  and  after  he  had  reached  a suitable  age  he  and  a brother  became  their  father’s 
associate  in  business.  Later  Samuel  W.  branched  out  for  himself  and  coming  to  the  city  of 
Indianapolis  in  1804  to  build  a house,  he  decided  to  remain  and  here  has  made  his  home 
ever  since.  For  a sliort  time  he  was  in  the  Fifty-lifth  Indiana  Regiment  as  first  lieutenant 
and  was  a participant  in  the  battle  of  Richmond,  Ky.,  where  by  a miracle  he  escaped  death. 
He  was  wounded  on  the  head  l)y  a passing  cannon  ball,  but  fortunately  not  severely.  In 
this  city  he  built  the  fourth  and  ninth  ward  school -houses,  the  Wyandotte  block,  the  Holli- 
day block  and  many  other  business  blocks,  as  well  as  numerous  handsome  and  costly  private 
residences.  For  four  years  he  was  engaged  in  farming  in  Jefferson  County,  but  with  that 
exception  his  time  and  attention  has  been  given  to  contracting,  in  which  he  may  be  said  to 
have  been  remarkably  successful  and  commands  his  full  share  of  work.  He  was  married 
in  1858  to  Eliza  Taylor  of  Jefferson  County,  Ind.,  by  whom  he  has  two  daughters.  Socially 
he  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  and  is  trustee  of  Meridian  Lodge,  No.  480  of  that  order. 
He  is  a member  of  Chapman  Post  of  the  G.  A.  R.,  is  a member  of  the  Builders  Exchange 
and  the  Contractors  Association.  He  is  an  agieeable  and  affable  gentleman,  courteous  and 
kind  hearted,  and  his  friends  are  legion. 

GEOKciE  S.  Henry.  If  any  firm  in  Indianapolis  possesses  a monument  to  its  progress  it 
is  the  firm  of  Henry  & Worthington,  contractors,  for  their  name  is  identified  with  the  erec- 
tion of  some  of  the  noblest  structures  in  the  city.  George  S.  Henry,  the  senior  member  of 
the  firm,  was  born  in  Rochester,  N.  A'.,  in  1889,  and  is  the  son  of  John  Henry,  who  was  a 
successful  farmer  near  that  city.  Our  subject  received  his  education  in  Parma,  N.  Y.,  and 
partly  served  an  apprenticeship  before  the  war.  Filled  with  a patriotic  desire  to  serve  his 
country,  he  enlisted  August  5,  1862,  in  the  One  Hundred  and  Eighth  New  York  Volunteers, 
and  was  afterward  transferred  to  the  Regulars,  Fifteenth  United  States  Infantry,  with  which 
he  remained  three  years  and  six  mouths,  lacking  the  time  he  was  with  the  former  company. 
His  command  was  at  Lookout  Mountain  when  the  war  closed  but  he  was  stationed  at  Mobile, 
Ala.,  until  December  18,  1865.  He  was  in  many  battles,  the  most  prominent  being  Sharps- 
burg,  Chickamiiuga,  Missionary  Ridge,  and  the  fight  from  Dalton  to  Atlanta.  At  the  close  of 
service  he  came  to  Indianapolis,  and  began  working  at  his  trade.  He  has  been  contracting 
most  of  the  time  since  then  and  for  some  time  was  in  partnership  with  Charles  L.  Wollen- 
weber,  James  Williams  and  recently  with  Mr.  Worthington,  his  present  partner.  It  is 
hardly  necessary  to  state  that  Mr.  Henry  is  one  of  the  most  popular  and  reliable  con- 
tractors in  the  city,  and  is  well  liked  by  all  who  have  dealings  with  him.  In  politics  he  is 
a stanch  Republican. 

Robert  Worthington,  junior  member  of  the  above  mentioned  and  well-known  firm  is 
a product  of  Mooresville,  Morgan  County,  Ind.,  born  November  20,  1861,  and  the  son  of  J. 
M.  Worthington,  who  was  a native  of  the  Empire  State.  The  father  came  west  many  years 
ago  and  sold  goods  to  the  Indians.  He  was  a partner  of  Samuel  Moore  who  was  the  founder 
of  Mooresville,  and  passed  the  remainder  of  his  days  in  Morgan  County,  this  State,  his 
death  occurriug  in  1877,  when  sixty-eight  years  of  age.  For  many  years  he  was  a farmer 
and  was  very  successful  in  that  occupation.  He  held  a number  of  public  offices  and  was 
sheriff  of  Morgan  County  two  terms,  just  prior  to  the  war.  In  religion  he  was  a Methodist 
and  in  politics  he  was  a Republican.  Robert  Worthington  was  the  youngest  of  nine  children 
and  his  education  was  received  in  the  schools  of  Mooresville,  from  which  he  graduated.  In 
1879  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  started  to  learn  his  trade,  first  in  the  car  works.  Later  he 
went  to  Streator,  111.,  and  was  under  R.  C.  Meyer,  the  father  of  Billy  Meyer,  the  pugilist, 
serving  an  apprenticeship  of  three  years.  After  that  he  embarked  in  business  there,  con- 
tracting, and  remained  in  that  place  for  four  years  when  he  returned  to  Indianapolis  and 
opened  a restaurant  at  156  West  Washington  Street.  This  he  followed  for  nearly  four 
years  and  having  made  considerable  money,  he  quit  business  and  went  back  to  the  old  trade. 
For  some  time  he  was  foreman  for  J.  E.  Shovei’,  but  subsequently  he  formed  a partnership 
with  Mr.  Henry  and  has  continued  with  him  since.  Mr.  Worthington  is  a jiopular  business 
man,  and  is  abundantly  worthy  of  the  large  measure  of  success  attending  his  efforts.  Polit- 
ically he  is  a Republican,  and  socially  a member  of  the  K.  of  P.,  Lodge  No.  56. 

Louis  L.  Lange.  Among  the  most  popular  and  successful  painters,  grainers  and  paper- 
hangers  of  the  city  of  Indianapolis,  the  name  of  Louis  L.  Lange  stands  prominent,  and  as 


451 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

a contractor  in  his  line  he  has  all  the  business  he  can  properly  attend  to.  He  was  born  in 
Napoleon,  Kipley  County,  Ind.,  fifty  three  years  ago,  his  father,  Joseph  E.  Lange,  having 
been  born  in  France.  When  a young  man  of  about  sixteen  years  of  age  he  came  to  the 
United  States  and  in  1837  located  in  the  city  of  New  York,  after  which  he  moved  to  Brook- 
ville,  Ind.,  and  later  to  Ripley  County,  this  State,  and  here  followed  the  calling  of  a mer- 
chant and  farmer,  and  as  he  was  shrewd  and  far  seeing  in  his  views  he  made  a success  of 
his  enterprises  and  accumulated  a competency.  He  became  a leader  of  the  Democratic 
party  in  Ripley  County  and  there  held  manj'^  positions  of  honor  and  trust,  in  the  discharge 
of  which  he  shoAved  himself  capable,  honorable  and  painstaking.  He  was  also  prominent  as 
a Mason  and  on  numerous  occasions  represented  his  lodge  in  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State. 
At  the  time  of  his  death  he  was  about  the  age  of  sixty-nine  3'ears,  and  during  all  this  time 
naught  was  ever  said  derogatory  to  his  honor.  He  was  married  to  Julia  Ann  Lindley  in  this 
State,  but  she  was  born  in  Ohio,  and  still  survives  him.  Louis  L.  Lange  was  the  eldest  of 
their  thirteen  children  and  received  a good  common  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Rip- 
ley County,  after  which  he  attended  the  State  University  for  two  years.  L^pon  leaving  this 
institution  he  entered  his  father’s  store,  and  still  later  was  in  the  recorder’s  office.  In  June, 
1861,  he  joined  Company  I,  Thirteenth  Indiana  Infantry  with  which  he  served  until  June 
30,  1804,  participating  in  the  battles  of  Rich  Mountain,  Winchester,  Fort  Wagner,  Chester 
Station,  Bermvrda  Hundred,  Petersburg,  and  many  others.  After  the  war  closed  and  he  had 
returned  to  his  home,  he  learned  his  trade  and  commenced  business  for  himself,  opening  an 
establishment  of  his  own  in  this  ciG  in  1867.  He  is  not  onlj'^  a neat,  skillful  and  rapid 
worker  but  he  is  also  artistic,  and  his  taste  in  all  matters  pertaining  to  his  work  cannot  be 
questioned.  He  has  always  taken  an  active  part  in  the  conventions  of  the  Democratic  partj^ 
as  a delegate,  but  has  not  been  a political  aspirant.  He  is  also  a member  of  the  G.  A.  R. 
In  1867  he  was  married  to  Mary  A.  Eaton,  of  Ripley  County. 

James  Tobin.  Enterprise  and  scpiare  dealing  methods  frequently  lead  to  moi’e  flatter- 
ing results  than  the  practice  of  sharp  and  unscrupulous  business  measures,  and  when  these 
qualities  are  combined  with  a thorough  knowledge  of  the  business  engaged  in,  it  is  sure  to 
bring  a legitimate  and  well  deserved  reward.  The  business  career  of  James  Tobin  has  been 
a successful  one,  and  as  a builder  and  contractor  he  has  not  his  superior  in  Indianapolis. 
He  owes  his  nativitj^  to  Madison  County,  Ind.,  where  he  was  born  on  November  4,  1862,  a 
son  of  Thomas  Tobin,  who  was  a native  of  the  Isle  of  Irin.  As  a lad  of  sixteen  years  the 
latter  came  to  the  United  States,  and  first  located  in  the  State  of  Pennsylvania,  where  he 
eventually  became  interested  in  a rolling-mill,  although  he  was  engaged  in  different  occupa- 
tions during  his  life  time.  From  Pennsylvania  he  removed  to  Ohio,  and  from  Ohio  to  Indi- 
ana, and  took  up  his  residence  in  Indianapolis  when  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  a child 
one  year  old.  He  was  always  quite  actively  interested  in  the  ])olitical  issues  of  the  day,  and 
at  all  times  earnestly’  espoused  the  cause  of  Democrac}'.  He  was  called  upon  to  pay  the  last 
del)t  of  nature  about  sixteen  years  ago.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  received  his  education  in 
the  public  schools  of  Ohio,  Madison  County,  Ind.,  and  Indianapolis,  and  after  the  death  of 
his  father  he  resided  in  the  Buckeye  State  for  some  time.  At  the  age  of  sixteen  j’ears  he 
started  to  learn  the  carpenter’s  trade  at  Camp  Chase,  Ohio,  but  after  serving  a short  appren- 
ticeship he  returned  to  Indianapolis,  and  here  completed  his  knowledge  of  the  trade.  Later 
he  was  emjJoyed  at  his  trade  by  James  Cummins  for  two  years,  and  at  the  end  of  that 
time  he  engaged  in  business  for  himself,  and  has  built  up  an  extensive  trade,  em})loying 
many  men,  and  is  his  own  superintendent  and  invents  his  own  plans.  He  is  a mastei’  w'ork 
man,  is  skillful  in  the  management  of  his  employes,  and  his  work  is  always  of  a most  praise 
worthy  kind.  He  is  nottal  for  living  up  to  the  letter  of  his  contracts,  and  his  services  are  in 
demand  by  owners  of  property  and  real  estate  agents.  He  has  made  a success  of  his  carc'cr 
through  his  own  perseverance  and  energy,  and  is  deserving  the  success  which  has  attended 
his  efforts.  He  is  <piite  an  influential  |)olitical  leader,  and  has  always  labored  for  the  success 
of  the  Democrat  party.  In  1883  he  was  married  to  Miss  Annie  Ayers,  of  this  city,  but  a 
native  of  Ohio,  and  the}'  have  a comfortable  and  hospitable  home. 

John  H.  Teckenbuock.  This  wide  awake  business  man  is  a memlx'r  of  the  well  knowji 
contracting  firm  of  Teckenbrock  <fe  Ante,  and  was  born  in  the  city  in  whicli  he  is  now  doing 
business  September  9,  1855,  a son  of  Christian  'reckenlirock,  wlio  was  a native  of  Germatiy. 


452 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


When  a yonrig  man  of  nineteen  years  he  came  to  the  Uniteil  States  and  for  some  time  was  a 
resident  of  the  city  of  Cincinnati,  then  came  to  Indianapolis,  which  place  has  since  continued 
to  he  his  liome.  His  wife  was  also  a native  of  Germany  and  is  now  enjoying  a hale  and 
hearty  old  age.  John  H.  received  his  education  in  the  schools  of  Indianapolis,  and  when  a 
lad  of  fourteen  years  began  learning  the  trade  of  paint  contracting  under  Louis  Helle,  in  this 
city,  serving  an  apprenticeship  of  three  years.  He  was  then  bound  out  for  two  years,  but 
continued  to  thus  labor  for  three  years,  after  which  he  entered  Br.  ant  & Stratton’s  Business 
College,  and  there  accpiired  a thorough  knowledge  of  the  art  of  book  keeping.  After  grad- 
uating from  this  institution  he  was  engaged  in  the  grocery  business  for  a short  time,  and  then 
for  some  time  longer  was  with  the  firm  with  which  he  had  learned  his  trade.  He  next 
entered  the  employ  of  Charles  W.  Lyzott,  with  whom  he  worked  for  about  a year  and  a half, 
at  the  end  of  which  time  he  started  out  in  business  for  himself  and  continued  alone 
until  1882,  when  he  formed  a pu'tnership  with  Louis  Ante,  and  has  been  successfully 
engaged  in  contracting  with  him  ever  since.  They  are  doing  a large  and  paying  business 
and  have  tilled  many  important  and  extensive  contracts  in  a most  satisfactory  manner,  among 
the  most  important  of  which  may  be  mentioned  the  German  Orphans’  Home,  the  residences 
of  Messrs.  Weaver,  Werner,  Franklin  and  McDougal,  besides  many  business  houses  throughout 
the  city,  as  well  as  numerous  buihlings  throughout  Marion  county.  In  his  political  views  he 
has  always  l)een  a Ilej>ublican,  although  his  father  was  a stanch  Democrat.  He  was  married 
in  1881  to  Miss  Rebecca  Conover,  of  this  city,  who  was  born  in  Jefferson  County,  this  State, 
and  by  whom  he  has  three  promising  sons  and  one  daughter.  He  is  secretary  of  the  Master 
Painters  Association,  and  socially  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  Center  Lodge,  No.  18, 
the  Order  of  lledmen,  Red  Cloud  Lodge,  No,  18,  and  others  of  less  importance.  Mr.  Teck- 
enbrock  is  an  upright  citizen  and  has  the  respect  of  all  his  acquaintances  both  socially  and 
in  a business  way. 

Charles  W.  Read.  There  is  probably  no  other  kind  of  artist — for  the  sign-painter,  if 
he  be  true  to  his  profession,  is  surely  an  artist — the  result  of  whose  originality  and  skill  are 
everywhere  so  visible  to  his  fellow  men.  It  is  necessary  to  expend  a great  deal  of  time  and 
care  to  thoroughly  tit  one’s  self  for  a successful  career  in  this  branch  of  human  endeavor, 
and  that  Charles  W.  Read  has  done  so  cannot  be  denied,  in  looking  at  the  numerous  ema- 
nations of  his  brain  throughout  the  city  of  Indianajjolis.  He  was  born  in  Dearborn  County, 
Ind.,  November  10,  1806,  a son  of  William  B.  Read,  who  is  also  a native  Hoosier  and  is  a 
citi  zen  of  Indianapolis,  his  residence  being  at  181  Lexington  Street.  He  is  a musician  of 
far  more  than  ordinary  ability  and  for  some  time  was  a teacher  of  music  in  the  Blind  Asy- 
lum, but  is  now  himself  blind.  Like  many  of  the  wide-awake  young  business  men  of  the 
present  day  in  Indianapolis,  Charles  W.  Read  received  his  education  in  the  public  schools, 
but  when  still  a boy  commenced  working  at  the  painter’s  trade,  which  he  has  since  made,  and 
which  he  expects  to  make,  his  life  work,  although  the  greater  part  of  his  attention  is  given 
to  the  painting  of  signs,  in  which  he  has  bscome  exceedingly  expert  and  remarkably  artistic. 
His  services  are  in  demand  all  over  the  city  and  he  has  all  the  work  he  can  conveniently  do 
and  do  well.  He  showed  his  ability  and  taste  in  painting  the  floats  for  the  Columbian  Expo- 
sition, used  on  a certain  day,  which  were  remarked  upon  for  their  beauty  and  the  artistic 
manner  in  which  they  were  executed.  He  is  also  well  known  to  householders  as  a decorator 
of  no  mean  ability,  and  the  evidences  of  his  handiwork  may  be  seen  in  many  of  the  most 
beautiful  homes  of  the  city,  His  place  of  business  is  at  94  East  Market  Street,  and  besides, 
he  has  a comfortable  and  pleasant  home,  where  he  and  his  wife,  whose  maiden  name  was 
Laura  A.  Coflin,  and  whom  he  married  in  November,  1887,  dispense  a generous  hospital  ity 
to  their  many  friends.  Politically  he  has  always  been  in  sympathy  with  the  Democratic 
party  and  socially  he  is  a member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  and  the  P.  O.  S.  of  A., being  secretary 
of  the  latter. 

William  J.  Mitchell.  No  matter  how  crowded  may  be  the  market  in  any  particular 
calling,  every  person  who  possesses  original  and  practical  ideas,  with  the  enterprise  to  push 
his  ideas  to  a successful  termination,  is  bound  to  win  success,  both  as  regards  reputation  and 
the  accumulation  of  the  almighty  dollar.  Such  has  been  the  experience  of  William  J. 
Mitchell,  whose  career  as  a contractor  and  builder  has  been  one  of  success  almost  from  the 
time  of  his  commencement  in  the  business,  and  this  is  without  doubt  due  to  his  thorough 


453 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

knowledge  of  his  calling,  as  well  as  to  the  fact  that  he  always  lives  up  to  the  letter  of  his 
contract.  He  is  a product  of  the  city  in  which  he  lives,  his  birth  occurring  August  28,  1858, 
and  in  the  public  schools  of  Indianapolis  he  acquired  a thorough  and  practical  education, 
amply  sufficient  to  tit  him  for  the  ordinary  business  affairs  of  life.  When  a lad  of  twelve 
years  he  commenced  learning  the  carpenter’s  trade  and  after  becoming  familiar  with  its 
details  he  entered  the  employ  of  William  Cutter,  with  whom  he  remained  eleven  years,  a 
considerable  portion  of  the  time  acting  in  the  responsible  position  of  foreman.  Upon  leav- 
ing the  services  of  this  gentleman,  he  was  with  Adam  Busch  for  a number  of  years,  but  for 
the  past  nine  years  has  been  in  business  for  himself  and  since  that  time  has  been  actively 
engaged  in  the  erection  of  residences,  principally,  although  he  has  given  considerable  atten- 
tion to  other  buildings  also.  His  career  has  been  characterized  by  much  business  acumen 
and  unlimited  energy,  and  since  starting  in  business  for  himself  he  has  met  with  more  than 
ordinary'  success,  for  his  undoubted  skill  and  knowledge  of  his  calling  have  won  for  him  a large 
patronage  among  the  wealthiest  people  of  his  section.  Socially  Mr.  Mitchell  is  a member  of 
Star  Lodge  No.  7,  of  the  K.  of  P.  In  1876  he  led  to  the  altar  Miss  Mollie  Wiley,  a native 
of  Bloomington,  Ind.,  and  by  her  has  one  son.  Mr.  Mitchell’s  father,  Bonner  Mitchell,  was 
bom  in  Ohio,  became  a resident  of  Indiana])olis  in  1838  or  1839,  and  throughout  life  suc- 
cessfully followed  the  occupation  of  farming. 

Hiram  B.  Ellis.  Few  persons  realize  the  magnitude  and  importance  of  the  business 
of  the  contractor  and  builder,  and  to  be  successful  in  it  requires  that  a man  must  be  of  sound 
judgment,  as  well  as  possessing  a thorough  and  experienced  knowledge  of  the  calling.  A 
man  particularly  worthy  of  note  in  this  line  is  Hiram  11.  Ellis,  who  does  his  work  in  the 
most  satisfactory  manner  possible,  with  thoroughness,  neatness  and  dispatch,  and  if  the  word 
of  his  patrons  may  be  taken  as  a criterion,  he  always  carries  out  his  agreements  in  every 
detail.  He  was  born  in  Watertown,  N.  Y.,  in  1860,  and  is  a son  of  Halsey  A.  Ellis,  who 
was  a farmer  by  occupation,  but  who  for  the  past  fifteen  years  has  made  his  home  in  Charle- 
voix County,  Mich.  He  has  been  a pushing  man  of  affairs,  wide  awake  to  his  own  interests 
and  that  of  the  sections  in  which  he  has  resided,  and  in  his  political  views  has  always 
affiliated  with  the  Republican  party.  He  has  now  reached  the  age  of  seventy-five  years. 
In  theschoolsof  Watertown  Hiram  E.  Ellis  obtained  a thorough  and  practical  education.  He 
liegan  learning  the  trade  of  a brick  layer  at  the  age  of  fifteen,  and  while  serving  his  apprentice- 
ship learned  all  the  details  of  the  plasterer’s  trade  as  well  as  cement,  brick  and  stone  work. 
He  then  went  to  Hastings,  Neb.,  from  there  to  Denver,  Colo.,  and  eventually  found  himself 
in  .Seattle,  Wash.,  working  on  many  of  the  most  imjiortant  structures  of  these  cities  for 
seven  years,  then  (in  1886)  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  continued  contracting,  being  one 
year  with  Peter  C.  Weyenberg,  but  since  then  has  been  by  himself.  He  has  done  a great 
deal  of  very  important  work,  and  has  always  done  it  well,  his  sjiecialty  being  residence  work, 
and  evidences  of  his  handiwork  may  be  seen  in  all  parts  of  the  city.  He  gives  almost  con 
stant  employment  to  a large  force  of  men,  whom  he  personally  oversees,  and  there  is  no 
slighting  of  any  contract  that  may  be  placed  in  his  hands — of  that  his  patrons  feel  assured. 
He  started  in  life  without  means,  but  through  his  own  force  of  character  he  has  placed  him 
self  in  an  independent  position  and  enjoys  the  confidence  of  all  who  know  him.  He  was 
married  to  Miss  Clara  Schleincher,  a daughter  of  William  .Schleincher,  by  whom  he  has  one 
son  and  one  daughter.  Mr.  Ellis  is  indejiendent  of  all  exchanges  and  associations,  and  in 
politics  is  a Republican.  His  start  in  life  was  made  in  the  West,  the  greater  jiortion  of  his 
life  has  been  sfient  there,  and  he  is  in  heart  and  spirit  an  essentially  western  man. 

Ceorge  W.  Stout.  Tliere  is  no  greater  or  more  important  industry  carried  on  in  the 
city  of  Indianapolis  than  that  of  building  and  all  of  its  necessary  accessories,  and  (leorge 
W.  Stout,  of  that  place  thoroughly  understands  all  of  its  details  and  annually  fulfils  a 
large  number  of  important  contracts.  He  is  a product  of  the  city  in  which  he  lives,  having 
lieen  liorn  here  on  November  23,  1859,  his  father,  I.  If.  Stout,  being  one  of  the  early  resi 
dents  of  this  place,  whither  he  had  come  about  sixty  years  ago.  About  thirty  five  years 
ago  he  lo(;ated  on  Hasbrook  Street,  being  one  of  the  first  to  take  U))  his  residence  there. 
He  is  a native  of  Kentucky.  In  the  public  schools  of  Indianapolis  fleorge  W.  Stout  was 
educated,  and  after  becoming  thoroughly  familiar  with  the  carpenter’s  trade  he  engaged  in 
contracting  on  his  own  resjamsibility,  and  continued  thus  until  recently,  when  his  present 


454 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


partnership  with  Vic  Pickard  was  formed  and  they  have  since  been  engaged  in  the  building 
of  sewers.  They  have  since  put  in  hundreds  of  miles  of  pipe  throughout  the  city,  and  as 
their  work  is  exceptionally  well  done,  they  have  been  instrumental  in  greatly  augmenting 
the  food  and  health  of  the  community.  Thus  far  in  his  career  Mr.  Stout  has  made  his  own 
way  in  the  world,  for  when  he  started  out  to  fight  the  battle  of  life  for  himself  be  had 
but  little  means,  but  his  energy  and  good  Judgment  have  placed  him  beyond  the  reach  of 
want,  and  as  his  work  is  strictly  first  class,  he  has  all  the  work  he  can  properly  attend  to. 
He  has  always  taken  great  interest  in  political  affairs,  but  has  shown  good  judgment  in  not 
as{)iring  to  political  position,  his  chief  attention  being  given  to  his  business.  He  was  mar- 
ried in  1S88,  to  Miss  Lily  Lewis,  and  in  1889,  after  her  death,  he  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Lizzie  Williams.  He  is  not  a member  of  any  social  order  or  association,  and  does 
his  work  unhampered  by  any  society  whatever.  He  laid  the  sewer  pipe  on  Fletcher  Avenue, 
and  did  a gieat  deal  of  suburban  work.  He  is  president  of  the  Indiana  Vault  and  Sink 
Cleaning  Company,  the  most  extensive  society  of  its  kind  in  the  State,  and  is  a thorough 
and  practical  workman,  and  honorable  and  upright  in  his  business  dealings. 

Granville  Jared.  It  may  safely  be  said  that  America  is  in  the  position  to-day  to  claim 
the  most  attractive  and  magnificent  homes  in  the  universe.  In  European  countries,  genera- 
tion after  generation  glides  by,  without  so  much  as  a change  of  a single  nook  or  cranny  of 
their  homes.  But  no  such  charge  can  be  lodged  against  the  homes  of  America,  for  their 
style  of  architecture  is  unique  and  varied  and  this  is  due  to  the  ingenuity  of  the  architect 
whose  ])lans  are  carried  out  ably  and  to  the  letter  by  the  contractor  and  builder,  prominent 
among  whom  in  Indianapolis  may  be  mentioned  Granville  Jared,  whose  place  of  business  is 
at  183  Beeville  Avenue.  Mr.  Jared  was  born  in  Breckenridge  County,  Ky.,  his  grandfather, 
Joel  Jared,  having  moved  from  Virginia  to  that  State  about  1806,  where  the  father  of  the 
subject  of  this  sketch  was  born  the  following  year.  He  was  brought  up  to  a knowledge  of 
farming  and  carpentering.  In  1841  he  moved  to  Illinois  and  located  in  Jasper  County  where 
he  died  in  January,  1892.  He  was  an  active  politician  in  his  day,  was  first  an  old  Henry 
Clay  Whig  and  in  1856  began  supporting  the  principles  of  Republicanism,  which  he  contin- 
ued to  do  the  remainder  of  his  days.  He  held  official  position  in  Jasper  County  for  twenty 
years  and  was  the  second  school  commissioner  of  that  county.  He  was  a successful  business 
man  and  while  in  office  sold  all  the  school  lands  in  Jasper  County  and  established  a school 
fund  of  which  he  was  in  charge  for  six  years.  The  family  first  came  to  this  country  during 
the  early  settlement  of  New  England  and  members  of  it  are  now  scattered  throughout  the 
length  and  breadth  of  the  United  States.  The  mother  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was 
Rosa  Meadows,  who  died  in  1874  at  about  the  age  of  seventy-five  years.  She  and  her  hus- 
band were  members  of  the  Cumberland  Presbyterian  Church  for  many  years.  They  became 
the  parents  of  twelve  children,  of  whom  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  the  third  in  order  of 
birth.  He  received  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Jasper  County  and  learned  his 
trade  under  his  father,  and  to  this  occupation  he  has  since  given  the  most  of  his  attention 
although  he  farmed  for  a few  years  in  Jasper  County.  In  1863  and  1864  he  was  in  the  provost 
marshars  office,  a responsible  and  dangerous  position,  and  he  passed  through  a number  of 
thrilling  experiences.  In  1878  he  moved  to  Terre  Haute,  Ind.,  where  he  commenced  con- 
tracting and  there  did  some  extensive  and  important  work,  chief  among  which  was  the  San- 
ford Fork  and  Tool  Works.  For  the  past  three  years  he  has  been  a resident  of  Indianapo- 
lis and  since  that  time  his  attention  has  been  directed  to  contracting  during  which  short 
period  he  has  built  up  an  enviable  reputation.  In  August,  1862,  he  joined  Company  E.  of 
the  One  Hundred  and  Twenty-third  Illinois  Volunteer  Infantry,  with  which  he  served  until 
he  received  his  discharge  in  February,  1863,  by  reason  of  disability,  after  which  he  was  in 
the  provost  marshall’s  sei  vice  in  Illinois,  although  he  was  stationed  at  Perryville,  Ky.  He 
was  married  in  1853  to  Miss  Samantha  Tomilson  of  Jasper  County  and  to  them  a family  of 
ten  children  were  given,  eight  of  whom  are  living,  five  sons  and  three  daughters.  Mr.  Jared 
is  a member  of  the  G.  A.  R.,  was  a Whig  in  politics  in  1852  and  since  1856  has  been  a Re- 
publican. 

John  K.  Slack.  One  of  the  many  who  are  called  upon  to  contribute  their  quota  of 
what  is  needed  to  make  up  the  necessities  or  luxuries  prepared  for  the  comfort  and  well 
being  of  the  inner  man  is  the  grocer,  whose  popularity  is  usually  measured  by  the  quality  of 


455 


AND  MABION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

goods  with  which  he  supplies  his  customers.  Assumiug  such  to  be  the  case,  the  name  of 
John  K.  Slack  has  become  a conspicuous  one  at  Brightwood,  Ind.  He  was  born  in  Delaware 
County,  Ind.,  December!),  1867,  his  father  being  George  W.  Slack,  a native  of  Bucks 
County,  Penn.  About  forty  years  ago,  when  the  latter  was  a young  man,  he  came  to 
Indiana,  and  in  addition  to  practicing  the  honorable  profession  of  medicine  with  more  than 
ordinary  success,  he  followed  the  occupation  of  farming  until  death  closed  his  career  in 
1885.  He  was  a graduate  of  the  Chicago  Medical  School,  but  his  knowledge  was  not  con- 
fined to  the  paths  of  physic  for  he  was  well  informed  on  the  current  topics  of  the  day  and 
was  an  extensive  and  retentive  reader.  John  K.  Slack  was  an  attendant  of  the  schools  of 
Delaware  County  until  he  was  eighteen  years  of  age  when  he  became  a telegraph  operator 
with  the  Bee  Line  Railroad,  and  after  its  consolidation  with  the  Big  Four  Railroad  he  still 
continued  with  the  road,  and  for  three  years  was  night  operator  at  Daleville,  Ind.  He  was 
then  stationed  at  Brightwood  at  the  East  Yards  for  something  over  two  years,  and  during  his 
entire  experience  as  a telegraph  operator  he  was  never  laid  off  from  work  but  two  days. 
Upon  closing  his  career  as  a railroad  man  he  formed  a partnership  with  Samuel  Bloom  and 
together  they  opened  a well  stocked  grocery  establishment  which  they  have  conducted  with 
exceptional  success  up  to  the  present  time,  their  house  being  the  most  popular  as  well  as 
most  extensive  in  Brightwood.  It  was  their  aim  when  they  started  in  business  to  make 
theirs  the  leading  establishment  of  their  vicinity,  and  they  have  succeeded  in  doing  so  upon 
lines  of  sterling  integrity.  They  handle  only  the  highest  grade  of  products  and  deal  with 
the  first  families  of  the  community.  Mr.  Slack  has  always  been  a Democrat  in  politics  and 
at  the  last  election  he  was  chosen  trustee  of  ward  1.  October  28,  1891,  he  was  united  in 
marriage  with  Miss  Katie  Bloom  of  this  city.  He  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P. , the  Chosen 
Friends,  the  Red  Men  and  the  Pythian  Sisters. 

Charles  F.  Wehking.  The  calling  of  the  brick  contractor  has  becomea  most  im})ortant 
one  from  the  fact  that  into  nearly  every  structure  of  importance  that  material  is  put,  there- 
fore, it  is  necessary  for  a contractor  who  expects  to  make  a success  of  his  calling,  to  become 
thoroughly  familiar  with  every  detail  of  the  business  or  he  will  “find  his  house  about  his 
ears.’’  A gentleman  well  up  in  this  calling  is  Charles  F.  Wehking,  who  is  a native  of  Ger- 
many, in  which  country  he  was  born  in  1846.  He  learned  his  trade  in  the  land  of  his 
birth,  as  an  apprentice,  but  before  he  had  worked  at  it  any  length  of  time  he  entered  the 
German  army,  and  during  the  four  years  that  he  was  in  the  service  he  held  the  rank  of 
sergeant  of  his  company,  and  was  in  the  Franco- Prussian  War,  taking  part  in  the  battle  of 
August  14,  1871,  and  August  18,  of  the  same  year,  the  latter  being  the  hardest  engagement 
of  the  whole  war.  He  also  particij)ated  in  numerous  skirmishes  and  upon  receiving  his  dis- 
charge he  came  almost  immediately  to  the  United  States,  and  took  up  his  residence  in  the 
city  of  Indianapolis,  which  has  ever  since  been  his  liome  and  with  the  interests  of  which  he 
has  always  fully  identified  himself.  For  fifteen  years  after  locating  here  he  worked  at  his 
trade  for  different  contractors,  then  formed  a partnership  with  Henry  Feltman,  and  they 
were  engaged  in  contracting  together  for  one  season,  but  since  that  time  he  has  been  by 
himself.  He  erected  the  new  Deaf  and  Dumb  Asylum,  many  tine  business  buildings,  and 
the  handsome  and  sul)stantial  addition  to  the  Denison  Hotel;  the  addition  to  tlie  State  Nor- 
mal Building,  at  Terre  Haute,  Ind.;  the  school  buildings  at  Evansville;  the  Bank  building 
and  school  l)uildings  at  Connorsville;  the  buildings  at  St.  Mary’s  In  The  Woods  near  Terre 
Haute,  and  others  too  numerous  to  particularize;  suffice  it  to  say  that  they  were  all  substantial 
and  well  constructed  l)uildings.  In  politics  Mr.  Wehking  has  made  it  a principle  to  vote 
f(jr  the  one  whom  in  his  oi)inion  is  the  l)est  man  for  the  |)osition,  but  aside  from  this  is  not 
a politician.  In  1872  Miss  Christina  Moldtlian,  who  was  born  in  Germany,  l)ecame  his 
wife,  and  to  them  eight  childien  have  been  given,  six  daughters  surviving,  a son  and 
daughter  being  dead.  Mr.  Wehking  is  a member  of  the  German  Ijutheran  Church,  belongs 
to  the  German  Or|)han8’  Home  Association,  as  well  as  otlier  cliaritable  and  social  organiza- 
tions. 

Omri  4’.  Field.  In  a growing  city  there  is  no  more  important  industry  or  one  in 
which  its  exponents  are  in  greater  demand  than  the  builder  and  contractor.  Indianapolis’ 
tine  business  houses  and  jialatial  residences  have  jiroven  this,  while  the  builder  may  with 
truth  at  once  be  designated  as  one  of  the  foremost  and  useful  develojiers  of  a vicinity.  A 


456 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


popular  man  in  this  connection  is  Oinri  T.  Field  whose  business  is  located  at  116  Ramsey 
Avenue.  Mr.  Field  was  born  in  Jackson  Comity,  Ind.,  in  1871,  son  of  Greenberry  Field 
and  grandson  of  William  Field  who  was  a native  Kentuckian  and  a pioneer  of  Jefferson 
County,  Ind.  Greenberry  Field  was  born  in  Jefferson  County,  Ind.,  in  1832,  and  when 
grown  became  a merchant  in  that  county,  continuing  in  that  business  for  some  time.  Sub- 
secpiently  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  was  engaged  in  the  grocery  business  for  two  years, 
after  which  he  turned  his  attention  to  handling  all  kinds  of  stock.  While  a resident  of  Jef- 
ferson County  he  was  township  assessor  and  held  other  local  positions.  Since  residing 
here  he  has  served  as  laud  appraiser.  Politically  he  has  always  been  a Democrat  and  socially 
he  is  a Mason,  and  is  an  original  charter  member  of  the  Chosen  Friends.  He  is  also  a member 
of  the  Christian  Church.  He  selected  his  wife  in  the  person  of  Miss  Eliza  A.  Buxton,  a native 
of  the  Buckeye  State,  and  three  children  have  blessed  this  union:  Laura  A.,  Eva  Bell, 
and  O.  T.  The  latter,  our  subject,  received  a good  practical  education  in  the  city  schools, 
graduating  when  seventeen  years  of  age,  and  then  served  an  apprenticeship  as  a carpenter 
under  M.  M.  Cotton.  Later  he  finished  under  George  H.  Hoerette  and  then  worked  for 
William  Martin,  of  Brightwood,  as  foreman,  continuing  in  that  capacity  for  three  years. 
Since  then  he  has  been  contracting  for  himself.  His  wife.  Miss  Lula  M.  Heaton,  was  one 
of  Indianapolis’  fair  daughters,  and  a lady  of  much  refinement. 

Charles  H.  Schoershusen.  Few  departments  of  industrial  activity  have  attained 
greater  perfection  or  a more  deserved  reputation  in  Indianapolis  than  that  of  contracting 
and  building.  The  competition  in  this  line  is  great,  but  the  result  has  been  satisfactory  to 
the  great  public,  as  a higher  standard  of  perfection  has  been  attained.  Prominent  among 
the  popular  and  successful  contractors  and  builders  of  Indianapolis  stands  the  name  of 
Charles  H.  Schoershusen  who  has  made  a name  for  always  discharging  his  obligations  with 
truth  to  his  promises,  thus  gaining  a place  in  the  first  rank  of  contractors  and  builders.  He 
was  born  in  Germany.  April  23,  1855,  and  is  the  son  of  Henry  Schoershusen  who  was  also 
born  in  Germany,  and  who  was  a working  man  and  an  industrious  citizen.  Our  subject 
received  his  education  in  his  native  land  and  in  1880  he  came  to  the  United  States  to  win 
fame  and  fortune  on  this  side  of  the  Atlantic.  Previous  to  this  he  had  worked  a little  at  his 
trade  in  the  old  country,  and  after  touching  American  soil  he  located  at  Benton,  Iowa,  where 
he  remained  but  a short  time.  He  then  came  to  Indianapolis  and  began  working  for  William 
Kattau,  of  that  city,  and  continued  with  him  nine  years,  becoming  foreman  in  that  time,  and 
erecting  many  of  the  finest  buildings  in  the  city.  Later  he  commenced  working  for  him- 
self, and  success  has  crowned  his  efforts.  He  was  first  with  William  Phillips  one  season,  and 
was  then  for  some  time  by  himself.  He  has  erected  many  buildings  in  the  city  and  is  well 
known  as  a skillful  and  reliable  workman.  He  came  to  this  country  with  limited  means  and 
all  his  accumulations  are  the  result  of  years  of  hard  work  and  good  management.  He  was 
married  in  his  native  country  to  Miss  Dora  Breihenn,  also  a native  of  Germany,  and  three 
children  were  born  to  their  union,  two  sons  living  and  a daughter  deceased.  Mr.  Schoer- 
shusen is  a member  of  the  Contractors  Association,  and  is  a wide  awake,  thoroughgoing 
business  man.  He  is  identified  with  the  Second  Reform  Church,  and  a liberal  contributor 
to  all  worthy  movements. 

John  H.  Gasper.  The  building  up  of  Indianapolis  has  long  been  actively  and  prom- 
inently identified  with  the  name  of  Gaspei-,  as  has  the  erection  of  many  of  her  largest  and 
stateliest  edifices.  John  H.  Gasper  has  been  one  of  the  foremost  builders  and  contractors 
in  Indianapolis  since  1871,  for  from  the  start  his  exceptional  business  acumen,  reliability 
and  promptness  in  fulfilling  his  agreements,  secured  for  him  wide  recognition  and  an  influ- 
ential patronage.  He  has  become  widely  known  and  respected  in  the  city  of  his  adoption, 
and  may  well  look  with  pride  on  the  monuments  of  his  handiwork  in  all  parts  of  Indianap- 
olis. Mr.  Gasper  was  born  in  North  Vernon,  Jennings  County,  Ind.,  December  30,  1850, 
and  HO  doubt  inherits  his  perseverance,  industry  and  honorable  business  methods  from  his 
German  ancestors,  for  his  parents,  John  B.  and  Elizabeth  Gasper,  were  natives  of  the  Father- 
land.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Gasper  came  to  this  country  when  single  and  were  married  in  Madison, 
Ind.  The  father  is  still  living,  is  seventy-four  years  of  age,  but  still  enjoys  comparatively 
good  health.  He  learned  the  stone  mason’s  trade  in  Germany,  but  after  coming  to  the 
United  States  became  a contractor,  which  he  followed  very  extensively  for  years.  He  is 


457 


AXD  MARIOX  COUXTY,  IXDIANA. 

now  retired.  He  has  always  taken  a part  in  politics  and  in  the  success  of  the  Democratic 
party.  John  H.  Gasper,  the  fourth  in  order  of  birth  of  nine  children  born  to  his  parents, 
secured  a fair  education  in  the  schools  of  North  Vernon  and  subsecpiently  served  an  appren- 
ticeship at  the  carpenter’s  trade.  In  1871  he  came  to  Indianapolis  and  worked  at  his  trade 
for  different  parties  for  a number  of  years,  after  which  he  began  contracting  for  himself. 
This  he  has  continued  ever  since  with  the  exception  of  one  year  when  he  was  foreman  for 
John  R.  Staples.  As  before  stated,  he  has  built  some  of  this  city’s  liandsomest  residences, 
and  in  his  business  relations  will  be  found  liberal,  punctual  and  upright.  In  188()  he  moved 
to  North  Indianapolis  where  he  now  has  a very  pleasant  home  presided  over  by  his  estimable 
wife  w’ho  was  formerly  Miss  Mary  F.  Hatton.  For  some  time  Mr.  Gasper  was  in  partner- 
ship with  William  M’eaver,  but  is  now  by  himself.  He  is  a deacon  in  the  Christian  Church. 
To  his  marriage  has  been  born  one  child,  a daughter. 

John  T.  Metsker.  It  would  be  difficult  to  conceive  of  an  industry  which  occupies  a 
more  important  standing  in  the  great  business  rush  of  the  West  than  that  allied  to  the  brick 
trade.  In  this  business  millions  of  dollars  are  invested,  while  the  number  of  persons 
employed  counts  up  into  the  hundreds  of  thousands.  One  of  the  leading  men  engaged  in  the 
brick-making  business  in  Indianapolis  is  John  T.  IMetsker,  who  owns  and  operates  a large 
brick  yard  at  the  corner  of  Clifford  Avenue  and  the  Belt  Railway.  He  has  all  the 
latest  and  best  machinery  for  his  business,  and  notwithstanding  the  dull  season  (18t)3), 
he  has  been  able  to  sell  all  the  brick  he  could  manufacture.  This  is  owing  to  the  well  known 
fact  that  he  manufactures  the  finest  brick  in  the  Indianapolis  market  and  is  a relialfie  and 
trustworthy  business  man.  ^fr.  Metsker  was  born  March  4,  1854,  in  Hamilton  County.  Ind., 
and  his  parents,  James  B.  and  Nancy  (DeMoss)  Metsker,  were  natives  of  that  State  also. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Metsker  were  married  at  Noblesville,  Ind.,  about  1850,  and  resided  in  that 
county  until  after  the  death  of  Mrs.  Metsker,  which  occurred  in  1884.  Seven  children  were 
l)orn  to  this  worthy  couple  and  named  in  the  order  of  their  births  as  follows:  Henry,  born 
in  1852,  married  Miss  Flora  Temple.  He  was  an  engineer  on  the  L.  N.  A.  A C.  Ry.,  with  his 
home  at  Monon,  and  was  killed  in  a wreck  at  Broad  Ripple,  in  1803;  John  T.,our  subject; 
Frank,  married  Miss  Laura  Fertig,  and  nowresides  at  Noblesville,  Ind.  ; Jane,  resides  at  the 
same  [)lace,  and  is  the  wife  of  Stephen  Mongole;  Mattie,  is  the  wife  of  Andrew  Barnes, 
and  resides  at  Noblesville,  Ind. ; Emma,  also  a resident  of  Noblesville,  is  yet  single,  and 
James  E.,  residing  in  Noblesville,  is  also  single.  The  original  of  this  notice  was  married 
in  the  month  of  November,  1888,  to  Miss  Sarah  K.  Soiiueyfield,  whose  parents  were  Indiana 
people,  and  now  reside  in  Marion  County,  of  the  Hoosier  State.  To  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Metsker 
have  been  born  one  child,  Ro}',  who  is  now  a fine,  active  little  boy  of  four  years,  his  birth 
occurring  in  1889.  Mr.  Metsker  was  reared  a farmer  but  at  an  early  age  learned  the  drug 
l)usiness.  This  was  too  confining  and  he  soon  abandoned  it  and  engaged  in  his  present  busi- 
ness of  making  brick.  He  has  made  a complete  success  of  this  business,  is  a man  of  excel- 
lent qualities  and  is  most  thoroughly  admired  and  respected  by  all  who  are  favored  with  his 
ac<juaintance.  He  is  now  building  for  himself  a handsome  brick  residence  with  all  the 
modern  improvcunents  and  conveniences.  He  has  contracted  to  make  3,()0(),(I0()  bricks  during 
the  season  of  1894,  and  as  his  bricks  are  all  burned  with  natural  gas  they  are  su])erior  to  all 
other  kinds. 

Charles  Mason.  Commerce  makes  common  the  various  j)roducts  of  earth  to  every 
country,  so  that  the  inhabitants  of  the  temperate  zone  can  enjoy  to  the  fullest  the  choicest 
viands  of  the  tropics.  Ships  plow  eveiT  sea  bearing  the  foodstuffs  of  far  away  climes  to 
this  country,  coffees,  teas,  jellies,  fruits  of  divers  kinds,  green  or  dried.  So,  just  as  indus- 
triously is  this  broad  continent  searching  for  dainty  and  j)alatable  foods  for  distribution  over 
its  territory.  The  result’of  this  is  that  nothing  in  the  mercantile  linecan  be  half  so  inviting  as 
a grocer  carrying  a full  line  of  <lietary  articles.  Prominent  among  the  dealers  in  that  lino 
in  Brightwood,  fud.,  is  Charles  Mason,  who  though  young  in  years,  is  possessed  of  any 
amount  of  push  and  energy.  He  was  born  in  London,  Shelby  County,  Ind.,  August  13, 
1872,  to  the  union  of  John  and  Sarah  J.  f. Means)  Mason  who  were  born,  rt'aied  and  married 
in  the  Hoosier  State.  'I’heii'  nuptials  were  celebrated  in  1808  and  after  living  there  for  sev- 
eral years  tShelby  County)  they  moved  to  Marion  County  and  now  reside  in  Indianapolis. 
Gf  the  six  children  born  to  their  marriage,  our  subject  is  tlu'  <4desl.  'I’he  others  wer(( 


458 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


named  as  follows;  fldgar,  born  in  1873,  died  in  1892;  Anna,  born  in  1875;  Mary,  born  in 
1877;  Harry,  born  in  1880,  and  Mellie,  born  in  1884.  The  last  four  are  at  home.  The 
father  of  these  children  was  a tobacconist  by  trade  and  follo\^  ed  this  until  a few  years  ago 
when  he  abandoned  it  for  farming  and  has  since  been  engaged  in  tilling  the  soil.  Our  sub- 
ject ha<l  his  first  training  on  a farm  and  from  there  went  to  Indianapolis  where  he  engaged 
in  merchandising.  For  the  last  three  years  he  has  been  engaged  in  the  grocery  and  feed 
business,  and  now  has  a Nourishing  establishment  at  No.  951  East  Michigan  Street,  Indian- 
apoli-;.  His  store  is  a large  one,  well  stocked  and  favorably  situated.  He  attends  to  all 
the  busines  himself  and  is  a wide-a  wake,  thoi'oughgoing  young  business  man.  He  was  mar- 
ried January  13,  1891,  to  Miss  Minnie  Moore,  a native  of  Boone  County,  Ind.,  born  in  1872, 
and  the  daughter  of  Samuel  Moore.  To  this  happy  couple  has  been  born  one  child,  Leo 
Dale,  a tine,  promising  boy  whose  birth  occuried  Febuary  1,  1893.  John  Mason,  the  father 
of  our  subject,  true  to  his  name,  has  been  a member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity  since  the 
age  of  twenty-three.  He  and  wife  are  members  of  the  Baptist  Church,  while  our  subject  and 
his  wife  hold  membership  in  the  Christian  Church. 

ItoBERT  Davis.  Among  all  the  industries  that  are  carried  on  in  the  flourishing  city  of 
Indianapolis  none  succeed  so  well  as  the  ones  that  are  conducted  by  practical  men.  An 
instance  in  mind  is  the  success  attained  to  by  Robert  Davis,  the  most  efficient  and  able  man- 
ager and  superintendent  of  the  Adams’  Manufacturing  Brick  Company.  He  is  a native  of 
Kentucky,  born  in  Fleming  County,  November  28,  1840,  and  is  the  son  of  John  N.  and  Jane 
(Harmon)  Davis,  natives,  respectively,  of  Floyd  County,  Penn.,  and  Kentucky.  In  the  lat- 
ter State  the  nuptials  of  tlie  parents  were  celebrated,  and  four  children  were  the  fruits  of 
this  union:  Fleming,  born  in  1828,  married  Miss  Melinda  Plank,  and  now  resides  in  Met 
calf,  111.;  Lucinda,  born  in  1830,  married  John  Hopkins  in  the  Blue-Grass  State,  and  died 
in  1859;  Fletcher,  born  in  1832,  married  Miss  Mariah  Jane  Mark,  and  now  lives  in  Fleming 
County,  Ky.,  and  the  youngest,  Robert,  is  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  Both  father  and 
mother  of  these  children  are  deceased.  They  came  to  this  State  from  Kentucky  in  1865,  and 
remained  here  until  1868,  when  they  returned  to  the  Blue-Grass  State,  where  they  passed 
the  remainder  of  their  days.  In  his  native  State  the  subject  of  this  sketch  passed  his  boy- 
hood and  youth  and  received  his  education.  There  he  was  married  in  1857  to  Miss  Caroline 
Dillon,  daughter  of  Britton  and  Mary  Dillon,  who  were  natives  of  Kentucky,  in  which  State 
they  passed  their  entire  days.  After  his  marriage,  or  in  1865,  Mr.  Davis  and  wife  moved 
to  Marion  County,  Ind.,  and  they  have  been  residents  of  this  county  ever  since.  Four  chil- 
dren have  been  liorn  to  this  marriage:  Fleming,  born  July  4,  1860,  married  Miss  Bird  Ellen 
Bartley,  and  now  resides  in  this  city;  Mary  Jane,  born  July  5,  1862,  married  Sherman  How- 
terman,  and  resided  in  Indianapolis  until  her  death  in  1881;  Melinda,  born  in  1865,  married 
Cliarles  Pugh,  and  now  resides  in  this  city,  and  Willie  U.  S.  G.,  born  in  1867,  died  when 
nine  years  of  age.  While  residing  in  Kentucky  Mr.  Davis  was  engaged  a part  of  the  time 
in  the  service  of  the  United  States,  carrying  the  mail  from  Maysville  to  Mount  Sterling, 
Ky.  He  was  thus  engaged  for  eighteen  months  during  tlie  hottest  part  of  the  Civil 
War.  and  on  one  of  these  trips  his  horse  was  shot  when  about  six  miles  north  of  Mount 
Sterling.  Soon  after  this  he  met  the  Confederate  Generals  Kirby  Smith,  Longstreet  and 
Humphrey  Marshall,  all  of  whom  he  knew.  He  was  reared  a close  neighbor  to  Gen.  John 
Morgan,  his  father’s  farm  lying  close  to  the  Morgan  farm.  As  before  mentioned,  he  came 
to  Indiana  in  1865,  located  in  Indianapolis,  and  went  to  work  for  J.  C.  Adams  in  the  brick 
business,  and  has  continued  in  the  same  ever  since.  This  company  was  organized  in  1873, 
and  Mr.  Davis  has  been  manager  and  superintendent  of  the  same  from  that  time  up  to  the 
present.  He  has  as  many  as  190  men  working  under  him  sometimes,  and  in  the  busy  season 
makes  100,900  bricks  per  day.  This  company  has  a yard  at  Sheridan  and  one  at  South 
Indianapolis.  Mr.  Davis  is  a member  of  the  order  of  Chosen  Friends,  and  for  many  years 
has  been  an  active  member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church.  He  has  been  unusually  suc- 
cessful in  his  enterprises,  but  much  of  his  good  luck  is  due  to  his  good  judgment  and  fine 
executive  ability.  He  is  a man  of  sterling  integrity  and  deserves  his  success. 

Samuel  Miller.  One  of  the  old-time  citizens  of  Marion  County,  has  been  successful 
from  a pecuniary  standpoint,  in  the  conduct  of  his  affairs,  and  is  a liberal,  generous  and 
high-minded  gentleman  whose  correct  mode  of  living  has  gathered  about  him  a large  circle 


LIBRARY 
OF  THE 

L'rOIVERSiTY  OF  ILLINOr 


■« 


459 


AXD  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

of  friends  and  well-wishers.  He  was  born  in  Frederick  County,  Md.,  January  21,  1819,  and 
there  continued  to  make  his  home  until  he  was  sixteen  years  of  age  obtaining  a practical 
education  in  the  subscription  schools  of  that  day.  He  came  with  his  parents  to  Marion 
County,  Ind.,  in  1835,  with  his  father,  driving  through  in  a four  horse  wagon  and  locating 
four  miles  northwest  of  Indianapolis  on  a farm  of  320  acres,  which  his  father,  Henry  Miller, 
purchased  at  that  time  for  $5  per  acre,  which  is  now  worth  $140  })er  acre.  Samuel  being 
the  eldest  of  seven  children,  was  married  January  3,  1843,  when  he  led  to  the  altar  Mar- 
garet, daughter  of  George  Klingensmith,  the  knot  being  tied  by  Rev.  E.  lludisel,  Lutheran 
minister,  both  belonging  to  the  same  church.  Mrs.  Miller  was  born  in  Westmoreland  County, 
Penn.,  July  13,  1818,  and  after  her  marriage  to  Samuel  Miller  they  removed  to  an  eighty- 
acre  tract  of  land  which  had  been  presented  to  the  latter  by  his  father,  and  was  a portion  of 
the  old  home  farm  and  there  they  continued  to  make  their  home  until  the  death  of  his  wife, 
which  took  j)lace  August  13,  1808.  From  this  marriage  live  children  were  born:  H.  W. 
Miller  (the  eldest);  John,  Laura  A.  Miller  (now  Meyers);  and  Henry  Miller;  Albert  having 
died  in  infancy.  The  father  made  his  home  with  his  son,  Hiram  W.  Miller,  who  married 
Miss  Elizabeth  Meyers,  daughter  of  John  H.  Meyers.  Hiram  W.  Miller  is  a large  farmer, 
owning  several  farms  in  all  containing  nearly  800  acres,  also  having  been  in  the  brickmaking 
business  for  fifteen  years,  furnishing  brick  for  some  of  the  most  prominent  buildings  in  the 
city  of  Indianapolis.  In  politics  he  is  a Democrat,  holding  several  offices;  was  township 
trustee  four  years  in  his  township,  Wayne,  and  was  also  treasurer  of  Marion  County  two 
years,  handling  the  funds  of  the  county  satisfactorily.  He  was  also  one  of  the  incor[)orators, 
stockholders  and  directors  in  the  State  Rank  of  Indiana. 

J.\MES  F.  Arbuckle.  The  pursuits  of  life  are  as  varied  as  are  the  tastes  and  capacities 
of  men,  and  it  is  an  interesting  and  u.seful  study  to  observe  the  degree  of  their  assimilation. 
Mr.  James  F.  Arbuckle,  a'  popular  and  skillful  blacksmith  of  Indianapolis,  Ind.,  has  fol- 
lowed that  calling  the  principal  part  of  his  life  and  is  regarded  as  one  of  the  best  and  most 
relia])le  workmen  in  this  part  of  the  city.  He  has  not,  perhaps,  amassed  the  wealth  that 
many  men  of  less  intelligence  have  done,  but  he  has  accumulated  a fair  share  of  this  world’s 
goods,  is  well  respected  Ijy  all  who  know  him,  and  he  and  family  are  in  the  enjoyment  of 
excellent  health.  What  more  could  one  ask  for?  He  is  a prodnctof  this  State,  born  in  Jef- 
ferson County  in  1833,  and  the  son  of  Samuel  and  Nancy  Arbuckle,  the  former  a native  of 
New  York  and  the  latter  of  Kentucky.  The  ])arents  were  married  in  Jefferson  County,  Ind., 
and  there  reared  a family  of  nine  children,  as  follows:  James  F.,  our  subject;  John,  married 
a Miss  Beavers  and  is  now  deceased;  George,  married  Miss  Vira  Carr,  and  now  resides  in 
Scott  County,  Ind.;  Caroline,  married  John  Ferguson  and  makes  her  home  in  Jefferson 
County,  Ind.;  Adeline,  manied  Noah  JIcFaddeii  and  is  at  home  in  Scott  County,  Ind.; 
Anna,  married  Jesse  Law  and  is  now  deceased;  Emma,  married  Mr.  Busey  and  is  now  de- 
ceased; Louis,  married  iMiss  Artie  Newton  Davis  and  is  a resident  of  Scott  County,  Ind., 
and  one  died  in  infancy.  The  original  of  this  notice  was  reared  in  his  native  county  and  se- 
lected Ids  life  companion  in  the  person  of  Miss  Lena  Hollenback,  daughter  of  Andrew  Hoi 
lenl)ack,  their  nuptials  being  celebrated  in  1850.  An  old-fashioned  family  of  eleven  chil 
dren  was  the  result  of  this  union:  Andrew,  married  (Miss  Sallie  Phillips;  George,  married 
Miss  Lydia  Chesley;  Laura,  inarried  William  lirooks;  Ijee  Anna,  married  Alfred  Williams; 
James,  married  Miss  Pledgie  Spitz;  William,  married  Miss  Dora  McOscar;  Oscar  is  single; 
EfTie  and  Eddie  (twins)  are  single;  Julia,  married  to  Fred  Tjane,  and  Stella,  single.  All 
these  children  reside  in  Indianaiiolis  except  Ijaura,  who  is  living  in  Crothersville,  Ind.  IMr. 
Arbuckle  is  a man  whose  uprightness  and  honesty  have  never  been  (piestioned  and  no  better 
citizen  finds  his  home  in  the  city. 

Lons  Laitner.  Among  the  most  important  industries  of  Indianapolis  is  the  brush 
manufactory  owned  and  conducted  by  Louis  Laitner.  which  business  he  has  followed  off  and 
on  since  early  manhood.  He  was  born  in  St.  Ijouis,  Mo.,  in  1852,  his  paiauits  being  Francis 
Joseph  and  Sarah  Josephine  (Hill)  Laitner,  the  former  of  whom  was  boin  in  Germany  and 
the  later  in  England,  although  both  were  of  Scotch  descent,  'i'hey  were  married  in  St. 
Louis,  Mo.,  in  1815  and  became  the  parents  of  four  children,  of  wliom  the  subject  of  this 
sk«;tch  is  the  second  in  order  of  l)irth.  The  eldest  child  was  born  in  1848  and  died  at  the 
age  of  three  years.  The  third  was  Charles  Francis  who  is  now  a resident  of  New  Orleans, 


460 


MEMOIRFi  OF  INDIANAPOLIS 


La.,  ill  whirl)  city  he  is  engaged  in  the  niainifacture  of  brushes.  He  is  married  and  is  a sub- 
stantial business  man,  a law  abiding  citizen  and  the  worthy  head  of  a family.  The  fourth 
child,  Augustus  F.,  became  a sailor  and  about  fifteen  years  ago  shipped  with  five  other  men 
for  the  (Ihina  seas  and  has  never  since  been  heard  from  and  is  supposed  to  be  dead.  Louis 
Laiter  was  brought  up  and  educated  in  St.  Louis,  and  was  there  married  on  December  14, 
187b,  to  .Miss  Adelia  Stann,  the  daughter  of  Herman  Stann  of  that  city,  and  to  their  union 
an  intere.sting  and  promising  family  of  three  children  have  been  given:  Alfred  Noah,  born 
June  22,  1888;  Louis  Fulton,  born  November  10,  1886,  and  Mildred  born  June  18,  1890. 
While  growing  uji  Mr.  Laitner  learned  the  art  of  brush  making  very  thoroughly,  under  the 
com()etent  direction  of  his  father,  who  was  engaged  in  that  line  of  work  for  many  years  in 
the  city  of  St.  Louis.  He  came  to  the  States  from  Montreal,  Canada,  in  1847,  and  immedi- 
ately alter  locating  in  St.  Louis  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  brushes,  which  business  he 
continued  to  follow  under  the  name  of  F.  J.  Laitner  until  1878,  when  the  firm  became  F.  J. 
Laitner  A Son.  In  1876  it  liecame  Laitner  Bros.,  and  in  1885  became  Louis  Laitner.  Six 
years  ago  the  business  was  disposed  of  and  Mr.  Laitner  went  into  the  Masonic  insurance 
business,  and  is  well  known  to  many  people  in  Indianapolis  in  that  capacity.  After  continu- 
ing in  the  business  for  eighteen  months  he  opened  a grocery  store  in  North  Indianapolis,  in 
which  portion  of  the  city  he  has  made  his  home  for  the  past  four  years.  He  is  now  closing 
out  this  business  and  expects  soon  to  re-engage  in  the  manufacture  of  brushes  in  this  city. 
A large  company  has  been  organized,  with  Mr.  Laitner  at  its  head,  with  ample  capital  to  do 
all  the  work,  and  it  is  proposed  to  run  the  finest  brush  manufactory  in  the  United  States,  if 
money,  energy,  jmsh  and  practical  experience  can  accomplish  it.  Mr.  Laitner  was  assessor 
for  St  Louis,  Mo.,  for  one  term,  and  with  his  large  business  experience  and  strict  integrity 
there  is  no  reason  why  he  should  not  be  at  the  head  of  the  brush  manufacturing  business  in 
a very  short  time.  He  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity,  is  a pushing  man  of  affairs, 
and  is  one  of  the  most  public-spirited  business  men  of  the  hustling'  city  of  Indianapolis. 

William  Sohweoman.  In  the  early  history  of  this  country  necessity  goaded  the  wits 
of  the  handful  of  individuals  from  which  the  people  of  the  United  States  sprung,  and  its 
effects  have  been  manifest  upon  their  descendants  in  the  shape  of  great  mental  activity  and 
ingenuity,  which  characterized  them  as  a race.  Such  is  the  case  with  William  Schvvegman, 
who  is  the  inventor  and  patentee  of  an  improved  pressure  plate  for  veneer  cutting  machines. 
The  advantages  of  this  plate  are  many,  and  if  it  is  investigated  thoroughly  any  one  will  be 
convinced  of  its  superiority  above  all  others,  no  matter  on  what  machine  it  may  be  used.  Mr. 
Schwegman  is  a native  of  the  Hoosier  State,  born  in  Franklin  County  August  20,  1853,  and 
a son  of  Henry  and  Mary  (Dapneij  Schwegman,  natives  of  Germany.  The  parents  came  to 
America  when  jmung,  and  were  married  in  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  about  1820.  Six  children  were 
the  result  of  this  union:  John  Henry  married  Miss  Kate  Seaforth,  and  now  resides  in 
Franklin  County,  Ind.  ; Elizabeth,  deceased;  Harmon,  deceased;  Kate  and  Sophia,  twins, 
now  reside  in  Franklin  Counts'.  The  former  married  Edward  Lang,  and  the  latter  Conrad 
Strausburger.  and  William,  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  The  youthful  days  of  the  latter  were 
jiassed  in  his  native  county,  where  he  secured  a good,  practical  education.  On  September 
19,  1873,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Anna  Lineman,  daughter  of  Fred  and  Elizabeth  (Mosel) 
Lineman,  natives  of  the  old  country.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Lineman  were  reared  in  their  native 
country,  but  came  to  the  Lbiited  States  at  an  early  date,  and  were  married  in  Cincinnati, 
Ohio.  Our  subject  and  wife  celebrated  their  nuptials  in  Franklin  County,  Ind.,  and  they  are 
now  the  parents  of  two  children:  Elizabeth  and  Louis,  both  at  home.  When  first  starting 
out  for  himself  Mr.  Schwegman  began  tilling  the  soil,  and  continued  this  until  twenty-three 
years  of  age,  when  he  left  the  farm  to  learn  the  trade  of  veneerer,  at  which  he  worked  for 
seventeen  years.  After  that  he  engaged  in  merchandising  at  300  Clifford  Avenue,  and  is 
now  running  a fine  grocery  store  at  that  place.  In  his  business  as  well  as  social  relations 
Mr.  Schwegman  has  proven  himself  to  be  a gentleman  of  his  word,  and  is  well  respected  by  all. 
His  improved  pressure  plate  is  sought  after  by  all  veneerers,  and  has  a fine  sale. 

William  Haeberle.  Few  among  the  many  excellent  meat  markets  and  groceries  that 
attract  the  eye  in  Indianapolis  have  secured  a more  enduring  hold  upon  public  favor  and 
confidence  than  the  establishment  conducted  by  William  Haeberle.  It  is  one  of  the  best 
equipjied  stores  of  its  kind  in  the  city,  where  patrons  can  always  rely  upon  getting  a very 


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AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

superior  article,  satisfactory  treatment  and  prompt  attention.  Mr.  Haeberle  was  born  in 
Germany,  February,  18158,  is  a young  man  of  })leasing  manners,  and  combines  pusli,  enter 
prise  and  excellent  business  qualities,  and  has  before  him  a promising  future.  His  parents, 
Gotleib  and  Frederika  Haeberle,  were  natives  of  the  old  country  but  crossed  the  ocean  to 
America  in  1881  and  settled  in  Indianapolis.  They  were  the  parents  of  seven  children,  as 
follows:  Gotlieb  married  Miss  Mary  Breiniger  and  is  now  living  in  Indianapolis;  Frederika 
married  Adolph  Lentz  and  is  also  a resident  of  this  city;  Christian  married  Caroline  Off  and 
is  a resident  of  this  city;  Christina  married  Carl  Meiser  and  makes  her  home  in  Germany: 
Carrie  married  John  Beyer,  of  this  city ; Fredrick  married  Miss  Amelia  Kiefer  and  lives  in 
Indianapolis,  and  William,  the  subject  of  this  sketch.  The  latter  was  about  eighteen  years 
of  age  when  he  came  with  his  parents  to  Indianapolis.  He  was  married  in  February,  1885, 
to  Miss  Anna  Kiefer,  daughter  of  Jacob  and  Fredie  Kiefer,  both  natives  of  Germany.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Kiefer  came  to  America  when  single  and  were  married  in  Indianaj)olis.  Three 
children  have  been  born  to  our  sul)Ject  and  wife,  Fredie,  born  August  15,  1886;  Alma,  born 
December ‘21,  1888,  and  Lula,  born  May  21,  1889.  Our  subject  learned  the  butcher’s  trade  of 
his  father  and  for  some  time  has  been  engaged  in  that  business.  For  seven  years  he  has 
been  in  business  for  himself  and  has  a tine  grocery  store  and  meat  market  on  Brookside 
Avenue  and  Jupiter  Street,  this  city.  In  recogition  of  the  class  of  people  he  caters  to,  Mr. 
Haeberle  has  made  it  his  aim  to  keep  only  the  superior  meats  and  the  freshest  and  best 
groceries.  His  parents  are  living,  but  his  wife’s  father  and  mother  are  both  deceased.  To 
the  latter  couple  were  born  five  children,  as  follows:  William,  single  and  residing  in  Kansas; 
Annie,  wife  of  our  subject;  Jacob,  single,  residing  in  Indianapolis;  Louisa,  married  and  lives 
in  this  city,  and  Amelia,  married  Fredrick  Haeberle,  brother  of  our  subject,  and  lives  in 
Indianapolis. 

Woods  P.  Canfield.  One  of  the  reliable  business  men  of  Haughville,  Ind.,  is  Woods 
P.  Canfield,  who  was  born  in  Morristown,  N.  J.,  August  15,  1847,  of  which  State  his  father, 
Isaac  Canfield,  was  also  a native.  The  latter  was  one  of  the  owners  of  the  old  Speedwell 
Iron  Works  at  Morristown,  and  was  a well  known  and  prominent  Democrat  of  the  northern 
portion  of  that  State.  The  manufacturing  business  with  which  he  was  connected  was 
very  extensive  and  goods  was  shipped  all  over  the  world,  and  wherever  used  became  popular, 
their  trade  being  exceptionally  extensive  in  Cuba.  After  retiring  from  the  active  duties  of 
life  ^Ir.  Canfield  removed  to  Brooklyn,  N.  Y.,  where  he  sjient  the  last  few  years  of  his  life 
in  comfort.  He  was  married  to  IMary  E.  Poineer,  a native  of  Newark,  but  reared  in  Morris- 
town, who  died  at  the  early  age  of  thirty-six  years,  leaving  a family  of  seven  children,  of 
whom  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  the  eldest.  He  was  reared  in  his  native  town  and 
received  a liberal  education  at  Newark  and  New  Canaan,  Conn.,  where  he  was  prejiared  for 
Princeton  College.  When  seventeen  years  old  he  left  school  to  learn  the  trade  of  a machinist 
at  Newark,  after  which  he  entered  and  remained  in  his  father’s  manufactory  for  several 
years.  In  December,  1872,  he  came  to  Indianapolis  to  accejit  a position  with  B.  F.  Haugh 
& Co.  and  six  months  later  he  was  placed  in  charge  of  the  machine  department  of  the 
works.  Nearly  all  the  machine  iron  which  went  into  the  construction  of  the  Marion  County 
Court  house  was  manufactured  under  the  supervision  of  Mr.  Canfield.  During  the  winter  of 
1875-6  the  works  wore  removed  to  Haughville  and  at  this  time  he  became  ideidllied  with  the 
history  of  that  place,  at  which  time  it  consisted  only  of  a few  houses.  Mr.  Canfield  remained 
in  tlie  em[)loy  of  V>.  F.  Haugh  & Co.  until  January,  1886,  when  he  was  ap|)ointed  postmaster 
of  Haughville  under  President  Cleveland,  and  served  in  this  capacity  until  the  spring  of 
1889,  resigning  his  position  just  prior  to  tlie  inauguration  of  President  Harrison.  He  has 
been  one  of  the  prominent  and  influential  workers  of  the  Democratic  party  of  Haughville 
and  Wayne  Township  for  years,  and  for  the  past  three  years  has  served  as  clerk  and  treas 
urer  of  the  town.  He  was  at  another  time  elected  to  these  positions  but  could  not  serve  on 
account  of  holding  the  post-mastership.  He  has  at  various  times  bemi  a membi'r  of  the 
school  board  and  the  board  of  trustees,  and  on  January  I,  1892,  was  ap|)ointed  baliff  of  the 
County  Commissioners  Court,  a position  he  still  holds.  After  his  retirement  from  the  post- 
office,  he  eiigagtul  in  the  real  estate  and  insurance  business  in  Haughville  and  at  jvreseid  is 
the  most  extensive  insurance  agent  in  the  place,  besides  doing  considerabh*  business  in  this 
line  in  Indianapolis.  He  has  always  identified  himself  with  the  best  interests  of  Haughville 


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and  ranks  among  its  progressive  and  pnl)lic-s])irited  citizens.  He  is  a member  of  the  Masonic 
fraternity,  the  K.  of  P.  and  the  order  of  Red  Men  and  in  his  political  views  has  always  been 
in  sympathy  with  the  Democrat  party.  In  November,  1872,  Mr.  Canfield  was  married  to 
Miss.  Sarah  Wilkes,  a native  of  Union  County,  N.  J. 

Jacob  Sieg.  Indianapolis’  enormous  and  substantial  development  has  created  an 
active  market  for  the  superior  grades  of  brick,  and  thus  has  been  developed  one  of  the 
greatest  industries  here.  Other  cities  receive  their  brick,  as  a rule,  from  a distance. 
Indianapolis,  on  the  other  hand,  has  several  of  the  finest  yards  in  the  State,  within  or  near 
her  boundaries.  One  of  the  active,  thoroughgoing  men  engaged  in  this  line  of  business  is 
Jacob  Sieg,  who  for  ten  years  lias  been  active  as  a brick  manufacturer.  He  is  a man  of 
tlie  soundest  judgment  and  marked  executive  ability  and  is  specially  qualitied  to  guide 
aright  such  important  interests  as  these.  Mr.  vSieg  owes  his  nativity  to  Ripley  County, 
Ind.,  born  February  25,  1856,  and  is  a son  of  Godfred  and  Maggie  (Wagner)  Sieg,  both 
natives  of  Germany.  Before  marriage  both  came  to  the  United  States,  and  were  married 
in  the  Buckeye  State,  where  they  resided  many  years.  The  mother  is  now  deceased,  but 
the  father  resides  in  Ripley  County,  Ind.,  where  he  is  engaged  in  farming.  They  were 
the  parents  of  nine  children,  as  follows:  Louisa,  single  and  a resident  of  Indianapolis; 
Catherine  married  Andrew  Ramsberger  and  now  resides  in  this  city;  Frederick  married 
Miss  Susan  Biel,  and  makes  his  home  in  Ripley  County,  Ind.;  Maggie,  now  living  in 
Greensburg,  Ind.,  has  been  twice  married,  but  both  her  husbands  are  deceased  (she  first 
married  Peter  Mack,  and  after  his  death,  George  Clark);  Sarah,  single,  resides  in  Ripley 
County,  Ind  ; Henry,  also  a resident  of  Ripley  County,  is  single;  Jacob,  subject;  Sophia, 
single,  and  a resident  of  Ripley  County;  and  John,  single  and  a resident  of  Ripley  County. 
Our  subject,  who  is  expert  in  all  that  concerns  brick  making,  gives  his  undivided  attention 
to  this  business,  and  has  met  with  unusual  success.  He  is  single. 

Robert  E.  Woods.  In  this  day  and  age  of  bustle  and  activity,  very  few  people  stop  to 
consider  what  we  eat  and  how  to  select  it,  but  the  skillful  housewife  is  very  careful  in  her 
])urchase  of  groceries  and  meats,  for  she  knows  that  on  their  purity  and  wholesomeness 
depend  in  a great  measure  the  health  and  happiness  of  her  family.  Among  the  prominent 
grocerymen  of  Woodside,  Ind.,  is  Robert  E.  Woods,  who  carries  a tine  stock  of  goods  in 
his  line,  and  who  is  classed  among  the  wide-awake,  thorough  going  business  men  of  the 
county.  All  his  life  has  been  passed  in  the  Hoosier  State,  his  birth  occurring  in  Ohio 
County,  September  27,  1857,  and  his  parents,  William  and  Lyda  (Downy)  Woods,  were 
natives  of  Indiana  also.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Woods  were  the  parents  of  six  children,  as  follows: 
Sylvester,  died  in  infancy;  George  A.,  married  Miss  Nancy  Conaway,  and  now  resides  in 
Ohio  County,  Ind. ; John  Wesley,  residing  in  the  same  county,  married  Miss  Amanda  Blue; 
William  D. , married  Miss  Fannie  Lukins,  and  resides  in  New  York  city;  Orpheus  A.,  mar- 
ried Miss  Ella  Cotield  and  resides  in  Ohio  County,  Ind.,  and  Robert  E.,  our  subject.  The 
latter  was  reared  in  his  native  county  and  on  his  father’s  farm.  When  twenty-one  years  of 
age  he  began  teaching  school  and  so  successful  was  he  in  this  profession,  that  he  was  sub- 
sequently elected  to  the  office  of  county  superintemlent  of  schools,  holding  that  position  one 
term  in  Ohio  County.  Later  he  attended  college  but  on  account  of  failing  eyesight  he  was 
obliged  to  (|uit  his  books  and  take  a much  needed  rest..  Following  this  he  was  in  the 
United  States  mail  service  for  thirteen  months  and  then  embarked  in  merchandising  which 
he  has  continued  for  the  past  six  years,  owning  one  of  the  best  stores  in  his  section.  Indus- 
trious and  enterprising  he  has  made  many  friends  and  is  highly  esteemed  in  the  community. 
Socially  he  is  a Mason,  an  Odd  Fellow,  a Knight  of  Pythias  and  a member  of  the  Chosen 
Friends.  He  is  an  exemplary  citizen  and  he  and  his  esteemed  and  worthy  wife  have  a wide 
circle  of  friends.  He  was  married  in  1880,  to  Miss  Ruth  A.  Armstrong,  daughter  of  Robert 
and  Rachel  (Potter)  Armstrong,  both  natives  of  Indiana.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Armstrong  are 
the  parents  of  seven  children,  as  follows:  O.  L.,  deceased;  John  N.,  single  and  now  living 
in  southern  Indiana,  Minnie,  died  in  infancy;  Walter  S.,  died  when  nine  years  of  age; 
Mary  B. ; married  A'lolphus  W.  Hyde,  and  resided  in  southern  Indiana  until  her  death; 
Rutli,  Mrs.  Woods;  and  Catherine  E.,  married  George  F.  Simpson,  and  resides  in  Marble 
Hill,  Ind.  To  our  subject  and  wife  have  been  born  three  children,  Frank  A.,  whose  birth 


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AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA.  4()3 

occurred  in  August,  1881;  William  D.,  born  February  5,  1888,  and  Charles  Edward,  born 
May  26,  1888,  all  are  living. 

WiLLi.vM  H.  Bellemoke.  The  thought  which  presents  itself  to  the  far  seeing  and  con- 
servative mind  when  the  question  is  pi’opounded  as  to  what  essentials  are  necessary  to  a 
man’s  success  in  business  is  that  they  are  industry,  sobriety,  economy  and  honesty,  and  this 
history  of  all  well  established  firms  will  corroborate  this.  Among  the  prominent  and  success- 
ful business  men  of  Indianapolis,  engaged  in  that  most  important  branch  of  industry — cooper- 
age— Mr.  Bellemore  holds  a conspicuous  place,  for  he  has  followed  that  calling  all  the  active 
years  of  his  life,  having  learned  the  trade  from  his  father,  who  was  a practical  and  skillful 
workman.  He  owes  his  nativity  to  Lockport,  N.  Y.,  where  he  was  born,  August  24,  1858,  to 
Michael  and  Matilda  (Blair)  Bellemore,  who  were  native  Canadians,  but  were  married  in 
Lockport,  and  there  resided  until  one  year  after  the  birth  of  the  subject  of  this  sketch,  when 
they  came  to  Indiana.  They  are  both  now  dead,  having  become  the  parents  of  three  children ; 
William  H. ; Scott,  who  was  born  in  1856,  is  married  to  Miss  Khoda  Cramer,  and  is  in  the 
employment  of  the  United  States  Government,  having  charge  of  the  mail  at  the  Union  depot 
in  this  citj';  and  Charles  L.,  who  was  born  in  1859,  is  now  engaged  in  the  cooper’s  trade  in 
this  city,  and  is  married  to  Mary  Wilson.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  was  united  in  marriage 
with  Elizabeth  A.  Wineman,  and  a comfortable  home  at  517  South  West  Street,  Indianapolis, 
is  theirs.  They  have  three  children;  Charles  Edward,  born  in  1859;  John  M. , born  in  1880 
and  Harry  F.,  born  in  1882.  Mr.  Bellemore  has  been  in  business  for  himself  for  nine  years 
and  is  now  a member  of  the  firm  of  W.  H.  Bellemore  A Co.,  which  is  doing  a thriving  business 
at  the  corner  of  Morris  and  West  Streets.  When  running  in  full  force  the  firm  employs  fifteen 
men  to  make  flour  barrels  alone.  Mr.  Bellemore  is  a member  of  the  K.  of  P. , Capitol  Lodge, 
No.  97,  of  Indianapolis,  of  which  order  he  has  been  a member  for  nine  years. 

Hon.  Uavid  Turpie.  There  is  not  a name  of  a living  citizen  of  Indiana,  with  })ossibly 
one  or  two  exceptions,  which  is  more  widely  or  more  favorably  known  than  that  of  the  long- 
time jurist  and  legislator,  Hon.  David  Turpie,  who  has  been  twice  elected  as  United  States 
Senator  from  this  State  and  is  a leading  member  of  the  Marion  County  bar,  his  experience 
as  a law  maker  and  judge  in  Indiana  and  as  a legislator  at  Washington  covering  a period  of 
nearly  forty  years,  the  intervals  in  which  he  has  not  been  in  public  service  having  been  given 
to  the  successful  practice  of  his  profession.  Mr.  Turpie  was  admitted  to  the  bar  after  due 
preparation,  at  Logansport,  Ind.,in  1849,  and  at  once  began  a career  that  early  marked  him 
as  a man  of  uncommon  ability.  In  1854  he  was  ajipointed  ))y  Gov.  Wright,  whom  he 
later  succeeded  in  the  Senate,  as  judge  of  the  Court  of  Common  Pleas,  and  two  years  later 
he  became  judge  of  the  Circuit  Court.  He  resigned  both  of  these  oflices,  however.  Mean 
time  in  1858,  he  was  a member  of  the  Indiana  Legislature,  and  in  1858  was  again  elected  to 
that  office.  He  was  first  elected  United  States  senator  in  1868,  for  the  unexpired  term  of 
Hon.  Je.sse  U.  Bright  and  immediately  succeeding  Hon.  Joseph  A.  Wright,  who  served  by 
appointment  of  the  governor.  In  1874  75  he  was  again  in  the  House  of  llepresentatives  of 
the  General  Assembly  of  Indiana  and  was  honored  with  the  si)eakerHhip  of  that  l)ody  and 
was  the  last  to  preside  as  such  in  the  old  State  House.  In  1878,  when  a commission  of 
three  was  appointed  to  revise  the  laws  of  Indiana,  he  was  appointed  as  one  of  its  members 
and  served  in  that  capacity  during  tlie  succeeding  three  years.  He  was  appoint(>d  l>y  Presi- 
dent Cleveland,  in  August,  1886,  United  States  District.  Attorney  for  the  State  of  Indiana 
and  filled  that  office  most  al)ly  and  aece])tal)ly  until  IMarch  8,  1887,  when  he  resigned,  having 
on  February  2 previous,  been  elected  Unites  States  senator,  and  on  the  following  day  he  again 
took  u[)  the  honors  and  responsibilities  of  that  exalted  [)osition.  The  career  of  Judge  Tur 
[)ie  has  been  a most  successfid  and  mo.st  useful  one.  The  laws  of  the  State  will  ever  bear 
the  impress  of  his  labor  and  his  genius.  He  was  an  ideal  speaker  of  the  House  of  Kepre 
sentatives  of  Indiana.  As  a United  States  senator  his  course  was  one  of  dignity,  integritv 
and  devotion  to  his  State  and  country  and  he  .served  on  such  important  committees  as  the 
committee  on  pensions,  the  committee  on  privileges  and  elections,  the  committee  on  trans- 
jmrtation  to  the  seaboard,  etc.  Asa  delegate-at  large  to  the  national  Democratic  conven 
tion  at  St.  Louis,  in  1888,  he  was  wise  and  (dlicient  in  the  counsels  of  his  fiarty.  As  a polit- 
ical organizer  he  has  few  siqieriors.  As  a public  speaker  he  is  forcible,  convincing  and 
pleasing.  There  are  few  statesmen  in  Indiana,  who  through  a period  eijually  long  have  met 


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with  such  hearty  and  nnawerviiig  approval  on  the  part  of  their  constituents.  In  politics  he 
is  a Democrat  because  be  believes  that  a prevalence  of  the  practical  results  of  Democratic 
doctrine  will  benefit  the  country.  In  his  private  life  and  in  his  intercourse  with  his  fellow 
men  he  is  thoroughly  and  consistently  democratic,  because  he  is  in  and  ttirough  everything 
most  thoroughly  American,  most  truly  democratic  from  the  very  instincts  of  his  being. 

\V.  H.  H.  Millek.  William  Henry  Harrison  Miller,  ex- Attorney  General  of  the  United 
States,  was  born  at  Augusta,  Oneida  County,  N.  Y.,  September  6,  1840,  of  English  and 
Scotch  ancestry.  His  father  was  a farmer,  and  he  gre  w up  accustomed  to  the  every  day 
work  of  a farmer  boy,  attending  the  district  schools,  and  later  the  seminary  at  Whitestown, 
where  he  prepared  for  Hamilton  College,  which  graduated  him  in  1861.  He  taught  school 
at  Maumee  City,  Ohio,  and  he  was  thus  employed  until  May,  1862,  when  he  enlisted  for  the 
three  months’  service  in  the  Eighty  fourth  Ohio  Infantry.  He  was  mustered  out  with  his 
regiment  in  September  following,  and  immediately  began  to  study  law  in  the  office  of  Chief 
Justice  Morrison  K.  Waite.  Financial  demands  upon  him,  however,  compelled  him  to  seek 
some  remunerative  employment,  and  he  accepted  the  superintendency  of  the  schools  of  Peru, 
Ind. , and  while  attending  to  the  duties  of  that  position  read  law  as  opportunity  offered,  so 
that  he  was  admitted  to  the  l)ar  of  Peru  in  1865,  and  began  the  practice  of  his  profession 
there,  holding  meantime  the  office  of  county  school  examiner.  Mr.  Miller  removed  to  Ft. 
Wayne  in  1866.  and  there  formed  a law  partnership  with  William  H.  Coombs.  Their  busi- 
ness increased  so  rapidly  that  a third  partner  was  soon  admitted.  Mr.  Miller  practiced 
often  before  the  Federal  Court,  and  there  he  attracted  the  attention  and  formed  the  acquaint- 
ance of  Gen.  Harrison,  who  upon  the  retirement  of  A.  G.  Porter  from  the  firm  of  Porter, 
Harrison  & Hines,  invited  Mr.  Miller  to  become  a member  of  it.  This  he  did,  and  as  such 
was  engaged  in  active  practice  down  to  the  time  of  his  appointment  by  President  Harrison  as 
attorney-general.  His  choice  to  this  exalted  position  was  most  fitting.  He  was  and  had 
long  been  one  of  the  leaders  at  the  bar.  His  integrity  was  unquestioned,  his  ability  was 
very  marked,  his  industry  was  untiring.  These  facts  are  acknowledged  by  all,  and  President 
Harrison  was  in  a position  to  be  better  aware  of  them  than  almost  any  one  else.  Mr.  Miller 
had,  at  that  time,  been  engaged  in  some  of  the  most  important  litigations  before  the  Supreme 
Court  of  the  State,  and  that  of  the  United  States.  Mention  may  be  made,  by  way  of  illus- 
tration, of  the  legal  contest  concerning  the  adoption  of  the  amendment  to  the  State  consti- 
tution in  1878,  and  the  lieutenant-governorship  contest  in  1886.  For  years,  and  particu- 
larly during  the  campaign  of  1888  he  had  l)een  Gen.  Harrison’s  confidential  adviser  and 
chosen  friend.  As  attorney-general  Mr.  Miller  enhanced  his  professional  reputation  very 
greatly  by  his  action  in  directing  the  United  States  marshal  to  protect  Supreme  Court 
Justice  Field  from  a threatened  attack  by  the  notorious  Judge  Terry,  of  California,  who  was 
killed  by  a deputy  United  States  marshal  while  attempting  said  assault,  and  by  his  2n-otect- 
ing  said  deputy  marshal  on  the  high  ground  that  it  was,  indejrendently  of  all  statutes,  the 
plain  duty  of  the  executive  to  jirotect  the  judiciary,  arguing  on  this  ground  and  being  sus- 
tained in  the  United  States  Circuit  and  Supreme  Courts.  He  ajipeared  in  numerous  impor- 
tant and  very  difficult  cases,  notably  the  Behring  Sea  litigation,  the  contest  over  the  constitu- 
tional validity  of  the  McKinley  bill,  and  cases  growing  out  of  the  Inter  State  Tariff  bill  and 
the  anti-lottery  laws.  It  is  doubtful  if  another  attorney-general  ever  acquitted  himself 
more  creditably  in  office,  all  things  considered,  or  ever  retired  from  office  with  a greater 
measure  of  the  respect  of  the  peojfie,  irres2)ective  of  party  affiliation.  At  the  expiration  of 
his  term  of  office,  Mr.  Miller  returned  to  Indianapolis,  and  resumed  the  2)ractice  of  law  as 
the  head  of  the  firm  of  Miller,  Winter  & Elam. 

Judge  Ai.exander  C.  Ayres.  The  philosophy  of  success  in  life  is  an  interesting 
study,  and  affords  a lesson  from  which  others  can  profit.  In  choosing  a pursuit  in  life, 
taste,  mental  gifts,  opportunity  and  disposition  to  labor,  should  be  considered,  if  any 
young  man  who  has  a disposition  to  become  a respectable  and  useful  citizen  desires  to 
succeed  therein.  On  November  9,  1846,  a boy  was  born  in  Franklin  County,  Ind.,  who 
grew  up  to  sturdy  manhood,  ambitious  to  excel,  and  possessing  much  energy  and  determi- 
nation, attributes  which  are  essential  to  success  in  any  calling.  This  boy  was  Judge 
Alexander  C.  Ayres,  whose  father,  Hon.  Levi  Ayres,  was  a native  of  New  Jersey.  The 
elder  Ayres  moved  to  Indiana  at  an  early  date  and  served  in  the  Indiana  Legislature.  He 


465 


AND  MARION  COUNTY,  INDIANA. 

also  served  several  terms  as  commissioner  of  Franklin  County.  His  death  occurred  in 
December,  1888.  The  scholastic  training  of  our  subject  was  received  in  the  Northwestern 
Christian  (now  Butlei-)  University,  from  whiL-h  he  graduated  in  1808.  Subsequently  he 
began  the  study  of  law  with  Hendricks,  Hord  & Hendricks,  at  Indianapolis,  and  also 
graduated  in  the  law  school  at  Butler  University,  after  he  had  entered  the  above  mentioned 
law  office.  In  1872  Judge  Ayres  was  admitted  to  the  Marion  County  bar,  and  in  1873 
formed  a partnership  with  B.  K.  Elliott,  the  same  continuing  until  Mr.  Elliott  went  on  the 
bench.  Later,  Judge  Ayres  formed  a partnership  with  Edgar  A.  Brown,  now  (1893)  judge  of 
the  Circuit  Court,  and  this  continued  until  our  subject  was  elected  judge  of  the  Cir- 
cuit Court.  This  was  in  1884,  and  he  served  three  years,  only  about  half  his  time, 
when  he  resigned.  After  this  he  formed  a partnership  with  C.  A.  Brown  and  L.  N. 
Harvey.  Mr.  Brown  went  on  the  bench  in  iSOO,  and  this  dissolved  the  partnership,  our 
subject  practicing  alone  until  January,  1892,  when  the  present  partnership,  Ayres  & Jones, 
was  formed.  Judge  Ayres  was  a delegate  to  the  National  Democratic  Convention,  in  1892, 
and  has  ever  been  active  in  political  affairs,  serving  as  president  of  the  Hendricks  Club 
for  some  time.  He  takes  pride  in  assisting  all  public  enterprises  and  is  public  spirited, 
liberal  and  high-minded.  His  entire  career  has  been  upright  and  honorable  and  he  is  in 
every  way  worthy  of  the  respect  in  which  he  is  held. 

Albert  Gall.  Among  the  noted  and  representative  men  of  the  flourishing  city  of 
Indianapolis,  Ind.,  stands  the  name  of  Albert  Gall,  whose  high  reputation  and  material 
pro.sperity  came  as  the  rewards  of  unusual  natural  abilities,  industriously  applied.  He  is  a 
man  who  has  maintained  a high  character  for  integrity  and  fldelity  to  the  trust  bestowed 
upon  him,  whether  of  a public  or  a private  nature,  and  it  is  acknowledged  by  all  that  he  is 
one  of  the  most  efficient  and  popular  State  treasurers.  He  owes  his  nativity  to  Wisconsin, 
born  in  Green  Bay,  November  23,  1842,  and  came  to  Indianapolis  with  his  parents  in  1847. 
As  he  was  but  five  years  of  age  at  that  time,  as  a natural  consequence  most  of  his  recollec- 
tions are  of  this  State.  He  attended  the  public  schools  of  Indianapolis  until  1853,  when  his 
father,  Alvis  Gall,  was  ap])ointed  Consul  to  Antwerp,  and  our  subject  finished  his  education 
in  that  city.  There  he  remained  until  1859,  when  he  returned  to  Indianapolis  and  entered 
the  dry  goods  store  of  A.  G.  Williard.  Shortly  afterward  he  went  to  California  and  located 
in  San  Francisco,  where  he  remained  four  years.  Returning  to  Indianapolis  he  entered  the 
employ  of  G.  A T.  Krauss,  dealers  in  wall  paper,  carpets,  etc.,  and  was  in  their  employ  for 
three  months.  Mr.  G.  Krauss  then  retiring  the  father  of  our  subject  bought  his  interest  and 
the  firm  was  then  known  as  Krauss  & Gall,  continuing  as  such  for  three  years.  After  this 
it  was  changed  to  Gall  & Rush  and  three  years  later  became  Albert  Gall,  under  which  title 
it  has  since  remained.  Mr.  Gall  was  elected  State  treasurer  in  1890  and  so  creditably  and 
satisfactorily  did  he  discharge  the  duties  of  this  important  position,  that  he  was  re-elected 
in  1892.  He  is  an  ardent  Democrat  in  politics  and  has  ever  been  interested  in  the  welfare 
of  his  party.  Socially  he  is  a member  of  the  Elks,  Mystic  Shrine,  Scottish  Jiite  and  is  a 
Knight  Templar  in  the  Masonic  fraternity.  He  is  one  of  the  governors  of  the  Indianapolis 
Board  of  Trade;  is  a member  of  the  Commercial  Club,  German  American  Club,  honorary 

member  of  Cleveland  Club, Society,  Sons  of  Veterans  and  Loyal  Legion.  Mr. 

Gall  was  married  in  1864  to  iMiss  Louisa  Ruschhaupt,  a native  of  Indianapolis.  In  our  sub- 
ject the  community  has  a faithful  and  unswerving  friend,  ever  alert  to  serve  its  best  interests, 
and  generous  in  his  contributions  toward  every  movement  tending  to  the  general  advance- 
ment. His  father  was  born  in'  Weil-de-Stadt,  A\'urtemberg,  Germany,  and  came  to  America 
in  1840.  His  home  was  j)rincipally  in  Indianapolis  where  he  practiced  medicine  until  his 
death  in  1867.  He  was  surgeon  of  the  Thirteenth  Indiana  Volunteers  during  a portion  of 
the  war  and  was  connected  with  the  medical  service  the  remainder  of  the  time.  During  Presi- 
dent Pierce’s  administration  he  was  apj)ointed  Con.sul  to  Antwerj),  and  served  through  that 
administration  and  two  years  of  President  Buchanan’s  term.  He  was  a man  of  intelligence 
and  sound  understanding. 

Hon.  John  C.  New,  known  prominently  over  the  State  through  his  connection  with  the 
daily  and  weekly  Journal  of  Indianapolis,  the  [)resent  United  States  Consul  to  London, 
England,  and  the  Government’s  ex-treasurer,  was  born  July  6,  1831,  at  Vernon,  Jennings 
County,  this  State,  being  the  son  of  John  B.  and  Maria  (Chalfant)  New.  Graduating  at 


46G 


MEMOIRS  OF  INDIANAPOLIS. 


the  age  of  twenty  years  from  Bethany  College  (Virginia),  he  began  the  study  of  law  at 
Indianapolis,  was  admitted  to  the  bar  in  1852,  and  four  years  later  was  appointed  circuit 
court  clerk  of  Marion  County  to  till  out  the  unexpired  term  caused  by  the  death  of  the 
incumbent.  Upon  the  expiration  of  the  term  he  accepted  the  Republican  nomination  for  the 
office,  and  although  confronted  by  a Democratic  majority,  was  elected  by  a decisive  majority. 
Under  the  appointment  of  Gov.  Morton,  he  became  quartermaster  general  of  the  State  during 
the  Civil  War,  and  consequently  the  governor’s  financial  secretary — a very  responsible  posi- 
tion l)ecause  of  the  enormous  amount  pledged  by  Gov.  Morton  for  the  prosecution  of  the  war 
and  for  which  a disloyal  legislature  made  no  provision.  In  1862  he  was  nominated  and 
elected  State  senator  from  the  Indianapolis  district,  and  in  1865  became  an  official  of  the 
First  National  Bank  of  the  city,  and  as  such  continued  ten  years.  The  year  1875,  unsolicited 
on  his  part,  witnessed  his  appointment  to  the  responsible  position  of  treasurer  of  the  United 
States  by  President  Grant.  A year  later  he  resigned  his  office.  Having  purchased  the 
Journal  of  Indianapolis  in  1880,  he  gave  it  his  personal  attention  for  j'ears  and  caused  it  to 
be  recognized  as  one  of  the  foremost  Republican  State  newspapers  in  the  land.  In  1880  he 
was  chairman  of  the  Republican  State  Centi-al  Committee,  displaying  superior  ability  in  his 
management  of  Slate  atfairs.  Under  President  Harrison’s  appointment  he  acceptably  filled 
the  consulship  of  the  United  States  to  the  city  of  London.  Mr.  New  has  been  twice  mar- 
ried, and  is  blessed  with  a fine  family. 


Maite  lr«  1«Uir 

10-1^3  STO 


